This series of images is the results of my 88 Temples Pilgrimage (Henro) walk in Shikoku, Japan undertaken during the spring of 2024. Shikoku Henro is an approximately 1200km walk of religious significance in Japan. During the walk I also found endless different views of landscape through the traffic mirrors which are common sight throughout Japan’s urban streets and rural roads. These views reflected in the mirror are in essence the best representation of the landscape of Japan.

This photo series aims to ask viewers to reflect if not the ‘iconic views’ of Japan’s landscape. What are the everyday landscapes we have taken for granted, which we are not paying attention to? Ordinary landscape framed in the traffic mirror is not dissimilar to scenic views in Japan because both have attained the purpose of depicting the true landscape of Japan. Just as the traffic mirror asks us to pay ‘attention’.

Biography

Desmond has established himself as a documentary photographer from participation in photo festivals and photographic prizes. His works focus on urban space and human experience. He aims to foster dialogue between urbanism and photographic practice.

Instagram: @_wabi_sabi_

Facebook: /desmond.ong.art