When we started planning our first trip to Japan, like most people, we focused on the must-see places—the kind of itinerary you’d find in any travel guide. But from the beginning, we knew we’d be making some detours. As a photographer, I’m not just after the place—I’m chasing the moment. And midday visits to viewpoints… I leave those to the tourists.
One of those detours took us to Nachi Falls. We were staying near a train station (in a hotel, not on the platform—just to be clear), and it was about a three-hour drive from there to this stunning spot. The first time we saw the falls, they were impressive, sure… but the light wasn’t right. I left feeling like the shot just wasn’t there. I could fix a few things in post, but it still wasn’t what I wanted.
That same evening, as we were reviewing the photos, I couldn’t shake the feeling—I had to go back. I suggested to Lorena that we make a small change of plans. The next day, we were heading toward Mount Fuji, but what if we took a detour and returned to Nachi Falls? The forecast was promising: low clouds or mist. The perfect mood.
And as luck would have it, we had the time. We had tried to get tickets for the Japanese Grand Prix in Suzuka… but they were already sold out. So, while I was a bit disappointed to miss the race, it gave us the perfect excuse.
In the end, there were no roaring engines or checkered flags. But there was mist, stillness, and that soft light that changes everything. Sad to miss Suzuka, but happy I chased that image—and found it, just as I had imagined.
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