Travel - Japan

January in Japan? Yes, please.

I recently got back from an incredible trip to Japan, and wow—what a dream for a travel photographer. Crisp winter skies and that perfect blend of modern chaos and serene tradition that Japan does so effortlessly. I hit up Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, and Hiroshima, camera in hand and extra batteries in my backpack. Here’s a little photo diary and some of my favorite moments from the trip.

📍 Tokyo – Neon Nights & Quiet Corners

Tokyo was everything I hoped for: fast, bright, and buzzing. I spent my first few nights wandering Shibuya and Shinjuku, totally mesmerized by the neon signs, reflections on rain-slicked streets, and the constant motion of the city. I caught some amazing candid street shots near Shibuya Crossing—people mid-step, umbrellas clashing like jellyfish in the flow of the crowd.

Osaka – Food, Colour, and Character

Osaka was wild in the best way. The energy of Dotonbori at night? Pure magic for photography. Neon reflected off the canal, street food stalls glowing with warmth, and locals laughing over takoyaki and beer.

Kyoto – Temples and Timeless Beauty

Kyoto in winter felt like stepping into a still-life painting.

Hiroshima – Reflection and Resilience

Hiroshima had a different energy—quieter, more reflective. Visiting the Peace Memorial Park was powerful, and I tried to capture the stillness and gravity of the place with some wide-angle, low-contrast shots. The A-Bomb Dome, silhouetted against a cloudy sky, made for a stark, haunting image that I didn’t want to over-edit—just let it speak for itself.

A Few Lessons from the Road

• Bring gloves that let you use your camera buttons—my fingers froze more than once.

• Don’t sleep on early mornings. Yes, it’s cold, but the light is magical and the streets are nearly empty.

• Talk to locals when you can. Even a smile or quick “arigatou” goes a long way, and it always led to more authentic moments.

I came back with a full camera card, a happy heart, and a renewed love for capturing the world through my lens. Japan in January is seriously underrated—it’s peaceful, photogenic, and full of contrasts that make every frame tell a story.

Already dreaming about going back.

📸✨Until next time, Ange