Shinjuku, one of Tokyo’s most dynamic and bustling districts, is a hub of entertainment, shopping, and nightlife. Known for its dazzling neon lights and skyscrapers, Shinjuku is home to the world’s busiest train station, connecting millions of commuters daily. The area offers something for everyone, from the department stores and electronics shops of the west side to the narrow alleys of Omoide Yokocho, where small eateries serve grilled skewers and local snacks. Shinjuku’s Kabukicho district is Tokyo’s vibrant nightlife center, filled with bars, restaurants, and entertainment venues, while the Golden Gai area offers a nostalgic atmosphere with its tiny, unique bars tucked into narrow streets. For a quiet escape, Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden provides a peaceful oasis with seasonal flowers and cherry blossoms. With its mix of modern energy, late-night excitement, and hidden pockets of charm, Shinjuku captures the essence of Tokyo’s diverse and ever-evolving spirit. Here are some of the photos I captured during my visits. Enjoy your virtual tour!
A night out in Shinjuku during the end-of-the-year season means navigating through packed streets and lively izakayas as everyone celebrates bonenkai (year-end drinking parties). The neon-lit alleys are bustling with groups of coworkers, friends, and couples squeezing into small bars and restaurants for one last hurrah before the year ends. Trying to beat the crowds…
Using a macro lens on non-macro subjects is a fun way to experiment! Its sharpness and ability to isolate details with a shallow depth of field can create stunning portraits, dramatic textures, or even unique perspectives on everyday objects. Plus, that creamy bokeh adds an extra layer of artistry. A versatile lens for far more…
The view from Mori Tower must already be incredible, but adding your first attempt at sky replacement takes it to another level! It’s amazing how a new sky can completely transform the mood of a photo, especially when reflections dominate the original. Photoshop’s Sky Replacement is a powerful tool, and it sounds like you’re off…
Memory Lane (Omoide Yokochō) is the perfect place to reminisce about life before the pandemic—its narrow alleys packed with smoky izakayas, the lively chatter of locals, and the nostalgic charm of Tokyo nightlife. Sharing these earlier shots is a great way to relive those moments while we wait for normalcy to return. And yes, getting…
The New South Gate at Shinjuku Station adds a sleek and modern touch to the bustling transit hub. Designed for convenience and ease, it’s a refreshing update that complements the station’s constant evolution. With Shinjuku being one of the world’s busiest stations, this new exit is a welcome addition for smoother navigation and a stylish…
Platform 15 at Shinjuku Station—where the endless flow of people meets the structured chaos of one of the busiest stations in the world. There’s something captivating about the contrast of movement and stillness here, as trains arrive and depart like clockwork. A true slice of Tokyo life.
There’s a special kind of joy in using a manual lens like the 35mm f/0.95—large aperture, dreamy bokeh, and that tactile focus feel. Pair it with a vintage filter, and you’ve got a recipe for instant creative vibes. It’s less about perfection and more about the process, and every shot feels personal. Definitely a combo…
Still testing the 10-24mm on the X-H1, and while I still can’t push beyond 1/4s, it does feel like the hit rate at this limit is noticeably higher thanks to the IBIS. The added stabilization seems to make a difference in consistency, even if the ultimate threshold hasn’t changed much. Overall, it’s a solid improvement…
The first sakuras are blooming in Tokyo, and this year, no business trips will whisk me away during Hanami season—so happy! Finally, I’ll get to fully enjoy the fleeting beauty of cherry blossoms, soaking in the serene views and vibrant atmosphere without any interruptions. A perfect start to spring! 🌸😊✨
Spotted a lost tourist in Shinjuku Station on a cold Tokyo morning. With maps in hand and a puzzled look, they stood out amidst the rush of commuters. Shinjuku’s labyrinth of exits and platforms is a challenge even for locals, but on a chilly morning, it adds an extra layer to the adventure!
The sun gently sets behind the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building in Shinjuku, casting a warm glow over the city. The iconic silhouette of the twin towers against the evening sky makes for a serene and beautiful scene, marking the end of another bustling day in Tokyo.
Ever since the news about disguised Chinese guys posing as Japanese monks to scam money from donors, I can’t help but wonder: is this guy fake too? It’s a thought that crosses my mind every time I see a monk collecting donations now. The whole situation has made something so culturally iconic feel suspicious, which…
I’m not usually a fan of HDR, but I wanted to show what the X-T2’s sensor can do with just one shot. The dynamic range is impressive—it lets you lift the shadows without introducing much noise, something I couldn’t achieve as easily with my old 5D Mark III. It’s great to have that extra flexibility…
The 56mm f/1.2 APD has become a permanent fixture on my X-T2—it’s just that good! Incredible sharpness, dreamy bokeh, and perfect for portraits or anything with a shallow depth of field. On another note, The Station Agent was the first movie I saw with Peter Dinklage, long before his Game of Thrones fame. Such a…
Few shots from Shinjuku Station with my 90mm lens. Captured a few shots at Shinjuku Station with my 90mm lens. The sharpness and creamy bokeh made it perfect for isolating details in the bustling crowd and picking out moments of calm amidst the chaos. Shinjuku’s energy and the lens’s performance made for some great urban…
Strolling through Kabukicho in Shinjuku with the X-T2 and 90mm in hand. The lens was perfect for picking out details in the bustling streets—neon signs, narrow alleys, and the energy of the nightlife. The sharpness and bokeh made every shot pop, capturing the vibe of Tokyo’s liveliest district. Always a fascinating place to shoot!
There are some great bars and restaurants around the new south exit in Shinjuku. The area combines modern design with a laid-back vibe, offering a variety of spots to grab a drink or enjoy a meal. Whether you’re in the mood for Japanese cuisine, international dishes, or just a quiet bar to unwind, this updated…
Testing out the different focus modes, including face tracking, in Shinjuku during commuting time was a real eye-opener. The fast-moving crowd and ever-changing scenes were a perfect challenge, and the camera handled it well. Face tracking was especially impressive, locking onto subjects even in the chaos. A great spot to push the camera to its…