Living in Tokyo for roughly two decades, you’d think the novelty would wear off—but this city never stops surprising me. From the quiet hum of early-morning trains to the neon chaos of Shinjuku at night, Tokyo’s rhythm is a constant source of inspiration. Daily life here is a blend of tradition and modernity: vending machines on every corner, temples nestled between skyscrapers, and festivals that bring streets to life. Even mundane errands feel unique, whether it’s navigating crowded markets, exploring new ramen shops, or watching the seasons change in meticulously tended parks. Tokyo’s energy, contrasts, and subtle details make every day a story waiting to be told. It’s a photographer’s dream and a constant reminder that familiarity doesn’t dull magic—it sharpens it.
A picnic at Shinjuku Gyoen is a delightful way to spend a day, immersed in the beauty of nature while enjoying some tasty treats. The park’s expansive lawns and serene gardens provide the perfect backdrop for a relaxing meal outdoors. Whether you prefer to spread out a blanket under the shade of a tree or…
Strolling with the furball, leash in one hand, M11 in the other, testing out the 35mm APO lens… Oh, the Leica APO-Summicron-M 35 f/2 ASPH—now that’s a lens that’ll make your photography nerd friends drool like a puppy over a fresh bowl of kibble. This optical marvel is like the love child of precision engineering…
Ah, Japanese cashiers—the unsung heroes of retail efficiency and customer service! Let’s dive into the fascinating world of Japanese cashiers, where precision meets politeness in a symphony of transactional excellence. First off, Japanese cashiers are renowned for their speed and accuracy. Ever noticed how they can ring up your items faster than you can say…
Got my Nokton 35mm back from Voigtländer—finally focuses to infinity like it should. Took them two months to sort it out. Took it for a spin in Roppongi. Roppongi Hills was a solid test ground—towering skyscrapers, polished architecture, high-end shopping, sleek cafes… Plenty of contrast, reflections, and deep shadows to play with.
A green metal flower spotted in Tokyo. Captured with the Nokton 50mm f/1.4 : wide open, it delivers a soft, dreamy look; stopped down, it transforms into razor-sharp precision.
Appi Kogen’s location and topography make it naturally prone to strong winds, particularly in the winter months. Sitting at approximately 1,300 meters in elevation, the resort is highly exposed, with open slopes that offer little natural wind protection. This results in frequent gusts, especially at higher elevations, which can significantly impact both perceived temperatures and…
Japanese diners have taken a liking to a tropical escape that’s far removed from their usual sushi and ramen routines. Hawaiian restaurants in Japan offer a cheeky twist on island cuisine that manages to capture the laid-back vibe of the Pacific without actually requiring a trip to Hawaii. In bustling cities like Tokyo and Osaka,…
A “No Sleeping” sign slapped up in subway corridors often does more than just keep order—it hints at a deeper problem. In cities where such notices appear, it’s usually because public spaces are being used as the only option for a bed. Instead of addressing the root causes like poor housing and economic hardship, authorities…
Ah, the Seiko Clock Tower in Ginza—a monument that’s been keeping Tokyo punctual since 1894. Perched at the Ginza 4-chome intersection, this clock tower has witnessed the evolution of the city, from horse-drawn carriages to bustling modernity. The original clock tower was the brainchild of Kintarō Hattori, Seiko’s founder, who believed that a public clock…
Japan isn’t all futuristic skyscrapers and cutting-edge technology. Step outside the glitzy city centres, and you’ll find plenty of ageing, low-cost apartment blocks dotting the suburbs. These buildings, often constructed in the economic boom years, have seen better days, with faded exteriors, cramped layouts, and minimal insulation. They cater to students, low-income workers, and older…
Highway service areas in Japan have seen significant upgrades, and food quality has improved as a result. Unlike the basic rest stops of the past, many have transformed into full-fledged dining destinations offering a variety of high-quality meals. Japanese service areas (SA) and parking areas (PA) now feature regional specialities, freshly prepared meals, and even…
Shogi is Japan’s version of chess, but with a brutal twist—captured pieces switch sides and can be redeployed against their former owner. It’s a game of relentless warfare, where no piece is ever truly out of play. The board is a 9×9 grid, slightly larger than a chessboard, and the pieces are pentagonal wedges with…
Inokashira Pond is the centrepiece of Inokashira Park, located in Kichijoji, Tokyo. It’s a picturesque spot, especially famous for its cherry blossoms in spring. The pond is part of the Kanda River water system and has been around for centuries—it even supplied drinking water to Edo (old Tokyo) during the early Edo period. A fun (or mildly ominous) fact: the…
A night out at an izakaya is an experience that blends great food, endless drinks, and a lively atmosphere. These Japanese gastropubs range from smoky, dimly lit joints packed with salarymen to sleek, modern venues with digital ordering systems. The moment you walk in, you’re hit with a chorus of staff shouting “Irasshaimase!” welcoming you…
Ah, the 28mm Nokton—great choice. That lens has some serious character, and on the M11, it’s a proper street photography weapon. The colours you get from that combo are just stunning, especially wide open. And yeah, the M11’s size is a huge plus—big enough to feel solid, small enough to carry everywhere without screaming, “Look…
A UFO Catcher is a type of arcade claw machine, originally popularised by SEGA, where players attempt to grab prizes using a mechanical claw. These machines are a staple of arcades in Japan and other parts of Asia, often featuring plush toys, figurines, and exclusive collectibles. Unlike traditional claw machines, UFO Catchers often have a…
Tokyo’s endless churn of demolition and rebuilding comes with a noticeable trend—houses are shrinking. The city’s obsession with perpetual renewal means that many homes barely make it past 30 years before being torn down, their remains carted away in mini dump trucks. But what replaces them is often even smaller than before. Rising land prices,…
Japan’s convenience stores, or konbini, are an essential part of everyday life, seamlessly blending convenience, quality, and efficiency. Found on nearly every street corner, these stores operate 24/7, offering a staggering range of services beyond just food. Whether it’s paying bills, sending parcels, printing documents, or even buying event tickets, konbini are designed to make…
Kerosene heaters remain a common sight in Japan, particularly in older homes, small businesses, and rural areas where central heating is rare. Even in urban environments like Tokyo, many residents still rely on them to keep individual rooms warm during the winter months. Unlike in colder regions such as Hokkaido, where kerosene delivery trucks regularly…
In Japanese supermarkets, nearly everything is carefully wrapped in plastic, reflecting a cultural focus on cleanliness and presentation. From individually wrapped fruits to vegetables packaged in neat trays, the attention to detail is striking. However, there are a few notable exceptions: corn and onions, often left unwrapped and displayed in their natural state. Their hardy…