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Sketchbook Explorer

Sketchbook adventures with David A Sutton

Category: Asia

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Tokyo Sketchbook Diary: 22 Sketches from an Illustrated Japan Adventure

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An on-location travel sketch of Arisugawanomiya Memorial Park in Tokyo, Japan. The illustration captures a serene moment by the lake, focusing on a traditional stone lantern monument rendered with pencil, pen, and color markers.
September 4, 2025September 4, 2025

Finding Stillness: A Hidden Park Sketch in Tokyo

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A detailed travel sketch of Asakusa Temple in Tokyo, Japan, created on location with markers, pen, and colored pencil. The artwork captures the temple's main hall and the prominent five-story pagoda, focusing on the calm atmosphere just before the annual Sanja Matsuri festival.
August 16, 2025August 31, 2025

The Calm Before the Storm: Sketching Asakusa Temple in Tokyo

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Finding peace and inspiration in the serene beauty of the Daitoku-ji Ryogen-in Temple stone garden in Kyoto. Watch the full video for more of my Japan adventure! #Kyoto #DaitokujiRyogenin #ZenGarden #Sketchbook #Shorts
June 15, 2025June 15, 2025

Daitoku-ji Ryogen-in: A Kyoto Zen Garden Sketch

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A charming sketch of Gotokuji Temple in Tokyo, featuring numerous small white beckoning cat (maneki-neko) statues of various sizes clustered around the temple buildings and grounds.
April 23, 2025

Lost in a Sea of Beckoning Cats: Sketching the Magic of Gotokuji Temple

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A detailed pencil and ink sketch of the massive Tokyo Gundam statue, towering over its surroundings. The sketch captures the intricate mechanical details of the robot and the upward gaze of onlookers.
April 23, 2025

Sketching a Giant: My Tokyo Gundam Encounter

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Zoshigay Kishimojin: A Sketcher's Unexpected Day (Pencil and Marker Pen)
March 19, 2025April 23, 2025

Zoshigay Kishimojin: A Sketcher’s Unexpected Day

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Capturing Miyazaki's Magic: Sketching the Nippon Television Clock (Pencil and Marker Pen) I recently had the opportunity to sketch the iconic Miyazaki Nippon Clock, a masterpiece of engineering and artistry designed by renowned anime director Hayao Miyazaki. Located in Shiodome, Tokyo, this colossal clock is a sight to behold. As I sketched, I was captivated by the intricate details and whimsical charm of the clock's design. The various moving parts, inspired by Miyazaki's films, create a mesmerizing spectacle. It's a truly unique and unforgettable experience to witness this masterpiece in person. #MiyazakiNipponClock #HayaoMiyazaki #Tokyo #Japan #Art #Sculpture #Clock #Sketch #Anime sketchbookexplorer.com
October 26, 2024November 9, 2024

The Art of Sketching: Miyazaki’s Magical Clock

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Capturing the Majestic Mount Fuji (Pencil and Marker Pen) I recently had the opportunity to sketch Mount Fuji from a nearby location, specifically near Chureito Pagoda. Inspired by the works of Hokusai, I aimed to capture the mountain's iconic beauty and its serene surroundings. From this vantage point, I was able to appreciate the mountain's perfect conical shape and its snow-capped peak, rising majestically above the landscape. The clear sky provided a stunning backdrop for the mountain, enhancing its visual impact. As I sketched, I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe and wonder at the natural beauty of this iconic landmark. #MountFuji #Japan #Travel #Nature #Volcano #Landscape #Sketch #Art
October 26, 2024November 9, 2024

Capturing the Beauty of Mount Fuji in Art

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Sengaku-ji Temple (Pencil and Marker Pen Sketch) sketchbook explorer.com
October 26, 2024March 12, 2025

Sketching History: The 47 Ronin at Sengaku-ji Temple

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A Peaceful Retreat: Sketching Meiji Shrine (Watercolor) I was fortunate to spend a serene morning sketching Meiji Shrine, a Shinto shrine dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shōken. Nestled within a lush forest in central Tokyo, the shrine offers a tranquil escape from the bustling city. As I sketched, I was struck by the harmony between the shrine's traditional architecture and the surrounding natural beauty. The shrine's imposing torii gates, leading to a path lined with towering cedar trees, create a sense of awe and reverence. The main shrine building, with its intricate wood carvings and serene atmosphere, is a testament to the craftsmanship and spiritual significance of Shinto traditions. Beyond the main shrine, the expansive forest grounds offer a peaceful retreat for visitors to stroll, meditate, or simply enjoy the tranquility of nature. The shrine's annual festivals, such as the New Year's Eve Hatsumode and the Harvest Festival, attract millions of visitors each year. Hashtags: #MeijiShrine #Tokyo #Japan #Shinto #Travel #Culture #Sketch #Art sketchbookexplorer.com
October 26, 2024December 4, 2024

Watercolor Art: Capturing the Essence of Meiji Shrine

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Matsumoto Castle: A Black Diamond Rising from the Plains (Pencil and Marker Sketch) Hopefully this sketch captures the essence of Matsumoto Castle, also known as Crow Castle for its distinctive black exterior. Built in the late 16th century, it's one of Japan's oldest castles and a designated National Treasure. The unique five-tiered, six-storied donjon (main keep) stands proudly on flatland, a departure from the typical hilltop castle placement. Unveiling the History: The sketch beautifully showcases the intricate details of the black wooden walls and white accents. Originally named Fukashi Castle, it earned the nickname "Crow Castle" due to its dark color. The castle has endured centuries, serving as a seat of power and a symbol of resilience. A Timeless Beauty: Today, Matsumoto Castle stands as a testament to Japan's rich history and architectural prowess. With its elegant form and fascinating story, it's no wonder it continues to inspire artists and travelers alike. Hashtags: #MatsumotoCastle #Japan #Travel #History #Castle #NationalTreasure #BlackDiamond #Sketch #Art sketchbookexplorer.com
October 26, 2024November 20, 2024

The Art of Sketching Matsumoto Castle

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October 23, 2024March 29, 2025

Tokyo Sketching Diary (Part Two)

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June 30, 2024March 29, 2025

Tokyo Sketching Diary (Part One)

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Urban art – Bull Temple Road, Basavanagudi, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India. ‘Dodda Ganesha Temple.' The elephant-headed god Ganesh is, amongst other things, considered a deity patron of the arts and learning. Ganesh is also connected with new beginnings, and is often invoked before religious ceremonies and even artistic events. sketchbookexplorer.com @davidasutton @sketchbookexplorer Facebook.com/davidanthonysutton #sketch #drawing #art #bangaluru #karnataka #temple #hindutemple #bulltemplebengaluru #hindu #travel #travelblog #india
March 29, 2020October 23, 2024

Urban art – Bull Temple Road, Basavanagudi, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India. ‘Dodda Ganesha Temple.’

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Urban photo – Vasanth Nagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India. ‘Bangalore Palace.' This palace was built in the 1870s, for the then young Maharaja Jayachamaraja Wadiyar, by his guardian Rev. Garrett. The estate is currently owned by the daughters of the last Maharaja of Mysore Jayachamaraja Wadiyar. sketchbookexplorer.com @davidasutton @sketchbookexplorer Facebook.com/davidanthonysutton #photograph #photography #blackandwhite #bangaluru #karnataka #palace #mysoreroyalty #bangalorepalace #maharaja #travel #travelblog #india
March 26, 2020January 6, 2021

Urban photo – Vasanth Nagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India. ‘Bangalore Palace.’

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Urban photo art – Bull Temple Road, Basavanagudi, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India. ‘Dodda Ganesha Temple.' Legend has it that the temple's location was chosen over 500 years ago, due to the discovery of a boulder shaped like the elephant-headed Hindu god Ganesha. sketchbookexplorer.com @davidasutton @sketchbookexplorer Facebook.com/davidanthonysutton #sketch #drawing #art #bangaluru #karnataka #temple #hindutemple #bulltemplebengaluru #hindu #travel #travelblog #india
March 22, 2020January 6, 2021

Urban photo art – Bull Temple Road, Basavanagudi, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India. ‘Dodda Ganesha Temple.’

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Urban art – Kamaraj Road, Sivanchetti Gardens, Bengaluru, India. ‘Sri Vithal Rukmini Temple.’ This Hindu temple can be found near the well known shopping district 'Commercial Street.' If you are looking for authentic Indian tailoring, you can't go wrong here. sketchbookexplorer.com @davidasutton @sketchbookexplorer Facebook.com/davidanthonysutton #sketch #drawing #art #bangaluru #karnataka #temple #hindutemple #hindu #travel #travelblog #india
March 20, 2020August 14, 2022

Urban art – Kamaraj Road, Sivanchetti Gardens, Bengaluru, India. ‘Sri Vithal Rukmini Temple.’

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Urban photo art – Bull Temple Road, Basavanagudi, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India. ‘Dodda Ganesha Temple.’ Frequented by Bollywood stars, before films start rolling, the temple played a part in the Anglo Mysore War of 1791. Plans for the war were set out within the temple's grounds. sketchbookexplorer.com @davidasutton @sketchbookexplorer Facebook.com/davidanthonysutton #photograph #photography #blackandwhite #bangaluru #karnataka #temple #hindutemple #bulltemplebengaluru #hindu #travel #travelblog #india
March 20, 2020January 6, 2021

Urban photo – Bull Temple Road, Basavanagudi, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India. ‘Dodda Ganesha Temple.’

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Urban photo art – Kamaraj Road, Sivanchetti Gardens, Bengaluru, India. ‘Sri Vithal Rukmini Temple.’ One of many Hindu temple sat amongst the bustling streets of Bangaluru. sketchbookexplorer.com @davidasutton @sketchbookexplorer Facebook.com/davidanthonysutton #sketch #drawing #art #bangaluru #karnataka #temple #hindutemple #hindu #travel #travelblog #india
March 19, 2020January 6, 2021

Urban photo art – Kamaraj Road, Sivanchetti Gardens, Bengaluru, India. ‘Sri Vithal Rukmini Temple.’

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Urban art – Shibuya, Tokyo, Japan. ‘Meiji Shrine.‘ Artwork from my travel art blog article 'Sakura Japan.' sketchbookexplorer.com @davidasutton @sketchbookexplorer Facebook.com/davidanthonysutton #sketch #drawing #art #japan #tokyo #meijishrine #samurai #meiji #travel #travelblog #cherryblossom #cherryblossomseason
December 8, 2019January 6, 2021

Urban art – Shibuya, Tokyo, Japan. ‘Meiji Shrine.‘

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Urban photo – Asakusa, Tokyo, Japan. ‘Senso-ji Temple 3.’ Complete image from my recent travel art blog article 'Sakura Japan.' Now online - sketchbookexplorer.com @davidasutton @sketchbookexplorer Facebook.com/davidanthonysutton #photography #japan #tokyo #sakura #sensojitemple #buddhism #travel #travelblog #cherryblossom #cherryblossomseason #cherryblossomjapan
September 12, 2019January 6, 2021

Urban photo – Asakusa, Tokyo, Japan. ‘Senso-ji Temple 3.’

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Urban art – Murasakino, Kyoto, Japan. ‘Ryogen-in Temple.' Artwork from my latest travel art blog article 'Sakura Japan.' Now online - sketchbookexplorer.com @davidasutton @sketchbookexplorer Facebook.com/davidanthonysutton #sketch #drawing #art #japan #Kyoto #Ryogenintemple #zengarden #meditation #travel #travelblog #cherryblossom #cherryblossomseason #cherryblossomjapan
September 2, 2019August 14, 2022

Urban art – Murasakino, Kyoto, Japan. ‘Ryogen-in Temple.’

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Urban photo – Asakusa, Tokyo, Japan. ‘Senso-ji Temple 2.’ Complete image from my latest travel art blog article 'Sakura Japan.' Now online - sketchbookexplorer.com @davidasutton @sketchbookexplorer Facebook.com/davidanthonysutton #photography #japan #tokyo #sakura #sensojitemple #buddhism #travel #travelblog #cherryblossom #cherryblossomseason #cherryblossomjapan
July 24, 2019January 6, 2021

Urban photo – Asakusa, Tokyo, Japan. ‘Senso-ji Temple 2.’

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Urban photo art – Edogawa City, Tokyo, Japan. ‘Shunka-en Bonsai Museum.’ Artwork from my latest travel art blog article 'Sakura Japan.' Now online - sketchbookexplorer.com @davidasutton @sketchbookexplorer Facebook.com/davidanthonysutton #sketch #drawing #art #japan #tokyo #sakura #Shunkaenbonsaimuseum #bonsai #travel #travelblog #cherryblossom #cherryblossomseason #cherryblossomjapan
July 13, 2019January 6, 2021

Urban photo art – Edogawa City, Tokyo, Japan. ‘Shunka-en Bonsai Museum.’

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Urban Photos – Taito, Tokyo, Japan. ‘Ameya-Yokocho.’ Complete image from my latest travel art blog article 'Sakura Japan.' Now online - sketchbookexplorer.com @davidasutton @sketchbookexplorer Facebook.com/davidanthonysutton #photography #japan #tokyo #sakura #ameyayokocho #sushi #travel #travelblog #cherryblossom #cherryblossomseason #cherryblossomjapan
July 13, 2019January 6, 2021

Urban Photos – Taito, Tokyo, Japan. ‘Ameya-Yokocho.’

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Urban art – Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, Japan. ‘Ryoanji Temple.’ Artwork from my latest travel art blog article 'Sakura Japan.' Now online - sketchbookexplorer.com @davidasutton @sketchbookexplorer Facebook.com/davidanthonysutton #sketch #drawing #art #japan #kyoto #ryoanjitemple #buddhism #meditation #japanesegardens #gardens #travel #travelblog #cherryblossom #cherryblossomseason #cherryblossomjapan
July 8, 2019January 6, 2021

Urban art – Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, Japan. ‘Ryoanji Temple.’

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Urban photo art – Chiyoda City, Tokyo, Japan. ‘Imperial Palace.’ Artwork from my latest travel art blog article 'Sakura Japan.' Now online - sketchbookexplorer.com @davidasutton @sketchbookexplorer Facebook.com/davidanthonysutton #sketch #drawing #art #japan #tokyo #sakura #tokyoimperialpalace #samurai #travel #travelblog #cherryblossom #cherryblossomseason #cherryblossomjapan
July 8, 2019January 7, 2021

Urban photo art – Chiyoda City, Tokyo, Japan. ‘Imperial Palace.’

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Urban photos – Gojocho, Nara, Japan. ‘Toshodaiji Temple.’ Complete image from my latest travel art blog article 'Sakura Japan.' Now online - sketchbookexplorer.com @davidasutton @sketchbookexplorer Facebook.com/davidanthonysutton #photography #japan #nara #buddhism #meditation #samurai #travel #travelblog #cherryblossom #cherryblossomseason #cherryblossomjapan
July 3, 2019January 6, 2021

Urban photos – Gojocho, Nara, Japan. ‘Toshodaiji Temple.’

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Ipad art – Chuo Ward, Osaka, Japan. ‘Osaka Castle.’ Artwork from my latest travel art blog article 'Sakura Japan.' Now online - sketchbookexplorer.com @davidasutton @sketchbookexplorer Facebook.com/davidanthonysutton #sketch #drawing #painting #art #ipadart #iPad #japan #osaka #sakura #osakacastle #samurai #travel #travelblog #cherryblossom #cherryblossomseason #cherryblossomjapan
July 1, 2019June 21, 2022

Ipad art – Chuo Ward, Osaka, Japan. ‘Osaka Castle.’

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Urban photo art – Sakyo-Ku, Kyoto, Japan. ‘Yagami Shrine.’ Artwork from my latest travel art blog article 'Sakura Japan.' Now online - sketchbookexplorer.com @davidasutton @sketchbookexplorer Facebook.com/davidanthonysutton #sketch #drawing #art #japan #Kyoto #yagamishrine #shinto #samurai #travel #travelblog #cherryblossom #cherryblossomseason #cherryblossomjapan
July 1, 2019January 7, 2021

Urban photo art – Sakyo-Ku, Kyoto, Japan. ‘Yagami Shrine.’

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Urban photo art – Toshima City, Tokyo, Japan. ‘Zoshigaya Kishimoiji Shrine.’ Complete image from my latest travel art blog article 'Sakura Japan.' Now online - sketchbookexplorer.com @davidasutton @sketchbookexplorer Facebook.com/davidanthonysutton #sketch #drawing #art #japan #tokyo #sakura #zoshigayakishimoijishrine #shinto #samurai #travel #travelblog #cherryblossom #cherryblossomseason #cherryblossomjapan
June 27, 2019October 23, 2024

Urban photo art – Toshima City, Tokyo, Japan. ‘Zoshigaya Kishimoiji Shrine.’

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Urban photo – Asakusa, Tokyo, Japan. ‘Senso-ji Temple.’ Complete image from my latest travel art blog article 'Sakura Japan.' Now online - sketchbookexplorer.com @davidasutton @sketchbookexplorer Facebook.com/davidanthonysutton #photography #japan #tokyo #sakura #sensojitemple #buddhism #travel #travelblog #cherryblossom #cherryblossomseason #cherryblossomjapan
June 27, 2019January 6, 2021

Urban photo – Asakusa, Tokyo, Japan. ‘Senso-ji Temple.’

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Ipad art – Asakusa, Tokyo, Japan. ‘Senso-ji Temple.’ Complete image from my latest travel art blog article 'Sakura Japan.' Now online - sketchbookexplorer.com @davidasutton @sketchbookexplorer Facebook.com/davidanthonysutton #sketch #drawing #painting #art #ipadart #iPad #japan #tokyo #sakura #sensojitemple #buddhism #travel #travelblog #cherryblossom #cherryblossomseason #cherryblossomjapan
June 21, 2019January 7, 2021

Ipad art – Asakusa, Tokyo, Japan. ‘Senso-ji Temple.’

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Urban photo art – Kamigyo Ward, Kyoto, Japan. 'Kyoto Imperial Palace.’ Complete image from my latest travel art blog article 'Sakura Japan.' Now online - sketchbookexplorer.com @davidasutton @sketchbookexplorer Facebook.com/davidanthonysutton #sketch #drawing #art #japan #kyoto #sakura #kyotoimperialpalace #samurai #travel #travelblog #cherryblossom #cherryblossomseason
June 21, 2019January 6, 2021

Urban photo art – Kamigyo Ward, Kyoto, Japan. ‘Kyoto Imperial Palace.’

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Urban Photo – Sakyo-Ku, Kyoto, Japan. ‘Yagami Shrine.’ Complete image from my latest travel art blog article 'Sakura Japan.' Now online - sketchbookexplorer.com @davidasutton @sketchbookexplorer Facebook.com/davidanthonysutton #photography #japan #Kyoto #yagamishrine #shinto #meditation #samurai #travel #travelblog #cherryblossom #cherryblossomseason #cherryblossomjapan
June 13, 2019January 6, 2021

Urban Photo – Sakyo-Ku, Kyoto, Japan. ‘Yagami Shrine.’

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Urban photo art - Chuo Ward, Osaka, Japan. ‘Osaka Castle.’ Complete image from my latest travel art blog article 'Sakura Japan.' Now online - sketchbookexplorer.com @davidasutton @sketchbookexplorer Facebook.com/davidanthonysutton #sketch #drawing #art #japan #osaka #sakura #osakacastle #samurai #travel #travelblog #cherryblossom #cherryblossomseason #cherryblossomjapan
June 9, 2019January 7, 2021

Urban photo art – Chuo Ward, Osaka, Japan. ‘Osaka Castle.’

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Urban Photos – Sakyo-Ku, Kyoto, Japan. ‘Ginkaku-Ji Temple, stone garden.’ Complete image from my latest travel art blog article 'Sakura Japan.' Now online - sketchbookexplorer.com @davidasutton @sketchbookexplorer Facebook.com/davidanthonysutton #photography #japan #kyoto #ginkakujitemple #buddhism #gardens #meditation #samurai #travel #travelblog #cherryblossom #cherryblossomseason #cherryblossomjapan
June 4, 2019January 6, 2021

Urban Photo – Sakyo-Ku, Kyoto, Japan. ‘Ginkaku-Ji Temple stone garden.’

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Urban photo art – Asakusa, Tokyo, Japan. ‘Senso-ji Temple.’ Complete image from my latest travel art blog article 'Sakura Japan.' Now online - sketchbookexplorer.com @davidasutton @sketchbookexplorer Facebook.com/davidanthonysutton #sketch #drawing #art #japan #tokyo #sakura #sensojitemple #buddhism #travel #travelblog #cherryblossom #cherryblossomseason
June 2, 2019August 14, 2022

Urban photo art – Asakusa, Tokyo, Japan. ‘Senso-ji Temple.’

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Urban photos – Kyuseki Teien, Nara, Japan. ‘River bank cherry blossom.’ Complete image from my latest travel art blog article 'Sakura Japan.' Now online - sketchbookexplorer.com @davidasutton @sketchbookexplorer Facebook.com/davidanthonysutton #photography #japan #nara #sakura #nature #spring #travel #travelblog #cherryblossom #cherryblossomseason #cherryblossomjapan
May 30, 2019January 6, 2021

Urban photos – Kyuseki Teien, Nara, Japan. ‘River bank cherry blossom.’

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Urban photos – Chuo Ward, Osaka, Japan. ‘Osaka Castle.’ Complete image from my latest travel art blog article 'Sakura Japan.' Now online - sketchbookexplorer.com @davidasutton @sketchbookexplorer Facebook.com/davidanthonysutton #photography #japan #osaka #osakacastle #castles #samurai #travel #travelblog #cherryblossom #cherryblossomseason #cherryblossomjapan
May 25, 2019January 6, 2021

Urban photos – Chuo Ward, Osaka, Japan. ‘Osaka Castle.’

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Urban photo art – Murasakino, Kyoto, Japan. ‘Ryogen-in Temple.' Artwork from my latest travel art blog article 'Sakura Japan.' Now online - sketchbookexplorer.com @davidasutton @sketchbookexplorer Facebook.com/davidanthonysutton #sketch #drawing #art #japan #Kyoto #Ryogenintemple #zengarden #meditation #travel #travelblog #cherryblossom #cherryblossomseason #cherryblossomjapan
May 23, 2019January 6, 2021

Urban photo art – Murasakino, Kyoto, Japan. ‘Ryogen-in Temple.’

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Urban photos – Chiyoda Ward, Tokyo, Japan. ‘Night view of Akihabara.’ Complete image from my latest travel art blog article 'Sakura Japan.' Now online - sketchbookexplorer.com @davidasutton @sketchbookexplorer Facebook.com/davidanthonysutton #photography #japan #tokyo #akihabara #anime #manga #travel #travelblog #cherryblossom #cherryblossomseason #cherryblossomjapan
May 21, 2019January 6, 2021

Urban photos – Chiyoda Ward, Tokyo, Japan. ‘Night view of Akihabara.’

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May 17, 2019January 6, 2021

Urban photos – Murasakino, Kyoto, Japan. ‘Ryogen-in Temple,1.’

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Title image - SAKURA JAPAN: AN ARTIST JOURNEY IN CHERRY BLOSSOM JAPAN
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Sakura Japan: An Artist Journey in Cherry Blossom Japan

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