Japan Travel Guides for Photographers - Tokyo and Kyoto...

Photographing the Steller’s Sea Eagle in Eastern Hokkaido

Lisa Michele Burns — Thu, 16 Apr 2026 06:45:48 +0000

Winter Wildlife Photography Experience in Japan These feathered friends, endemic to the Kamchatka Peninsula, Sea of Okhotsk, and other parts of Siberia in Russia, are the very reason I’ve had Eastern Hokkaido on my wish list for many years. On par with drift ice, a fascinating environmental process I’ve tracked and wanted to photograph since I saw a poster in Sapporo about it, way back in 2000. Luckily, the two combine to form one of the most photogenic experiences you can have outdoors, especially if you’re a fan of icy wonders and wildlife like me. The Steller’s Sea Eagle is one of the biggest draw cards for wildlife photographers, with their immense wingspan of up to 2.5m (8ft), striking yellow beaks, and dramatic fishing behaviour, presenting an action-packed experience to witness these beauties in the wild. While you can get lucky and see the eagles amongst the drift ice along Hokkaido’s northern coastline in winter, Rausu offers the chance to see them up close, with trained captains knowing where to find them to ensure you’re capturing images as the warm glow of sunrise illuminates the scene. *Just to note, the conditions will determine if boats depart or not. If seas...

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A Photographer’s Guide to Winter in Eastern Hokkaido

Lisa Michele Burns — Wed, 15 Apr 2026 11:11:50 +0000

Exploring the Wildlife and Natural Wonders of Eastern Hokkaido For photographers seeking quiet landscapes and wildlife opportunities, there’s a different pace to winter in Eastern Hokkaido, Beyond the ski fields and busier resorts of the western side of Japan’s northern island, the landscape opens into something far more spacious. Frozen lakes sit beneath low winter light, steam rises where geothermal activity meets the cold air, and wildlife moves quietly through snow-covered terrain. It’s not a destination built around a single landmark or viewpoint. Instead, the appeal lies in the variety within a relatively compact region. Forest, coastline, volcanic activity, mountains and wetlands all sit within a few hours of each other, each offering a distinct photographic approach and adventure. On top of the landscapes, you have the wildlife that inhabits them. From the elusive snow fairies Shima-enaga, to foxes, eagles, swans, bears, and deer. The region delivers continual surprises, with the chance to slow down, explore quietly, and photograph amongst some of the most diverse scenery you’ll find in Japan. This guide focuses on key locations and experiences well-suited to winter photography, drawing on my personal adventures. From lakes shaped by geothermal activity to coastal drift ice and wildlife encounters,...

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Beyond the Bamboo Grove: Photographing the Quieter Side of Arashiyama

Lisa Michele Burns — Sun, 25 Jan 2026 06:08:59 +0000

A Photographer’s Guide to Arashiyama, Japan Arashiyama is one of Kyoto’s most photographed areas, and for many visitors, it begins and ends with a short walk through the Bamboo Grove. It’s an iconic scene, tall green stalks arching overhead and light filtering through the dense forest, but it’s also one of the most crowded stretches of pavement in the city, if not all of Japan. I’ve visited Arashiyama twelve times, yes twelve, Kyoto is one of my favourite cities, and each time I expect my favourite spots in Arashiyama to be suddenly overwhelmed by crowds, but to my surprise, they’re still not, despite the Bamboo Grove mere minutes away, seeing thousands of tourists packed like sardines along the path. Every time I go to write this guide, I hesitate because I don’t want the quieter places spoiled; however, I noticed on my most recent visit that new cafes and stores are starting to open up along the route I walk, and it would be nice to see them get a little more love and foot traffic. Plus, one of the temples in this guide now has a new ticket machine, so I’m assuming it’s gaining in popularity already, particularly in...

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Street Photography in Tokyo: Neighbourhoods + Creative Techniques

Lisa Michele Burns — Mon, 04 Aug 2025 07:23:22 +0000

Tokyo’s energy isn’t just seen, it’s felt, especially when you’re exploring with a camera. While the city’s temples and neon-lit streets are photogenic icons, Tokyo’s true stories play out in fleeting moments between commuters, market vendors, and friends meeting beneath glowing lanterns or illuminated signs. Street photography here is a rewarding challenge, offering endless opportunities to create images that pulse with movement and life. I’ve often found it’s been the images I captured on my way to/from a location I wanted to photograph, that turn out the best, those unscripted moments, quick Embracing the Pace of the City Tokyo moves quickly, but something I love about the city is that despite the innovation, population, and pace, it feels calm, quiet, and creative. I’ve photographed many cities around the world, and none feel as diverse, inspiring and thrilling as Tokyo, I’m almost confident to say that any visiting photographer, will be able to capture some of their best images here. Rather than fighting the crowds, use them as part of your composition. Shibuya Crossing, for example, is famous for a reason, but even quieter neighbourhoods offer constant streams of foot traffic, so be sure to allow time for observing and you’ll...

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Japan Travel – Photographing the Snow Monsters of Zao, Tohoku

Lisa Michele Burns — Sat, 22 Mar 2025 08:39:49 +0000

How to Photograph the Snow Monsters at Zao Onsen, Japan When it comes to winter photography experiences, the Yamagata prefecture of Japan is hiding something pretty remarkable in the scenic village of Zao Onsen. It’s a landscape and subject I’ve hoped to visit since I was a student visiting a host family in Japan at 15. I saw an image of this natural phenomenon and couldn’t get it out of my mind. Fast-forward 25 years…and I finally saw them. Now, I want to help you plan your visit, too. It’ll take two ropeway rides to reach the top, and halfway up, you’ll start to see them appear. First one, then the horizon will reveal thousands more, appearing to multiply across mountain peaks and into the distance. I’m talking about Snow Monsters, also known as Juhyo. These frozen wonders are created as a result of strong Siberian winds, chilled water droplets and heavy snowfall across the winter months, formations that transform the landscape into a forest of monster-like trees. The high altitude of Jizo Sancho Station, located just below the peak of Mt.Jizo which sits at 1,736m, helps these iced beauties remain solid, chunky and visible throughout winter. Let’s take a...

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Tokyo Hotel Review: Goldfish, Geisha and Views of Mt Fuji from Bed

Lisa Michele Burns — Wed, 27 Nov 2024 07:02:57 +0000

Visual Hotel Review: Park Hotel Tokyo Walking into a room filled with goldfish swimming across the walls, Geisha smiling from behind the bed, and a view towards Mt Fuji, it felt like I’d stepped into a colourful dream of all things quintessentially Japanese. Perched in the Shiodome Media Tower, Park Hotel Tokyo offers more than just a luxurious stay—it provides an immersive journey into Japanese art and culture. With panoramic views of Tokyo’s skyline and an artistic ethos that permeates every corner, the hotel seamlessly blends contemporary design with traditional aesthetics. Located in the heart of Tokyo, it’s an ideal base for exploring the city’s vibrant neighbourhoods, while its unique art-focused concept ensures a stay that’s as inspiring as it is comfortable. Location Situated in the heart of Tokyo’s Shiodome district, Park Hotel Tokyo occupies the upper floors of the Shiodome Media Tower, offering guests panoramic views of the city skyline. The hotel is conveniently connected to Shiodome Station, providing easy access to Tokyo’s extensive public transportation network. Ginza, renowned for its shopping and dining, is within walking distance, and other major areas like Shinjuku, Shibuya, and Akihabara are easily accessible. From Haneda Airport, the hotel is a 20-minute taxi...

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Books and Beds in the Heart of Tokyo – Visual Hotel Review

Lisa Michele Burns — Wed, 27 Nov 2024 06:32:57 +0000

Shiba Park Hotel: A Haven for Book Lovers in the Heart of Tokyo Imagine a hotel where you can wander the hall to find a curated library just waiting to provide a book for the evening. If you can’t find an ideal book on your floor, you can venture down to the lobby or second floor for even larger areas designated to books from around the world, covering topics of art, travel, culture and more. Shiba Park Hotel combines contemporary comfort with a unique literary concept, creating a welcoming space where guests can unwind and explore the world through books. It’s a concept I believe should be replicated in cities around the world, I would happily stay at a library hotel wherever I travel! Located in a quiet yet central area of Tokyo, this boutique-style hotel offers a distinctive experience for those seeking a retreat that inspires both relaxation and curiosity. The Location Situated in Tokyo’s Minato district, Shiba Park Hotel is ideally positioned for both leisure and exploration. The hotel is within walking distance of major attractions such as Zōjō-ji Temple and Tokyo Tower, offering guests the chance to discover the city’s cultural and architectural highlights. Shiba Park itself...

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Aman Kyoto: A Tranquil Haven in Nature’s Embrace

Maja Laxdal — Mon, 19 Feb 2024 11:10:31 +0000

Visual Hotel Review of Aman Kyoto By Contributor and Photographer Maja Laxdal Nestled amidst the enchanting forests of Kyoto, Aman Kyoto stands as a testament to the seamless integration of modern luxury and traditional Japanese aesthetics. My recent stay at this exquisite resort left me captivated by its attention to detail and overwhelming feeling of serenity. Aman Kyoto’s secluded location provides a haven of tranquility, surrounded by the lush beauty of nature. The resort’s commitment to preserving the natural environment creates an atmosphere that immediately transports guests away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Aman Kyoto, designed by the brilliant late Kerry Hill, is an architectural brilliance. The resort embraces the philosophy of “wabi-sabi,” celebrating the beauty found in simplicity and imperfection. The design reflects a deep respect for the traditional Japanese aesthetic, incorporating elements such as sliding doors, tatami mat flooring, and a minimalist design ethos. Walking through the carefully crafted spaces, one can’t help but appreciate the thoughtfulness put into every detail. The minimalist design of the guest pavilions and rooms perfectly balances modern luxury with the timeless elegance of Japanese architecture. Each room offers a sense of peace and harmony, creating a space where...

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A Photographer’s Guide to Kanazawa, Japan

Lisa Michele Burns — Sun, 11 Feb 2024 09:24:40 +0000

The Top 5 Photography Locations in Kanazawa Kanazawa, a Japanese city known for its well-preserved Edo-era districts, beautiful gardens, and art museums, is a gem you need to add to your Japan itinerary. If you’re seeking the best Kanazawa photography locations for your upcoming visit, this is just the guide for you. If you’ve been reading or following The Wandering Lens for a while, you’ll know how much I love Japan. Having visited the country over 11 times, it’s somewhere that’s so special to me, however, it wasn’t until my most recent visit that I managed to get to Kanazawa, and I was so pleasantly surprised. It had been described to me as a quieter Kyoto; less crowds, historic districts and plenty of photography opportunities. Kanazawa was exactly that! While it doesn’t have the amount of temples and sights as Kyoto (and I absolutely recommend visiting Kyoto), Kanazawa is far less crowded which means you can wander slowly and capture the ornate details of the city, the landscapes, the river, gardens, and the architecture. I’d recommend spending at least two days exploring Kanazawa, there’s also the feeling you could stay for weeks, just taking it easy, strolling around and photographing...

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The 7 Best Shibuya Crossing Photography Locations

Lisa Michele Burns — Sun, 15 Oct 2023 05:59:14 +0000

Shibuya Crossing Viewpoints and Photo Spots Shibuya Crossing is an iconic location in Tokyo, Japan, that has captured the imagination of photographers around the world. With its bustling streets, vibrant lights, and mass of pedestrians, this intersection has become a symbol of modern urban life and a visual feast for photographers. A staggering 2.4million people use this crossing daily and if you’re seeking for the best viewpoint to photograph Shibuya Crossing, this guide is for you. I’ll be sharing where you can photograph the crossing from up high and on the ground to ensure you make the most of your time in Shibuya. Covering all four corners of the crossing, the spots listed range in Shibuya Crossing represents the energy and dynamism of Tokyo. As one of the world’s busiest pedestrian crossings, Shibuya Crossing is a hive of activity, with close to 2,500 people crossing the street every time the traffic lights change. This constant motion creates a mesmerising visual display, with streams of people flowing in all directions. Scroll down to find a Google Map listing all of the vantage points noted in this article. I’ve personally photographed this crossing in summer, winter and autumn, when it’s busy, not...

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Behind the Lens – Photographing a Sumo Tournament in Tokyo

Lisa Michele Burns — Sun, 01 Oct 2023 12:34:21 +0000

Photographing a Sumo Tournament in Tokyo at Ryogoku Kokugikan Sumo wrestling has been an integral part of Japanese culture for centuries, and its tournaments have captivated audiences all over the world, some intensely interested, others puzzled but amused by what they’re witnessing. *A little warning for those who don’t want to see too much flesh, the photos within this article do showcase a lot of skin. I’ve tried to photograph the event tastefully and used creative techniques to make the images a little more arty…hopefully you’ll enjoy seeing a peek inside this fascinating Japanese sport. On my recent trip to Tokyo, I was lucky enough to reserve a ticket to the September tournament at Ryogoku Kokugikan, the national sumo arena of Japan. I reserved the seat online, picked up the tickets at a local 7-Eleven store and had no idea as to where we’d be sitting, but assumed it would be very far from the action because they were roughly $20AUD. Spoiler, we were in the very back row, but this actually ended up being ideal for someone who had no idea what was happening and wanted to photograph as much as possible without getting in anyone’s way. So, let’s...

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Visiting Shibuya Sky – Tips for Photographers

Lisa Michele Burns — Wed, 27 Sep 2023 08:29:38 +0000

Must-See Tokyo Photography Location: Shibuya Sky Shibuya Sky is one of Tokyo’s newest and most photogenic attractions, offering breathtaking views of the city skyline from a height of 229 meters. You’ll feel like you’re walking on air above the city and it’s no surprise this observation deck has quickly become a must-visit for those seeking a bird’s eye view of the famous Shibuya Crossing. Having just visited last week to take a peek and get firsthand experience and imagery, this article will share how to visit Shibuya Sky, some tips for photographing from the top and how to make the most of your experience. From sunrise to sunset, the lighting conditions at Shibuya Sky are ever-changing, offering photographers an array of opportunities to experiment with various techniques and capture the cityscape in different moods. You can witness the captivating transformation of the city as the sunlight gradually illuminates the high-rise buildings, or capture the vibrant neon glow as night falls, turning Tokyo into a dynamic and colourful show below. To start off, I want to make it clear that you’ll need to plan your visit to Shibuya Sky. It’s currently very popular, and as such, tickets sell out in advance,...

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