Mark Cunich’s photo journal of his journey through Japan with Unconventional Conventions.

Starting in Tokyo where flashing animated billboards light the swarms of black suits that flood the footpaths. Behind the a modern 24-hour hustle and bustle city, lie alleys filled with street food and hidden micro-bars. The city’s buzz is contrasted with the beauty that Spring brings to Japan, drawing crowds of families, couples, and artists to enjoy the beautiful pink Cherry Blossoms.

Next stop; The old capital of Kyoto, whose golden temples and elegant shrines hint at the Shogun life of yesteryear. Then headed up into the mountains, where, for generations, communities have celebrated Spring with the Takayama Festival. A parade of traditionally dressed locals wind through the streets pulling elaborate wooden floats with marionettes who perform for the waiting crowds.

Continued south by bullet train to Hiroshima, where monuments and peace parks mark the brutality of war. The journey concludes with a relaxing few days in Beppu, a costal town with a wide variety of bubbling and steaming natural hot springs.