Tokyo

Tokyo, Japan’s bustling capital, is a vibrant metropolis where tradition and modernity coexist in perfect harmony. The city offers everything from futuristic skyscrapers and neon-lit districts to serene temples and historic neighborhoods. Shibuya and Shinjuku pulse with energy, featuring world-famous landmarks like the Shibuya Scramble Crossing and bustling entertainment hubs, while districts like Asakusa preserve Tokyo’s cultural roots with Senso-ji Temple, the city’s oldest Buddhist temple. Akihabara is a paradise for tech enthusiasts and anime fans, while Harajuku and Omotesando showcase cutting-edge fashion and design. Tokyo’s green spaces, such as Ueno Park and the Imperial Palace gardens, provide peaceful retreats amidst the urban landscape. Food lovers can enjoy everything from Michelin-starred dining to street food, including sushi, ramen, and izakaya delights. With its efficient transportation system, unique attractions, and ever-changing skyline, Tokyo is a city that constantly surprises and captivates visitors from all over the world.

Here are some of the photos I captured during my visits. Enjoy your virtual tour!

Eight Twenty

Eight Twenty

Wandering through Shinjuku before heading back to work—taking in the lively streets, the neon signs, and the endless energy of the area. Even a short stroll here feels like a mini escape from the daily grind. Always something new to see!

Motown House
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Motown House

One of Roppongi’s iconic landmarks: Motown. Known for its retro vibes and lively atmosphere, it’s a spot that brings back the spirit of classic Motown music while adding a touch of Tokyo nightlife. A must-visit for anyone exploring the area and looking for a fun, nostalgic experience!

Evening with the Boys

Evening with the Boys

Took the X-T2 with the 23mm f/2 out for a night in Yurakucho with the boys—perfect for capturing the lively atmosphere. The lens handled the low light and street scenes like a champ. Bonus: a GFX made an appearance during the evening, adding some serious gear envy to the mix. Great night, great company, and…

XF 23mm f2

XF 23mm f2

The latest addition to my Fuji XF lens collection is the 23mm f/2 (35mm equivalent), and I’m loving it! It’s super light, incredibly sharp, and focuses lightning fast. I’ve always preferred a 35mm equivalent as my go-to walk-around lens, and this one is a perfect replacement for the Sigma ART I used on my 5D…

Boarding Train
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Boarding Train

I’m really happy with the bokeh and colors of the XF 35mm f/2. It’s much lighter than the f/1.4 and focuses significantly faster—perfect for quick shots and everyday use. The weather resistance is an added bonus too. If you’re on the fence, I’d say make the switch—you won’t regret it!

Little Restaurants

Little Restaurants

Tokyo is packed with little restaurants—every alley and street seems to have a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. I think I read somewhere that it has the highest number of restaurants per capita in the world, which wouldn’t be surprising given the sheer variety. Naturally, among the amazing spots, you’ll find some odd ones…

Cute Donut

Cute Donut

Cute donut: visually adorable, but the taste? Not that great. Pretty much what I expected, to be honest. Sometimes the looks outweigh the flavor, but hey, at least it made for a fun picture!

Kabukicho

Kabukicho

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!

Skytree Driveby
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Skytree Driveby

Back in Tokyo, driving past the Tokyo Skytree at night—always a spectacular sight. Tried capturing it with the X-T2, but I couldn’t help wishing it had in-body image stabilization like Panasonic cameras. It would make handheld night shots so much easier! Still, the X-T2 delivers great results when you work around its limits. Almost the…

Japanese Shacks

Japanese Shacks

Every Japanese town seems to have them: crumbling old houses with (very) elderly residents still calling them home. These structures, worn by time and weather, tell a story of resilience and change, standing as reminders of a bygone era amidst modern surroundings. A common but quietly poignant sight.

Yurakucho Rain

Yurakucho Rain

Rain in Yurakucho: the perfect chance to test the weather sealing on my X-T2. Between the raindrops and the neon reflections, it was a great setting to shoot. And yes, the camera handled it like a champ—seems all good!

Fresh Pasta

Fresh Pasta

Fresh pasta in Kagurazaka—a delightful new discovery! Handmade and perfectly cooked, it’s a treat to find such a gem in this charming neighborhood. A great spot for Italian comfort food with a touch of Kagurazaka’s unique vibe. Definitely coming back for more!