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INFO
Located in the town of Uji, famous for its Byodo-in Temple and matcha tea Keihan Uji Station stands out as a striking example of Japanese Brutalist architecture, contrasting sharply with the town’s otherwise traditional surrounding landscape.
Designed by architect Hiroyuki Wakabayashi (1949–2026) and completed in 1995, the station won the prestigious Good Design Award in 1996. While typical Japanese railway hubs prioritize uniform utility, Keihan Uji Station aims to feel monumental. By combining geometric forms, concrete typical of brutalist architecture and vaulted ceilings, the design serves as an intentional liminal space for commuters to pass through before entering the historic town.
I shot this image on January 20, 2026, during a long layover between our train ride to Osaka and checking into our Kyoto Airbnb. We decided to explore Uji, located just south of Kyoto. While my friends set off to enjoy the local sights, I beelined straight for Keihan Uji Station.
It’s a stunning, strange, futuristic looking building and after arrival, I was giddy with excitement to begin shooting. After capturing the second floor, I headed down to the main staircase at the main entrance to the station. As I was setting up, dialing in my compositon and experimenting with wider focal lengths when the sun suddenly broke through a full day of heavy cloud cover. If that wasn’t enough one of the station cleaning staff began cleaning the main staircase, making his way down each step, dust pan and broom in hand. Shooting none stop capturing different moments as he moved in and out of shadow across the width of the stairs.
After plenty of culling and indecision, this was the final frame. It’s easily my favorite photograph from this Japan trip. The light, contrast, raw architecture, and placement of the worker with his broom amost appearing as if he is painting the light itself. It was a special moment, not easily naturally recreatable and not one I’ll forget.
Twisted Mansion
Station Janitorial worker cleans the main staircase as Keihan Uji Station, Kyoto
