Travel photography is my way of preserving the experiences, cultures, and stories I encounter in Japan and across the globe. In Japan, every corner offers something unique—mist-covered mountains in the countryside, bustling streets lit by neon in the cities, and serene temples standing quietly amidst the modern world. Cherry blossoms in spring, vibrant festivals in summer, fiery autumn leaves, and snow-covered landscapes in winter provide an ever-changing canvas to capture. Beyond Japan, the world offers a vibrant palette of contrasts. From the historic charm of European cobblestone streets to the vibrant chaos of Southeast Asian markets, every destination has its own rhythm and soul. Whether it’s the golden hues of a desert sunrise, the vibrant colors of local cuisine, or the candid moments of people going about their lives, my photos aim to tell stories of places and people and offer an intimate look at the world’s beauty, one shot at a time.
Ginzan Onsen at night is pure magic, like stepping into a scene from a Ghibli film. Nestled in the mountains of Yamagata Prefecture, this hot spring town transforms after dark into an ethereal vision—warm lanterns glowing softly, their reflections shimmering on the Ginzan River, while the beautifully preserved Taisho-era ryokan exude a timeless charm. And…
Ginzan Onsen is one of Japan’s most picturesque hot spring towns, buried deep in the mountains of Yamagata Prefecture. If you’ve ever wanted to feel like you’ve stepped into a nostalgic postcard or an old Japanese film, this is the place. The town is lined with beautifully preserved Taisho-era (1912-1926) wooden ryokan (traditional inns), which…
Appi Kogen Ski Resort, often referred to as the “Aspen of Japan,” is a premier winter destination located in Iwate Prefecture on Japan’s main island of Honshu. Known for its high-quality powder snow, the resort receives around eight meters of light, dry snowfall annually, creating ideal conditions for skiers and snowboarders. The well-maintained slopes span…
The ride to Kamba La Pass is as thrilling as it is breathtaking—literally. As the vehicle winds its way up the steep, twisting road, the air grows noticeably thinner, and the effects of high altitude begin to set in. At 4,794 metres (15,728 feet) above sea level, altitude sickness is a real concern, especially for…
The Potala Palace is an architectural marvel and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, towering over Lhasa, Tibet. Originally built in the 7th century by King Songtsen Gampo, it was later expanded in the 17th century by the 5th Dalai Lama, becoming the primary residence of successive Dalai Lamas until the 14th fled to India in…
Jokhang Temple, the spiritual heart of Tibet, is the most sacred and important temple in Tibetan Buddhism. Located in Lhasa, it was built in the 7th century by King Songtsen Gampo to house a sacred statue of Jowo Shakyamuni, believed to be one of the most revered images of Buddha. A mix of Tibetan, Nepalese,…
Step into a Tibetan monastery, and the air hits you with a thick, unmistakable scent—earthy, rancid, smoky, and oddly rich. That’s yak butter candles at work. These traditional butter lamps, burning day and night as offerings, fill the temples with a dense aroma that clings to the ancient wooden beams and centuries-old murals. Yak butter,…
Drepung Monastery, perched on the outskirts of Lhasa, Tibet, is a sprawling labyrinth of whitewashed walls and golden roofs. Once the largest monastery in the world, it was home to nearly 10,000 monks in its heyday, making it a bustling hub of Tibetan Buddhist learning and debate. Today, it’s quieter but no less awe-inspiring, with…
At some hotels in Lhasa, including the more altitude-savvy ones, you might find an oversized balloon filled with oxygen on offer. Yes, a literal lifesaver in latex form, designed for guests struggling with the high-altitude thin air. These O2 balloons are often kept handy at reception or even sent to your room if you’re feeling…
Touching down in Lhasa feels like stepping onto another planet, and not just because the city sits at a dizzying 3,656 metres above sea level. The moment your plane door pops open, you’ll feel the high-altitude air smack you in the lungs. Cabin pressure during the flight keeps things manageable, but as soon as you…
Geysir and Strokkur, nestled in Iceland’s geothermal heartland, are nature’s ultimate boiling points. Geysir, the granddaddy of all geysers, is mostly dormant now, but its historic significance remains; it’s the namesake for every other geyser on Earth. Nearby, Strokkur has taken the spotlight, delighting visitors with its reliable eruptions every 5–10 minutes. In winter, this…
Gullfoss waterfall in winter is a mesmerising display of Iceland’s raw power frozen in time. The mighty Hvítá River crashes down into the canyon, partially encased in thick layers of ice and snow. The water still flows, but frost clings to the edges of the falls, creating sparkling icicles and frosty sculptures that glint in…
Kerio volcanic crater in winter is like stepping into a frozen postcard. The red volcanic slopes are dusted with snow, creating a stark contrast against the icy blue lake that often freezes over in the cold. The usual vibrancy of the crater is muted, replaced by a serene and frosty landscape that feels almost otherworldly….
Reykjavik Airport in winter is a mix of practicality and icy charm. Surrounded by snow-dusted landscapes and often a dramatic backdrop of low-hanging clouds, the airport feels like a gateway to Iceland’s raw, untamed beauty. Inside, it’s warm and minimal, with Scandinavian design touches that keep things sleek and functional. Expect boots stomping off snow…
Aux Grands Hommes La Patrie Reconnaissante – To Great Men, a Grateful Nation – is the full inscription that crowns the Panthéon in Paris, a masterpiece of neoclassical architecture, towering over the Latin Quarter with its grand dome and colonnaded façade. Originally built as a church, it now serves as a mausoleum to some of…
Pont Neuf is a Parisian classic and ironically named the New Bridge, even though it’s the oldest bridge in the city. Spanning the River Seine, it connects the Ile de la Cité to the riverbanks and offers some of the best views of Paris. Its iconic stone arches are a favourite for photographers, especially at…
A classic Paris Métro sign stands proudly atop a green metal pole, a true icon of the city’s streetscape. The sign features bold, red Art Nouveau typography framed by ornate green ironwork, a nod to early 20th-century design. The lamp glows softly, adding a vintage charm as it lights up at dusk. This timeless detail…
Galerie Vivienne in Paris is a true gem tucked away in the city’s vibrant 2nd arrondissement. Stepping into this covered passage feels like stepping back in time, to an era when Parisian arcades were the height of fashion and sophistication. Built in 1823, its mosaic-tiled floors, intricate ironwork, and glass ceilings create a luxurious yet…
Visiting Versailles these days demands meticulous planning, especially during holidays when the crowds swell to near-unmanageable levels. The serene experience of wandering the palace and gardens at leisure, once a hallmark of the visit, feels like a distant memory. Back then, the grandeur of the Hall of Mirrors or the charm of the Petit Trianon…
The Musée du Louvre, an iconic symbol of art and culture, stands proudly in the heart of Paris along the banks of the Seine. Housed in a grand former royal palace, its glass pyramid entrance glints against the historic architecture, offering a striking blend of the modern and the classic. During my military service, I…