Cubism in Osaka.

While walking through the Umeda area this very colorful building caught my eye. This was the inner side of a hallway leading to a car park.

The Skyline of Shinseikai area Osaka

Tsutenkaku tower has long been the symbol of the Naniwa area and defines the skyline of the area.

Snow covered mountains of Kyoto in winter.

A monkey crosses on a power line in the snow covered mountains of Kyoto. Nothing stops the mountain locals from foraging for food even during bleak freezing temperatures. Wild monkeys are prevalent in the Kyoto mountains but not easy seen due to their reserved nature and are easily spooked.

As darkness sets in, the Miyagawacho area begins to awaken from its slumber

As darkness sets in, the Miyagawacho area begins to awaken from its slumber. Out of the shadows, a Geiko leads the Maiko to an evening engagement of dance, games, and drinks. Patrons in taxis start arriving for the night’s festivities.

Warming colors of winter in the Port of Kobe.

As the cold winter sets in, a little warmth can be found in the Port of Kobe with beautiful bright colors awash uplifting the soul.

Winter travel in Hokkaido

A moment of solitude brought on by winter’s cold white haze. The railway platform mostly abandoned of life becomes a quiet respite clearing the mind of noise. Only the consistent sound of the snow falling with a slight howl of the wind breaks the stillness. The sound is that of some massive godlike creature exhaling its chilling breath upon the area.

A train passes a through a winter landscape in Hokkaido

A single train carriage passes through a winter landscape in Hokkaido. As the island is mostly countryside apart from a few major cities, fewer trains operate on a delayed schedule. One may wait 1-4 hours for the next train to arrive. Huddling up close to a small gas stove in a tiny station can be the outcome for those stuck in this harsh environment.

Spring in Kyoto begins

A path leads the way to a Buddhist temple in Kyoto. As winter’s grip loosens the colors of life begin to bloom again lifting one’s spirits.