Being in Japan is an intensely visual experience, one that draws travelers -- especially artists -- back again and again. Among the primary elements of Japanese design are simplicity, functionalism and minimalism. The color sense of Japanese designers and other artists is unparalleled.
I have a deep appreciation of Japanese aesthetics and design, in particular packaging, textiles, ceramics, calligraphy and architecture. From playful to serious, colorful to monochromatic, below are a few designs that caught my eye during my recent travels.
Bicycles in front of a sake shop in Takayama, Japan.