This visual story is a quiet, contemplative journey through one of Tokyo’s hidden tea sanctuaries—Matsubaya Saryo in Aoyama. It explores the emotional and cultural significance of tea in the life in Japan, while highlighting a space that embodies tranquility in the middle of the metropolis.

Team credits & wardrobe

Photographer: Masatoshi Yamashiro

Model, makeup, styling: NAFRAYOU

Dress: Rick Owens

Necklace: Tumulu

Rings: MONIES

Cuff: BALENCIAGA

About the photographer

Masatoshi Yamashiro is an internationally acclaimed photographer based in Tokyo. He studied photography at a college in Los Angeles and started his career in LA and New York. Masa focuses on portrait photography for fashion magazine, advertising, art and entertainment. He has collaborated with a lot of artists such as Kanye West, Rihanna and Taylor Momsen. He brings out the most beautiful and charming expressions of his subjects and creates impressive photographs.He speaks fluent English and Japanese and produces a self-published magazine called “No Magazine” as his life’s work.

Our next event : ELSE – Berlin – 29.05.2025