Metropolis Japan

July 19, 2012

My Shimoda

Splashing around in Shizuoka

Originally published on metropolis.co.jp on July 2012

Aussie photographer Paul Stevens gives us a glimpse of a typical summer workday in Japan. These photos were the result of his long, gruelling sessions (or so he said) at the White Beach Hotel on Ohama Beach in Shimoda and on the burning white sands of nearby Shirahama. Julia Nakanishi and Aika Honda are the subjects of his studious work. We asked Paul, Julia and Aika some unchallenging hot-weather questions to show they’re not just pretty faces—except Paul, that is.

The Location

The White Beach Hotel is located just 30 seconds from one of the most picturesque beaches in Japan—Ohama Beach. The closest hotel, bar and restaurant to the beach, the hotel is convenient for a shower, a beer or cocktail, or even a wood-fired pizza for a great meal aprés beach. Their new restaurant, Mario Mare, is a beachside Italian dining experience opened in collaboration with celebrity chef Mario Frittoli (former Iron Chef and owner of the popular Mario I Sentieri in Nishi Azabu).
White Beach Hotel, 1902 Kisami, Shimoda-shi, Shizuoka-ken. Tel: 0558-23-2039. http://whitebeach-shimoda.com. Mario I Sentieri, Conforia Nishi Azabu 4-1-10 Nishi Azabu, Minato-ku. Tel: 03 6418 7072. http://mario-frittoli.com

The Accessories

T-Five is a premium order-made bracelet based on the Eastern spiritual concept of the cosmic force and the five elements. The latter is an ancient Chinese theory regarding the universe, while the cosmic force is a collective name for the earth, sun and moon. Based on the individual’s date of birth, these handmade bracelets are designed to bring good fortune in love, employment, and wealth. Their newest item is the T-Five Shooting Star, which is specifically designed to spiritually strengthen its wearers and make their dreams come true.
T-Five Tokyo Cosmic Forces Five Elements. Tel: 03-5772-7587 http://www.t-5.co.jp

The Models

Aika Honda
Where are you from and how long have you been in Japan? I’m from Tokyo. I grew up here, so I’ve been here for 19 years! What do you do when you’re not modelling on the beach? Studying, working at Hooters. Where do you go to relax? I like to go to the onsen. What’s your favorite neighborhood? Harajuku. Do you agree with nuclear power? Not in Japan because of the earthquake risk.

Julia Nakanishi
Where are you from and how long have you been in Japan? I’m from Austria, and I’ve been here for one and a half years. What do you do when you’re not modelling on the beach? Cooking, working out, hanging out with friends. Where do you go to relax? I go to the beach, get a massage, or relax in a bar. What’s your favorite neighborhood? I love the Minato Mirai area in Yokohama. It’s so pretty with all the parks, the harbor, and the night view. It has such a relaxed mood.

the photographer

Paul Stevens
Where are you from? Perth, Western Australia (the most isolated city in the world… fact). Where have you lived? All over the world—and on thousands of airplanes. How did you come to pick up a camera? My Dad gave me one when I was eight years old. I still have it. I called it my “Time Machine” to revisit the past. I have had a time machine in my hands ever since. Favorite spot in Japan? Shirahama Beach, Shimoda (where these photos were taken). It’s known as Aussie Beach since the sand is white and as its only three hours from Tokyo, you’ll always find an Aussie there. I also love the vibrant streets of Tokyo. What would be the ultimate shoot location in Tokyo? The Prime Minister’s Residence. Not too many people have seen the inside but I shoot there when I photograph for the Australian embassy diplomatic visits. Plus anywhere else I am not supposed to shoot. Favorite place in Tokyo (outside of work). Inokashira Park which is two minutes from my house. I still have a camera with me though, as you never know when the aliens will land.
Contact Paul at www.paulstevensphotography.com