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!
A rainy Friday night in Ebisu—wet streets reflecting the glow of city lights, umbrellas bobbing through the crowd, and a calm, almost cinematic atmosphere. The sound of raindrops and the gentle buzz of conversations from nearby izakayas make it a perfect mix of cozy and moody vibes. Tokyo at its best in the rain. 🌧️✨
Ever since I got my X-T2, I’ve been tempted to try some Leica M-mount lenses. While I appreciate the performance of my XF lenses—they’re sharp, distortion-free, and reliable—they sometimes feel too clinical and lack a bit of personality. Plus, I’m not a fan of their handling: the metal coating feels slippery, focus-by-wire can be frustrating,…
I had the perfect shot lined up—lighting, composition, everything—when this grumpy salaryman at the bottom decided he couldn’t wait three more seconds. Guess patience isn’t a virtue for everyone. 😅📸
Stuck in traffic at night, I passed the time playing with the focus ring. The blur of city lights turning into dreamy bokeh and then snapping back into sharp detail made for a surprisingly relaxing way to kill time. Even traffic jams have their creative moments
If you’re from Europe (like me), the word “forest” brings to mind lovely trails, peaceful weekend walks, autumn mushroom picking, or playing in the cool shade during summer. As a kid, we’d drive to a nearby forest, park the car, and just wander around, not really appreciating how much of that landscape had been shaped…
Another chance to test the high ISO capabilities of my little X-T2—this time inside Space Mountain in Tokyo. The low light was really a challenge, but the camera handled it impressively well. Crisp details and minimal noise, even in such tricky conditions. Definitely a fun and successful experiment!
Sandcastle: our masterpiece of the summer—4 floors of pure awesomeness! A blend of creativity, teamwork, and just enough structural integrity to hold it together. Beach days don’t get better than this! 😊🏖️
Far from the hustle of Tokyo, here’s a cozy little family restaurant in Shikoku. It’s a slice of the Japanese countryside that feels frozen in time, with its quiet charm and warm hospitality. I can’t help but wonder how places like this will evolve in 20 years, as rural areas face the challenges of aging…
Kamakura on a bright summer day is pure magic. The sun shines on the historic temples, lush greenery, and sandy beaches, creating a lively yet serene atmosphere. Walking through the quaint streets, exploring hidden shrines, and enjoying the fresh ocean breeze make it a perfect escape from the city. A summer day well spent!
Had a blast with my daughters playing Mario Kart at an arcade in Japan. The excitement of racing each other, the vibrant sounds, and the lively atmosphere made it so much fun. Nothing beats the joy of seeing their competitive spirit come alive on the tracks—it’s family bonding, arcade-style! 😊🎮
