Everything in Tokyo commands attention. The night lights of Ginza, Shibuya, Shinjuku and Arikahabara. The pedestrians and bikes coming in every direction at the scramble. The advertisers on streets luring you into cafes and restaurants and stores. The Christmas music, trees and lights. The architecture. Screens. Food. Everything!

All my sense were simulated day and night. Walking around the city, I was overwhelmed by the beauty, frenzy, excitement and modernity of this dense city. On the metro I saw stylish men and women going to work, school, shopping, out on dates and out with friends. As soon as work hours are over, everyone seems to be in the mood to shop, eat and drink.

But the city doesn’t lose its sense of tradition and history. The modern architecture co-exists in a harmony with the old. It was a surprise to catch quiet streets in Yanesen and marvel at the simple and elegant buildings tucked away between the many Buddhist temples. Here, within the calmness of the Yanaka cemetery and Tennoji temple, I found a moment of peace and belonging.

A day trip away from the hustling also opened up a different view of the city. From the heights of Mount Takao, I saw the city engulfed in trees and clouds, dreamy and slow. That’s not what anyone would ever say about Tokyo ever, but despite being fascinated with the urbanism of the city, I found the quiet parts the most alluring.

I loved Roppongi hills, even after getting lost there multiple times. The upscale area has public art scattered around like a scavenger hunt, and the sparkling lights to celebrate Christmas are some of the most beautiful I’ve seen. Tokyo loves the camera, just like a model who knows how to flaunt and pose. It’s a wonderful city to photograph.

I keep trying to look up everywhere I walk, but the massive amount of pedestrians make it hard to focus. This place just took my breath away.