OLIVIER ROBERT PHOTO

The Shui-mo is an ancient and sophisticated art of Chinese ink painting that transcends the boundaries of geography and time. It was once...

Itsukushima Shrine is located on the sacred island of Itsukushima (commonly referred to as Miyajima) in Hiroshima Prefecture. As part of the "Three Views of Japan", it is one of the most famous Shinto shrines and an iconic site, internationally known for its “floating” torii gate. Its history is spanning centuries and blending religious significance with legends and war periods. © O. Robert Itsukushima Shrine is a symbol of Japan's cultural and spiritual identity, embodying c

The city of Hangzhou is a historical and cultural gem of China. West Lake, in turn, is a significant source of artistic and literary inspiration. Around its shores, historical structures and temples reflect the region's spiritual depth. The Grand Canal, connecting Hangzhou to Beijing, is an engineering feat and a vital link for trade. Fine Art Print © O. Robert (Purchase here) Together, Hangzhou, West Lake, and the Grand Canal illustrate the harmony between nature, culture, a

The city of Hangzhou is a historical and cultural jewel of China. The West Lake, in turn, is a significant source of artistic and literary inspiration. Around its shores, historical structures and temples bear witness to the region's spiritual depth. The Grand Canal, connecting Hangzhou to Beijing, is an engineering feat and a vital link for trade. Fine Art Print © O. Robert (Purchase here) Together, Hangzhou, the West Lake, and the Grand Canal illustrate the harmony between

The city of Hangzhou is a historical and cultural jewel of China. West Lake, on the other hand, is an important source of artistic and literary inspiration. Around its shores, historical structures and temples testify to the spiritual depth of the region. The Grand Canal, connecting Hangzhou to Beijing, is an engineering feat and a vital link for trade. Fine Art Print © O. Robert (Purchase here) Together, Hangzhou, West Lake, and the Grand Canal illustrate the harmony between

Shingon is a school of Japanese Buddhism, also referred to as tantric Buddhism or Vajrayana Buddhism. This school is based on esoteric teachings that use rituals, meditations, and mantras to achieve enlightenment. This spiritual tradition was introduced to Japan in the early 9th century by Kukai, later known as Kobo Daishi. Danjo Garan, Koyasan. Fine Art Print © O. Robert (Purchase here) From ancient roots to modern practice, let's see how Shingon has shaped Japanese spiritua

Huangshan, located in Anhui province, is a city of immense historical and cultural wealth. Dating back to the Qin Dynasty, it was an important trading center during the Ming and Qing eras. Today, it is primarily famous for its eponymous mountain range. Huangshan City Bridge © O. Robert However, the city is also rich in traditional architecture, particularly the Huizhou style, and in cultural heritage, with historical figures such as Huang Binhong and Tao Xingzhi. A Harmonious

Hikone Castle, located near Lake Biwa in Shiga Prefecture, is a historical monument of significant importance. It played a key role in Japan's history, especially during the Edo period. Designated as a National Treasure, its history begins in the early 17th century, shortly after the end of the Sengoku period. Photographing in the footsteps of the Shogun TV series. © O. Robert An Original Nickname Hikone Castle is often referred to as " The Castle of the Golden Turtle " (金亀城,

Okuno-in, located in Koyasan, in the lush mountains of Wakayama Prefecture, is one of Japan's most sacred and revered sites. It serves as the largest cemetery in the country, nestled within a dense, ancient cedar forest that creates an atmosphere of profound tranquility and spirituality. Fine Art Print © O. Robert (Available for purchase here) The cemetery is also housing the mausoleum of Kobo Daishi (Kukai), the founder of Shingon Buddhism, where, according to believers, he

Chomeiji Temple, located in Shiga Prefecture, has a rich and fascinating history. Founded in the early 7th century, this temple is one of the many significant sites in the Lake Biwa region and is one of the oldest Buddhist temples in the country. Its privileged location makes it a must-visit site in the region for photography. © O. Robert Chomeiji is notably known as the 31st temple in the Saigoku Kannon pilgrimage, which consists of 33 temples in total. This pilgrimage is on

Matsumoto Castle, also known as the "Black Crow" (烏城, Karasu-jō) due to its dark facade, is one of Japan's most famous and spectacular castles. This symbol located in Nagano Prefecture stands out for its unique construction and tumultuous history, spanning several centuries. A must-visit place for black and white photographers. © O. Robert This impressive castle is part of the 5 ones designated as a National Treasure, along with Himeiji, Inuyama, Hikone and Matsue castles. To

Nestled in the heart of the prefecture bearing the same name, Osaka Castle stands as a powerful symbol of Japanese history and culture. It captivates with its imposing architecture and tumultuous past. With its massive stone walls, deep moats, and majestic main tower, the castle is an ode to the military strategy and architectural ingenuity of its time. © O. Robert For photographers, Osaka Castle offers an exceptional backdrop, where every angle reveals a new perspective on t

The Kumamoto earthquake in April 2016 caused considerable damage to its iconic castle and the surrounding area, illustrating the vulnerability of historic structures to natural disasters. Among the most significant damage to the castle, the collapse of important centuries-old stone walls is lamented. © O. Robert These imposing support structures, which had perfectly withstood the vicissitudes of time, ended up yielding under the impressive force of the shakes. These walls, kn

Located at the top of a small hill in the city of Matsue (Shimane Prefecture), this teahouse is a gem not to be missed on your journey through the San-in region. A true haven of peace, it also features a remarkable contemplative garden that you can admire from the inside while enjoying a Matcha tea seated on traditional tatami mats. © O. Robert As in many places in Shimane Prefecture, as a foreigner you will benefit from a 50% discount on the entrance fee. You can, of course,

Lake Geneva, also known as Lac Léman, is an emblematic body of water for Europe. Its historical, geological, and cultural characteristics...

The Torii (鳥居) are not just architectural elements that define the landscapes and sacred spaces of Japan. They embody the very essence of Japanese culture and spirituality. Opening a gateway to the history, beliefs, and values of a nation, they symbolize the passage from the profane world to the sacred world, according to Shinto religion. Fine Art Print © O. Robert (Purchase here) The Torii, 鳥居 in Japanese, is literally translated as "bird gate" or "where birds perch". It con

Kongobuji Temple, nestled in the serene mountains of Koyasan, is the head temple of Shingon Buddhism, one of the major schools of Buddhism in Japan. This temple is not just a place of worship but a cultural and historical treasure trove that has played a significant role in Japan's religious and political landscape. Fine Art Print © O. Robert (Available for purchase here) The temple's serene atmosphere, beautiful gardens, and ornate architecture provide a peaceful and contemp

The city of Takamatsu in Kagawa Prefecture (Shikoku) is home to one of the jewels of Daimyo-style garden art: the Ritsurin Garden. Its...

Danjo Garan is a sprawling temple complex located on Mount Koya, the sacred mountain and headquarters of Shingon Buddhism in Japan. It consists in a collection of halls, pagodas, and other structures that together form the heart of Koyasan's religious and cultural landscape. A must-visit place for photography. Fine Art Print © O. Robert (Available for purchase here) The term "Danjo Garan" translates to "Temple of the Great Practice", reflecting its profound spiritual signific

Chiang Kai-Shek remains a controversial figure in Chinese and Taiwanese history. While some view him as an authoritarian leader, others...

The Château de Chillon is a stunning example of medieval architecture, combining defensive and residential features. Its unique position...

Kōshō-ji (興正寺) is a significant Shingon Buddhist temple located in the historical district of Yagoto in Nagoya, Aichi Prefecture. It is...

The Tian Tan Buddha, also known as the Big Buddha of Hong Kong, is an impressive statue of Siddhartha Gautama (Shakyamuni). It is located...

Kumamoto Castle, an architectural gem nestled in the heart of Kyushu Island, stands as a silent witness to the country's historical and cultural evolution. Founded in the 15th century at the beginning of the Edo period, this iconic monument embodies the splendor of Japanese castles with its ingenious defenses, peaceful gardens, and imposing structure. Fine Art Print © O. Robert (Purchase here) Despite the ravages of time, Kumamoto Castle, located in the Kumamoto Prefecture, c