Author: Benoist

Kanda Shrine

Kanda Shrine

Kanda Myojin is one of the few shrines in Tokyo that survived the WWII bombings, preserving a rich history in the heart of the city. The current structure dates back to 1934, rebuilt after the Great Kanto Earthquake’s fires. The shrine is dedicated to three deities: Daikokuten, the god of good harvest and matrimony; Ebisu,…

Yukata Season

Yukata Season

The Yukata season is back—yeah! It’s always a delight to see people strolling around in these lightweight summer kimonos, bringing a pop of tradition and color to the streets and festivals. Nothing says summer in Japan quite like it!

Yodobashi Parking

Yodobashi Parking

Deep underground in Yodobashi Camera Akihabara, I discovered a bicycle parking area. At a fixed price of ¥400, it’s no surprise the place is almost always empty. Convenient location, sure—but at that rate, it seems like most people would rather take their chances elsewhere!

Shinjuku Parking

Shinjuku Parking

Right next to the bustling JR station in Shinjuku, I stumbled upon a surprisingly old parking entrance. Its faded signs and worn concrete felt like a relic from another era, standing in stark contrast to the modern, fast-paced vibe of the area. A quiet reminder of Shinjuku’s layers of history amid all the urban energy.

Platform Motion
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Platform Motion

Yes, I know—another one—but I just can’t resist: more platform motion blur! There’s something endlessly fascinating about capturing the dynamic flow of trains against the stillness of the platform. The streaks of light and color add an energy that never gets old. It’s a shot I’ll probably keep revisiting.

Shake Shack
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Shake Shack

My first Shake Shack experience in Tokyo was surprisingly pleasant. The key is to keep it simple—skip the fries, ignore the overpriced drinks, and go straight for a classic burger. Juicy, flavorful, and satisfying, it’s the one thing they truly nail. Sometimes, less is more!

Cruising Altitude
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Cruising Altitude

Sitting back and relaxing at cruising altitude in business class—a rare treat! The extra space, reclining seat, and quiet cabin make a world of difference. It’s a chance to unwind, enjoy the view from above, and savor the perks of flying in comfort. Moments like these remind me why business class is worth it, even…

ANA Lunch
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ANA Lunch

Flying business class with ANA offered great food, beautifully presented and full of flavor. However, the wine selection felt a bit underwhelming—limited options that didn’t quite match the high standard of the cuisine. Still, the overall dining experience was enjoyable, with attention to detail that made it stand out.

Boarding Completed
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Boarding Completed

A few bubbles in my tummy before take-off—enjoying a pre-flight drink to pass the time. Unfortunately, take-off ended up being delayed by three hours due to a balance issue with the cargo. Not the smoothest start, but at least there was time to sip and relax before the long wait!

San Francisco Pier
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San Francisco Pier

This might just be my favorite shot from last week’s visit to San Francisco. The composition, the mood—it all came together perfectly. Now the real dilemma: color or black and white? The color version captures the vibrancy and life of the scene, while the black and white emphasizes texture, contrast, and timelessness. Tough call, but…

Cable Cars
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Cable Cars

The San Francisco cable car system holds the title of the world’s last manually operated cable car system, a living piece of history on the city’s steep streets. Once sprawling with 23 lines established between 1873 and 1890, today only three remain: two connecting downtown near Union Square to Fisherman’s Wharf, and one following California…

Landing in SFO
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Landing in SFO

Snapped a few shots at SFO airport, and the highlight was definitely the sleek rear end of a Dreamliner. The smooth curves and modern design make it a photogenic masterpiece, even on the tarmac. A great start to capturing the airport’s bustling energy!

Good Morning California
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Good Morning California

The final moments of the journey to San Francisco were marked by the approach to SFO airport. The view from the window captured the Bay Area’s iconic scenery—rolling hills, the expanse of the bay, and the city skyline in the distance. A fittingly picturesque end to the trip as the plane descended gracefully toward the…

ANA Dinner
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ANA Dinner

Savoring delicious Japanese cuisine at 30,000 feet in ANA business class is a treat. From beautifully presented appetizers to perfectly cooked mains, the meal feels like dining at a fine restaurant in the sky. Paired with attentive service and a peaceful cabin, it’s a truly enjoyable way to travel.

Narita Airport
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Narita Airport

Snapped a few shots from the aircraft, a B777, while waiting for takeoff at Narita Airport. The tarmac was buzzing with activity, and ANA planes dominated the scene. Among them, a sleek Dreamliner (B787) stood out with its modern design. The lineup of aircraft and the busy atmosphere made for some great pre-flight captures.

ANA Lounge
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ANA Lounge

Tried out the WiFi remote on my GX85 in the ANA Lounge at Narita, capturing a woman quietly reading a book. The reflection on the polished table added an elegant symmetry to the shot, complementing the serene atmosphere. A simple yet compelling subject, perfect for expanding my Getty collection.

The Noodle Bar

The Noodle Bar

Tried the Noodle Bar at LaQua—a decent spot for a quick meal. The menu is straightforward but satisfying, with well-prepared noodles and flavorful broths. Convenient and cozy, it’s a good choice if you’re in the area and craving something simple yet tasty.

Taxi Ride
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Taxi Ride

I enjoy walking, but there are times when the weather has other plans. When it’s too hot or the rain’s coming down hard, hopping into a taxi suddenly feels like a small luxury. A quick break from the elements, and sometimes even a chance to enjoy the city from a different perspective.

Train Girl
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Train Girl

Yes, that’s right—another platform shot! There’s just something timeless about the symmetry, the lines leading into the distance, and the energy of the trains pulling in and out. With the right lens and aperture, every shot feels fresh, even if it’s the same scene. It’s hard to resist!