Ryūge-ji Temple
Daisei Iketani Daisei Iketani

Ryūge-ji Temple

The main hall at Ryuge-ji Temple in Kanazawa Ward, Yokohama, Japan—a historic site founded in 1189 in the Mutsuura mountains. After the original structure burned in 1499, it merged with two neighboring temples, forming the present-day complex. This tranquil Buddhist sanctuary has endured for over 830 years, blending spiritual heritage with the local residential urban landscape.

Read More
Bell Tower
Daisei Iketani Daisei Iketani

Bell Tower

A wooden bell tower in the courtyard of Ryuge-ji Temple, Yokohama, Japan. Built with stout corner pillars and an open design, it houses a large bell hung from a central beam. This style dates back to the 13th century. The thatched roof, once common, is now a rarity, with clay tiles more prevalent today.

Read More
Fudōmyō-Ō
Daisei Iketani Daisei Iketani

Fudōmyō-Ō

A small vermilion shrine housing a statue of the Buddhist deity Fudomyo-O, or the Immovable Wisdom King. Although located within the grounds of Ryuge-ji Temple in Yokohama, Japan, the shrine’s architecture closely mirrors that of traditional Shinto hokora, blending the two traditions of Buddhism and Shintoism in a peaceful garden setting.

Read More
Sanmon Gate
Daisei Iketani Daisei Iketani

Sanmon Gate

A peaceful view of a stone-paved path bordered by a white wall with traditional roof tiles, leading to a large wooden sanmon gate with a gabled tiled roof. Here, visitors and worshipers pass from the secular world into the serene, sacred grounds of the Buddhist temple.

Read More
Susaki Shrine
Daisei Iketani Daisei Iketani

Susaki Shrine

A peaceful view of a small urban Shinto shrine in Kanazawa, Yokohama, Japan. A stone torii gate, lion-dog guardians, and shimenawa rope welcome visitors along a clean path leading to the wooden worship hall. Surrounded by trees and soft winter evening light, the serene courtyard invites quiet prayer and reflection.

Read More
Komainu
Daisei Iketani Daisei Iketani

Komainu

A stone lion-dog (komainu) stands guard in the quiet courtyard of a traditional Shinto shrine in urban Japan. Its powerful mane, sharp claws, and fierce expression embody protection and strength, while the small cub beneath its paw symbolizes care. A moss-covered tree, the wooden exterior of the shrine, and a straw shimenawa rope evoke a sense of history and reverence, all beneath the soft light of a chilly winter evening during blue hour.

Read More
Good Luck Deities
Daisei Iketani Daisei Iketani

Good Luck Deities

Alongside the lively dance, Daikokuten—one of Japan’s Seven Lucky Gods—also made an appearance. A beloved deity of prosperity and good fortune, Daikokuten.

Read More
Geometric Tapestry
Daisei Iketani Daisei Iketani

Geometric Tapestry

A cluster of modern office buildings in Tokyo, Japan, featuring sleek glass facades, geometric architectural patterns, and reflective surfaces. The mix of contemporary high-rises and traditional design elements highlights the dynamic urban landscape of the city's business district. Sunlight casts subtle reflections on the windows, enhancing the interplay of light and shadow in this dense metropolitan setting.

Read More
Tokyo Station
Daisei Iketani Daisei Iketani

Tokyo Station

Opened in 1914, Tokyo Station has preserved its elegant Neo-Baroque architecture and iconic red-brick facade, standing in striking contrast to the modern steel-and-glass skyscrapers of the Marunouchi district.

Read More
Tatsumi-Yagura
Daisei Iketani Daisei Iketani

Tatsumi-Yagura

The only surviving corner watchtower of the former Edo Castle. Such turrets were built at the corners of the castle walls for surveillance and defense. This two-story keep is also called the Sakurada Tatsumi Double Yagura or simply the Tatsumi Yagura.

Read More