I took my vintage lenses to Higashiyama, Kyoto, in summer — from Yasaka Shrine to a towering temple gate, the Kamo River, and on to Yasaka Pagoda. I know Kyoto summers are hot! And still I brought the Pentax 67 medium-format lenses again, plus one more: the mamiya Sekor c 80mm f1.9, a fast medium-format lens. How will they render? A vintage lens stroll — let's go!
Vermilion shrine halls against a blue sky, and a gate so large you have to look up. In the morning Higashiyama is still quiet, and I can take my time with the shutter.
Across Shijo Street, along the little path by the Shirakawa stream, and out to the Kamo River. A parasol on the bridge — so very Kyoto. The river breeze feels good.
When Yasaka Pagoda comes into view, I really feel I have arrived in Kyoto. One street back from the busy slope, the alleys suddenly turn quiet. These are the streets I love to walk.
Higashiyama is crowded with visitors, but through a vintage lens it felt as if I were walking through the Kyoto of long ago. The soft rendering of medium-format glass suits old streets and summer clouds. Why not take your favorite vintage lens and visit Kyoto in summer yourself?
Born in Yokohama.
Entrepreneur, photographer, and author.
Runs vintage accessory-parts shops in Yokohama and Jiyugaoka, Tokyo.
Writes e-books about traveling Japan with vintage lenses.
Through shops and books, working to give the good old things
that are quietly disappearing a new value and a new life.
