Takadanobaba on the Yamanote Line, also known as the Atomu stop! Famous for its connection to Astro Boy (Tetsuwan Atom), this lively station even plays the iconic theme song when trains arrive. A fun nod to Osamu Tezuka’s legacy and a charming detail for fans of Japanese pop culture.
Captured various people waiting for trains in Tokyo, specifically in Shinjuku and Akihabara. Why, you ask? Turns out there’s a demand for these kinds of shots on Shutterstock! It’s interesting how everyday moments, like commuters standing by the platform, can be turned into stock photo gold. Sometimes the ordinary is what people are looking for.
In addition to the uncomfortable pillow, the one thing I’m not too fond of in a ryokan is the traditional Japanese breakfast. It’s always beautifully presented, but for me, it’s just too much salty stuff and not nearly enough sweet options. And the lack of coffee? A real challenge first thing in the morning. I…
A ryokan stay once a year is just about frequent enough for me. While I love the experience—the serene atmosphere, the onsen, and the incredible meals—I struggle with the traditional pillows they usually provide. They’re just too hard for me, and it makes sleeping a bit of a challenge. Still, the charm of the whole…
The Japanese countryside really highlights the contrast between urban and rural living—where a hotel room can easily outsize most Tokyo apartments! It’s fascinating how space is so generously available in these areas, offering a glimpse into a more relaxed and expansive way of life. It makes you think about how differently resources like land and…
The ryokan we stayed at was packed with old items gathered from the countryside, giving it a rustic and unique charm. One standout piece was an old Daruma doll—its faded paint and worn expression added to its character, but it definitely spooked the girls! A little eerie, but part of the ryokan’s quirky atmosphere.
As I mentioned earlier, playing with the focus ring of the little Zeiss Biogon is such a treat. Here’s a defocused shot of the road while waiting at a traffic light in Tokyo. The blurred lights and soft bokeh create a dreamy, abstract vibe—proof that even a mundane moment can turn into something visually interesting…
Had an amazing dining experience at Amour, a Michelin-starred restaurant in Ebisu. The delicate fusion of French and Japanese cuisine was beautifully crafted, reminding me of the excellent Sa.Qua.Na in Honfleur. Every dish was a treat for the senses—definitely worth a try if you’re in the area!
The focus ring of the Zeiss Biogon 35mm is such a joy to use—smooth, precise, and with just the right amount of resistance. I find myself often playing with it, even when I’m not shooting, just because it feels so satisfying. It’s a reminder of how much fun manual focus can be with the right…
I’m loving how the little Zeiss Biogon (35mm) beautifully blurs the background at a large aperture. The soft, creamy bokeh adds so much character to the shots, making subjects stand out while giving the images a dreamy, artistic feel. This lens has a way of turning everyday scenes into something special!
