Japan, an island nation in East Asia, is a captivating blend of ancient tradition and cutting-edge modernity. From the bustling cities of Tokyo and Osaka, filled with neon lights, skyscrapers, and technological marvels, to the serene temples, shrines, and gardens of Kyoto and Nara, Japan offers a diverse range of experiences. Its stunning natural landscapes include Mount Fuji, cherry blossom-lined rivers, and rugged coastlines, as well as hot spring resorts like Hakone and Beppu that invite relaxation. Japan is also renowned for its rich culture, from traditional tea ceremonies, sumo wrestling, and geisha performances to pop culture phenomena like anime and manga. With its efficient transportation system, delicious cuisine—ranging from sushi and ramen to regional specialties—and warm hospitality, Japan is a destination that seamlessly combines history, nature, and innovation, offering something unforgettable for every traveler. Here are some of the photos I captured during my visits. Enjoy your virtual tour!
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…
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…
The Leica APO-Summicron-M 35mm f/2 ASPH is renowned for its exceptional minimum focusing distance (MFD) of just 30 centimeters. This close focusing capability allows photographers to capture stunning close-up shots with incredible detail, making it an extremely versatile lens for a wide range of photographic scenarios. The ability to get so close to subjects opens…
Our kitchen window is adorned with three orchids that bloom regularly. They thrive in that spot, providing a calming view while washing dishes. Apparently we managed to create an ideal microclimate: the right amount of light, consistent temperature, and just enough humidity—it’s like we’ve hacked the perfect formula for orchid happiness!
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.
The Toyota Land Cruiser 70 Series is the kind of vehicle that doesn’t care about trends, comfort, or fuel efficiency. It’s built for the toughest environments on Earth, the kind where lesser SUVs crumble and die. This machine is a rolling monument to Toyota’s engineering stubbornness, refusing to modernise in any way that would compromise…
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…
Spring in Tokyo is a dream for photographers, especially with a fast, dreamy lens like the Voigtländer Nokton 50mm. The cherry blossoms (sakura) start taking over the city, but they aren’t the only stars—plum blossoms (ume) kick things off as early as February, and magnolias and camellias add to the show. With that Nokton wide…
Enjoyed a visit to Blue Bottle Coffee in Daikanyama. Their Madagascar drink is really good, highly recommended! Did you know that Blue Bottle Coffee, Inc. was founded by W. James Freeman in the early 2000s in Oakland, California. The company is known for its commitment to high-quality, single-origin coffee beans and has played a significant…
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 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…
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…