Calling all female photographers - Get ready for an adventure of a lifetime!

Join photographers Angela Nicholson and Helen Trust for a 10-day immersive photography retreat set in stunning landscapes, combining expert tuition with the support of a like-minded women’s community.

Join renowned photographers Helen Trust and Angela Nicholson, founder of the SheClicks community, for an unforgettable photography journey through Japan, exploring a carefully curated blend of vibrant city life, cultural heritage and iconic landscapes.

Together, we’ll travel through ever-changing scenes, from the neon-lit streets of Tokyo to the serene temples of Kyoto, and the striking natural beauty of the Mount Fuji region. Each location has been chosen to offer a rich variety of photographic opportunities, with time built in to work around the best light, from early morning shoots to atmospheric evening sessions.

Throughout the journey, we’ll also be accompanied by a knowledgeable local guide, helping us navigate each location, adapt to conditions and make the most of every opportunity.

With Angela and Helen guiding you throughout, you’ll receive support, encouragement and practical advice to help you develop your photography, all while sharing the experience with a group of like-minded women.

This is a thoughtfully paced journey designed to balance exploration with creativity, giving you the space to immerse yourself, refine your skills and come away with images you’re truly proud of.

All levels are welcome – just bring your camera, your curiosity, and a sense of adventure.

• Street Life, Detail & Seasonal Beauty

This journey offers a rich mix of photographic styles, from candid street scenes in Tokyo to the intricate details and heritage of Kyoto. Hidden alleyways, traditional architecture and everyday moments provide endless inspiration.

Travelling in November, we’ll also experience Japan’s autumn colours, adding depth and atmosphere across both city and landscape. We’ll also explore evening and night photography, capturing Tokyo and Kyoto as they transform after dark.

• Culture, Contrast & Iconic Landscapes

Japan offers a striking blend of environments, from Tokyo’s fast-paced streets to the calm, historic beauty of Kyoto. In the Mount Fuji region, the pace slows further, with lakes, open landscapes and autumn colour creating space for more considered photography.

Throughout, we focus on a slower, more intentional approach, allowing time to work with light, refine compositions and fully immerse ourselves in each location.

• Expert Guidance

Hosted by Helen Trust and Angela Nicholson from SheClicks, this trip is more than just a tour—it’s a hands-on learning experience led by two inspiring photographers who are passionate about sharing their knowledge.

With their guidance, participants will gain confidence behind the lens, explore creative techniques, and connect with a supportive community of like-minded women.

• Location: Japan, multiple locations

• Date: 20th November 2027 - 29th November 2027

• Accommodation: 10 Days / 9 Night in a range of 3* & 4* hotels (twin share)

• Trip type: Photography, workshop, landscape, culture, nature, female-led

• Group Size: 7-14

Over 10 days, we’ll explore a carefully curated route through Japan, combining the energy of Tokyo, the cultural depth of Kyoto and the natural beauty of the Mount Fuji region.

From neon-lit streets and quiet backstreets to historic temples, traditional districts and tranquil lakes, each day offers a new perspective and a different photographic focus. The contrast between locations is part of what makes this journey so compelling, shifting from fast-paced city scenes to more reflective, landscape-led moments as we travel.

Throughout the trip, our local guide will be on hand to support the group and ensuring we make the most of each location.

In the Mount Fuji region, we’ll slow the pace further, with dedicated sunrise and sunset shooting opportunities, capturing one of Japan’s most iconic landscapes in its best light. In Kyoto, we’ll immerse ourselves in centuries-old architecture and seasonal colour, while Tokyo provides endless opportunities for storytelling, movement and detail.

This is a thoughtfully designed itinerary that balances exploration with time to shoot, reflect and refine your work. With Angela and Helen guiding you throughout, you’ll be supported and encouraged at every stage, while sharing the experience with a group of like-minded women in a truly unique and inspiring setting.

Itinerary at a Glance

Day 1: Arrival in Tokyo

Day 2: Tokyo: Sunrise & Tradition

Day 3: Tokyo: Street Life & Night Photography

Day 4: Day Trip to Sendai/Fujifilm factory TBC

Day 5: Mount Fuji: Iconic Views & Sunset

Day 6: Mount Fuji Sunrise & Kyoto

Day 7: Kyoto: Sunrise & Historic Streets

Day 8: Kyoto: Arashiyama

Day 9: Kyoto: Shrines & Night Photography

Day 10: Departure from Kyoto

Travel Insurance should be purchased NOW to cover your trip. 

Do not delay purchasing your travel insurance, even if your trip departure is a year away.

Your travel insurance should be IN ADDITION TO your credit card or health insurance.

We strongly recommend you purchase travel insurnace that covers you for ACTS OF GOD or WAR

PLEASE NOTE: If you need to cancel your trip due to flight price increases we will not be able to offer any refund.

Founder of SheClicks, camera reviewer, cake connoisseur and enthusiastic encourager of finding the perfect viewpoint.

Angela is the driving force behind SheClicks, our community of female photographers who are always up for a creative challenge – and possibly a slice of cake. With a career that’s included writing for Amateur Photographer, Digital Camera, PhotoPlus and more camera reviews than you can shake a tripod at, she knows her way around photographic kit – but this trip is all about you taking the pictures. She’s also a judge for several prestigious photography competitions, including the Travel Photographer of the Year, the British Photography Awards and the World Food Photography Awards - so she knows a good photo when she sees one.

Co-leading with the brilliant Helen Trust, Angela will be on hand to offer advice, encouragement and the occasional gentle nudge when a scene comes together or a fleeting moment appears and you’re not quite ready. She’ll have a camera or two with her, mostly to document your experience, but her main job is to help you make the most of yours.

Angela started SheClicks in 2018 to create a welcoming space for women at all stages of their photography journey – from phone snappers to full-frame fanatics – and it’s grown into a thriving community of over 15,000 members. She’s passionate about helping women build confidence with their cameras, explore their creativity and realise there’s no single ‘right’ way to take a photograph.

When she’s not leading photography trips, recording the SheClicks podcast or testing the latest gear, Angela lives in Oxfordshire with her partner and their pampered border terrier. She’s a fan of long exposures, wide-angle lenses and finding beauty in both the big scenes and the smaller details. She loves the intricate details of temple architecture, the atmosphere of a Tokyo market and the miniature landscapes of Japanese gardens.

So if you're unsure about your settings, wondering which lens to use or debating whether to wait just a little longer for that perfect moment to unfold… Angela’s here to help.

Let’s explore Japan together, take in the details, the atmosphere and the quiet moments, and come home with images you’re genuinely proud of.

Photographer, long exposure enthusiast, detail seeker and lover of both wide-open landscapes and beautifully structured spaces.

Helen is co-leading the SheClicks Japan trip and brings with her a calm, thoughtful approach to photography along with a real passion for helping others see things differently. She’s had wins in Amateur Photographer of the Year, the British Photography Awards and the London Camera Exchange Photographer of the Year, but titles aside, she’s all about slowing down and really connecting with what’s in front of the camera.

Her love of photography was sparked years ago while spending time in the Ansel Adams Gallery, where she found herself completely drawn into the power of black and white landscapes. That sense of inspiration has stayed with her, and she still returns to his work when she needs a creative reset.

Helen is happiest outdoors, using photography as a way to switch off from the noise of everyday life. That said, she’s just as drawn to architectural spaces, from quiet subway stations to grand buildings, and she has a particular soft spot for Venice, which she visits every year as a well-earned Christmas treat to herself.

Long exposure photography is at the heart of Helen’s work. She loves the way it transforms a scene, simplifying it, softening movement and bringing out shapes, tones and atmosphere that might otherwise go unnoticed. She’s also developed a strong affinity for minimalist compositions, often working in square format and creating images that make thoughtful use of negative space.

Her kit choices reflect that consistency. She’s a big fan of her wide-angle lenses and a few filters, and she’s remained loyal to a well-worn camera bag that’s been with her for over 20 years, which probably says everything about her practical, no-nonsense approach.

On this trip, Helen will be there to help you slow down, refine your compositions and look beyond the obvious. Whether it’s simplifying a busy scene, experimenting with long exposures or spotting details others might miss, she has a knack for helping you unlock a different way of seeing.

Helen’s dream superpower? Perfect eyesight that never lets her down. Her favourite baked treat? Millionaire’s shortbread. And her general outlook on photography? Sometimes it’s about taking a step back, simplifying the scene and giving yourself the space to create something a little more considered.

So if you’re keen to explore Japan with a fresh perspective, embrace a slower approach and discover the beauty in both the grand and the subtle, Helen will be right there with you.

Arrival

Book your flight to arrive before 12 noon.

Departure

Return airport transfer from the hotel from 7am.

Airports

Tokyo’s Haneda (HND) and Osaka (KIX)

Transfers

Transfers to our accommodation take approximately 45-75 minutes, depending on traffic.

Transfers are included only if arriving or departing on the 20th November 2027 and 29th November 2027 - within the specified times.

Please do not book your flights until we have confirmed this trip has met the minimum numbers and is going ahead.

Saturday 20th November 2027

After arriving into Tokyo, we’re met by our guide and transferred to our hotel.

The rest of the afternoon and early evening is left flexible, giving you time to settle in, relax after the journey or begin exploring the local area at your own pace.

In the evening, we come together for our welcome dinner, a relaxed and welcoming introduction to the trip and the group.

Meals Included: Dinner

Accommodation: Twin share in 4* Sunshine City Prince Hotel (or similar), Tokyo

Sunday 21st November 2027

We begin early with a sunrise shoot along the Sumida River, capturing the soft morning light as the city wakes.

After breakfast, we explore the historic Senso-ji Temple and wander through Nakamise Street, taking time to photograph the details, textures and atmosphere of this traditional area.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Accommodation: in 4* Sunshine City Prince Hotel (or similar), Tokyo

Monday 22nd November 2027

Today we explore some of Tokyo’s most iconic and energetic districts. We photograph the famous Shibuya Crossing, spend time around the Hachiko statue, and continue through the vibrant streets of Kabukicho.

As evening falls, we head to Omoide Yokocho for a dedicated night photography session, capturing the character, light and atmosphere of this unique area.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Accommodation: in 4* Sunshine City Prince Hotel (or similar), Tokyo

Tuesday 23rd November 2027

Today's itinerary has been designed with flexibility in mind. We will either enjoy an excursion outside Tokyo or continue exploring some of the city's lesser-known neighbourhoods and photographic highlights.

With guidance from Angela, Helen and our local guide, you'll have time to slow down, develop your creative eye and capture a different perspective on Japan.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Accommodation: in 4* Sunshine City Prince Hotel (or similar), Tokyo

Wednesday 24th November 2027

We leave Tokyo behind and travel towards the Mount Fuji region.

Our day includes visiting the iconic Chureito Pagoda, one of Japan’s most photographed viewpoints, followed by the beautiful Maple Corridor and Oishi Park. With Mount Fuji as a backdrop (weather permitting), we’ll focus on composition and framing throughout the day.

In the evening, we return to Oishi Park for a sunset shoot, capturing the landscape in its most atmospheric light before settling in for our overnight stay.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Accommodation: Twin share in the traditional Ryokan Kyosuiso (or similar), Mount Fuji

Thursday 25th November 2027

We start early with a sunrise shoot at Oishi Park, making the most of the morning light before returning for breakfast.

We then travel to Kyoto via Shinkansen, arriving in the afternoon with time to relax or explore at your own pace.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Accommodation: Twin share in 3* Rihga Grand Hotel (or similar), Kyoto

Friday 26th November 2027

We begin the day with a sunrise shoot at Kiyomizu-dera Temple, one of Kyoto’s most iconic locations.

Afterwards, we explore the preserved streets of Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka, before continuing to Maruyama Park, taking time to capture the details, architecture and seasonal colour throughout.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Accommodation: Twin share in 3* Rihga Grand Hotel (or similar), Kyoto

Saturday 27th November 2027

Today we head to the Arashiyama district, known for its serene natural beauty. We walk through the iconic Bamboo Grove, cross the Togetsukyo Bridge, and explore the peaceful gardens of Okochi Sanso.

This area offers a softer, more contemplative photographic experience, with a focus on light, texture and composition.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Accommodation: Twin share in 3* Rihga Grand Hotel (or similar), Kyoto

Sunday 28th November 2027

Our final full day takes us to the striking Fushimi Inari Shrine, famous for its endless red torii gates. We also visit Eikando Temple, particularly beautiful in autumn.

In the evening, we head to Gion for a night photography session, capturing the atmosphere of Kyoto’s historic geisha district before coming together for our farewell dinner.

Meals Included: Breakfast & Dinner

Accommodation: Twin share in 3* Rihga Grand Hotel (or similar), Kyoto

Monday 29th November 2027

After breakfast, it’s time to say goodbye to Japan as you make your way to Osaka airport for your onward journey home.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Breakfast

Breakfast is provided every day (except on arrival day) at our accommodation.

Lunch & Dinner

During the day we will explore a variety of local cafes, coffee shops and restaurants.

Dietary Requirements

We can cater to different dietary requirements, please ensure you let us know when filling in your Participant Details.

Extra Budget

Where meals are not included, We recommend a budget of around £600 for additional meals, drinks and souvenirs

Payment Options 

The following options will be present at the payment screen 

NOTE: WeTravel Transaction Fee: Using the We Travel platform incurs a very small charge on all transactions, which guests are liable to pay when booking and paying instalments. This amount is 1% + 30p (or currency equivalent if not paying in GBP). The fee has a minimum of £1.50 (or currency equivalent)

Card 

Card Fees: Covered by us.

WeTravel Fee: Yes, see above

Time: Instant 

Direct Debit

(Only available for payments in GBP, USD, EUR, AUD or CAD) 

The direct debit system used varies depending on currency: 

Card Fees: No Card Fees. (as long as your account is in the same country as the currency).

WeTravel Fee: Yes, see above

Time: up to 7 working days to process 

(The payment will always be initiated on the date stated in your payment plan, so can take up to 7 working days from then to complete, until which time it will show as "pending"). 

You may be directed to an external page (hosted by Airwallex or MangoPay) to complete the DD setup; this is completely normal. You will also receive a separate email confirming the set-up of your Direct Debit. This is simply to confirm that we have set up a direct debit with you. 

Payments will be debited from your bank account and will appear in your bank statement as either GoCardless, Airwallex, MangoPay or WeTravel, (depending on your country). 

Managing Payments 

If you need to manage your payment methods at any time (e.g. change default payment method, remove payment method) you can either click "Manage booking" from your confirmation email, or you can log in to wetravel.com, and go to "Account > Payment Methods", at any time. 

You can also use a new payment method if manually paying an instalment from the "My Trips > manage booking" section on wetravel.com

Terms & Conditions

Please click the following link to view the terms and conditions for booking this trip. These will also be presented to you for signing upon placing your booking.

https://www.inspiredventures.co.uk/booking-terms-and-conditions 

Insurance

Travel insurance is essential as soon as you book your trip because it protects you from unexpected issues both before and during your travels.  

- Before your trip: If you need to cancel due to illness, a family emergency, or unforeseen events, insurance can reimburse non-refundable costs.  

- During your trip: It covers medical emergencies, lost luggage, or stolen passports, saving you from significant expenses and stress.  

Booking travel insurance early ensures you're protected from the start, giving you peace of mind throughout your journey.