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!
There are some great bars and restaurants around the new south exit in Shinjuku. The area combines modern design with a laid-back vibe, offering a variety of spots to grab a drink or enjoy a meal. Whether you’re in the mood for Japanese cuisine, international dishes, or just a quiet bar to unwind, this updated…
With all my Canon gear sold, I needed a new wide-angle lens for my Fuji setup. After a lot of back-and-forth, I narrowed it down to three options: the XF 10-22mm f/4, XF 14mm f/2.8, and XF 16mm f/1.4. In the end, weather sealing and the large aperture of the 16mm f/1.4 won me over,…
Ran some simple high ISO tests with the X-T2, and once again, it delivered excellent performance. Even at higher settings, the images retained impressive detail and minimal noise. It’s great to see how well this camera handles challenging lighting conditions—perfect for low-light shooting without sacrificing quality. Very pleased!
Took the X-T2 out to capture the Yamanote Line at night, and I’m impressed. The wide dynamic range of the Sony sensor provides so much flexibility for post-processing, especially in handling shadows and highlights from the city lights. The details and tones it retains in low light are fantastic. Me like, indeed!
Tried out the X-T2 at night with the 35mm f/1.4. While the image quality is stunning, the autofocus feels a bit sluggish in low light—not ideal for night shooting. I’m seriously considering switching to the 35mm f/2. It’s faster at focusing and has the added bonus of being weather-resistant (WR), which is always a plus…
Spotted schoolgirls walking back home on their own in Iidabashi, a common and charming sight in Japan. With their neatly pressed uniforms and carefree chatter, it’s a glimpse into everyday life that feels both nostalgic and uniquely Japanese. A quiet moment in the bustling city.
A pink canopy of cherry blossoms greeted me on a short stroll after dropping the little one at daycare. The soft petals overhead and gentle breeze made for a peaceful and refreshing moment to start the day. Spring really knows how to brighten the everyday!
I didn’t realize the tree above Hachiko was a cherry tree until now. Come to think of it, it makes perfect sense—it has to be. Seeing it in bloom adds a nice touch of seasonal beauty to such an iconic spot in Shibuya. A little detail I somehow missed before!
Came back from the US for this? It’s the last days of Hanami, and the rain just won’t stop—it feels more like the rainy season than spring. So much for enjoying the cherry blossoms! At least the rain gives the petals a kind of melancholic beauty, but it’s not the Hanami I was hoping for.
This hanami season was a disappointment for me, thanks to bad weather and a business trip. I only had a few hours to grab some shots around home. I used the 90mm f/2 mounted on the X-T2—a fantastic lens for sharpness and bokeh. Unfortunately, this is my second copy of the 90mm, as the first…
Testing out the different focus modes, including face tracking, in Shinjuku during commuting time was a real eye-opener. The fast-moving crowd and ever-changing scenes were a perfect challenge, and the camera handled it well. Face tracking was especially impressive, locking onto subjects even in the chaos. A great spot to push the camera to its…
First night out with my Canon replacement, the Fuji X-T2—not bad at all! The camera handled low light beautifully, with sharp details and rich tones. The compact size and retro design were a pleasure to work with, and it’s definitely shaping up to be a great choice. Excited to explore its full potential!
The Hakone Skyline is a fantastic route for breathtaking views of Fujisan. Winding through the mountains, it offers clear vantage points where the iconic peak dominates the horizon, especially on clear days. A perfect drive for photographers, nature lovers, or anyone wanting to soak in the beauty of Mount Fuji!
Same spot, same camera, but two completely different looks thanks to using two different focal lengths. A wider lens captures the full scene, offering a sense of scale and context, while a longer focal length zooms in on the details, creating a more focused and intimate perspective. Just a reminder of how much your lens…
And now, as promised, here are some pictures taken from inside the baths at Takaragawa Onsen. The warm steam rising from the water, the snow-covered surroundings, and the peaceful atmosphere make it such a relaxing and unique experience. Truly the perfect way to unwind and connect with nature—pure bliss!
Back at Takaragawa Onsen, home to the largest outdoor bath in Japan—this time with lots of snow, making it even more magical! My brother and I had the place almost entirely to ourselves, though I think he was a little disappointed with the lack of company. Shooting these photos was an adventure in itself—I was…
On our way to Takaragawa Onsen! Looking forward to the stunning riverside baths, surrounded by nature. It’s one of Japan’s most picturesque onsen spots—perfect for relaxing and soaking in the atmosphere. Can’t wait!