japan Archives - Photo Tips, Creative Photography + Travel Guides - The Wandering Lens

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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A Photographer’s Guide to Tokyo, Japan

Lisa Michele Burns — Mon, 26 Jun 2023 07:44:18 +0000

Tokyo Photography Locations – Your curated list Tokyo is Japan’s bright shining star; a city of neon lights, towering skyscrapers, Japanese cuisine (yum!) and a culture that’s a magical blend of quirky and quaint. When it comes to Tokyo photography locations you’re spoilt for choice and finding a photo spot that tickles your fancy is as easy as saying ichi, ni, san… You can’t leave Tokyo feeling the same as when you arrived. A visit will overwhelm and excite with innovation, surprise with characters and treat with fascinating edible creations. For photographers, Tokyo is a city that enables you to photograph street scenes, landscapes, cultural portraits and ornate details. A visit to Tokyo with your camera is like a never-ending ride, there’s a photo opportunity around every corner and you’ll leave with a full memory card of images! Photo spots in Tokyo are found in all directions no matter which one you decide to explore first. This Tokyo guide lists a collection of my favourite photography locations throughout Tokyo. After visiting eight times I’ve explored a lot of the city but there is also so much more to see that’s hidden within the alleys and surrounding districts that one day...

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Japan: A Complete Guide to Kyoto Photography Locations

Lisa Michele Burns — Wed, 08 Feb 2023 02:25:15 +0000

A Photographer’s Guide to Kyoto, Japan The true beauty of Japanese culture comes to life in the traditional city of Kyoto. Wooded forests hide ornate temples and shrines, Geisha scurry into historic merchant houses on dimly lit alleys and misty mountains reveal their beauty throughout the seasons. A visit to Kyoto is like experiencing a glimpse into the past. With over 2000 temples and a huge number of UNESCO world heritage sites, the city is known as Japan’s cultural capital. Those hoping to witness the quirkier side of Japan will be kept busy too with Purikura (photo booths) and arcades, animal cafes and markets filled with weird and wonderful delights. Whether you’re looking to capture the cuisine, nature, traditions or bustle of Kyoto, there’s something photogenic for everyone. Depending on when you’re visiting Kyoto there will always be something to capture. The atmospheric festivals of summer, vibrant leaves of autumn, cherry blossom magic in spring and then there’s the chance of seeing a blanket of snow fall over the region in winter. If you can visit four times a year, I’d highly recommend it, you can never get enough of Japan in my opinion! In this guide I’ve listed some...

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I know a place – Hoshinoya Kyoto, Japan

Lisa Michele Burns — Thu, 02 Feb 2023 08:00:27 +0000

Hoshinoya Kyoto – A Visual Hotel Review I know a place… Where a turquoise river leads to tranquility. Where Japanese maples drape traditional wooden pavilions and the sound of water brings an instant serenity. Here, natural beauty blends with the elegance and enchanting architecture of a 17th century villa. A luxurious retreat nestled on the banks of the Oi River where time passes slowly. Hoshinoya Kyoto exudes every element of relaxation. The surroundings, the interiors, staff, cuisine and activities all meticulously work together to provide an experience of rejuvenation and cultural immersion. It’s a hotel that feels like a lavish home. Somewhere to stay as a destination, one you’ll probably never want to leave. Located in Arashiyama, one of Kyoto’s most beautiful districts, it’s an area that’s been frequented by noble families since medieval times. Today, Arashiyama is a popular location for visitors with the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Monkey Park and a number temples ranging from UNESCO World Heritage sites through to tiny corners of moss covered brilliance drawing the crowds daily. Hoshinoya Kyoto however is totally private, accessible only by wooden boat and tucked away within the majestic Rankyo Gorge. Within the grounds of the inn, the gardens welcome...

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Step inside the Hoshinoya Tokyo – A Visual Hotel Review

Lisa Michele Burns — Wed, 25 Jan 2023 02:12:19 +0000

An oasis where contemporary Japanese architecture is fused with inspired elements of a traditional Tokyo ryokan… Zeitaku. Luxury is typically associated with lavish décor, fancy restaurants and extravagance sans limit but hidden within the cosmopolitan Otemachi district of Tokyo rests a new form of Zeitaku. Peeled back to mere perfection, the walls of Hoshinoya Tokyo house not just luxury but minimalistic beauty blended with striking architecture in its finest form. A true nod to the traditional Japanese ryokan, this hotel is the epitome of thoughtful design and an integration of inspiring elements. It could just be the best ryokan in Tokyo. Upon entering the wooden doorway carved from a single slab of cypress tree, tatami mats and staff greet you to immediately whisk away your shoes so you feel at home. Placed in bamboo boxes that soak up scent and artistically form a patterned wall in the foyer, this is the first of many intriguing inventions found throughout the hotel that are so simple yet effective and brilliant in their purpose. Unlike regular hotels, the vibe at Hoshinoya Tokyo is like stepping into a zen space where light, sound and textures have been used to artfully remove all distractions. Rather...

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Perspectives: The Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Kyoto

Lisa Michele Burns — Mon, 23 Nov 2020 09:11:09 +0000

Photographing the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove The immense size of bamboo stalks rising above is enough to overwhelm you in the best possible way. Natural beauty is on full display here at the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, one of the most photographed locations in Kyoto, Japan. Nestled in the quiet but bustling suburb of Arashiyama, the bamboo grove is a popular, no wait, extremely popular tourist attraction and it’s not hard to see why. Rivalling the Fushimi-Inari torii gates and the Golden Pavilion for top spot on the tourist wish list, it’s a destination you need to see to believe. Not only does Arashiyama have the bamboo grove but it’s home to an abundant collection of temples and areas of natural beauty so no trip to the bamboo grove should be complete without spending an entire day (or more if you end up loving it as much as I do!) exploring the surrounding photo spots. Day after day, people swarm in the thousands to photography and marvel at these impressive stalks of bamboo. You’ll no doubt stumble across numerous photoshoots, insta poses and selfie sticks when visiting during the peak daytime hours, but if you’re hoping to capture the bamboo grove in...

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Perspectives: Photographing Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto

Lisa Michele Burns — Wed, 23 Jan 2019 02:39:16 +0000

Fushimi Inari Shrine, Kyoto for Photographers Fushimi Inari Shrine aka Fushimi Inari Taisha is that oh so photogenic place where bold red torii gates weave their way into the foothills of Kyoto’s Higashiyama Mountains. It’s popular for a reason and a must-see destination for any photographer visiting Japan. While you can simply rock up and photograph it whenever you like (for free!), those hoping to capture iconic images and have a little time to compose their shots will want to plan their visit in advance. Having visited Fushimi Inari at least 10 times and guided photography tours throughout Kyoto, I wanted to write this guide to provide some tips and great photo spots that I’ve discovered after numerous visits. I can’t tell you how many times people have written to me and said, ‘oh, but there were so many people it’s not worth going’…it absolutely is and with a little preparation, it might just end up being the highlight of your trip to Japan! Read more – Take a peek at my guide to ‘The Best Photography Locations in Kyoto’. When to Visit Fushimi Inari? As a photographer you’ll be dreaming of those crowd-free shots of the torii gates, preferably...

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Autumn in Japan – Landscape Photography Tips

Lisa Michele Burns — Mon, 08 Jan 2018 08:05:21 +0000

Japan Travel: The Beauty of Autumn As a landscape photographer, at any given time of the year there’s always somewhere in the world that’s exactly where you want to be. Whether it’s shooting aurora above the arctic circle in January, underwater photos during the warm summer months in Australia or the lavender fields of Provence in July. Every month somewhere will be in it’s most photogenic state and keeping up with where to go can be pretty tiring. One place that I believe should be on every photographers’ wish list is Japan in autumn. As the foliage turns into a vibrant rainbow of ruby reds, oranges and yellows, the landscapes and cities become a photographer’s dream scene. I recently travelled throughout Tokyo, Kyoto and Nara during the peak autumn season with my photography tour and we were completely spoilt by the colours on display. Read more: “Complete Guide to Kyoto Photography Locations“ Below are some travel and photo tips on how to make the most of your time visiting Japan in autumn. When to Visit Japan for Autumn Colours? Across Japan the exact timing differs due to the varying latitude however you’ll find most areas are in their peak at...

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Shooting Sunrise at Sensoji Temple, Tokyo

Lisa Michele Burns — Thu, 07 Dec 2017 07:53:28 +0000

Sunrise Photography at Sensoji Temple Walking through the historic streets of Asakusa at 5:30am, it was hard not to wonder what on earth we were doing awake. Usually buzzing with atmosphere, the streets were quiet and almost completely empty at this crazy hour of the morning. Not to mention the temperature was hovering just above freezing. As I repeat to myself often, all good photos come to those who rise early and while sunrises and I might not be best friends, I knew this one would be pretty special! Not only was it a historic location, it was the first sunrise of my Japan Photo Tour and I was SO excited to share the beauty of Tokyo with my group. First up…here is where I’m talking about – Sensoji Temple (also known as Asakusa Kannon Temple) is Tokyo’s oldest temple and boy is it impressive. Having visited before in summer during the daytime I knew that anytime after 8am it was crowded, really crowded. Luckily though, the temple grounds are open 24hours so you can wander through and explore Sensoji under the stars or like us, as the sun rises over the city. The actual temple opens at sunrise but the...

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Japan Photo Tour – November 2018

Lisa Michele Burns — Wed, 02 Aug 2017 16:02:40 +0000

Japan Photography Autumn Tour The 2017 Photo Tour was such a success that I’ll be doing it all again in 2018! We had a great group join for the adventures in 2017 and mixed with perfect conditions, vibrant autumn foliage and plenty of photography locations, I’m so excited to venture back and take a new group to explore Japan’s beauty. November 21st-29th, 2018 (Fully Booked) New tour – November 12th-20th, 2018 (Two Spots Left!) Register your interest for the 2018 Photo Tour to receive more information! When vibrant leaves decorate the landscape and the chill of winter is on the way bringing with it a morning mist perfect for moody images in the historic streets. We’ll be exploring the shrines, city lights, forests and all the little details that make Japan unique and along the way I’ll share my tips on how to work as a professional travel photographer. THE DETAILS Japan is a crazy, quirky, cultural wonder; join us to explore from Tokyo to Kyoto for one week of creative adventures to kick start your travel photography or blogging career. We’ll be photographing the beauty of Japan in autumn when the leaves turn bright colours blending beautifully with the...

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Tokyo in Photos: Weekend Wanderlust

Lisa Michele Burns — Fri, 12 Dec 2014 05:03:54 +0000

Tokyo is Japan’s bright shining star, a city of neon lights, towering skyscrapers, sushi and a culture that’s a magical blend of quirky and traditionally quaint. You can’t leave Tokyo feeling the same as when you arrived. A visit will overwhelm and excite with innovation, surprise with characters and treat with fascinating edible creations. Japan has long been in my top five favourite countries ever since I joined a home stay program at school and lived with a Japanese family in Sapporo on the island of Hokkaido, one of the best experiences of my life. I love stopping in Tokyo even if it’s just for a weekend so here are a collection of images to get you dreaming of a trip to the city where anything is possible…even a Batman sighting.

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Behind the lens: Arashiyama, Bamboo Grove

Lisa Michele Burns — Sun, 14 Sep 2014 09:21:27 +0000

It was a humid, hot and sweaty walk in search of the immensely beautiful Bamboo Grove I had heard so much about. Being July, we had chosen to visit Arashiyama, Japan on a beautiful 36degree summer day and on route to our destination needed to retreat inside at regular intervals for some air con, sushi and tempura, just the essentials! Wandering over the Togetsukyo Bridge and then past the Tenryuji Temple we stumbled across a patch of bamboo. I was a little hesitant but began taking photographs despite noticing it wasn’t looking anything like the photographs I’d seen before. Thinking the bamboo was just as hot and bothered as I was, I snapped away and walked along happily whilst secretly hoping it would get a little greener the further I walked. Five minutes later and after sneaking a peek at a few intricate Japanese gardens the magic appeared. Tall stalks of bamboo tightly packed together forming a giant jungle of lush green colours and a striking silence that demanded you stop and appreciate the surroundings. We had found it and I was in photographer heaven. While most visitors stayed a few minutes and then hustled back to the awaiting air-conditioned...

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