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.
With a typhoon on the horizon, I headed to Shibuya armed with my GX85 and two stellar Lumix/Leica primes: the NOCTICRON 42.5mm f/1.2 and the SUMMILUX 12mm f/1.4. The mix of rain and neon reflections made for dramatic scenes, and the lenses didn’t disappoint. The 42.5mm delivered creamy bokeh and sharp portraits, while the 12mm…
Rainy days have a special charm—turning your home into a cozy retreat and the world outside into a playground for photographers. Armed with the GX85 and a 12mm lens, I ventured out and found plenty to capture. The soft, diffused light and glistening streets brought out details and moods that sunny days can’t match. Happy…
Futakotamagawa, or Nikotama as the locals call it, is a stylish spot on Tokyo’s outskirts. Its mall is a standout, blending a sleek bookstore, Starbucks, and cutting-edge electronics shops into a space that’s hard to beat for browsing and relaxing. Whether you’re here to grab a latte, explore gadgets, or get lost in books, it’s…
A moody view of Tokyo from my favorite observation spot at the Bunkyo Civic Center. The city stretches endlessly under a blanket of clouds, with skyscrapers rising like silhouettes. Even on a gray day, the contrast of urban sprawl and distant hills makes this view unforgettable.
A now-ubiquitous sight in Tokyo: people of all ages—boys, girls, men, and women—wandering the streets, phones in hand, intently hunting Pokémon. Parks, stations, and even quiet alleys have become hotspots, turning the city into one giant interactive game board. It’s both amusing and surreal to see the craze blend so seamlessly into daily life.
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!
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.
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.
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.
