Japanese Spiders

In case you are scared of spiders, or dislike seeing photos of close ups of spiders, then please don’t scroll down the blog today.

But if you like me, sometimes find these amazing creatures both beautiful and fascinating, please stay and have a look at some of the spiders I saw in one of Tokyo’s foremost public parks, the Shinjuku Gyoen (新宿御苑). Having slept through most of my classes on Japanese Arachnology I shamefully admit to not knowing the name of this spider (or, if full public shaming and full disclosure is necessary, I have to admit to not being able to identify a single spider species on Earth). Perhaps one of my smarter readers will be able to help us with this?

I do know that these spiders are to be found almost everywhere in Japan and are between 5-7cm large, very colorful and quite skilled at weaving huge webs. If you have ever walked in a Japanese forest or park you’re likely to have seen these spiders. Being a big hater of mosquitoes, and insect eating critters are friends of mind, and thus, I love these spiders.

I shot these with what is probably the finest lens ever made in this price range, the Sigma 70-300mm APO that I got for next to nothing in a second hand camera store. The lens is as close to perfect as such a cheap lens will ever be and I can’t recommend it enough. It is also extremely lightweight and very easy to pack in your bag when going for long walks or hikes. Recommended!




@ All images copyrighted. Please use only with permission.

Sunday Morning Bokeh

It’s Sunday morning and you will naturally feel like taking it easy. Try relaxing to these close ups of pine needles and cherry blossoms. Don’t worry, it’s not you, it’s bokeh! Taken in Shinjuku Gyouen on a cold Saturday morning.

Pine tree needles close up or bokeh

Close up take in Shinjuku Gyouen

Excellent DOF on these blossoms in Tokyo

White Cherry Blossoms in Shinjuku Gyouen