Japan Autumn Leaves Photography Tour – UNESCO Mt. Fuji - Blain Harasymiw Photography

I am now leading my final Autumn 2025 photo workshop, and have been on the road for close to two months. After this two-week private workshop, I will take a break until winter, and then lead my annual Hokkaido photo workshops.

This year, the Autumn colours are fantastic. For more than thirty years, I’ve had the joy and privilege of leading photography workshops with nature lovers on journeys to experience the incredible autumn splendour of Mt. Fuji. Each year, I look forward to welcoming both new friends and returning guests, all united by our shared love of photography and adventure. Mt. Fuji is not only Japan’s most famous and beloved mountain, but also a UNESCO World Heritage site with a rich history and a spirit that inspires awe in everyone who visits. Its graceful, symmetrical peak rises above the landscape like a guardian, and as an active volcano, it provides a dramatic and ever-changing backdrop for our photos. Did you know that 10% of the world’s active volcanoes are actually in Japan? It’s just one of the many reasons this country is so endlessly fascinating for photographers! There’s something truly magical about the way Mt. Fuji captures the imagination. For centuries, artists, poets, and travellers from all over the world have been drawn to its breathtaking beauty. Autumn in Mt. Fuji, leading a photo workshop, is fantastic. Still, I also lead my Hokkaido photo tour to Mt. Fuji, along with my Cherry Blossom photo workshop, and countless private Mt. Fuji photo workshops. In Autumn, the trees and landscape come alive with vibrant fall foliage—crimson, gold, orange, and, if we’re lucky, even the rare and treasured purple Japanese maple leaves. It’s a photographer’s dream come true! And let's not forget the grasslands of Mt. Fuji.

In my Japan photo workshops, we make the most of every moment. We rise before dawn to catch the first soft light bathing Mt. Fuji. After we return to our lodgings for breakfast and a full day of exploring the region. Then we have the setting sun that turns the mountain and its surroundings into a glowing masterpiece. There’s a wonderful sense of camaraderie as we share stories, swap photography tips, and encourage each other to capture that perfect shot. Our adventure takes us to the celebrated Fuji Five Lakes—Yamanakako, Kawaguchiko, Saiko, Shojiko, and Motosuko. Each lake has its own unique personality and offers a new perspective on Mt. Fuji. Most visitors only see one or two of these lakes, but together we explore them all (and the little-known “sixth” lake, Tanukiko, too!). Tanukiko is actually an artificial lake, created back in 1935, and it reveals an entirely different side of the region. Since public transportation doesn’t reach all these spots, having a knowledgeable workshop led by a pro team makes all the difference. I love sharing these hidden gems—places even many locals haven’t visited!

One of the greatest joys of leading these Autumn in Japan photo workshops is showing guests the secret viewpoints and special locations I’ve discovered over the years. With my local connections and years of experience, I can take you to hidden spots where you’ll have the best chance to capture truly unique images—often with no crowds in sight! More than just a photo tour, this is a chance to make memories, forge friendships, and see Mt. Fuji in a way few people ever do. Every year, I’m excited to share the wonder of autumn in Japan with a group of passionate photographers and curious travellers. I can’t wait to welcome you to our next adventure—there’s always something new to discover together!

Contact me to start planning your private or group photo tour of a lifetime in Japan!

Previous Post Next Post

Archive

Go