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’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again—I absolutely love the colors straight out of the L lenses. This shot with the 50mm f/1.2L is no exception. The tones are rich and vibrant without feeling overdone, and the lens’s rendering at wide aperture adds that magical, buttery quality. A joy to work with every…
Really happy with the perspective in this shot of the platforms at Shinjuku Station. The long focal length compresses the scene beautifully, while the large aperture adds a dreamy depth of field, making the lines and details pop. It’s a classic combo that never fails to deliver.
Back from Korea, and the flight was relatively uneventful—except for my neighbor, a Japanese lady, who dedicated a solid 10 minutes to taking selfies. Different angles, expressions, and probably filters too. Impressive commitment, though I couldn’t help but wonder if she actually found the perfect shot and perhaps more importantly, would anyone care?
A JAL B777 waits for takeoff at Haneda Terminal 3, its polished fuselage gleaming under the airport lights. The iconic red crane logo stands proud on the tail, symbolizing precision and tradition. Ground crew and vehicles buzz around, finalizing preparations, while the calm before departure fills the air—a quintessential Tokyo International Airport moment.
Tried out the 42.5mm lens for a food shot, and I’m impressed! The wide f/1.2 aperture perfectly isolates the latte, making the creamy foam and intricate art pop against a beautifully blurred background. The lens captures every detail—the rich texture of the froth and the subtle color gradient of the coffee. Definitely a winner for…
Good Service as Always on ANA Flying with ANA is always a pleasant experience. From the warm, attentive cabin crew to the small thoughtful touches like neatly arranged meals and hot towels, they know how to make a flight comfortable. Even in economy, the service feels premium, with a genuine focus on passenger care that…
Boarding for ANA flight in Haneda, Tokyo International Airport.
Chūtoro, the medium-fatty cut of tuna, is a true delight for sushi lovers. It strikes the perfect balance between the rich, buttery texture of otoro (大とろ) and the lean, clean taste of akami (赤身). Its marbled appearance hints at its melt-in-your-mouth quality, delivering a luxurious flavor that’s not overpowering. Whether served as sashimi or atop…
Yurakucho Station, bustling with its usual energy, offers a perfect snapshot of Tokyo life. The constant flow of commuters, the rhythmic hum of trains arriving and departing, and the occasional roar of a Shinkansen passing overhead create a dynamic atmosphere. The contrast between the sleek, high-speed train and the station’s older, industrial charm makes it…
Took the Nocticron 42.5mm f/1.2 out for another spin, keeping it wide open at f/1.2 in daylight thanks to an ND4 filter. This time, I focused on moving subjects in the lively streets of Shibuya. The shallow depth of field was incredible for isolating individuals in the chaos, especially the last person crossing—it’s where the…
Testing out my new 42.5mm lens on the trains and subways offered a perfect mix of candid moments and vibrant details. The tight focal length and wide f/1.2 aperture let me isolate subjects beautifully, from a passenger lost in thought to the texture of a worn-out handrail. The creamy bokeh transformed the background clutter of…
An old house, full of charm and history, stands on the brink of transformation. Preparing for a リフォーム, or renovation, means saying goodbye to worn tatami mats, aged wood, and faded walls as they make way for a new look while preserving some of the original character. It’s fascinating to document the transition—the peeling paint,…
The Nocticron 42.5mm wide open at f/1.2 in daylight, paired with an ND4 filter, delivers beautifully creamy bokeh and razor-sharp focus on the subject. It’s a lens that thrives in creating dreamy separation and buttery backgrounds—even under bright conditions. Definitely hard to argue with those results, wouldn’t you say?
Taking the 135mm f/2 for a spin in Shibuya delivers stunning street shots once again. The lens captures the lively essence of Japanese fashion and style, with sharp details and creamy bokeh that makes each frame pop. Perfect for isolating subjects against the bustling backdrop of Tokyo’s streets—timeless results every time.
Testing out the beastly Panasonic LUMIX G Leica DG Nocticron 42.5mm f/1.2 ASPH Power OIS Lens—arguably with a name as epic as its specs! The rain kept the session short, and Tokyo’s pricey parking didn’t help either. Still, those few initial shots hint at the lens’s potential. Tomorrow’s office trip should provide more chances to…
A creative escape from the monotony of a traffic jam: capturing the car’s interior with fresh eyes. From the textured stitching of the seats to the play of light on the dashboard, every detail becomes a subject. Throw in some reflections or a shallow depth of field, and you’ve turned boredom into an impromptu photo…
A timeless frame: the reflection in a car’s side mirror, shot wide open for a creamy, blurred background. The shallow depth of field pulls focus to the mirror’s details, whether it’s a stretch of road, a colorful sunset, or city lights glowing in the distance. Simple, yet endlessly captivating.
A delicate close-up of rain-kissed roses in Hakone, their petals glistening with water droplets. The Panasonic Leica Summilux 15mm @ f/1.7 paints a dreamy bokeh backdrop, softly blurring the lush greenery and rain-speckled surroundings. The colors are rich but need a bit of tweaking—Adobe’s RAW handling strikes again. With some fine adjustments, though, it’s all…
A dynamic shot capturing the contrast of stillness and speed: a person standing motionless on the platform while a train rushes past, leaving behind a sleek motion blur. The blurred lines of the train create an energetic flow, highlighting the serene figure in the chaos of urban life.