A Japanese man sits at his small workbench in the quiet of his dimly lit shop, the kind of place that feels untouched by time. The fluorescent light above hums softly as he carefully adjusts a pair of glasses, using tools worn smooth from years of repetition. His hands move with precision — slow, deliberate,…
Shooting flowers with the Leica Summilux 50mm Classic is all about capturing character over clinical perfection. This lens has a signature rendering — a mix of sharp focus, smooth bokeh, and that slightly dreamy glow wide open — that turns simple subjects like flowers into something poetic. At f/1.4, the Summilux gives you a shallow…
Drying clothes outside in Japan is a common part of daily life, especially in suburban and rural areas. Most homes and apartments have balconies equipped with poles or hooks for clotheslines. It’s routine to see laundry hanging neatly outside, often first thing in the morning, taking advantage of the sun and fresh air. In tight…
Terminal 2 at Haneda Airport is a hub for both domestic and international flights operated by All Nippon Airways (ANA). Starting from March 31, 2024, ANA has significantly expanded its international flight services from this terminal. The terminal now handles 26 international flights, connecting passengers to major global destinations such as London, Paris, Frankfurt, Munich,…
The Yukata Competition in Sugamo is a charming local event that celebrates both traditional Japanese attire and the enduring spirit of community. Held in the summer months, usually July or August, this event transforms the nostalgic streets of Sugamo—often referred to as “Grandma’s Harajuku”—into a colorful runway of cotton kimono, cheerful fans, and time-honored style.
Cutting tuna for sushi is a meticulous process that highlights the fish’s natural flavors and textures. The selection of tuna is crucial, with different parts of the fish offering varying tastes and consistencies. The most prized sections include the akami, the lean red meat, and the toro, the fatty belly meat, which is further divided…
This flower was just a few centimeters wide, and while this photo appears to have been taken with a macro lens, it wasn’t! It was captured with the impressive 35mm APO lens. What a remarkable lens.
Lunch break for the construction worker… The sight of elderly individuals working on construction sites in Japan, particularly in roles like traffic management, evoke feelings of sadness and concern but several factors contribute to this situation. Many seniors in Japan continue to work due to financial needs. Pensions may not be sufficient to cover living…
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…
Japanese ramen is a beloved dish that has captured the hearts of food enthusiasts worldwide. Originating from China, ramen has been adapted and perfected in Japan, becoming a staple of Japanese cuisine. The dish is composed of wheat noodles immersed in a savory broth, which can be flavored with soy sauce, miso, or salt, among…
