OLIVIER ROBERT PHOTO

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

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

The Ariake Sea is a vast bay located in the southwest of Japan, extending into the prefectures of Saga, Nagasaki, Kumamoto, and Fukuoka. It is the largest bay in Japan in terms of area and features many interesting spots for photography such as Torii gates, fishing huts and the famous Nori seaweed farms. Fine Art Print © O. Robert (Purchase here) Also known as Ariake-kai in Japanese, the Ariake Sea covers an area of about 1700 square kilometers. A notable feature of the Ariak

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

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

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,

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

Lake Shinji is likely the most interesting lake in the San-in region. It is located near Matsue in Shimane Prefecture and ranks as the 7th largest lake in Japan, covering an area of about 80 square kilometers. The lake has brackish waters and is connected to the Sea of Japan via the Ohashi River, as well as being linked to Lake Nakaumi through the Daisen Canal. Fine Art Print © O. Robert (Purchase here) Features of Lake Shinji The lake and its shores offer a variety of attrac

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

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

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

The Suizen-ji Jōju-en Garden, located in Kumamoto within the prefecture of the same name on Kyushu Island, stands as a quintessential example of Japanese garden art. Emblematic of the Edo period, this garden is a harmonious blend of spirituality, history, and culture. Featuring "borrowed" elements from nature (Shakkei), it vividly reflects the aesthetic and architectural ideals of its era. Fine Art Print © O. Robert (Purchase here) Origin of the Garden The Suizen-ji Jōju-en G

Japan sadly bears numerous traces and remains of World War II, particularly in the cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. In August 1945, the first atomic bombs in the history of humanity were dropped on these cities, resulting in more than 250,000 direct and indirect casualties. Causing indescribable damage for several kilometers around, these two bombs wiped Hiroshima and Nagasaki off the map in an instant. Fine Art Print © O. Robert (Purchase here) All buildings collapsed, were

Gardens are undoubtedly among the most touristy places in Japan. They are often also on the long list of spots to photograph for any landscape photographer visiting the country for the first time. And that's quite understandable. However, Momijidani Teien garden is still relatively unknown, even though it deserves special attention. © O. Robert Japanese gardens are indeed philosophical and miniature representations of imagined or interpreted landscapes, skillfully crafted by

Japan sadly bears numerous traces and remains of World War II, particularly in the cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. In August 1945, the first atomic bombs in the history of humanity were dropped on these cities, resulting in more than 250,000 direct and indirect casualties. Causing indescribable damage for several kilometers around, these two bombs wiped Hiroshima and Nagasaki off the map in an instant. Fine Art Print © O. Robert (Purchase here) All buildings collapsed, were

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

Shukkei-en Garden is a work of art in the traditional landscape garden style. Located in the center of Hiroshima city in the Naka-Ku district, it is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful landscape gardens in Japan. Shukkei-en is closely tied to the history of the city. Due to events related to World War II, it has had a turbulent history. © O. Robert Shukkei-en is organized around a central pond that takes up most of the area. It features a beautiful stone arch bridge (Koko-K

The Kaiten Training Center has a history that leaves one perplexed. Unlike other monuments, witnesses of World War II that I have talked about in previous posts, such as the Atomic Bomb Dome in Hiroshima or the "One-Legged Torii" at the Sanno Shrine in Nagasaki, the Kaiten Training Center is not a commemorative relic. Fine Art Print © O. Robert (Purchase here) Indeed, this building is not a ruin resulting from the atomic bombs dropped in 1945 on the cities of Hiroshima and Na

Nestled in the heart of Aichi Prefecture, Nagoya Castle stands as an iconic symbol of Japanese history and culture. This remarkable estate from the Edo period marks an era where military strategy and architectural art fused into a majestic expression of power and aesthetics. © O. Robert With its iconic golden sculptures watching over from its roof, the castle tells stories of a bygone era while remaining deeply rooted in the present. The events and festivals held there throug

Nestled in the lush mountains of Wakayama Prefecture, Koyasan, stands as one of Japan's most sacred and revered sites. Its history, spirituality, and natural beauty make it a must-visit destination in Japan. Whether you're a pilgrim, a history enthusiast, or a photographer, Koyasan promises a journey you won't forget. Fine Art Print © O. Robert (Available for purchase here) I remember visiting Koyasan for the first time, long before my first pilgrimage to the 88 temples of Sh