Japan

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!

Flying Again
|

Flying Again

Twenty months is a long time to be grounded. A short hop to Hokkaido sounds like the perfect way to ease back into flying. No work meetings this time—just fresh air, stunning scenery, and maybe a bowl of Ikuradon to celebrate freedom. Cheers to travel again!

Kamui Cape
|

Kamui Cape

Cape Kamui, perched on the Shakotan Peninsula, is a two-hour coastal adventure from Sapporo that rewards you with jaw-dropping views. The drive alone sets the mood, with winding roads and cliffs teasing what’s to come. At the cape, you’ll find the essentials—parking, a restaurant, vending machines (because Japan never skips them), and restrooms. The 15-minute…

Hokkaido Milk
|

Hokkaido Milk

This Hokkaido cow looks like it could be a long-lost cousin from Normandy—calm, curious, and probably loving the lush fields. Hokkaido’s pastoral vibe really does echo Normandy, doesn’t it? Seeing your kids react to the smell is a classic city-kid moment—time for them to embrace the countryside and make friends with the locals, four-legged or…

Dying Villages

Dying Villages

The Japanese countryside tells stories of time standing still, and Hokkaido is no exception. Among its stunning landscapes are quiet villages that feel frozen in another era—charming but undeniably fading. Weathered houses, empty streets, and a lingering sense of nostalgia paint a bittersweet picture. It’s beautiful, but also a reminder of the slow retreat of…

Hokkaido Drive
|

Hokkaido Drive

Driving through Hokkaido’s serene landscapes feels like therapy on wheels. Rolling hills, endless skies, and roads that seem to stretch into tranquility make every mile a joy. It’s the kind of drive where you lose track of time and just soak in the peaceful rhythm of nature. Truly a road trip worth savoring. The speed…

Sapporo Panorama

Sapporo Panorama

The Sapporo TV Tower is a classic landmark, rising 147 meters above the city and offering a stunning panorama from its 90-meter observation deck. The view? Pure Sapporo magic—sprawling cityscapes framed by mountains. The ride up may cost a bit, but it’s worth it. These shots, captured with the RF24-240mm, do justice to the scene,…

Auto Focus
| |

Auto Focus

Testing the R6’s eye-tracking AF with the EF400mm f/5.6L in the bustling chaos of Shibuya sounds like a fun challenge! It’s great to hear the lens pairs so well with the R6, maintaining its reputation for quick and accurate focusing even on a modern body. The sharpness and speed you described make it clear why…

Shrine Maiden

Shrine Maiden

A young Miko gracefully performing her duties at a shrine in Tokyo, a serene moment that captures the spirit of tradition. Fun fact: this shot was taken at an impressive 25,600 ISO and later cleaned up using DeNoise AI from Topaz Labs. The results are truly stunning, with incredible detail and minimal noise—modern tools working…

Ramen
|

Ramen

This ramen from Sugamo isn’t just delicious—it’s got Michelin history. Rich broth, expertly crafted noodles, and flavors that earned it a star make it a must-try. If you’re in the area, treat yourself to a bowl that blends local charm with world-class taste. Highly recommended and worth the detour!

Kakigori
|

Kakigori

Kakigori, the ultimate summer indulgence in Japan! Fluffy shaved ice drenched in vibrant syrups or layered with fresh fruits and condensed milk—it’s as refreshing as it is delicious. Perfect for cooling off on a sweltering day while savoring a bit of Japanese tradition. Don’t miss it!