David Hilgier Photographs

A moment of calm found in the Tsukiji Fish Market as preparations are made for the upcoming morning bustle.

The cloudless day offered views of Mount Fuji as we rode the Shinkansen from Kyoto back to Tokyo.

Fushimi Inari Taisha offers moments of reflection amongst the thousands of torii, moments of massive crowds with little elbow room, and a hike to the top of a mountain with a view of Kyoto below.

Fushimi Inari Taisha offers moments of reflection amongst the thousands of torii, moments of massive crowds with little elbow room, and a hike to the top of a mountain with a view of Kyoto below.

Ponto-Chō, filled with food and shopping crammed into tight streets and alleyways, is a popular area of the city. As the day transitioned to evening while walking through this area I was drawn to the faded textures of the worn wood adorning the facades of all the buildings and how the bright colors of signage and lanterns contrasted them. During this visit we found a cook selling Takoyaki through his storefront which we ate in the Ponto-Chō park overlooking the Kamo River.

Tōfuku-ji Temple as Seen Through Autumn Leaves

Fall Colors and the Sanjunoto Pagoda

Morning Light in Our Kyoto Accommodations

If nothing else, go to Tokyo to be overwhelmed. Overwhelmed by its size. By the amount of people. By the food. And perhaps most importantly, by its order and attention to detail. This photograph represents this feeling I have for this city. There is a lot more of the world I need to see, but from my journeys thus far Tokyo stands out as a favorite of mine. I cannot wait to return.