One of my deepest impressions in Japan comes from the views that show unity with natural surroundings. Many times I stood frozen, viewing some amazing building that existed in perfect harmony with the surrounding greenery, reflected in the water of a pond. The view together with the water's reflection creates a complete picture.
It may sound strange and contradictory, but the education of samurai included artistic subjects such as calligraphy and poetry. To write a beautiful poem, samurai had to watch, experience, and enjoy the beauty of the world surrounding them. Samurai could feast their eyes on the moon or at sakura in bloom even during the breaks between battles.
In other countries, I never saw such a deep respect and understanding of natural beauty as I've experienced in Japan. Traditional Japanese houses always have an inner garden, big or small, and living rooms open to the garden. Thus, a garden becomes the part of a house, like a live and ever-changing picture.
Traditional buildings such as Shinto shrines, Buddhist temples, and some special modern buildings are surrounded by natural woods or gardens. Sakura trees are often planted near the water, and when the petals fall down and float on the water's surface the view is something unreal and enchanting. That taste and sense of a balance and proportions is really amazing and was created by many generations of Japanese people. Sometimes I wish I was Japanese to feel things in the way they do…
My shots of such picturesque views often look like images from a postcard because they’re perfect indeed. Among my most favorite views are Kinkakuji Temple in Kyoto, Kameido Shrine in Tokyo with fuji (wisteria) in bloom, Matsumoto Castle, the Ushiku Daibutsu statue, Rinnoji Temple Garden in Sendai, Yamadera Temple, Naritazan Temple and many, many others!
