Tokyo

I still have to pinch myself when I think about my trip to Japan—it feels like my dreams over the last 40 years were projected in front of my eyes. I travel a fair amount yearly and enjoy different cultures, people, and food. Arriving in Tokyo felt like coming home—an instant feeling you have. You know when you know.

My stay was limited to only four days, so I had to make the most of it. I had three days to myself and one day to work. I usually don't read travel books and ignore recommendations because I am curious to explore things. Everyone has different expectations, so recommendations don't work for me.

My first day was great, as I had arrived at one of Tokyo's most unique and traditional hotels. My stay in the Okura Hotel was out of this world. The people, the room, and the service were outstanding, conscious, and tailored to my needs.

Walking and exploring

Whenever I can, I walk to explore any city, so I put on my running shoes and start exploring the city on foot. Starting from Toranamon and the newly developed Toranamon Hills, I went to the classical Shibuya District and Shibuya Crossing.

I enjoyed being there, but I also realised quickly that I prefer to avoid tourist places where you must queue and wait to see something overshared on Instagram.

Anyway, I am not interested in sharing my entire life on Instagram, so I have left quickly to explore Tokyo and indulge each second. On my way to Kitazawa, I stopped at shops to buy little gifts and memories from Tokyo. The Stüssy shop in Shibuya is fantastic if you ever land there.

I am not a camera tech nerd.

You are probably about realising I am not sharing anything about technical photography, camera settings, etc. For me, this is not that important. Since I picked up my first Olympus camera around 2000, I have always photographed with the feeling for light, the moment focusing on light, symmetry, or just gut feeling.

Twenty-four years later, I did the same with all my cameras, such as Canon 5d IV, FujiFilm X100V, and GFX100II. All cameras are different, but in the end, they are all my extended eye, and if I don't see things, the camera will never capture them.

I have finally arrived in Kitazawa, jetlagged and hungry after walking some serious miles. I am now searching for a Ramen Restaurant - overwhelmed by the offers and misleading Google reviews from confused tourists.

On a little side street, there is my point of happiness—Naochan ramen なおちゃんラーメン. Money out, money in the machine slot, and now it's time to wait for this beautiful bowl of nourishment. Ramen is my happy place.

Ramen, Ramen and Matcha

The night and sleep were great after my Ramen and welcome day two, which I started with a traditional Japanese omelette turned with chopsticks. I had a vision today—visiting Kamimeguro, which is known for its stunning cherry blossoms along the Meguro River and the relaxed residential atmosphere of Meguro City, following a visit to Nampeidaicho and Sarugakucho to hang around in some bookstores and galleries. Lurf Museum was pretty cool, and the in-house cafe was as well.

And Sushi

I enjoyed my working day yesterday but didn't have much time to walk around the city, so I am excited again to conquer the mega city on my last full day. I have big plans and also new shoes with more cushioning. My first stop is early to the Tsukiji Fish Market to grab some fresh Nigiri and Sashimi for breakfast.

Wish something

I recommend Fat Tuna Belly Nigiri for Breakfast—the sweet, buttery taste triggered my pallet. After breakfast, I visited Senso-ji nearby to draw random wishes for OMIKUJI and buy some beads for my family.

I love visiting Buddhist temples, leaving a prayer and thinking about my loved ones. I recommend visiting Senso-Ji early in the morning.

More Sushi

Working the day before and walking a lot requires a reasonable calorie intake of Ramen, Matcha, and more Ramen and Sushi. I can’t get enough of the flavours and Umami. For my last day, I treated myself to Omakase, a Japanese dining experience that involves enjoying the chef's culinary skills to create a personalised sushi experience. I can’t describe the flavours and sensations I have experienced during my 2-hour Omakase.

Walk in the park

I finished my day with a sunset walk in Yoyogi Park, Yoyogikamizonocho, and Nishiazabu, eating Japanese snacks and drinking more Matcha.

I continued pinching myself, and I couldn’t believe I had the opportunity to be here in Tokyo. I love the precision, kindness, accuracy, and pride of people doing their craft. I haven’t experienced it here in Europe. Some people say the overengineered precision kills creativity.

I disagree; the attention to detail and precision creates an appreciation for things and people around you.

Thank you, Tokyo.

All images are mine taken on an iPhone, Canon or FujiFilm camera.