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!
The Voigtländer Nokton lenses are highly regarded for their ability to produce stunningly beautiful bokeh, characterized by smooth, creamy out-of-focus areas and gentle transitions that lend images a distinctive, dreamy quality (here the 28mm). In side-by-side comparisons, the Nokton lenses often rival or even surpass the bokeh rendering of their Leica equivalents, which are widely…
The Tokyo Elevated Highway C1, also known as the Inner Circular Route or Shuto Expressway C1, is a vital expressway loop in central Tokyo that forms the heart of the city’s road network. Elevated above the bustling streets, it encircles major districts like Shinjuku, Ginza, Shibuya, and Marunouchi, offering drivers unique views of the urban…
Blue Bottle Coffee in Japan is known for its minimalist design and high-quality brews, making it a favorite for coffee lovers. I really like their Madagascar drink. The cafes often feel more like an international spot than a local one though, as they’re typically packed with foreigners. If you’re okay with the influencer crowd, it’s…
Shibuya, one of Tokyo’s most iconic districts, has undergone a significant transformation in recent years, blending its historic charm with modern innovations. Central to this overhaul is the redevelopment of Shibuya Station, which has been restructured to streamline its notoriously complex layout. The addition of pedestrian-friendly elevated walkways and clearer pathways has improved accessibility, connecting…
Going out in Japan often ends with a dash to catch the last train, a ritual as predictable as it is chaotic. Like a modern-day Cinderella story, the night peaks in lively bars, karaoke rooms, or izakayas, but as midnight approaches, everyone realizes the clock is ticking. Missing the last train means either an expensive…
Tokyo is a city known for its incredible diversity and culinary scene, where you can find authentic dishes from virtually every corner of the globe. Despite being on the other side of the world from the United States, authentic American-style pizza has carved out a niche in the city’s food landscape. If you know where…
Delicious ginger ramen at the nearby station. Ginger adds a distinctive layer of warmth and aromatic complexity that enhances the dish’s overall flavor profile. Its slightly spicy, zesty notes cut through the richness of the broth, balancing the fatty pork. At its core, ramen consists of Chinese-style wheat noodles served in a rich broth, often…
Tokyo International Airport, commonly known as Haneda Airport, is one of Japan’s primary aviation hubs, located approximately 14 kilometers south of central Tokyo. It comprises three terminals: Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 serve domestic flights, while Terminal 3 is dedicated to international services. Terminal 3 offers a range of amenities, including diverse dining options, duty-free…
Discover the enchanting Cinderella Castle at Tokyo Disneyland—a fairytale fortress where dreams come true and every turret is ready for its close-up (Disney princess selfies encouraged!). Standing tall in the heart of the park, this iconic castle is like the Avengers Tower of Disney magic, but with fewer superheroes and more fairy godmothers. Inside, fans…
In Japan, cheap noodles are a staple for locals and visitors alike, offering a delicious and satisfying meal without breaking the bank. Despite their affordability, these noodles don’t compromise on quality, and the variety is impressive—ranging from ramen to udon to soba, each with unique flavors, textures, and toppings that make them both comforting and…
The need to avoid Russian airspace for Japan-Europe flights has created significant challenges for airlines and passengers. Instead of taking direct routes, flights now detour over Central Asia, the Middle East, or even North America, significantly increasing the distance and flight duration. This can add several hours to the journey, making travel more exhausting for…
Vieux Rivesaltes is a distinguished fortified wine from the Roussillon region in southern France. Characterized by its deep amber color, it offers complex aromas of dried fruits, nuts, honey, and spices. The palate is rich and smooth, featuring flavors of caramel, toffee, and cocoa, with a long, balanced finish. This wine, known for its longevity,…
In the tranquil waters of an aquarium (here near Skytree), sharks glide with a blend of power and grace that captivates onlookers. These magnificent creatures, with their streamlined bodies and piercing eyes, embody the mystery and allure of the ocean’s depths. Aquariums provide a unique opportunity to observe these fascinating animals up close, fostering a…
Japanese temple roofs, with their gracefully curved lines and intricate tile patterns, epitomize the harmony and elegance of traditional Japanese architecture. Often adorned with detailed carvings and symbolic ornaments, these roofs not only shelter the sacred spaces below but also reflect a deep connection to nature and spirituality. The unique upturned eaves and the use…
Sunday drive in Tokyo with our beloved kei car. You do not know what a kei car is? A kei car (short for keijidōsha, meaning “light automobile”) is a type of small, lightweight vehicle that originated in Japan and is designed to meet specific regulations regarding size, engine capacity, and power. These cars are highly…
Little piglet sitting on a table in a restaurant. Gotta love how AI describes this photo: it captures the playful, endearing moments of a young piglet exploring its surroundings. The first images show the piglet in natural light, its pink skin and soft fur highlighted as it roots around in the grass and dirt. The…
Sunny day for the 2023 edition of the Coming of Age in Tokyo. This year I decided to make a short video in Meiji Jingu but wanted to travel light. So no tripod, no Ninja recorder, no gimbal and no bazooka. Just the Canon R6 set in HDR at 60fps, a VideoMic NTG and the…
Leisurly stroll around the Senso Ji temple for the new year. The difference from a few months back is striking: the foreign tourists are back ! Senso-ji Temple, located in the Asakusa district of Tokyo, is the city’s oldest and one of its most significant temples, making it a central location for New Year celebrations….
Selective focus on some delicious japanese food. Those little white fishes are called shirasu. Shirasu (しらす) refers to the tiny, translucent juvenile fish commonly used in Japanese cuisine. Typically, they are young sardines or anchovies, although other small fish species may also be included. These delicate, silvery fish are a popular and versatile ingredient in…
Yodobashi Akiba is a massive electronics and shopping complex located in Akihabara, Tokyo, which is known as the city’s hub for electronics, gaming, and otaku culture. Yodobashi Akiba stands as one of the largest electronic stores in Tokyo, attracting tech enthusiasts, tourists, and locals alike with its vast array of products and services. Overview The…