Meet Marco Ronconni at Shin-Osaka Station at 10:00 AM, then board the bullet train to Hiroshima—a city often referenced as a symbol of peace. Hiroshima was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996, 71 years after the atomic bomb "Little Boy" was dropped in 1945 during World War II. Upon arrival, we will visit the Peace Memorial Park, its museum, and the Atomic Bomb Dome. Afterwards, we’ll explore Shukkeien Garden, a historic Japanese landscape garden renowned for its miniature representations of valleys, mountains, and forests. Visiting in early April is especially enchanting for photography, as the garden transforms into a springtime haven with delicate sakura (cherry blossoms) adorning its pathways and reflecting in the central pond. In the evening, we will head to hotel in Miyajimaguchi.

In the early morning, take a ferry to Miyajima to visit the mystical Itsukushima Shrine, which appears to float on the sea. The shrine’s vivid vermilion buildings and iconic torii gate create an enchanting scene that changes with the tides. Recognized as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site in 1996, it is also celebrated as one of Japan’s three most scenic spots. If the weather permits, we will also take the ropeway up to Mt. Misen for more scenic photography.

In the morning, we will depart early and visit Iwakuni in Yamaguchi Prefecture. There, admire the Kintaikyo Bridge, a nationally designated scenic site and one of Japan’s most famous wooden bridges, spanning the clear waters of the Nishiki River with its five graceful arches. Iwakuni is also known as a beautiful cherry blossom viewing spot. Afterwards, transferring to Hiroshima Station and we will take a bullet train to Kyoto where we will spend the next three nights. In the late afternoon, we’ll photograph historic Kyoto until sunset time. In Kyoto, we will stay for three consecutive nights at a centrally located hotel. Dinner is not included in Kyoto. Feel free to explore the town and enjoy your free evening in Kyoto.

In the early morning, we will have a photography session at historical Higashiyama district—one of the city’s most atmospheric areas—walking from the Yasaka Pagoda through the charming lanes of Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka toward Kiyomizu-dera Temple. Visiting at this quiet hour allows you to avoid the crowds and fully immerse yourself in the timeless charm of the old capital. After returning to the hotel for some rest, continue our photography session in Kyoto. The day's photography spots will be determined on-site, based on the cherry blossom bloom status, weather conditions, and other factors.

In the early morning, we head west to Arashiyama, one of Kyoto’s most picturesque districts. Here, we’ll photograph Tenryuji Temple—one of the prestigious “Five Great Zen Temples of Kyoto.” Enjoy a stroll across the scenic Togetsukyo Bridge and through the enchanting Bamboo Grove Path. After that, we will head north to Miyama, a quiet village nestled in the rural Kyoto. This area is home to well-preserved thatched-roof farmhouses where people still live today. Take your time exploring the peaceful rural landscape and experiencing the charm of this traditional Japanese village.

The last photography session in Kyoto in the early morning. Visiting Fushimi Inari Taisha, famed for its thousands of vermilion torii gates. Travel by private vehicle to Nara, another ancient capital of Japan. Highlights include Tōdai-ji Temple, home to the Great Buddha—Japan’s largest bronze statue, originally built in the 8th century—and Nara Park, where friendly deer roam freely among visitors. Afterward, continue to Kashihara in central Nara Prefecture, known as the cradle of Japan and site of its first imperial capital. En route, stop at Muro-ji Temple that is a serene Shingon Buddhist temple nestled in the forested mountains, known for its historic five-story pagoda and its welcoming atmosphere for female pilgrims.

On this day, we will visit Mount Yoshino, renowned as one of Japan’s most iconic cherry blossom destinations. For over 1,300 years, it has been celebrated for its breathtaking spring scenery, with approximately 30,000 cherry trees blanketing the mountain slopes. Hiking through this historic mountain—past temples, shrines, and panoramic viewpoints—offers visitors a truly unforgettable cherry blossom viewing experience.

In the morning, we’ll enjoy our final photography session at the lesser-known yet picturesque Hase-dera Temple, renowned for its 399-step covered staircase, the noborirō. Afterward, we’ll drive to Osaka, concluding our tour around noon at Shin-Osaka Station.