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!
Kakigori (かき氷) is a popular shaved ice desert in Japan. Quite often though, the ice looks crushed, not shaved. Now, that is a proper shaved ice. Look at how thin the ice is. And with the right topping (a mixture of strawberries and condensed milk is my case), delicious! By the way, the ice from…
One of the best ramen spots in Sugamo has to be 麺や いま村—flavors that leave a lasting impression! Now, with a different aperture, you can play with the depth of field to set the mood. Wide open (f/1.2–f/2) gives a dreamy bokeh, isolating the steaming bowl of ramen against a soft, blurred background. Stop it…
Tokyo Skytree through the EF400mm must be a sight to behold! That compression effect really pulls the scene together, making the tower pop against the background as if it were a perfectly placed cutout. It’s one of those cool quirks of telephoto lenses that turns a familiar view into something surreal and striking.
October is the perfect time to visit Disneyland! The park transforms into a Halloween wonderland with spooky decorations, themed treats, and maybe even a few costumed characters wandering around. Cooler weather and festive vibes make it a magical experience for all ages. Get ready for some autumn-themed fun and unforgettable memories!
September in Japan brings those familiar rainy days, with typhoons stirring up dramatic skies and steady downpours. Streets glisten under the rain, and there’s a certain moody charm to it all—umbrellas dotting the landscape, puddles reflecting city lights, and the rhythm of raindrops. While typhoon season can be unpredictable, it’s undeniably atmospheric! 🌧️🌂
Bringing the “bazooka” (EF400mm) to Suidobashi must have been a fun experiment! That lens is perfect for creating a stunning compression effect on the platform, pulling the scene together and making everything feel tightly packed and dramatic. Such a great way to turn a mundane setting into something visually striking.
Finding a little onsen in a remote part of Hakone sounds promising, but it’s disappointing when the reality doesn’t live up to the website’s photo magic. At least the bath itself was decent—sometimes a soak can redeem an otherwise lackluster experience. Hopefully, the journey to get there made up for it, if nothing else! 🛀🌿✨
Switching to the RF70-200mm for Sensoji must have completely changed the perspective! Telephoto zooms are fantastic for picking out intricate details, compressing the scene, and isolating elements that might get lost with a wide-angle. Perfect for framing the temple’s stunning architecture or capturing candid moments from a distance. It’s also a great choice for bringing…
A sunny June visit to Sensoji in Asakusa, with nearly no tourists, must have been a rare and serene experience! The RF15-35mm was a perfect choice for capturing the grandeur of the temple, from the imposing Kaminarimon Gate to the intricate details of the main hall. Wide angles really shine in such iconic spots, giving…
An onsen in Izu sounds like pure bliss—steaming hot water, surrounded by serene nature, and the ultimate way to unwind. Those pre-pandemic visits must feel like a cherished escape now. Here’s to soaking in those moments again soon, both figuratively and literally.
