OLIVIER ROBERT PHOTO

Japan is home to a rich architectural heritage, featuring unique examples of feudal art and engineering. Among the most remarkable are 5 castles designated as National Treasures, a distinction that highlights their historical, cultural, and artistic significance. Here’s an overview of these 5 iconic structures, which also make for excellent photographic subjects. Fine Art Prints © O. Robert (Purchase here) Let me be clear right from the start, Himeji Castle will always remain

Lake Biwa, located in the Shiga Prefecture of Japan, is the country's largest freshwater lake and plays a crucial role both ecologically and culturally. It is renowned for its natural beauty, unique biodiversity, and historical significance. It has also been a source of inspiration for many photographers in recent years. Fine Art Print © O. Robert (Purchase here) Certainly, Lake Biwa is the most interesting lake I have had the pleasure of working on in the last 15 years, afte

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,

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

Maibara is a little town located in the Shiga Prefecture of Japan. It is situated in the northeastern part of the prefecture, on the eastern shore of Lake Biwa, the largest lake in Japan, and extends up to the Ibuki Mountains and the border with Gifu Prefecture. Maibara is part of the Biwako Quasi-National Park and is particularly known for Mount Ibuki, the highest point in the prefecture. Fine Art Print © O. Robert (Purchase here) But it is primarily for its remarkable tree

Lake Yogo, often referred to as the "Mirror of the Sky", is a small lake located north of Lake Biwa in Shiga Prefecture, Japan. Although much smaller than Lake Biwa, it maintains a close and interesting relationship with the latter, both geologically and in historical and cultural terms. Another gem for minimalist lake photography. Fine Art Print © O. Robert (Purchase here) Relationship with Lake Biwa Geologically, Lake Yogo and Lake Biwa are both situated in a region charact

The Biwako Marsh, also known as the "Wetland," refers to a wetland ecosystem located to the north of Lake Biwa in Shiga Prefecture, Japan. Classified as a Ramsar priority site, this marshland area is also a prime location for wildlife and landscape photographers. Fine Art Print © O. Robert (Purchase here) It is undoubtedly in winter that I have spent my best moments as a photographer in this region. The morning frost on the branches of submerged trees gives the images a surre

From January 19th to February 4th 2017. I am honored to be part of this prestigious selection with one of my photographs.

The Torii 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 is literally translated as " bird gate " or " where birds perch " in Japanese. It constitut

The Biwa Lake Museum is an institution dedicated to presenting and preserving the natural and ecological history of the Biwa Lake region. This cultural establishment plays a crucial role in raising awareness about the lake's ecology and in the preservation of local heritage. Fine Art Print © O. Robert (Purchase here) History and Foundation The Biwa Lake Museum was inaugurated in 1996 . Its creation was in response to a growing need to preserve and study the unique ecosystem o

Mangetsuji Temple is a Buddhist temple located on Lake Biwa, precisely on the Katata Peninsula in Shiga Prefecture, Japan. This temple of Tendai Buddhism is famous for its Ukimido Pavilion, known as the "Floating Pavilion," a picturesque and emblematic site of the region. It is a favored spot for photographers. Fine Art Print © O. Robert (Purchase here) Ukimido is certainly one of the most beautiful, if not the most beautiful, of the temple pavilions set on water. Its relatio

A book published by Glénat Editions for the exhibition 'Miroirs d'eau, du Léman au Biwa' at the Lake Geneva Museum in Nyon.

November 19, 2015 to February 28, 2016 Opening ceremony on November 19, 2015. Book signing: 'Miroirs d'eau'.

Chikubu Island is one of the six major islands of Lake Biwa. It is a national heritage treasure. Through its temple and shrine, it is a must-visit destination for those interested in Japanese spirituality and culture. And the uniqueness of the place gives it a preserved sense of mystery. Fine Art Print © O. Robert (Purchase here) For photographers in particular, it is also an ideal place to capture the serenity and cultural richness of Japan. Here are some details about its c

The Nagahama Castle, located in Shiga Prefecture, Japan, is an important historical site reflecting the region's military and cultural history. Although its current structure is a reconstruction, the original castle, built by Toyotomi Hideyoshi, played a key role in the history of feudal Japan. A modest-sized masterpiece, it is particularly interesting for night photography. Fine Art Print © O. Robert (Purchase here) I have a personal fondness for this small castle located ju

From August 28th to September 3rd 2014. An exhibition of my works about Lake Geneva, lake Biwa and other lakes.

The Shirahige Shrine, located on the shores of Lake Biwa in Shiga Prefecture, Japan, is famous for its floating Torii, a symbol of the transition from the profane world to the sacred. Founded over 2000 years ago, it is one of the oldest shrines in the region. The vermillion red Torii provides a striking contrast with the lake and the surrounding mountains, attracting photographers and visitors from all over the world. Fine Art Print © O. Robert (Purchase here) This shrine is