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 Nocticron 42.5mm wide open at f/1.2 in daylight, paired with an ND4 filter, delivers beautifully creamy bokeh and razor-sharp focus on the subject. It’s a lens that thrives in creating dreamy separation and buttery backgrounds—even under bright conditions. Definitely hard to argue with those results, wouldn’t you say?
Taking the 135mm f/2 for a spin in Shibuya delivers stunning street shots once again. The lens captures the lively essence of Japanese fashion and style, with sharp details and creamy bokeh that makes each frame pop. Perfect for isolating subjects against the bustling backdrop of Tokyo’s streets—timeless results every time.
Testing out the beastly Panasonic LUMIX G Leica DG Nocticron 42.5mm f/1.2 ASPH Power OIS Lens—arguably with a name as epic as its specs! The rain kept the session short, and Tokyo’s pricey parking didn’t help either. Still, those few initial shots hint at the lens’s potential. Tomorrow’s office trip should provide more chances to…
A creative escape from the monotony of a traffic jam: capturing the car’s interior with fresh eyes. From the textured stitching of the seats to the play of light on the dashboard, every detail becomes a subject. Throw in some reflections or a shallow depth of field, and you’ve turned boredom into an impromptu photo…
A timeless frame: the reflection in a car’s side mirror, shot wide open for a creamy, blurred background. The shallow depth of field pulls focus to the mirror’s details, whether it’s a stretch of road, a colorful sunset, or city lights glowing in the distance. Simple, yet endlessly captivating.
A delicate close-up of rain-kissed roses in Hakone, their petals glistening with water droplets. The Panasonic Leica Summilux 15mm @ f/1.7 paints a dreamy bokeh backdrop, softly blurring the lush greenery and rain-speckled surroundings. The colors are rich but need a bit of tweaking—Adobe’s RAW handling strikes again. With some fine adjustments, though, it’s all…
A dynamic shot capturing the contrast of stillness and speed: a person standing motionless on the platform while a train rushes past, leaving behind a sleek motion blur. The blurred lines of the train create an energetic flow, highlighting the serene figure in the chaos of urban life.
Roppongi’s Mori Tower: my office. A striking view of Mori Tower in Roppongi at night, its sleek silhouette illuminated by vibrant city lights. The building’s glass facade gleams, blending into Tokyo’s energetic nightlife while standing as a modern architectural beacon. And a long exposure shot of the Mori Tower entrance at night, with its grand…
Always a nice view from the office: A dazzling shot of Tokyo’s skyline at night, with the iconic Tokyo Tower glowing in warm orange against a backdrop of shimmering skyscrapers. The city’s lights create a kaleidoscope of color, reflecting modern energy and urban charm.
