Rainy Day
Perfect day to drive to Disneyland. At least it feels safe with AWD!
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!
Kyourakutei Soba
Another visit to my favorite soba restaurant, Kyourakutei Soba (蕎楽亭) in Kagurazaka, felt like coming home. This time, I made a conscious choice to put my camera down when the food arrived—a rarity for me—and instead focused on the subtle details inside the restaurant that make this place so special. The interior has a rustic…
Inokashira Shrine
The serene Inokashira Park is home to a small yet significant shrine dedicated to Benzaiten, a revered Japanese Buddhist goddess with origins tracing back to Saraswati, the Hindu goddess of knowledge and the arts. Benzaiten embodies everything that flows—water, time, speech, music, eloquence, and even knowledge itself. Her presence in the park adds a mystical…
Inokashira Park
Inokashira Park, tucked away in Kichijoji, is a slice of tranquility in the bustling city of Tokyo. With its serene pond at the center, shaded pathways, and vibrant seasonal blooms, it’s a favorite spot for locals to relax and enjoy nature. On the water, young schoolgirls in neatly pressed uniforms can often be seen paddling…
Washing Machine
It’s hard not to marvel at a very old washing machine still humming away, doing its job long after its peers have been retired. The faded paint, clunky dials, and sturdy metal frame tell a story of an era when appliances were built to last—a stark contrast to today’s planned obsolescence. Every spin and cycle…
Selfie
Selfies have become the universal symbol of our times—popping up everywhere from iconic landmarks to mundane moments at the local café. Everywhere you turn, it’s selfie, selfie, selfie, an endless parade of faces framed by arms extended just far enough to capture the perfect angle. But here’s the irony: while selfies are often shared as…
Japanese Date
Kichijoji, with its charming streets and laid-back vibe, is the perfect setting for a young Japanese couple on a date. Kichijoji has that rare mix of energy and calm—where you can find vibrant nightlife one moment and serene corners the next. For a couple in the bloom of young love, it’s a place that mirrors…
Spring Flowers
In Tokyo, even the simplest moments can turn into visual poetry—like spotting an ordinary flower on a quiet sidestreet. Through the lens of a 135mm f/2L prime, this unassuming bloom transforms into something extraordinary. The magic of this lens lies in its razor-sharp detail and buttery smooth bokeh. The flower pops in perfect focus, its…
Night Flight
There’s something oddly satisfying about a 0:50 flight out of Haneda. By the time you’ve navigated the airport, endured the boarding process, and settled into your economy seat (or “monkey class,” as I affectionately call it), exhaustion has done its job. It’s lights out before you even realize you’re airborne. Sleeping 6–7 hours straight in…
B777 Switches
There’s something undeniably intriguing about the switches in an aircraft galley. Rows of toggles, dials, and labels scream “DO NOT TOUCH” in the most inviting way. And then there’s the big red one—the ultimate temptation for the curious. Is it the coffee machine’s power, the oven’s turbo mode, or an intergalactic beacon for snacks? The…