Serenity Now
Just a little bit of what we all need – breathe in, breathe out.
Living
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.
Platform
Platform shots never get old, especially when paired with a narrow depth of field. The blurred edges and sharp focal point create that satisfying perspective that pulls you right into the scene. There’s something timeless about capturing the rhythm and geometry of train platforms—keep them coming!
Roppongi Panorama
The view from Mori Tower must already be incredible, but adding your first attempt at sky replacement takes it to another level! It’s amazing how a new sky can completely transform the mood of a photo, especially when reflections dominate the original. Photoshop’s Sky Replacement is a powerful tool, and it sounds like you’re off…
Onsen Dip
It’s true—weekend trips to an onsen, unwinding in a steaming hot bath, and breathing freely without masks feel like distant memories. The longing for those simple pleasures is so relatable. Getting vaccinated is such a crucial step toward regaining that sense of normalcy and protecting each other from potential variants. Here’s to hoping we can…
New South Gate
The New South Gate at Shinjuku Station adds a sleek and modern touch to the bustling transit hub. Designed for convenience and ease, it’s a refreshing update that complements the station’s constant evolution. With Shinjuku being one of the world’s busiest stations, this new exit is a welcome addition for smoother navigation and a stylish…
Ramen
This ramen from Sugamo isn’t just delicious—it’s got Michelin history. Rich broth, expertly crafted noodles, and flavors that earned it a star make it a must-try. If you’re in the area, treat yourself to a bowl that blends local charm with world-class taste. Highly recommended and worth the detour!
Kakigori
Kakigori, the ultimate summer indulgence in Japan! Fluffy shaved ice drenched in vibrant syrups or layered with fresh fruits and condensed milk—it’s as refreshing as it is delicious. Perfect for cooling off on a sweltering day while savoring a bit of Japanese tradition. Don’t miss it!
Delicious Curry
Stumbled upon a gem in Shimbashi serving mouthwatering curry! The spicy kick, fiery ambiance, and friendly waitresses make it a spot worth revisiting. Perfect for a flavorful meal with a touch of charm. Shimbashi never disappoints!
Lunch Date
Lunch with the Canon R6 and the RF 50mm f/1.2L sounds like a date made in photography heaven. The RF version seems like a dream come true—sharp as a tack even wide open, with that signature creamy bokeh that turns every shot into art. Compared to the EF version, it’s a whole new level of…
Sakura
Life sounds like it’s been a whirlwind lately—wrapping up 5G, moving into a new house, and navigating a new school for your little one! Glad to hear things have settled enough for you to share again. This year’s cherry blossoms do sound unusual, with the cold throwing their timing off. Still, your shot captures their…
Connecting | Living | Shooting
Shimbashi
A station agent carefully retrieving an item from the tracks—a quiet moment that speaks volumes about dedication and safety in Japan’s rail system. It’s these small, routine acts that keep everything running smoothly. Calm, efficient, and reassuring to witness.
Fifteen
Platform 15 at Shinjuku Station—where the endless flow of people meets the structured chaos of one of the busiest stations in the world. There’s something captivating about the contrast of movement and stillness here, as trains arrive and depart like clockwork. A true slice of Tokyo life.
Kanda Shrine
Tokyo’s shrine roofs are an architectural feast, and it sounds like you’ve captured them beautifully! Those intricate lines and curves paired with the charm of traditional craftsmanship always stand out. And to anyone doubting Fuji’s zooms, your shots should put that argument to rest. Sharp, vibrant, and packed with detail—Fuji knows what they’re doing!
Akiba Bloom
Spring in Japan is pure magic with cherry blossoms painting the landscape in soft pinks and whites. Parks, streets, and riversides transform into breathtaking scenes, making every walk feel like stepping into a postcard. It’s nature’s way of saying, “Take a moment to appreciate the beauty.” 🌸
Suidobashi
The iconic spot in Suidobashi overlooking the Kanda River and the trains heading toward Akihabara is a must-visit for train enthusiasts and photographers alike. The combination of urban trains, the flowing river, and the surrounding cityscape creates a perfect blend of Tokyo’s modern energy and charm. A scene that feels quintessentially Tokyo!
Temple Entrance
The entrance of Tokyo Daijingu, one of my favorite shrines in Tokyo, is always a beautiful sight. The peaceful atmosphere, traditional architecture, and intricate wooden torii make it a perfect escape from the city’s bustle. It’s not just a place to visit but to experience a piece of Tokyo’s spiritual heart.
Night Temple
Captured a night temple shot wide open at f/0.95, and this lens continues to amaze me! The shallow depth of field and creamy bokeh create such a dreamy, atmospheric vibe. It’s perfect for low light and really brings out the magic of nighttime scenes. Absolutely loving this lens!
South Exit
Still testing the 10-24mm on the X-H1, and while I still can’t push beyond 1/4s, it does feel like the hit rate at this limit is noticeably higher thanks to the IBIS. The added stabilization seems to make a difference in consistency, even if the ultimate threshold hasn’t changed much. Overall, it’s a solid improvement…
Sushi Night
With the ZhongYi Optics 35mm f/0.95 at the front and the Fuji X-H1 at the back, I captured an old sushi restaurant in Tokyo glowing softly at night. The fast lens perfectly highlighted the cozy, nostalgic vibe of the place, with its wooden signs and warm lighting creating a scene full of character. The APS-C…
Temmaru
With the ZhongYi Optics 35mm f/0.95 at the front and the Fuji X-H1 at the back, I captured the entrance of Temmaru restaurant in Kagurazaka at night. The warm glow of the lights, the shallow depth of field, and the creamy bokeh brought out by the fast lens make the scene feel inviting and cinematic….