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!

Tokyo Skies

Tokyo Skies

A few days ago, Tokyo’s sky put on a spectacular show with some amazing clouds. Big, dramatic formations rolled across the skyline, their shapes and textures catching the light in the most stunning way. A perfect moment for the camera to capture nature’s art above the urban sprawl.

Fée Délice

Fée Délice

Enjoyed some good crêpes in Harajuku at Fée Délice—light, flavorful, and satisfying as always. The ambiance adds to the experience, but the cider? Delicious, yet predictably overpriced. Still, it’s a nice treat in the middle of Tokyo’s bustling streets.

Matsuri Faces
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Matsuri Faces

Took the GX85 out for a spin at night, and it handled pretty well! The face AF tracking was impressively reliable, even in low light. Shooting straight JPEGs, the results were solid with manageable noise up to ISO 3000—beyond that, the denoise algorithm softens things too much. For a micro 4/3, though, it’s not bad…

Shibuya Shoot

Shibuya Shoot

In the middle of a scorching summer day, the scene at Shibuya Crossing was alive with motion. The girls, laughing and carefree, stood out even more in the blazing sunlight, their energy undeterred by the heat. The maid outfit added a whimsical touch to the vibrant chaos, creating a playful contrast against the urban intensity…

Shibuya Summer

Shibuya Summer

Tokyo summers are relentless—sweltering heat, high humidity, and that sticky feeling as soon as you step outside. I honestly don’t know anyone who enjoys it. The city buzzes on, but you can feel everyone just trying to survive until the cooler autumn air finally rolls in.

Coffee Work

Coffee Work

Free Wi-Fi, free air conditioning, and good coffee—no wonder most coffee shops are packed with students, tourists, and salarymen. While students and tourists seem to enjoy the atmosphere and a decent brew, the salarymen are there more for a spot to work or escape, seemingly unfazed by the actual quality of the coffee in their…

Special Emas

Special Emas

Kanda Myojin, a ~1,300-year-old shrine, has found a unique way to connect with modern culture while preserving tradition. Located near Akihabara, the shrine caters to the “gods of the geeks,” and this is most evident in its special ema. These small wooden plaques, typically used for writing wishes at shrines, are anything but ordinary here….

Kanda Shrine

Kanda Shrine

Kanda Myojin is one of the few shrines in Tokyo that survived the WWII bombings, preserving a rich history in the heart of the city. The current structure dates back to 1934, rebuilt after the Great Kanto Earthquake’s fires. The shrine is dedicated to three deities: Daikokuten, the god of good harvest and matrimony; Ebisu,…

Yukata Season

Yukata Season

The Yukata season is back—yeah! It’s always a delight to see people strolling around in these lightweight summer kimonos, bringing a pop of tradition and color to the streets and festivals. Nothing says summer in Japan quite like it!

Yodobashi Parking

Yodobashi Parking

Deep underground in Yodobashi Camera Akihabara, I discovered a bicycle parking area. At a fixed price of ¥400, it’s no surprise the place is almost always empty. Convenient location, sure—but at that rate, it seems like most people would rather take their chances elsewhere!