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Japan Autumn Photography
  • Lars Grünig
  • Elanus
  • Lars Grünig
  • Elanus

Japan Autumn Photography

Over 15 days we explored Japan, from neon Tokyo nights and calm Fuji mornings to Kyoto’s temples, Uji’s tea streets, Kanazawa’s glowing gardens, the cliffs of Tōjinbō, and the hidden valley paths of Shikoku—an unforgettable journey. Read more
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  • Trip start
    November 15, 2025
    Japan Autumn Photography

    Day 1 - Neon Dreams in Ikebukuro

    November 15 in Japan ⋅ 🌙 13 °C

    After months of anticipation, today was finally the day: the official start of our Japan adventures. The two of us—armed with cameras, enthusiasm, and a slightly unhealthy obsession with film simulations—boarded our flight from Zürich to Tokyo.

    Thanks to the wonders of business class (and seats that recline far more gracefully than we do), the long haul felt surprisingly gentle. After a few hours of horizontal rest, a glass of something bubbly, and a breakfast we pretended was “light,” we were ready to hit Japan running—or at least walking at a jet-lag-friendly pace.

    Ikebukuro: Our First Playground

    Once landed, we made our way to Ikebukuro, our home base for the start of this trip. Ikebukuro is one of Tokyo’s major hubs—slightly chaotic, wonderfully overstimulating, and home to Sunshine City, a massive complex of shops, entertainment, and an observatory with some seriously underrated views.

    We checked into the hotel, splashed some water onto our faces, pretended we weren’t tired, and set out with two clear missions for the evening:

    1. Sunset & Night Views from Sunshine City Observatory

    Sunshine 60 Observatory sits high above the city. From here, Tokyo stretches endlessly—towers, clusters of neon, trains weaving like glowing snakes.

    Sunset painted the sky soft orange, and as blue hour rolled in, the whole city shimmered. We wandered from window to window, hunting reflections, patterns, and long-exposure opportunities. Michael and I both attempted that classic “hold the camera to the glass without smearing it” maneuver with varying success.

    2. Shiinamachi Station – A Tiny Slice of Old Tokyo

    Afterwards, we hopped over to Shiinamachi Station, a small neighbourhood stop just two minutes from Ikebukuro. Unlike its flashy neighbour, Shiinamachi is calm, nostalgic, and filled with Showa-era charm.

    Narrow streets, retro shop signs, quiet alleyways—everything a photographer dreams of when looking for authentic, everyday Tokyo. The neon here is softer, the atmosphere slower, and the compositions more intimate. A lovely contrast after the futuristic height of Sunshine City.    Read more

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    Day 2 – Part 1: Cats, Trains & Temples

    November 16 in Japan ⋅ ⛅ 10 °C

    We started the morning at Kishimojin Temple, a quiet neighbourhood shrine guarded by a surprisingly large population of cats. They lounged on steps, under trees, and next to ema boards—clearly the real rulers of the place. The temple had a wonderfully calm, local feel and made for a gentle start into the day.

    From there we continued to Tetsugakudo Park in Nakano, a philosophy-themed park dotted with symbolic monuments. Nearby, we caught the famous yellow Chūō Line train passing through a residential street—simple, everyday Tokyo, and somehow completely captivating.

    A much-needed coffee break at Nakano Sun Mall wrapped up our morning, giving us a moment to recharge in its retro, slightly nostalgic atmosphere.    Read more

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    Day 2 – Part 2: Gardens & City Buzz

    November 16 in Japan ⋅ ⛅ 17 °C

    After regaining energy, we headed to Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden for a peaceful walk among ponds, lawns, and the first hints of autumn. The contrast between quiet nature and Shinjuku’s skyscrapers peeking through the trees never gets old.

    Lunch came from the food basement of a department store—an overwhelming paradise of bentos, grilled dishes, and snacks that tasted even better than they looked.

    Refuelled, we moved on to Shibuya Scramble Crossing, joining the organised chaos of thousands of people weaving across the intersection. From there, we continued to Yoyogi Park, lively and relaxed at the same time, before ending at the tranquil Meiji Jingu Shrine, where forest paths and wooden torii gates offered a peaceful escape from the city noise.    Read more

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    Day 2 – Part 3: Neon Night Shinjuku

    November 16 in Japan ⋅ ☁️ 14 °C

    Our evening unfolded in Shinjuku, where the city seems to switch from “busy” to “full sensory overload” the moment the sun sets. We wandered through Omoide Yokocho, its narrow alleys glowing with lanterns and packed with tiny food stalls. The smell of grilled yakitori mixed with the chatter of locals created that unmistakable Shinjuku atmosphere.

    From there we headed into Golden Gai, a maze of tiny bars stacked like mismatched Lego pieces. Each doorway revealed a different world—jazz, whisky, retro posters, or simply a cat staring out at passers-by. It’s chaotic, charming, and wonderfully strange.

    Our final stop was Kabukicho, where neon signs, giant screens, and crowds turn every corner into a moving, glowing scene. We passed through the busy train station on our way back, swept up in the late-night rush of commuters, tourists, and the never-ending rhythm of the city.

    A perfect end to a long, vivid, very Tokyo day.    Read more

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    Day 3: Mt Fuji & Five Lakes Adventure

    November 17 in Japan ⋅ ☀️ 16 °C

    Today was all about Mount Fuji. We left Ikebukuro by highway bus and arrived in Kawaguchiko, where we picked up a rental car and immediately began our mission: circle as many of the Fuji Five Lakes as possible and stop every 300 meters for photos.

    The views were unreal—Fuji perfectly visible, framed by glowing red momiji everywhere. We visited Saiko Iyashi-no-Sato Nemba, a small traditional village with thatched houses and beautiful mountain backdrops, and later relaxed at Tatego-Hama Beach with more picture-perfect views of the mountain across the water.

    In the late afternoon we checked into our guesthouse near the famous Chureito Pagoda. For sunset we powered up the endless stairs, joined the crowd of hundreds squeezed together like sardines with tripods, and somehow still managed to get the shot.

    The evening was far quieter: back at the guesthouse, sitting on tatami mats, sipping a cold beer, and letting the day (and Fuji) sink in. A perfect end to a perfect Fuji day.    Read more

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    Day 4: Fuji Views & Waterfalls

    November 18 in Japan ⋅ ⛅ 13 °C

    We started the day early at the Chureito Pagoda, watching the sunrise colour Mount Fuji in soft pastels—a peaceful moment shared with a surprisingly large number of equally motivated early risers.

    Afterwards, we drove to Lake Motosu and hiked up to the Nakanokura Pass viewpoint, famous for the iconic “1000 yen bill” Fuji view. From there we continued to Lake Tanuki, another calm spot with perfect reflections on good days.

    Next on the list were the Shiraito Falls, where long curtains of spring water cascade down a lush cliffside. It’s one of Fuji’s most beautiful natural sights and a refreshing break from all the driving.

    We carried on via Gotemba to Lake Yamanaka, completing our loop around the mountain with more classic Fuji scenery. By evening we were back in Fujiyoshida, enjoying a traditional Japanese dinner before returning to our apartment for a well-earned rest.    Read more

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    Day 5 Part 1: Fuji Farewell & Travel Day

    November 19 in Japan ⋅ ☀️ 0 °C

    We started our last morning in Kawaguchiko early, climbing once more to the Chureito Pagoda to watch the sunrise over Mount Fuji. The colours were soft, the air chilly, and Fuji stood perfectly clear—one more moment to store in memory before moving on.

    Back in town, we walked to Honcho Street, the classic “Fuji through the main street” view, where the mountain rises dramatically above the shops and power lines. A quick final stop at the shores of Lake Kawaguchiko gave us one last look—and one last photo—of the mountain that had been our companion for the past days.

    Then it was time to travel. We took the bus to Mishima, boarded the Shinkansen, and watched Japan blur past the windows on our way to Okayama, ready for the next chapter of our journey.    Read more

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    Day 5 - part 2: Okayama Sunset Magic

    November 19 in Japan ⋅ ⛅ 12 °C

    Once we arrived in Okayama, we dropped our bags and went straight to Okayama Castle and Kōraku-en Garden for sunset. The timing couldn’t have been better—golden light, calm ponds, and perfect reflections everywhere. Since reflections are basically our photographic love language, we turned into two excited children, running from angle to angle and photographing every ripple.

    Just when we thought it couldn’t get better, darkness fell—and suddenly the entire garden lit up in vibrant colours. Bridges, trees, water, everything glowing beautifully. We stayed far longer than planned, soaking in the atmosphere and capturing the illuminated scenes until our memory cards begged for mercy.

    A perfect welcome to Okayama.    Read more

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    Day 6 – Part 1: Quiet Dawn in Kurashiki

    November 20 in Japan ⋅ ☀️ 6 °C

    We started the day early and arrived in Kurashiki around 06:30, just in time for sunrise. The historic Bikan district was completely empty—no tourists, no shops open, just us and the soft morning light. The canal was perfectly still, giving us beautiful reflections of the willow trees and old storehouses all to ourselves.

    We wandered through the silent streets, stopping at several temples and enjoying the rare feeling of having an entire town waking up slowly around us. Before leaving, we visited the Former Ohara Residence, a beautifully preserved traditional house with gardens that offered a glimpse into Kurashiki’s cultural past.

    After a peaceful and very photogenic morning, we headed back to Okayama for some rest.    Read more

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    Day 6 - Part 2: Sunset at Washuzan

    November 20 in Japan ⋅ ☀️ 15 °C

    In the afternoon we travelled to one of the most underrated spots in the region: Washuzan, a hill overlooking the Seto Inland Sea. From up there, you get sweeping 360° views and endless photo opportunities of the Seto Ōhashi Bridge stretching elegantly across the water.

    We arrived for sunset—and what a show it was. The sky shifted from gold to deep orange and finally to soft pinks, with the bridge glowing beautifully in the fading light. We stood there for a long time, just watching the colours change and feeling very lucky to witness such a spectacular scene.

    A perfect end to the day and a place that deserves far more attention than it gets.    Read more

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    Day 7 - Part 1: Hiroshima Morning

    November 21 in Japan ⋅ ☀️ 8 °C

    Our day began early once again as we made our way from Okayama to Hiroshima, a city that carries one of the most profound stories in modern history. For Michael, this was his first visit, so he headed straight to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum. The museum is powerful, detailed, and deeply emotional—documenting the events of 6 August 1945, the experiences of survivors, and the city’s rebuilding as a global symbol of peace.

    Since I had visited the museum a few times before, I walked slowly through the Peace Memorial Park, which surrounds the museum and the Atomic Bomb Dome. The park was designed by architect Kenzo Tange as a space of reflection, and even on busy days it feels calm: wide lawns, quiet paths, memorials dedicated to students, families, and victims, and the gentle flow of the river beside the Dome. No matter how many times you come, the atmosphere remains moving.

    By late morning, we made our way to the pier and boarded the speed boat to Miyajima—a beautiful journey across the bay and the perfect transition to the next part of our day.    Read more

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    Day 7 - Part 2: Miyajima in Autumn

    November 21 in Japan ⋅ ☀️ 15 °C

    Even though I’ve been to Miyajima several times, arriving there again—this time with the autumn leaves glowing in full colour—felt just as magical as the first visit. The island is famous for the Itsukushima Shrine and its legendary floating torii gate, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Japan’s most iconic views. Naturally, this also means thousands of visitors pour onto the island every day.

    To escape the crowds, we wandered away from the main shrine area and explored some of the quieter paths. Miyajima has so much more to offer than the famous view: small stone temples tucked between trees, old wooden houses, peaceful side trails, and of course the island’s friendly (and occasionally demanding) deer population. These hidden corners allowed us to capture the island’s charm without the constant stream of people in the frame.

    As the afternoon turned toward evening, we made our way to the beach for the highlight of the day—the floating torii gate at sunset. Since it was low tide, the gate stood on exposed sand instead of water, giving us a rare chance to photograph its reflection in shallow pools left behind by the receding waves. The colours in the sky slowly shifted from gold to deep orange as the gate glowed softly in the fading light. It was one of those moments that remind you why photography is such a rewarding way to travel.

    When darkness fell, we boarded the ferry back to the mainland, returned to Hiroshima, and from there continued our journey back to Okayama, tired but completely satisfied after another unforgettable day in Japan.    Read more

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    Day 8: Into the Hidden Iya Valley

    November 22 in Japan ⋅ ☀️ 12 °C

    Today was less about photography and more about discovering one of Japan’s most remote and overlooked regions: the Iya Valley, deep in the mountains of Tokushima on Shikoku. Often called one of Japan’s “three hidden valleys,” Iya is famous for its dramatic gorges, vine bridges, remote villages, and roads so narrow they occasionally make you question your life decisions. Historically, this valley served as a refuge for defeated samurai of the Heike clan in the 12th century, which explains why it still feels untouched and far away from modern Japan.

    We rented a car and wound our way into the valley, navigating hairpin bends and cliffside roads—equal parts adventure and mild adrenaline rush. Our first stop was the famous Peeing Boy Statue, perched boldly on a rocky ledge high above the gorge, symbolising courage… or questionable life choices. Either way, the view was spectacular.

    Next we visited Hotel Iyaonsen, known for its cable-car-access onsen located deep at the bottom of the valley. After days of walking, hiking, and chasing sunsets, the hot spring felt like absolute heaven. Sitting in steaming water surrounded by forested cliffs and autumn colours was one of the most tranquil moments of the entire trip.

    Refreshed, we continued to the Iya Kazurabashi vine bridge, one of the last surviving vine bridges in the valley. Originally woven from mountain vines by the Heike refugees centuries ago, it gently sways as you cross—just enough to keep things exciting.

    For lunch, we stopped at a tiny local restaurant that felt more like stepping into an elderly lady’s living room. She served us a delicious homemade meal: soba noodles, crispy tempura, pickles, rice, and lots of warm hospitality.

    Our final stop was the Nagoro “Scarecrow Village”, a remote hamlet filled with life-sized dolls placed in front of houses, bus stops, and fields. Some cheerful, some eerie, some suspiciously lifelike—it’s charming, strange, and unforgettable all at once.

    After this full day of mountain roads, history, and unexpected characters (both human and non-human), we returned the car and headed back to our hotel in Okayama, tired but happy to have explored one of Japan’s most hidden corners.    Read more

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    Day 9 - Part 1: Kyoto Morning at Inari

    November 23 in Japan ⋅ ⛅ 6 °C

    On our journey from Okayama to Kanazawa, we made a planned stop in Kyoto, leaving our suitcases safely in the station lockers before setting off to Fushimi Inari Taisha—one of Japan’s most iconic Shinto shrines. Dedicated to Inari, the deity of rice, prosperity, and business, the shrine is famous for its endless path of over 10,000 vermilion torii gates, donated over centuries by individuals and companies.

    Even though it was still early, the entrance was already buzzing with visitors, so we quickly headed up the mountain trail. As always, the crowds thin out the higher you climb, and soon enough we reached long, peaceful stretches where the torii tunnels were completely empty. Up there, surrounded by forest and bright orange gates, we were able to capture those rare, uninterrupted views that feel like stepping back in time.

    On the descent, we slowed down and explored some of the smaller side paths and stone shrines scattered along the way—fox statues guarding tiny altars, worn-down steps covered in moss, and quiet corners easily missed by those rushing through. It was the perfect blend of Kyoto’s iconic beauty and its hidden, more intimate details.    Read more

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    Day 9-Part 2: Discovering Beautiful Uji

    November 23 in Japan ⋅ ☀️ 16 °C

    The rest of our morning and early afternoon took us to Uji, a place I had somehow always overlooked—but now I can say it’s one of Kyoto’s most charming towns. Famous for its green tea and its role in The Tale of Genji, Uji combines riverside scenery, rich history, and peaceful streets in a way that feels both elegant and relaxed.

    The highlight was undoubtedly Byōdō-in Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site originally built in 1052 during the Heian period. Its Phoenix Hall, reflected perfectly in the surrounding pond, is so iconic that it appears on the back of the Japanese ¥10 coin. With autumn colours at their absolute peak and the sun shining, the entire scene looked almost unreal—golden leaves, deep red maples, and perfectly calm water offering mirror-like reflections.

    We then wandered through Byōdō-in Omotesandō, a small street lined with traditional shops selling tea, sweets, and local crafts. The atmosphere was warm and welcoming, with the fragrance of roasted matcha drifting from tea houses.

    A short walk brought us to Tō-no-shima Island, a quiet little riverside spot connected by bridges. It offered beautiful views of the Uji River flowing past bright autumn foliage—one of those places you instantly fall in love with, even without knowing its name beforehand.

    Before catching our train to Kanazawa, we made a final stop at Tōji Temple back in Kyoto, famous for its five-story pagoda—the tallest wooden tower in Japan. And of course, as Uji practically demands, we finished our visit with a matcha ice cream, the perfect farewell to one of the most delightful surprises of the trip.    Read more

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    Day 10-Part 1: Kanazawa Nights & Sunrise

    November 24 in Japan ⋅ ☁️ 10 °C

    We arrived late in Kanazawa and checked into a beautiful traditional Japanese house in the Kazuemachi Chaya District, one of the city’s three preserved geisha districts. The wooden machiya houses, narrow lanes, and the gentle sound of the river outside our window made the place feel like stepping into old Japan—quiet, atmospheric, and absolutely charming.

    In the evening we set out again, this time to photograph yet another illuminated garden—a speciality of Kanazawa during autumn. The combination of lanterns, glowing maple trees, and reflections on still ponds created a magical scene, almost like walking through a painting. No matter how many illuminated gardens we’ve seen on this trip, Kanazawa’s version felt especially grand and theatrical.

    The next morning we rose early and returned to the garden for sunrise. Without the crowds and without the evening lights, the atmosphere had completely changed—soft colours, morning mist over the water, and the garden’s natural beauty taking centre stage. A peaceful start to the day and a perfect contrast to the vibrant display of the night before.    Read more

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    Day 10 - Part 2: Reflections & Gold

    November 24 in Japan ⋅ ☁️ 17 °C

    In the early afternoon we visited the Suzuki Daisetz (D.T. Suzuki) Museum, dedicated to the influential Buddhist philosopher who helped introduce Zen to the West. The museum is a masterpiece of modern architecture—clean lines, open spaces, and large reflecting pools designed to encourage quiet observation. We spent a long time simply watching the water, the shadows, and the changing light. The longer we stayed, the more details revealed themselves. It was incredibly peaceful, almost meditative, and a beautiful contrast to the busy travel days we’ve had so far.

    That calm atmosphere disappeared the moment we reached the Higashi Chaya District, which we had previously seen at sunrise when it was nearly empty. Now, in the afternoon, it was packed with visitors, photographers, rickshaws, and people in colourful kimonos filling the narrow streets. The contrast couldn’t have been bigger—but that’s Kanazawa: serene Zen one moment, lively tradition the next.

    Naturally, we couldn’t leave without trying the district’s most famous treat: gold-leaf ice cream. Kanazawa produces nearly all of Japan’s gold leaf, so covering soft-serve ice cream in edible gold is practically a local tradition.

    A vibrant and varied end to our time in Kanazawa.    Read more

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    Day 11 - Rugged Coast of West Japan

    November 25 in Japan ⋅ 🌧 14 °C

    Before returning to Tokyo, we took a short day trip to the coast near Awaraonsen, discovering yet another completely different face of Japan. Our first stop was Tōjinbō (東尋坊), a dramatic stretch of cliffs formed from pillar-shaped volcanic rock. The rough waves of the Sea of Japan crash against the rock walls, giving the whole place a wild, untamed feeling—far from the gardens, temples, and city lights of the last days. It’s also a site wrapped in local legends and folklore, making it both beautiful and quietly mysterious.

    We then crossed over to Oshima (雄島), a small sacred island connected to the mainland by a bright red bridge. Walking its trails felt like stepping into old Japan—dense forest, moss-covered stones, shrines tucked between trees, and complete silence. Not a single Western tourist in sight, only locals enjoying the sea breeze. It felt wonderfully remote.

    For lunch we stopped at a tiny local seafood restaurant, where we enjoyed a fantastic meal—exceptionally fresh fish, warm hospitality, and that unmistakable “by the sea” flavour you only get in places like this.

    Eventually it was time to head back. We boarded the Shinkansen and returned to Tokyo, suddenly swapping wild cliffs and ocean winds for neon lights, crowds, and the endless energy of the city.

    A perfect little detour before diving back into urban Japan.    Read more

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    Day 12 - Part 1: Sunrise in Asakusa

    November 26 in Japan ⋅ ⛅ 6 °C

    We started our Tokyo morning before dawn and made our way to Asakusa, one of the city’s most historic districts. Home to Sensō-ji, Tokyo’s oldest temple, Asakusa has been a spiritual and cultural centre since the 7th century. The temple’s famous Kaminarimon Gate, giant lantern, and long shopping street normally attract huge crowds—but at sunrise it feels like a different world.

    In the calm early light, the temple grounds were almost empty. Soft colours spread across the sky behind the pagoda, and the incense burners, statues, and wooden halls slowly came to life as the sun rose. It was the perfect blend of history, atmosphere, and morning tranquility.

    After Asakusa, we spent the rest of the morning wandering through the city, chasing Tokyo skyline views and photographing reflections wherever we found them—glass facades, puddles, shiny buildings, even bus stop shelters. With the city slowly waking up around us, it was the ideal way to enjoy our last full day in Japan: relaxed, curious, and always with cameras ready.    Read more

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    Day 12 - Part 3: Bridges & Night Lights

    November 26 in Japan ⋅ 🌙 14 °C

    For sunset we headed to Jukken Bridge, one of the classic viewpoints for the Tokyo Skytree. As the sky turned orange and pink, the tower reflected beautifully in the canal below—one of those calm, perfectly balanced Tokyo scenes where modern architecture meets quiet water.

    When night fully settled in, we moved on to Eitai Bridge, a spot famous for its sweeping view of Tokyo’s skyline. From there we photographed the boats gliding along the Sumida River, creating colourful light trails against the backdrop of illuminated skyscrapers. The mix of reflections, motion, and city lights was the perfect way to end our last evening with the cameras out.    Read more

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    Day 12 - part 2: Tokyo Street Photograph

    November 27 in Japan ⋅ ☀️ 4 °C

    As the sun climbed higher and the light became too harsh for skyline shots, we switched into street photography mode. It felt like stepping into a different Tokyo—less about landmarks, more about moments. We wandered through busy crossings, quiet backstreets, and everyday neighbourhoods, capturing whatever unfolded in front of us.

    Watching daily life was fascinating: shop owners arranging displays, commuters hurrying between trains, students on bicycles, elderly neighbours chatting outside tiny storefronts. Tokyo may be a megacity, but its charm often lies in these small, human scenes. Photographing them felt like discovering a quieter, more intimate layer of the city—one frame at a time.    Read more

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    Day 13: Exploring Wild Nikkō

    November 27 in Japan ⋅ ☀️ 5 °C

    Our day trip to Nikkō brought us into one of Japan’s most dramatic natural landscapes—a place where mountains, lakes, waterfalls, and history come together in a setting that feels worlds away from Tokyo. Nikkō has been a sacred site for over a thousand years, home to temples and shrines tucked deep into forests and valleys, and surrounded by a national park full of wildlife… theoretically including the famous Nikkō monkeys.

    We began by exploring the region’s lakes, each with its own character. Lake Chūzenji, formed by a volcanic eruption of Mount Nantai, sits beautifully at the foot of the mountain and offers wide, open views. Ryūzu Falls and Yudaki Falls showed us the region’s wilder side—fast water rushing through forest and rock, framed by early winter colours and crisp mountain air.

    From there we continued to Nikkō’s waterfalls circuit, checking off some of the area’s highlights, each one more impressive than the last. Despite being one of the most visited national parks in Japan, it’s easy to find calm corners where the only sounds are wind and water.

    We also visited the small but charming Cat Temple, known locally for its feline statues and symbols. It was one of those quirky Japanese places that you don’t expect, but instantly love.

    As for the famous monkeys of Nikkō—well, they apparently had the day off. Not a single one in sight. We waited, we listened, we looked into the trees… nothing. The only monkeys we saw were on the tourist posters. Still, the landscapes more than made up for it, and perhaps it’s better not to have our snacks stolen anyway.

    By the end of the day, we left Nikkō with tired legs, empty memory cards, and the feeling that we’d experienced a very different, wilder Japan—one full of lakes, waterfalls, shrines, and mystery… just not monkeys.    Read more

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    Day 14 - part 1: all about Tokyo Tower

    November 28 in Japan ⋅ ☀️ 14 °C

    On our last full day before heading home, we devoted our time to one of Tokyo’s most iconic landmarks: Tokyo Tower. Even though the city is full of futuristic skyscrapers and glass giants, there’s something unmistakably charming about this bright orange lattice tower from 1958. It has seen Tokyo grow, rebuild, and rise around it—and still manages to stand out.

    We photographed it twice: first the night before, when the tower glowed warmly against the dark sky, lighting up the surrounding neighbourhood like a beacon. Then again at sunrise this morning, when soft light and quiet streets gave the whole scene a completely different atmosphere. No matter the time of day, Tokyo Tower has a way of dominating the skyline while still feeling oddly nostalgic.

    A simple start to the day, but one that perfectly captured the magic of this city—modern, historic, busy, quiet, all at once.    Read more

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    Day 14 – Part 2: Lights, Trains & Odaiba

    November 28 in Japan ⋅ ☀️ 17 °C

    For our final afternoon in Tokyo, we immersed ourselves in the digital wonderland of teamLab Borderless—a world of moving light, colour, and illusions where walls disappear, art flows around you, and you constantly lose Michael because he wandered into another glowing dimension. Even though we’d seen thousands of photos beforehand, experiencing it in person was something entirely different: mesmerizing, playful, and slightly disorienting in the best possible way.

    Afterwards, we slipped back into street photography mode, capturing trains, commuters, and the rhythm of everyday Tokyo one last time. From there, we headed to Odaiba, crossing the bay on the monorail over the Rainbow Bridge. Sitting in the front row, we attempted the famous “hyperlapse-style” long-exposure shot—camera pressed against the glass, hoping the train would stay smooth enough for that stretching-light effect. The results were… artistic. Let’s call it that.

    Our grand finale took place at Hijiri Bridge (聖橋), one of the classic train photography spots near Ochanomizu. We waited patiently, hoping to catch the legendary moment when three trains cross simultaneously—a perfectly timed ballet of metal and motion. We didn’t quite get the perfect trifecta, but we came close, and the atmosphere alone made it worth the visit.

    A spectacular ending to our last full day in Japan—modern art, night trains, glowing bridges, and one last reminder of why we love photographing this country so much.    Read more

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    Day 15: Farewell Walk in Tokyo

    November 29 in Japan ⋅ ⛅ 9 °C

    On our last morning in Japan, we checked out, stored our bags safely at Tokyo Station, and set out for one final walk before heading to the airport. We wandered behind the station toward the Imperial Palace, enjoying the calm paths, open spaces, and the early light reflecting off the surrounding moats and modern skyline.

    It was a quiet, reflective stroll—Tokyo waking up around us, office workers rushing past, runners circling the palace grounds, and the city’s mix of history and modernity on full display. A peaceful ending to an unforgettable journey.

    After soaking in the last views, we returned to the station, picked up our luggage, and made our way to the airport—filled with memories, photos, and already thinking about the next trip.

    Here is a clean, compact stats section matching your style:

    Trip Stats:
    Steps: 300,000
    Distance walked: 250 km    Read more

    Trip end
    November 29, 2025
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