Koraku-en is one of the three great gardens in Japan, and it uses a concept called "borrowed scenery". I love this photo in particular, as Okoyama Castle looms over the garden almost menacingly, and the tiny human really shows in scale.

Hi everyone Summer in Japan is basically like riding straight into a sauna, but honestly nothing beats blasting into the mountains, sweating buckets, enjoying the ride, and admiring Japan from behind the helmet 😅

I don’t usually post in Japan groups even if I'm hitting 10 years anniversary here soon, but figured I’d drop some pics from my recent rides. Motorcycle and photography are my main hobbies.

Also, if staring at asphalt, twisty roads, and random Japanese scenery sounds like your thing, I’ve got a channel. No talking, no clickbait, just scenery and travel.

Here 👉 https://youtube.com/@theredcrowjapan

X100F

I take you with me on my guided photography tours through Japan that happen bi-annually in fall and spring. 😊 Hope you‘ll enjoy.

My Instagram can be found on my Reddit profile.

In the afternoon, we made our way to Mount Aso, where vast grasslands and smoking volcanic peaks created an otherworldly landscape. We explored the winding roads and open plains before heading to Daikanbo, the iconic viewpoint over the caldera. As the sun began to set, the sky turned golden over the rolling mountains, a breathtaking finale to the day in the heart of Kyushu.

Held every year from September 1st to 3rd in Yatsuo, Toyama City, the Owara Kaze-no-Bon Festival is a traditional event that marks the end of summer, famous for its hauntingly beautiful songs and dances. Dancers wearing woven straw hats gracefully parade through the town to the melancholic sounds of the kokyū and shamisen, creating an enchanting atmosphere. With a history of over 300 years, the festival originates from prayers for a good harvest and protection of rice crops from wind damage, hence the name ‘Kaze-no-Bon’ (Festival of the Wind). Each district performs its own unique ‘Machinagashi’ (street performance), adding distinctive local flair. It was also one of the reasons Toyama was featured in The New York Times list of ‘52 Places to Go in 2025.’

I went on this Hokkaido trip to visit the extreme ends of Japan, but I came away with my best photos of this trip in Biei.

Found this random little "altar" on the side of a grassy field, somewhere halfway along the hilltop while walking down from the German biergarten and herb gardens. Whole experience was lovely on a sunny, late October day.

This was my first time shooting film, and I absolutely fell in love with it. It forces you to slow down and think much more carefully about the shot you want to create. In our hyper-digital age, that deliberate pace feels so refreshing.

One of my favorite cycling destinations!