ABOUT ME
Motoyasu Matsutani, Photographer
Born and raised in Fukui Prefecture, Japan, I currently reside in Kyoto City. After graduating from Ritsumeikan University, I began my career at the Kyoto Prefectural Government, where I gained extensive experience in public administration. My key roles included positions in the High School Education Division (focusing on English Education), International Affairs Division, Kyoto Prefectural International Center, and Kyoto Convention Bureau. A highlight of my career was serving as a representative at CLAIR Singapore (The Japan Council of Local Authorities for International Relations), where I developed a broader global perspective.
Currently, I run an administrative scrivener office specializing in international services. Alongside this, I pursue my passion for photography, combining my global expertise with the artistic sensibilities I’ve developed through my photographic work.
Photography Background
My passion for photography began in 1998 during my time in Singapore, and I have since accumulated over two decades of experience with SLR cameras. Currently, I run an administrative scrivener office specializing in international services while continuing to pursue photography, combining my global expertise with the artistic sensibilities I’ve developed through my photographic work.
Awards and Recognition
Throughout my photographic journey, I have received recognition in numerous photo contests, with a notable achievement in 2008 when my work was selected for the prestigious JPS Exhibition, organized by the Japan Professional Photographers Society.
International Exhibitions
In the fall of 2011, I achieved another milestone with my first international exhibition at the Japanese Cultural Event (co-hosted with the U.S. Martial Arts Festival 2011) in Los Angeles. Organized by the Japan Foundation’s Los Angeles office, this cultural promotion event featured my photographic works showcasing Kyoto’s landscapes.
That same year, the Great East Japan Earthquake struck on March 11, causing widespread devastation. In its aftermath, concerns about the nuclear accident led to a dramatic decline in foreign tourism, leaving Kyoto’s usually crowded landmarks eerily quiet. This challenging period prompted me to redirect my photographic focus toward supporting Japan’s tourism recovery efforts, culminating in my participation in the Los Angeles cultural showcase.
with Shin Koyamada, the actor from The Last Samurai
In 2012, I was honored to have my photographs of Kyoto’s cherry blossoms exhibited at the New York Cherry Blossom Festival, a significant event commemorating the centennial anniversary of Japan’s first cherry tree gift to the United States. The exhibition was organized by the Consulate-General of Japan in New York and partner organizations.
As the Osaka-Kansai Expo 2025 approaches, neighboring Kyoto is buzzing with anticipation, preparing to leverage its rich cultural heritage and timeless beauty in support of this momentous event. The city eagerly awaits the economic benefits that will ripple through various industries, recognizing its pivotal role in the Expo’s success.
As a photographer, I am dedicated to capturing Kyoto’s vibrant spirit and unique charm during this historic period. Through my lens, I aim to document not just the city’s scenic beauty, but also its dynamic energy as it engages with the global spotlight of the Expo, contributing to both its immediate impact and enduring legacy.
Kyoto continues to evolve as a premier destination, with endless possibilities in tourism development, luxury market expansion, and innovative branding strategies.
Motoyasu Matsutani, Photographer
