Norbert Woehnl Photography

Norbert Woehnl is a Photographer in Tokyo, Japan, specializing in Travel, Location, Editorial and Street Photography.

Back at the Office, Tokyo, Japan

Today is my first day back at work after the recent Europe trip. The view from the 18th-floor office towards Tokyo Station is still as thrilling as ever.

Back at the Office, Tokyo, Japan

June 03, 2026

Typhoon Window View, Itabashi, Tokyo, Japan

My wife and I returned from our Europe trip yesterday, just in time before Typhoon No. 6 hit Tokyo. Here is a quick window view of the situation this morning.

Typhoon Window View, Itabashi, Tokyo, Japan

June 02, 2026

Pre-Departure Coffee, Helsinki, Finland

At Vantaa Airport in Helsinki, Finland, I grabbed the last cup of coffee of this year's Europe trip from an R-kioski convenience store near the departure gate.

Pre-Departure Coffee, Helsinki, Finland

June 01, 2026

Shadow Dancers, Marunouchi, Tokyo, Japan

The mid-day sun is doing some artistic work on the concourse of the Marunouchi Oazo Building in Tokyo, Japan.

Shadow Dancers, Marunouchi, Tokyo, Japan

May 30, 2026

Löwenbräukeller Shadow, Munich, Germany

Play of shadows outside Löwenbräukeller, a beer hall built in the 1880s in the Maxvorstadt district of Munich, Germany.

Löwenbräukeller Shadow, Munich, Germany

May 29, 2026

Evening Angle, Helsinki, Finland

Evening view of Helsinki Cathedral and Senate Square from Sofiankatu, a cobblestone street lined with old buildings.

Evening Angle, Helsinki, Finland

May 25, 2026

Classic Elegance, Tokyo, Japan

A Toyota Century is parked in front of the ornate side entrance to Mitsukoshi Department Store in Nihonbashi, Tokyo, Japan.

Classic Elegance, Tokyo, Japan

May 19, 2026

Komaya Retro Games, Itabashi, Tokyo, Japan

Komaya Retro Games was an old shop in the Nakajuku area of Itabashi Ward in Tokyo, Japan. It was run by a couple in their 80s and filled with old game machines.

Komaya Retro Games, Itabashi, Tokyo, Japan

May 18, 2026

Hot Stuff, Taito, Tokyo, Japan

An ambitiously-named hairdresser and beauty salon in a beautifully weathered old building in the Taito Ward of Tokyo, Japan.

Hot Stuff, Taito, Tokyo, Japan

May 14, 2026

Startled Droid, Taito, Tokyo, Japan

This PET bottle recycling bin stuck between a drink vending machine and trash cans in the Taito Ward of Tokyo was giving me “startled droid” vibes.

Startled Droid, Taito, Tokyo, Japan

May 13, 2026

Nakasendō Evening, Itabashi, Tokyo, Japan

As I stepped out of the kickboxing gym last night, this was the scene along the Nakasendo, a major road traversing the Itabashi ward of Tokyo, Japan.

Nakasendō Evening, Itabashi, Tokyo, Japan

May 12, 2026

Urban Cat, Taito, Tokyo, Japan

In the Taito Ward of Tokyo, Japan, a cat is mulling whether or not to proceed climbing the facade of an old Tonkatsu (fried cutlet) Restaurant.

Urban Cat, Taito, Tokyo, Japan

May 11, 2026

Hotel Friend, Taito, Tokyo, Japan

In the Taito Ward of Tokyo, Japan, a Showa-era hotel sign is reflected in a window, opening up a view towards a quiet backstreet with a more contemporary hotel.

Hotel Friend, Taito, Tokyo, Japan

May 10, 2026

Quick Lunch at "Higu Bagel", Itabashi, Tokyo, Japan

We went for a quick lunch at Higu Bagel, a café and bagel shop in the Itabashi Ward of Tokyo, Japan. Today's specialty was a honey-mustard chicken bagel.

Quick Lunch at "Higu Bagel", Itabashi, Tokyo, Japan

May 10, 2026

The View (Film Version), Hallstatt, Austria

A view of Hallstatt in Upper Austria, as seen from the famous vantage point (“Aussichtspunkt” in German) north of the village center.

The View (Film Version), Hallstatt, Austria

May 08, 2026

Two Neighborhood Frogs, Itabashi, Tokyo, Japan

On the way home from work tonight, I walked through the Shimura area of Itabashi Ward in Tokyo. I ran into two rather different frogs, and a few other details.

Two Neighborhood Frogs, Itabashi, Tokyo, Japan

May 08, 2026

Going Home, Itabashi, Tokyo, Japan

Enjoying a longer walk home this evening through the quiet streets of Izumicho in Itabashi, Tokyo, it appears I wasn't the only one going home at that time.

Going Home, Itabashi, Tokyo, Japan

May 07, 2026

Through the Restaurant Window, Itabashi, Tokyo, Japan

While waiting for lunch today on my window counter seat at a new neighborhood restaurant in Itabashi, Tokyo, I captured this simple scene on the outside.

Through the Restaurant Window, Itabashi, Tokyo, Japan

May 06, 2026

Koinobori for Children's Day, Takayama, Japan

Koinobori (carp-shaped windsocks) are hung across the Miyagawa River in the city of Takayama, Gifu Prefecture, Japan.

Koinobori for Children's Day, Takayama, Japan

May 05, 2026

Buckwheat Galette at Green Café, Itabashi, Tokyo, Japan

On today's Green Day, the first of the “Golden Week” holidays in Japan this week, we went for lunch at “greenCAFÉ” in the Itabashi Ward of Tokyo, Japan.

Buckwheat Galette at Green Café, Itabashi, Tokyo, Japan

May 04, 2026

Sunday Lunch at "Little Bean Works", Itabashi, Tokyo, Japan

Another visit for a Sunday lunch today at “Little Bean Works”, a favorite local cafe in the Azusawa district of Itabashi Ward in Tokyo, Japan.

Sunday Lunch at "Little Bean Works", Itabashi, Tokyo, Japan

May 03, 2026

Kickboxing Training, Itabashi, Tokyo, Japan

At the kickboxing gym this morning, before wearing my gloves for the sandbag punching practice, I captured this discreet action shot of some other members.

Kickboxing Training, Itabashi, Tokyo, Japan

May 01, 2026

After the Rain, Otemachi, Tokyo, Japan

I worked at the office in Otemachi, Tokyo, this afternoon, and briefly stepped outside after the rain had stopped. The sunlight and the fresh air were glorious.

After the Rain, Otemachi, Tokyo, Japan

May 01, 2026

Shōwa Day Cafe Lunch, Akabane, Tokyo, Japan

Yesterday was the Showa Day bank holiday in Japan. We went for an outside lunch at "Cafe Nijiiro Hitsuji" (rainbow-colored sheep) in Kita-Akabane, Tokyo.

Shōwa Day Cafe Lunch, Akabane, Tokyo, Japan

April 30, 2026

The Calming Beauty of the Mundane, Itabashi, Tokyo, Japan

In the morning of today's bank holiday (Shōwa Day), I took a short walk around the Oharacho area of Itabashi Ward in Tokyo, Japan.

The Calming Beauty of the Mundane, Itabashi, Tokyo, Japan

April 28, 2026

Office Afternoon, April 27, 2026

As of April this year, my company’s rules have changed from “max. 80% remote work” to “at least 40% in the office”, so I went to work in Otemachi, Tokyo, today.

Office Afternoon, April 27, 2026

April 27, 2026

Tokyo Sunday, April 26, 2026

Today, after a healthy lunch at “アスショク” (Athlete Shokudo) in Takebashi, I went to Tachikawa in western Tokyo for some weekend shopping.

Tokyo Sunday, April 26, 2026

April 26, 2026

Rainy Evening Panoramas, Itabashi, Tokyo, Japan

It was a rainy evening when I came back from work today. On the walk home, I took some photos in the backstreets of Itabashi Ward in Tokyo, Japan.

Rainy Evening Panoramas, Itabashi, Tokyo, Japan

April 23, 2026

Styrian Panther, Graz, Austria

On a door of the Styrian Armory in Graz, built in the 1640s, one finds this painting of a panther, the heraldic symbol of the Austrian province of Styria.

Styrian Panther, Graz, Austria

April 21, 2026

Italian Lunch, April 20, 2026

My own and my wife's birthdays are just one day apart - so for this year's festivities, we went for lunch at Casa del Sorriso, an Italian restaurant in Tokyo.

Italian Lunch, April 20, 2026

April 20, 2026

Neighbors, Itabashi, Tokyo, Japan

Two buildings in the Azusawa district of Itabashi Ward in Tokyo, Japan. On the right is a Curry Restaurant, on the left is a residential building.

Neighbors, Itabashi, Tokyo, Japan

April 15, 2026

Kappa Bridge at Kamikochi, Nagano, Japan

Kappa Bridge is crossing the Azusa River at Kamikōchi, a mountainous highland valley in the western part of Nagano Prefecture, Japan.

Kappa Bridge at Kamikochi, Nagano, Japan

March 23, 2026

Cafe Lunch at "Little Bean Works", Itabashi, Tokyo, Japan

My wife and I went for a cafe lunch today at “Little Bean Works”, a local cafe in the Azusawa district of Itabashi Ward in Tokyo, Japan.

Cafe Lunch at "Little Bean Works", Itabashi, Tokyo, Japan

March 21, 2026

Short Visit at the Local Temple, Itabashi, Tokyo, Japan

Earlier this week, I injured myself quite seriously during kickboxing training. I paid a short visit to Nanzoin, a local temple in the Itabashi Ward of Tokyo.

Short Visit at the Local Temple, Itabashi, Tokyo, Japan

March 07, 2026

Pub Lane, Nakano, Tokyo, Japan

A typical back alley of small restaurants, pubs and music clubs in the Nakano district of Tokyo, Japan.

Pub Lane, Nakano, Tokyo, Japan

March 05, 2026

Supermarket Corner, Jujo, Tokyo, Japan

A young mother carrying her child is turning the corner at a side street supermarket in the Jujo area of Kita Ward in Tokyo, Japan.

Supermarket Corner, Jujo, Tokyo, Japan

February 27, 2026

Scene at Futaarayama Shrine, Utsunomiya, Japan

Visitors at Futaarayama Shrine in Utsunomiya, Tochigi Prefecture, are looking at colorful decorations outside Kagura Hall.

Scene at Futaarayama Shrine, Utsunomiya, Japan

February 26, 2026

Sankeien Garden, Yokohama, Japan

Overlooking the pond at Sankeien Garden in Yokohama, Japan, with a view towards the three-story pagoda at Sankeien Tenmangu Shrine.

Sankeien Garden, Yokohama, Japan

February 26, 2026

La Vita Jiyugaoka, Setagaya, Tokyo, Japan

Located in Jiyugaoka in the Setagaya Ward of Tokyo, Japan, is "La Vita", a shopping area whose architectural design emulates a Mediterranean style.

La Vita Jiyugaoka, Setagaya, Tokyo, Japan

February 24, 2026

Walking around Okusawa, Setagaya, Tokyo, Japan

A few photos from a walk around Okusawa, an interesting neighborhood in the Setagaya Ward of Tokyo, Japan.

Walking around Okusawa, Setagaya, Tokyo, Japan

February 24, 2026

Water Taxi on the East River, New York City

A water taxi is speeding along the East River in New York City. Manhattan Bridge and the Empire State Building are visible in the background.

Water Taxi on the East River, New York City

February 23, 2026

Handmade Drum Practice Pad from 100 Yen-Shop Items

I recently came across a video by a Japanese YouTuber, and followed his suggested approach to fashion a drum practice pad out of items found at a 100 Yen Shop.

Handmade Drum Practice Pad from 100 Yen-Shop Items

February 21, 2026

Side Street Characters, Yanaka, Tokyo, Japan

Look into a side street in the Yanaka area of Tokyo, Japan, with various characters - human and non-human - out and about.

Side Street Characters, Yanaka, Tokyo, Japan

February 20, 2026

Outdoor Seating, Tauberbischofsheim, Germany

A street cafe table on a quiet side street in the historic city center of Tauberbischofsheim in the southwest-German state of Baden-Württemberg.

Outdoor Seating, Tauberbischofsheim, Germany

February 19, 2026

Entering Oyama Shrine, Kanazawa, Japan

A view towards the Main Hall of Oyama Jinja in Kanazawa, Japan, while entering the main yard through the shrine’s distinctive Main Gate.

Entering Oyama Shrine, Kanazawa, Japan

February 18, 2026

Early Plum Blossoms, Itabashi, Tokyo, Japan

On a sunny February day a few years ago, I ran into this sight of plum blossoms at Ryufukuji Temple in the Itabashi Ward of Tokyo, Japan.

Early Plum Blossoms, Itabashi, Tokyo, Japan

February 18, 2026

Purification Fountain, Ikebukuro, Tokyo, Japan

The intricate purification fountain at Myokeiji, a beautiful small temple northeast of Ikebukuro Station in the Toshima Ward of Tokyo, Japan.

Purification Fountain, Ikebukuro, Tokyo, Japan

February 17, 2026

Benkeibashi Boat Pier, Tokyo, Japan

A bright morning scene overlooking the moat towards the boat pier near Benkei Bridge in the Chiyoda Ward of Tokyo, Japan.

Benkeibashi Boat Pier, Tokyo, Japan

February 16, 2026

Cavell Meadows Trail, Jasper National Park, Canada

A scenic view on an overcast day along the lower area of Cavell Meadows Trail in Jasper National Park in the Canadian Rockies.

Cavell Meadows Trail, Jasper National Park, Canada

February 15, 2026

Drumming Lesson, Komagome, Tokyo, February 14, 2026

Today’s drumming lesson in Komagome, Tokyo, was a continuation of the work started in the previous one, with more variations on hi-hat patterns.

February 13, 2026

Takasaki Byakue Daikannon, Takasaki, Japan

Takasaki Byakue Daikannon is a Kannon statue located on top of Mt. Kannonyama in Takasaki, Gunma Prefecture, Japan.

Takasaki Byakue Daikannon, Takasaki, Japan

February 13, 2026

Subway Exit Patterns, Jimbocho, Tokyo, Japan

This pattern of tiles at a subway exit in Jimbocho, Tokyo, resembles books on a shelf. An apt choice, given that the area is filled with used-book stores.

Subway Exit Patterns, Jimbocho, Tokyo, Japan

February 11, 2026

Jizo Statue at Shinshoji Temple, Sugamo, Tokyo, Japan

A visitor is praying in front of the big Jizō statue at Shinshoji Temple in Sugamo, Tokyo, Japan.

Jizo Statue at Shinshoji Temple, Sugamo, Tokyo, Japan

February 10, 2026

Hidden Lane of Pubs, Itabashi, Tokyo, Japan

In a hidden alley adjacent to Oyama Happy Road Shopping Street in the Itabashi Ward of Tokyo, Japan, I discovered this incredibly narrow lane of pubs and bars.

Hidden Lane of Pubs, Itabashi, Tokyo, Japan

February 10, 2026

Tram Crossing, Nishi-Sugamo, Tokyo, Japan

A Toden Arakawa Line train is crossing the road in the Nishi-Sugamo area of Tokyo, Japan. This line is also branded as the “Tokyo Sakura Tram”.

Tram Crossing, Nishi-Sugamo, Tokyo, Japan

February 09, 2026

Today's Snowy Episode, Itabashi, Tokyo, Japan

During the morning hours of today, we got 5-6 cm of snow, which is a pretty rare event in the Itabashi Ward of Tokyo, Japan.

Today's Snowy Episode, Itabashi, Tokyo, Japan

February 08, 2026

Drumming Practice, February 7, 2026

In today’s drumming practice, I expanded on some hi-hat patterns from the previous lesson, and explored drumming along the intro to Strawberry Fields Forever.

February 07, 2026

Walking the Dogs by the Sumida River, Tokyo, Japan

An elderly woman using a walker is enjoying a sunny day with her two dogs along the Sumida River in Tokyo, Japan. Tokyo Skytree is visible in the background.

Walking the Dogs by the Sumida River, Tokyo, Japan

February 05, 2026

Office Day Morning, February 5, 2026

The February morning sunlight illuminates an area of high-rise office buildings outside Otemachi Station in the Marunouchi area of Tokyo, Japan.

Office Day Morning, February 5, 2026

February 04, 2026

Boat Traffic, Bikan District, Kurashiki, Japan

During early autumn season, visitors are enjoying a boat ride on a willow-lined canal in the historic Bikan district of Kurashiki in Okayama Prefecture, Japan.

Boat Traffic, Bikan District, Kurashiki, Japan

February 03, 2026

Lake Agnes, Banff National Park, Canada

Lake Agnes is a beautiful alpine lake in Banff National Park, Alberta, set inside a cirque formed by the peaks of Mt. Saint Piran, Mt. Niblock, and Mt. Whyte.

Lake Agnes, Banff National Park, Canada

February 02, 2026

Winter Afternoon on Athlete Road, Itabashi, Tokyo, Japan

On a winter afternoon, the sun is casting long shadows and a warming glow on Hasunuma Athlete Road in the Itabashi Ward of Tokyo, Japan.

Winter Afternoon on Athlete Road, Itabashi, Tokyo, Japan

February 02, 2026

Porsche 356 Speedster and Horse, Tokyo, Japan

In the Hirakawacho area of Chiyoda Ward in Tokyo, I passed this slightly baffling building entrance featuring a 1950s Porsche 356 Speedster and a horse statue.

Porsche 356 Speedster and Horse, Tokyo, Japan

February 01, 2026

Drumming Lesson, Komagome, Tokyo, January 31, 2026

During today’s drumming lesson, the first in 2026, we began to work on “adding a fourth limb” into the mix, as in starting to use the hi-hat more consciously.

January 31, 2026

Onigiri Shop, Itabashi, Tokyo, Japan

On my way back from work, I took this photo of a shop selling Onigiri (rice balls) in the area around JR Itabashi Station in Tokyo, Japan.

Onigiri Shop, Itabashi, Tokyo, Japan

January 30, 2026

Office Window View, January 29, 2026

The winter sun on a clear January morning allowed for this crisp view towards Tokyo Station from my 18th-floor office window in Otemachi.

Office Window View, January 29, 2026

January 29, 2026

Kakimori Stationery Store, Kuramae, Tokyo, Japan

A view from the outside into Kakimori, a delightful stationery store not far from Kuramae Station in the Taito Ward of Tokyo, Japan.

Kakimori Stationery Store, Kuramae, Tokyo, Japan

January 28, 2026

Rue St. Georges, Lyon, France

Two photos taken on a winter evening walk along Rue St. Georges in Vieux Lyon, the historic city center of Lyon, France.

Rue St. Georges, Lyon, France

January 26, 2026

Kojima Ichiro (小島一郎): Photographs(写真集成)

Photo book recommendation: Striking photographs taken by Ichiro Kojima in Japan’s northern area, with a prominent black achieved by special darkroom techniques.

Kojima Ichiro (小島一郎): Photographs(写真集成)

January 25, 2026

Early Hotel Breakfast, Cupertino, California

On a business trip in February 2014, at 6:11 AM one morning I was the first in the breakfast room at the Hilton Garden Inn in Cupertino, California.

Early Hotel Breakfast, Cupertino, California

January 24, 2026

Drumming Practice, January 24, 2026

At my local Tokyo music studio in Hasune, Itabashi Ward, I did my first practice of 2026 today. Re-capping some of the 16th-note accents from the last lesson.

January 24, 2026

Winter Window View, Nehren, Germany

A calm winter view out of the window of my study in Nehren, Germany, where I lived in the mid-2010s. There was some pretty special light during a snow shower.

Winter Window View, Nehren, Germany

January 22, 2026

Urban January Sunrise, Itabashi, Tokyo, Japan

On a clear and crisp January morning, the sun is rising over a suburban scenery in the Itabashi Ward of Tokyo, Japan.

Urban January Sunrise, Itabashi, Tokyo, Japan

January 21, 2026

Locksmith and District Court, Bad Urach, Germany

View towards the District Court in Bad Urach, southwestern Germany. The half-timbered building on the right is home to a locksmith’s workshop.

Locksmith and District Court, Bad Urach, Germany

January 20, 2026

January Evening, Itabashi, Tokyo, Japan

On the way back from work, a chilly winter breeze was agitating the usually quiet surface of the pond at Mitsugi Park in the Itabashi Ward of Tokyo, Japan.

January Evening, Itabashi, Tokyo, Japan

January 19, 2026

Four Scenes from Itabashi, Tokyo, Japan

A collection of four random scenes from my home ward of Itabashi in Tokyo, Japan. I like to show the lesser-known sides of the big metropolis.

Four Scenes from Itabashi, Tokyo, Japan

January 18, 2026

Winter Hotel Breakfast, Nagano, Japan

Part of a hotel breakfast buffet in Nagano, Japan, with an outside view of the city scenery on a snowy day.

Winter Hotel Breakfast, Nagano, Japan

January 17, 2026

Cross-Country Skiing, Sankt Johann, Germany

A cross-country skier is enjoying a perfect winter day near the southwest-German village of Sankt Johann on the Swabian Alb.

Cross-Country Skiing, Sankt Johann, Germany

January 17, 2026

Snowy Orchards, Pliezhausen, Germany

Impression from a walk on a crisp winter day around the orchards outside the village of Pliezhausen in southwestern Germany.

Snowy Orchards, Pliezhausen, Germany

January 16, 2026

Winter at Eggenberg Palace, Graz, Austria

On a winter day along the approach to Schloss Eggenberg (Eggenberg Palace) in Graz, Austria, a peacock is standing by. The birds roam freely around the park.

Winter at Eggenberg Palace, Graz, Austria

January 14, 2026

At the Panoramic Restaurant, Onomichi, Japan

The panoramic restaurant at the top station of Mount Senkoji Ropeway in Onomichi, Hiroshima Prefecture, Japan, offers great views of the Seto Inland Sea.

At the Panoramic Restaurant, Onomichi, Japan

January 13, 2026

End of the Day, Itabashi, Tokyo, Japan

Today was this week’s office day. As usual, I took a short neighborhood walk in the evening to decompress, and captured a few night scenes in Itabashi, Tokyo.

End of the Day, Itabashi, Tokyo, Japan

January 13, 2026

Escalator Ride, Manhattan, New York

Against a striking background pattern of colorful neon lights, people are riding an escalator at a store on Times Square in Manhattan, New York.

Escalator Ride, Manhattan, New York

January 12, 2026

Evening Scene at Jakominiplatz, Graz, Austria

A dusk scene from Jakominiplatz in Graz, Austria, one of the city’s main transportation hubs at which multiple tram and bus lines intersect.

Evening Scene at Jakominiplatz, Graz, Austria

January 11, 2026

Running With Mom, Sugamo, Tokyo, Japan

A boy is joyfully running beside his bicycling mother on Sugamo Jizodori Shopping Street in the Toshima Ward of Tokyo, Japan.

Running With Mom, Sugamo, Tokyo, Japan

January 10, 2026

Across Augustus Bridge, Dresden, Germany

A winter view across Augustusbrücke (Augustus Bridge) in Dresden, Germany. The dome of Frauenkirche is visible at the left.

Across Augustus Bridge, Dresden, Germany

January 09, 2026

Winter Afternoon Light, Itabashi, Tokyo, Japan

Two quick urban panoramic photos from the Itabashi Ward of Tokyo, Japan - taken during those few minutes on a January afternoon when the light becomes magical.

Winter Afternoon Light, Itabashi, Tokyo, Japan

January 08, 2026

Winter Forest, Walddorfhäslach, Germany

A snowy scene from a forest outside the village of Walddorfhäslach in the southwest-German state of Baden-Württemberg.

Winter Forest, Walddorfhäslach, Germany

January 06, 2026

After-Work Evening Panoramas, Itabashi, Tokyo, Japan

Today was my first office day in 2026. After work, I got off two stops earlier than usual in order to take some panoramic photos in the Itabashi Ward of Tokyo.

After-Work Evening Panoramas, Itabashi, Tokyo, Japan

January 05, 2026

View from BART, San Francisco, California

Scenery outside a BART train between downtown San Francisco and SFO Airport. This view looks across I-280 towards the Oceanview district.

View from BART, San Francisco, California

January 04, 2026

İzzet Keribar: Terra Magica

Photo book recommendation: Terra Magica, a collection of beautifully composed color travel photography by renowned Turkish photographer İzzet Keribar.

İzzet Keribar: Terra Magica

January 03, 2026

Evening Overpass, Meguro, Tokyo, Japan

An evening view from an overpass on Meguro Dori, a major thoroughfare near Meguro Station in Tokyo, Japan.

Evening Overpass, Meguro, Tokyo, Japan

January 02, 2026

New Year's Visit to Kibitsuhiko Shrine, Okayama, Japan

13 years ago today, I went for Hatsumode (first shrine visit of the New Year) at Kibitsuhiko Shrine in Okayama, Japan. A warming fire welcomed me at the gate.

New Year's Visit to Kibitsuhiko Shrine, Okayama, Japan

January 01, 2026

2026, the Year of the Horse

Happy New Year! 2026 is the “Year of the Horse” here in Japan. A few days ago, we went to Okunitama Shrine in Fuchu for an in-between-years visit.

2026, the Year of the Horse

January 01, 2026

Christmas Lights, Daikanyama, Tokyo, Japan

An installation of Christmas lights between commercial buildings near Daikanyama Station in the Shibuya Ward of Tokyo, Japan.

Christmas Lights, Daikanyama, Tokyo, Japan

December 23, 2025

Christmas Market Stand, Herrenberg, Germany

At the Christmas Market in the historic town of Herrenberg in southwestern Germany, people are looking at a stand selling honey and beeswax products.

Christmas Market Stand, Herrenberg, Germany

December 23, 2025

Autumn at Joshinji Temple, Tokyo, Japan

Joshinji, a Buddhist temple affiliated with the Jōdo sect located in the Setagaya Ward of Tokyo, Japan, is a popular destination for autumn leaf viewing.

Autumn at Joshinji Temple, Tokyo, Japan

December 22, 2025

Before Christmas, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany

A store in Rothenburg ob der Tauber in the south-German state of Bavaria is decorated for the Christmas season.

Before Christmas, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany

December 21, 2025

Ominous Sky, Itabashi, Tokyo, Japan

On an October afternoon, an ominous sky hovers above the eastern part of Itabashi Ward in Tokyo, Japan.

Ominous Sky, Itabashi, Tokyo, Japan

December 20, 2025

Christmas Singer, Covent Garden, London, England

A woman is singing Christmas songs at Covent Garden in London, England.

Christmas Singer, Covent Garden, London, England

December 18, 2025

Christmas Decorations, Graz, Austria

Not your usual Christmas decorations on Herrengasse, the main boulevard traversing the historic city center of Graz, Austria.

Christmas Decorations, Graz, Austria

December 18, 2025

Kickboxing and After, December 17, 2025

Tonight I went to my local kickboxing gym, where it was pleasantly quiet with just one other member working out. Also took some quick snaps on the way home.

Kickboxing and After, December 17, 2025

December 17, 2025

Office Window View, December 16, 2025

Today was my last office day for this year. The morning clouds provided a nice dramatic topping for this view towards Tokyo Station from my 18th floor office.

Office Window View, December 16, 2025

December 16, 2025

So This Is Christmas, Okayama, Japan

During Christmas season at a variety store in Okayama, Japan, check-out staff in the register area is aptly dressed for the festive occasion.

So This Is Christmas, Okayama, Japan

December 14, 2025

Inside Biserica Sfantul Anton, Bucharest, Romania

A scene inside Biserica Sfântul Anton (St. Anthony Church), a beautiful orthodox Church located in the center of the Old Town in Bucharest, Romania.

Inside Biserica Sfantul Anton, Bucharest, Romania

December 14, 2025

Drumming Lesson, Komagome, Tokyo, December 13, 2025

Today’s drumming lesson was a continuation on limb independence, and then switched to orchestration, i.e. distributing fills across different parts of the kit.

December 13, 2025

Vivid Autumn, Bikan District, Kurashiki, Japan

Autumn is packing a punch on this historic corner in the Bikan District of Kurashiki in Okayama Prefecture, Japan.

Vivid Autumn, Bikan District, Kurashiki, Japan

December 12, 2025

Side Street Afternoon, Itabashi, Tokyo, Japan

The setting sun illuminates a backstreet on a December afternoon in my neighborhood in the Itabashi Ward of Tokyo, Japan.

Side Street Afternoon, Itabashi, Tokyo, Japan

December 11, 2025

Autumn with Dog, Ukan Gorge, Okayama, Japan

A young couple and their dog are enjoying a relaxing moment of autumn-leaf viewing at Ukan Gorge in Okayama Prefecture, Japan.

Autumn with Dog, Ukan Gorge, Okayama, Japan

December 10, 2025

After Sports, Itabashi, Tokyo, Japan

Just a brief moment in time from Itabashi Ward in Tokyo, Japan, walking back home tonight after my kickboxing training.

After Sports, Itabashi, Tokyo, Japan

December 09, 2025

Vivid Autumn, Showa Memorial Park, Tachikawa, Japan

A natural frame of vivid autumn colors alongside a pond at Showa Memorial Park in Tachikawa on the western outskirts of Tokyo, Japan.

Vivid Autumn, Showa Memorial Park, Tachikawa, Japan

December 08, 2025

Nishi-Shinjuku, Tokyo: Cafe Lunch and Museum Visit

Today in Tokyo, we went to Nishi-Shinjuku, where after café lunch at Excelsior Caffe, we visited the Sompo Museum of Art to see the Maurice Utrillo exhibition.

Nishi-Shinjuku, Tokyo: Cafe Lunch and Museum Visit

December 07, 2025

Drumming Practice, December 6, 2025

Today at my neighborhood music studio, I did another 2-hour practice session to work on limb independence and hi hat accents from the previous drumming lesson.

December 06, 2025

Autumn Gold, Itabashi, Tokyo, Japan

Along the Nakasendo in the Itabashi Ward of Tokyo, Japan, a ginkgo tree is displaying its golden autumnal foliage.

Autumn Gold, Itabashi, Tokyo, Japan

December 04, 2025

Office Day, December 4, 2025

Today was my work-at-the-office day for this week. Before embarking on my schedule, I took a short morning walk around Marunouchi, Tokyo, at a brisk 3°C.

Office Day, December 4, 2025

December 03, 2025

Advent Calendar and Christmas LEGOs, Tokyo, Japan

An advent calendar filled with chocolates, and some small holiday-themed LEGO figures as a Christmas decoration in our apartment in Tokyo, Japan.

Advent Calendar and Christmas LEGOs, Tokyo, Japan

December 03, 2025

Autumn Visit to Naka-in Temple, Kawagoe, Japan

Located a few minutes south of Kita-in, Naka-in is a Tendai Buddhist Temple in the city of Kawagoe in Saitama Prefecture, Japan.

Autumn Visit to Naka-in Temple, Kawagoe, Japan

December 02, 2025

Autumn Visit to Kita-in Temple, Kawagoe, Japan

Kitain in Kawagoe, Saitama Prefecture, is the head temple of the Tendai Sect in the Kanto region of Japan. A few photos from a visit on a calm autumn day.

Autumn Visit to Kita-in Temple, Kawagoe, Japan

December 01, 2025

Bow Lake and Crowfoot Mountain, Banff National Park, Canada

Crowfoot Mountain in Banff National Park, Alberta, is located on Bow Lake along the Icefields Parkway, at an altitude of 1,920m.

Bow Lake and Crowfoot Mountain, Banff National Park, Canada

November 30, 2025

Drumming Lesson, Komagome, Tokyo, November 29, 2025

The focus of today’s drumming lesson was on limb independence - the ability of a drummer to coordinate their limbs to play different rhythms simultaneously.

November 29, 2025

Salaryman Dinner, Nakano, Tokyo, Japan

Two salarymen are enjoying a simple dinner seated outside a pub in the Nakano area of Tokyo, Japan, as seen through a plastic blind outside the shop.

Salaryman Dinner, Nakano, Tokyo, Japan

November 28, 2025

Seasonal Illumination at Kodaiji Temple, Kyoto, Japan

Kodaiji is a Buddhist temple located in Higashiyama Ward in eastern Kyoto, Japan. In autumn, it is a very popular spot to view the colorful seasonal foliage.

Seasonal Illumination at Kodaiji Temple, Kyoto, Japan

November 27, 2025

Autumn Evening Backstreet, Itabashi, Tokyo, Japan

Coming home from work on a late-November evening, I captured this scene on a backstreet in the Miyamotocho area of Itabashi Ward in Tokyo, Japan.

Autumn Evening Backstreet, Itabashi, Tokyo, Japan

November 26, 2025

Autumn Vineyard Perspective, Helfenberg, Germany

A perspective shot in the vineyards around the ruins of Helfenberg Castle in southwestern Germany, taken on a splendid autumn day.

Autumn Vineyard Perspective, Helfenberg, Germany

November 25, 2025

Autumn Afternoon Panoramas, Tokyo, Japan

This afternoon, I took a walk around Chiyoda Ward. It was a pleasant and bright autumn day, and I focused on capturing impressions in 65x24 panoramic format.

Autumn Afternoon Panoramas, Tokyo, Japan

November 24, 2025

Drumming Practice, November 23, 2025

Today, I went to my local music studio to practice some of the accentuated drum patterns from my previous lesson. I tried drumming along to a few songs.

November 23, 2025

Autumn Colors, Eikando Zenrinji Temple, Kyoto, Japan

Eikandō Zenrin-ji, located north of Nanzenji in eastern Kyoto, Japan, is famous for its fall foliage and for its prominence in the past as a center of learning.

Autumn Colors, Eikando Zenrinji Temple, Kyoto, Japan

November 22, 2025

Evening Lights, Gion, Kyoto, Japan

A study of evening lights creating a warming atmosphere in the Gion district of Kyoto, Japan.

Evening Lights, Gion, Kyoto, Japan

November 20, 2025

Autumn Fields, Pliezhausen, Germany

Scenes from an autumn afternoon in the fields and orchards outside the southwest-German village of Pliezhausen.

Autumn Fields, Pliezhausen, Germany

November 20, 2025

Cafe Engel Interior and Meatballs, Helsinki, Finland

An interior still-life taken on a quiet May afternoon at Cafe Engel in Helsinki, Finland.

Cafe Engel Interior and Meatballs, Helsinki, Finland

November 19, 2025

Autumn at Lake Agnes, Banff National Park, Canada

An early touch of autumn colors is being reflected off the surface of Lake Agnes in Banff National Park, Alberta, Canada.

Autumn at Lake Agnes, Banff National Park, Canada

November 18, 2025

Zojoji Autumn Colors, Tokyo, Japan

Japanese maple trees at the peak of their seasonal colors on a fine autumn day at Zojoji Temple in Tokyo, Japan.

Zojoji Autumn Colors, Tokyo, Japan

November 17, 2025

Autumn Sunday Walk to Yushima, Tokyo, Japan

Taking advantage of the nice Tokyo autumn weather this Sunday, I took a short walk from Ochanomizu to the Yushima area in Bunkyo Ward.

Autumn Sunday Walk to Yushima, Tokyo, Japan

November 16, 2025

Trompetergässchen, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany

Trompetergässchen is a cobblestone-paved alley in the historic town center of Rothenburg ob der Tauber in southern Germany.

Trompetergässchen, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany

November 15, 2025

Autumn Snacks, Eikando Zenrinji Temple, Kyoto, Japan

A tray of autumnal snacks (dango, amazake, tea and miso soup) at Eikando Zenrinji Temple in eastern Kyoto, Japan.

Autumn Snacks, Eikando Zenrinji Temple, Kyoto, Japan

November 14, 2025

Autumn Foliage, Jojakkoji Temple, Sagano, Kyoto, Japan

Autumn foliage at the peak of the season at Jojakkoji, a 400-year-old temple located on a hillside near the famous bamboo grove in Arashiyama, Kyoto.

Autumn Foliage, Jojakkoji Temple, Sagano, Kyoto, Japan

November 12, 2025

Autumn Vineyards Bicyclist, Ratsch, Austria

On an overcast autumn day, a bicyclist is speeding along Südsteirische Weinstraße (South Styrian Wine Route) near the village of Ratsch, Austria.

Autumn Vineyards Bicyclist, Ratsch, Austria

November 11, 2025

View of Hohenzollern Castle in Autumn, Hechingen, Germany

An autumnal scene around Hohenzollern Castle, the ancestral seat of the Hohenzollern family in Southwestern Germany.

View of Hohenzollern Castle in Autumn, Hechingen, Germany

November 10, 2025

Autumn at Nison-in Temple, Sagano, Kyoto, Japan

Visitors outside the main hall of Nisonin, a Tendai Buddhist temple complex in the Sagano area of western Kyoto, Japan.

Autumn at Nison-in Temple, Sagano, Kyoto, Japan

November 09, 2025

Drumming, Bento and Eki Stamps, Komagome, Tokyo, November 8, 2025

During today’s drumming lesson in Komagome, Tokyo, we continued to work on accentuated patterns as started in the previous lesson at the end of October.

Drumming, Bento and Eki Stamps, Komagome, Tokyo, November 8, 2025

November 08, 2025

Autumn Floor, Neckartailfingen, Germany

Fallen autumn leaves and cobblestone pavement blending into a nice seasonal pattern in the southwest-German village of Neckartailfingen.

Autumn Floor, Neckartailfingen, Germany

November 07, 2025

Autumn Belfry, Enryakuji Temple, Otsu, Japan

Enryakuji is a Tendai monastery located on Mount Hiei in Ōtsu, overlooking Kyoto. In this autumn scene, visitors are waiting at the belfry to ring the bell.

Autumn Belfry, Enryakuji Temple, Otsu, Japan

November 06, 2025

Hasunumacho Evening, Itabashi, Tokyo, Japan

Today I worked at the office, and on my way back home, I got off a bit earlier to take a calming evening walk in the Hasunumacho district of Itabashi, Tokyo.

Hasunumacho Evening, Itabashi, Tokyo, Japan

November 05, 2025

Retro Shop Front, Onomichi, Japan

The Shotengai (covered shopping arcade) of Onomichi in Hiroshima Prefecture, Japan, evokes a mid-20th century feel, for which this shop front is a good example.

Retro Shop Front, Onomichi, Japan

November 04, 2025

Monochrome Shimokitazawa, Tokyo, Japan

A mid-day winter scene from a typical street in the Shimokitazawa area of Tokyo, Japan.

Monochrome Shimokitazawa, Tokyo, Japan

November 03, 2025

Afternoon Light, Athabasca River, Jasper National Park, Canada

The last beams of sunlight are hitting the western side of Mount Tekarra along the Athabasca River in Jasper National Park, Alberta, Canada.

Afternoon Light, Athabasca River, Jasper National Park, Canada

November 02, 2025

Drumming Practice, November 1, 2025

After kickboxing training before lunch, I went to my local studio this afternoon to practice some of the 16th Note Accents from last week’s drumming lesson.

November 01, 2025

Castle-Shaped Bookstore, Matsumoto, Japan

Matsumoto in Nagano Prefecture is not only home to one of Japan’s most famous castles, but also has a tiny castle-shaped bookstore.

Castle-Shaped Bookstore, Matsumoto, Japan

October 31, 2025

Teradomari Street Market, Nagaoka, Japan

Fresh crab and other seafood abounds at Teradomari Street Market in Nagaoka, Niigata Prefecture, Japan.

Teradomari Street Market, Nagaoka, Japan

October 30, 2025

Yahiko Shrine, Niigata Prefecture, Japan

Yahiko Jinja is a Shinto Shrine in the village of Yahiko in Niigata Prefecture, Japan. It is situated at the foot of Mount Yahiko, a 634-meter sacred mountain.

Yahiko Shrine, Niigata Prefecture, Japan

October 29, 2025

Norbert Woehnl Photography