In Tokyo, the place to go and take your fill of electronics, gadgets, hobbies, games and cosplay is a district called Akihabara (often abbreviated as Akiba).  Located around a major multi-storey local rail crossroads station, it is easy to access...

This unique patterned wall was found  at the preserved home of 17th century Haiku poet Kyorai Mukai. Located in a quiet area of Arashiyama, Kyoto, with rice paddies nearby, the home and its garden is well worth a visit for an introduction to...

Shugaku-in was originally constructed by the retired Emperor Go-Mizunoo, starting in 1655, with the initial construction completed in 1659.  At every turn, a new perspective of exquisite gardens and buildings awaits.

In the grounds of the Zen Buddhist Temple of the heavenly dragon (Tenryuji) in Arashiyama I had a very special dining experience. Their vegetarian restaurant Shigetsu had the most artistically presented and tasty collection of dishes for their set...

Gravel, Bark on Pine tree, red lacquered wood, brass, bamboo, rope, folded paper, ceramic tiles... All combined in a uniquely Japanese composition.  Photo taken at Heian Shrine, Kyoto January 2012.