OLIVIER ROBERT PHOTO

Sumiyoshi Taisha is one of Japan's most significant Shinto shrines. It is dedicated to the Sumiyoshi kami, the deities associated with the protection of sailors. The shrine has a rich history, dating back to the early centuries of Japan's imperial period. Sumiyoshi Taisha also has important connections to the imperial family, maritime trade, and classical Japanese poetry. © O. Robert Today, Sumiyoshi Taisha is a beloved shrine visited by millions of people each year, not only

Sugawara no Michizane was a renowned scholar and politician of Japan’s Heian period, celebrated for his intellect and integrity. After...

Osaka Tenmangu is a Shinto shrine located in the heart of Osaka city. It has a rich history that stretches back over a thousand years. Known for its deep connection to Sugawara no Michizane, the deity of scholarship, the shrine attracts visitors seeking blessings for academic success. Nowadays, Osaka Tenmangu stands as a cultural landmark amongst the numerous other Tenmangu shrines. © O. Robert Osaka Tenmangu’s enduring legacy over the past millennium reflects the profound im

Shanshui in China and Sansui in Japan are two concepts focused on the artistic representation of natural landscapes, though their...

Shintoism, the indigenous religion of Japan, centers around the worship of Kami, which are revered spirits or deities. The Kami can...

Shinto shrines in Japan are categorized into several groups, each with its specific significance and importance. Ranging from small local...

The decorative and symbolic elements of Shinto shrines, such as shimenawa and shide, play a crucial role in Japanese tradition and...

The Japanese have a strong penchant for symbols. This is a well-established fact, and I have touched upon it several times in my articles. The Meoto Iwa rocks, located in Mie Prefecture in Ise, are undoubtedly among the most famous and photographed in the entire country. Tourists flock in large numbers throughout the year to visit this renowned series of rocks artfully arranged by Mother Nature along the coast, not far from the beautiful city of Ise. Fine Art Print © O. Rober

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

The Grand Torii of Itsukushima Shrine is one of Japan’s most iconic symbols and one of the most famous torii gates in the country. Standing in the sea, about 200 meters offshore, it is part of the most photographed sites of Japan. Itsukushima Torii | Fine Art Print © O. Robert (Available for purchase here) This “floating” torii, has garnered international fame due to its striking appearance, spiritual significance, and integration with the natural surroundings. It has existed

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

From January 17th to May 28th 2018 An exhibition about my personal project : Statuary and Sacred Sites of Japan.

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

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

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

4th October 2015 The Japan Club of Geneva organizes the 6th Japan Festival (Nihon Matsuri) in Carouge, Switzerland.

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

The Yasaka Shrine remains a living witness to Japanese history and culture. Founded over a millennium ago, this shrine has passed through...

4th - 5th October 2014 The Japan Club of Geneva organizes the 5th Japan Festival (Nihon Matsuri) in Carouge, Switzerland.

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