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!
I’m really happy with the bokeh and colors of the XF 35mm f/2. It’s much lighter than the f/1.4 and focuses significantly faster—perfect for quick shots and everyday use. The weather resistance is an added bonus too. If you’re on the fence, I’d say make the switch—you won’t regret it!
Tokyo is packed with little restaurants—every alley and street seems to have a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. I think I read somewhere that it has the highest number of restaurants per capita in the world, which wouldn’t be surprising given the sheer variety. Naturally, among the amazing spots, you’ll find some odd ones…
Cute donut: visually adorable, but the taste? Not that great. Pretty much what I expected, to be honest. Sometimes the looks outweigh the flavor, but hey, at least it made for a fun picture!
Strolling through Kabukicho in Shinjuku with the X-T2 and 90mm in hand. The lens was perfect for picking out details in the bustling streets—neon signs, narrow alleys, and the energy of the nightlife. The sharpness and bokeh made every shot pop, capturing the vibe of Tokyo’s liveliest district. Always a fascinating place to shoot!
Back in Tokyo, driving past the Tokyo Skytree at night—always a spectacular sight. Tried capturing it with the X-T2, but I couldn’t help wishing it had in-body image stabilization like Panasonic cameras. It would make handheld night shots so much easier! Still, the X-T2 delivers great results when you work around its limits. Almost the…
A Dreamliner (B787) at the gate in Narita—its sleek design and iconic silhouette always stand out. Watching it sit poised for departure, you can’t help but admire the engineering that make it one of the most impressive aircrafts in the sky. A perfect travel moment!
Every Japanese town seems to have them: crumbling old houses with (very) elderly residents still calling them home. These structures, worn by time and weather, tell a story of resilience and change, standing as reminders of a bygone era amidst modern surroundings. A common but quietly poignant sight.
Rain in Yurakucho: the perfect chance to test the weather sealing on my X-T2. Between the raindrops and the neon reflections, it was a great setting to shoot. And yes, the camera handled it like a champ—seems all good!
Fresh pasta in Kagurazaka—a delightful new discovery! Handmade and perfectly cooked, it’s a treat to find such a gem in this charming neighborhood. A great spot for Italian comfort food with a touch of Kagurazaka’s unique vibe. Definitely coming back for more!
The Japanese countryside in Gunma Prefecture is a serene escape, with its lush green rice fields stretching out to the horizon. The neatly lined paddies reflect the sky like mirrors, creating a tranquil and timeless scene. Surrounded by rolling hills and small villages, it’s a perfect glimpse into the rural charm and quiet beauty of…
Pushing the Fuji X-T2 to its limits at night with boost mode at 14fps, face tracking AF, a minimum shutter speed of 1/200s, and very high ISO—it’s definitely a challenge, but the results are seriously impressive! The camera handled the fast action and low light beautifully, capturing sharp details and keeping noise surprisingly under control….
Yakitori night with two French dads from the school—a perfect mix of good food and great conversation. The smoky flavors of grilled skewers paired with lively banter made for a relaxed and enjoyable evening. Nothing beats a casual night out like this!
Tokyo Tower, as seen from Roppongi Hills on a sunny morning, is a sight to behold. The clear skies make the red and white structure pop against the vibrant blue backdrop, while the city sprawls out below in intricate detail. It’s the perfect vantage point to appreciate one of Tokyo’s most iconic landmarks.
It’s always an odd sight for me: rivers transformed into concrete canals with highways running overhead. The stark, industrial design feels so far removed from the natural flow of water, creating a strange blend of urban functionality and lost tranquility. A reminder of how cities adapt and compromise with nature.
Night crossing: always best to look twice before stepping out, even in Japan. The glow of headlights and city lights creates a striking atmosphere, but safety first! Urban streets can be unpredictable, no matter how orderly they might seem.
Went wide angle, large aperture, and close to the ground with the XF 16mm f/1.4 in Kagurazaka at night. The lens captured stunning detail with a shallow depth of field, turning the glowing streetlights and narrow alleys into a dreamy, cinematic scene. This lens continues to amaze, especially in low-light conditions!
What would a baseball game in Japan be without the beer vendors? These hard-working individuals navigate the stands with kegs strapped to their backs, tirelessly going up and down the stairs to keep the crowd refreshed. It’s a tough job, but their cheerful energy and quick service are part of the unique charm of Japanese…
Testing out the X-T2’s 8fps mode—it’s already fast, though half the speed of its max burst at 15fps. Honestly, what would I even do with that many shots at the highest speed? :) 8fps feels plenty quick for most situations, and it still captures all the action without filling up the card too fast!
The XF 90mm f/2 delivered some gorgeous, creamy bokeh while shooting plum flowers this spring. The lens’s sharp focus on the blossoms combined with the dreamy blur in the background really makes the flowers pop. It’s such a joy to use for capturing the delicate beauty of springtime!
Captured the Iron Dragon at Tokyo Daijingu near Iidabashi, and it’s another moment where the X-T2 truly shines. The more I learn to use this camera, the happier I am with my switch from Canon. Paired with the 90mm f/2, which rivals the legendary 135mm f/2 “magic prime” in sharpness and rendering, it feels like…