When you live in the Netherlands, you'll quickly enough get used to boats sailing by on the canals and rivers. I however don't quite see it every day that a houseboat is sailing by though. 😁

Sony A73, Sony FE 24-105mm lens
1/125th of a second, F/9, ISO 100
17th of May 2025, 14:02 CET

#jdjphotographynl #weesp #welkominweesp #iamsterdam #oogvoornoordholland #inholland #netherlands #hollandspracht #bestofnetherlands #nederland_wat_ben_je_mooi #hollands_mooiste_fotos #landscape #landscapephotography #nightphotography #cameranu_nl #zoomnl #cameraland_nl

Weesp is a picturesque, historic town in North Holland, located just southeast of Amsterdam along the River Vecht. Often referred to as “Little Amsterdam,” it offers a charming alternative to the capital, with fewer crowds and a more relaxed atmosphere.

Weesp's origins trace back to the Middle Ages, receiving city rights in 1355. Its strategic position along the River Vecht made it a vital trading hub from the 12th to the late 15th century. The town was fortified, and remnants of its bastions, moats, and forts still exist today. In March 2022, Weesp officially became part of the municipality of Amsterdam, yet it retains its distinct identity and charm.

Weesp boasts a well-preserved historic center with canals, cobblestone streets, and 17th- and 18th-century architecture. The town is home to three historic windmills, including Molen de Vriendschap, which is open to the public on Saturdays.

Located in the former city hall, Museum Weesp showcases local history, including porcelain and chocolate production. Wispe Brouwerij is an independent brewery housed in a restored 19th-century church, offering tours, tastings, and even a luxury suite in the tower.

One from the archives. I came for the cherry blossom, I went away with the remainder of a castle. 😁

Sony A73, Sony FE 24-105mm lens
1/400th of a second, F/9, ISO 200
23rd of March 2025, 14:11 CET

#jdjphotographynl #kasteelschonauwen #houten #utrechtinbeeld #exploringutrecht #ontdekutrecht #utrecht_netherlands #utrechts_landschap #inholland #netherlands #hollandspracht #bestofnetherlands #nederland_wat_ben_je_mooi #hollands_mooiste_fotos #landscape #landscapephotography #nightphotography #cameranu_nl #zoomnl #cameraland_nl

Kasteel Schonauwen is a historic site located in Houten, in the province of Utrecht, Netherlands. Established in 1261, it originally served as a monastic grange for the Premonstratensian abbey of Mariënwaard in Beesd. In the early 14th century, the property was transformed into a fortified residence by the Van Beusichem family, who began calling themselves Van Schonauwen.

Throughout the centuries, the castle changed hands multiple times. In 1536, it was recognized as a 'ridderhofstad' (knightly manor), granting its owners a seat in the Provincial States of Utrecht. During the 17th and 18th centuries, the castle underwent significant renovations, transitioning from a medieval fortress to a more comfortable residence with gardens and orchards.

In 1812, the castle was purchased by Hendrik Ravée, who demolished most of the structure for fiscal reasons, leaving only the current round tower intact. This tower stands approximately 13.5 meters tall with a diameter of 5.5 meters.

Today, Kasteel Schonauwen is a private residence and is not open to the public.

Going up the Euromast never gets boring, does it? 😊

Sony A73, Sony FE 24-105mm lens
13 seconds, F/8, ISO 200
3rd of May 2025, 21:56 CET

#jdjphotography #rotterdam #rotterdammakeithappen #rotterdamhotspots #kommieuitrotterdamdan #mooizuidholland #zuidhollandslandschap #zuidholland #inholland #netherlands #hollandspracht #bestofnetherlands #nederland_wat_ben_je_mooi #hollands_mooiste_fotos #landscape #landscapephotography #nightphotography #cameranu_nl #zoomnl #cameraland_nl

The Euromast is an iconic observation tower in Rotterdam, Netherlands, standing at 185 meters tall. Originally constructed between 1958 and 1960 for the 1960 Floriade horticultural exhibition, it was designed by architect Hugh Maaskant. The tower was inaugurated on March 25, 1960, by Princess Beatrix. In 1970, the Euromast was extended with the addition of the Space Tower, increasing its height by 85 meters and making it the tallest public building in the Netherlands at the time.

Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Rotterdam from the observation deck located at 112 meters. For an even higher vantage point, the Euroscoop—a rotating glass elevator—ascends to 180 meters, providing a 360° view of the city and beyond.

The Euromast features a restaurant situated at 96 meters above ground, offering a unique dining experience with stunning views of the Rotterdam skyline. Guests can indulge in brunch, lunch, high tea, high wine, or a three-course dinner.

For a truly unique experience, the Euromast offers two luxury hotel suites located at a height of 100 meters. Each suite comes with its own balcony, providing guests with breathtaking views of the city or the harbour.

Thrill-seekers can partake in abseiling from the Euromast during the abseiling season, which runs from May to September. Participants descend from a height of 100 meters.

Riding high

Sony A73, Sony FE 24-105mm lens
1/320th of a second, F/9, ISO 200
3rd of May 2025, 16:21 CET

#jdjphotography #rotterdam #rotterdammakeithappen #rotterdamhotspots #kommieuitrotterdamdan #mooizuidholland #zuidhollandslandschap #zuidholland #inholland #netherlands #hollandspracht #bestofnetherlands #nederland_wat_ben_je_mooi #hollands_mooiste_fotos #landscape #landscapephotography #nightphotography #cameranu_nl #zoomnl #cameraland_nl

A Ferris wheel is a large, rotating upright wheel with passenger cabins (often called gondolas) attached along its rim. As the wheel turns, these cabins remain upright, offering riders elevated views of the surrounding area. Ferris wheels are staples at amusement parks, fairs, and cityscapes worldwide.

Ferris wheels operate using a combination of mechanical and physical principles. Rotation Mechanism: Electric motors drive gears that turn the central axle, causing the wheel to rotate. Gravity's Role: While motors initiate movement, gravity assists in the wheel's rotation, especially as it descends, contributing to the ride's smooth motion. Cabin Stability: Gondolas are designed to pivot at their attachment points, allowing them to remain upright due to gravity as the wheel turns.

Riders often experience a sensation of lightness at the top of the wheel and increased pressure at the bottom, due to changes in apparent weight caused by the wheel's motion.

Before the modern Ferris wheel, "pleasure wheels" existed in the 17th century, where passengers rode in chairs suspended from large wooden rings turned manually. The first modern Ferris wheel was designed by George Washington Gale Ferris Jr. for the 1893 World's Columbian Exposition in Chicago. Standing at 80.4 meters (264 feet), it featured 36 cars, each accommodating up to 60 passengers.

Fat Phill's Asian Palace 😉

Sony A73, Sony FE 24-105mm lens
13 seconds, F/9, ISO 100
15th of May 2025, 22:28 CET

#jdjphotography #leiden #stadvanontdekkingen #mooizuidholland #zuidhollandslandschap #zuidholland #inholland #netherlands #hollandspracht #bestofnetherlands #nederland_wat_ben_je_mooi #hollands_mooiste_fotos #landscape #landscapephotography #nightphotography #cameranu_nl #zoomnl #cameraland_nl

Leiden is a historic and vibrant city in the Netherlands, located about 20 km northeast of The Hague. Leiden is home to Leiden University, founded in 1575—the oldest university in the Netherlands. It has a prestigious academic reputation and has educated members of the Dutch royal family as well as many Nobel laureates.

The city played a key role in Dutch history, particularly during the Eighty Years' War. In 1574, after surviving a long siege by the Spanish, Leiden was rewarded with its university. This event is still commemorated annually on October 3rd (Leidens Ontzet) with parades, food, and festivals.

With its picturesque canals, old windmills, and 17th-century buildings, Leiden is often called a smaller, quieter version of Amsterdam. It’s very walkable and has a warm, lively atmosphere.

Leiden has one of the oldest botanical gardens in Europe—Hortus Botanicus, closely tied to the university and to famous scientists like Carolus Clusius, who helped introduce tulips to the Netherlands.

Leiden boasts many museums, including Rijksmuseum van Oudheden (National Museum of Antiquities), Naturalis Biodiversity Center, Museum Boerhaave (science and medicine), and Museum De Lakenhal (art and history).

Very windy conditions in a place which you practically never have for yourself alone. Luckily my patience paid off this time.

Sony A73, Sony FE 24-105mm lens
1/8th of a second, F/8, ISO 200
15th of May 2025, 19:19

#jdjphotography #japanesegarden #clingendael #thehague #zuidholland #inholland #netherlands #hollandspracht #bestofnetherlands #nederland_wat_ben_je_mooi #hollands_mooiste_fotos #landscape #landscapephotography #nightphotography #cameranu_nl #zoomnl #cameraland_nl

The Japanese Garden in Clingendael Estate, The Hague, is a rare and historically significant gem in the Netherlands. Established around 1910 by Baroness Marguérite Mary van Brienen, affectionately known as Lady Daisy, it stands as the country's oldest and largest Japanese garden, encompassing approximately 6800 square meters. The original design with the serene pond, meandering brook and the winding pathways has remained intact all these years.

Lady Daisy's fascination with Japanese culture led her to make several voyages to Japan in the early 20th century. During these trips, she collected various artifacts, including stone lanterns, a water cask, sculptures, small bridges, and possibly even the garden's pavilion, which she transported back to The Hague. These elements were thoughtfully integrated into her interpretation of a Japanese-style garden, creating a serene and contemplative space.

The garden exudes a tranquil atmosphere, characterized by its lush moss-covered grounds and meandering pathways. Visitors can admire a variety of stone lanterns, some adorned with images of Buddha or deer—a sacred animal in Japanese culture. Notable features include two water basins: one with four Buddha images and another shaped like a lotus flower. A small shrine houses a statue of Jizo, the Buddhist protector of children and travelers. The garden's design elements, such as the red bridges and winding paths, are imbued with symbolic meanings, reflecting traditional Japanese beliefs.

It's a Dutchman's duty to visit the tulip fields at least once per year. 😜

Sony A73, Sony FE 24-105mm lens
1/1000th of a second, F/5, ISO 200
19th of April 2025, 16:08

The tulip is one of the most beloved flowers in the world and an unmistakable symbol of the Netherlands. Originally from Central Asia, this flower found its way to Europe via the Ottoman Empire in the 16th century. It was in the Netherlands that the tulip really came into bloom — literally and figuratively. During the famous tulip mania of the 17th century, tulip bulbs were even traded for the price of an Amsterdam canal house!

Today, more than 2 billion tulips are grown in the Netherlands each year and exported worldwide. The tulip symbolizes love, spring, life, luxury, energization, and rebirth. The bright colors and streamlined shape make the tulip ideal for macro and nature photography.

This breathtaking macro photo captures the essence of the Netherlands in full bloom. With vibrant, pink-red tulips that seem to touch the horizon like a softly undulating carpet, this image not only brings color to your interior, but also peace and wonder to your heart.

This shot is more than just a pretty picture, it is an ode to nature. The soft focus in the background and the razor-sharp details in the foreground draw your gaze inwards, as if you were standing among the flowers on a sunny spring day.

Whether you are a nature lover, a flower fan or a lover of the Netherlands – a photo of a tulip field not only brings colour and atmosphere to your interior, but also a feeling of freshness and positivity.

#jdjphotographynl #voorhout #zuidholland #inholland #netherlands #hollandspracht #bestofnetherlands #nederland_wat_ben_je_mooi #hollands_mooiste_fotos #landscape #landscapephotography #nightphotography #cameranu_nl #zoomnl #cameraland_nl #tulp #tulip #bloem #flower #macrofotografie #macrophotography #natuurfotografie #naturephotography #bokeh #scherptediepte #depthoffield

Yep, sakura season is on in the Netherlands, and you'll get to know it. ;)

On this particular Sunday afternoon, I went to the cherry blossom park in the Amsterdamse Bos first, but gawd almighty, it was crowded there. By that point, I knew I could forget about going to Almere as well.

So I took the gamble by driving to the city of Houten, where they had this little park with two lovely blossom trees that I largely had all for myself.

Sony A73 - Sony FE 24-105mm lens
1/1600th second, F/5, ISO 200
23rd of March, 12:55

Cherry blossoms, known as sakura (桜) in Japan, are delicate pink or white flowers that bloom in early spring. They are deeply symbolic in Japanese culture, representing the beauty and fleeting nature of life due to their short blooming period—usually only one to two weeks.

🌸 Key Facts About Cherry Blossoms

Scientific Name: Most cherry blossoms belong to the Prunus genus, with Prunus serrulata (Japanese cherry) being one of the most famous species.

Blooming Season: Varies depending on the climate, but in Japan, peak bloom (known as sakura zensen) typically happens between late March and early April.

Symbolism: In Japanese philosophy, cherry blossoms are linked to mono no aware, the appreciation of the transient nature of life. They also symbolize renewal and hope.


Cultural Significance:

Hanami (花見): A centuries-old tradition where people gather under cherry trees to celebrate the blossoms with picnics and festivals.

Samurai & Bushido: Samurai often associated cherry blossoms with their own lives—beautiful yet brief, as they lived under the code of bushido (the way of the warrior).

Modern Use: Sakura motifs appear in Japanese art, fashion, and even food and drinks (like sakura-flavored mochi, tea, and seasonal Starbucks lattes!)

#jdjphotographynl #houten #utrecht #inholland #netherlands #hollandspracht #bestofnetherlands #macro #macrophotography #cameranu_nl #zoomnl #cameraland_nl #cherryblossom #sakura #hanami

Throwback to a lovely sunset at the river IJ in Amsterdam.

Sony A73 - Sony FE 24-105mm lens
1/40th second, F/9, ISO 100
16th of October 2024, 18:33

The Pontsteiger building is a striking modern residential tower in Amsterdam, located on the IJ River in the Houthaven district. It’s one of the city’s most iconic contemporary architectural landmarks.

The Pontsteiger building is designed by Arons en Gelauff Architecten, the building was completed in 2019. It stands 90 meters tall and features a unique bridge-like structure at the top, creating an open space in the middle. The design resembles a giant gateway over the water, making it a recognizable part of Amsterdam’s skyline. The building is covered in bronze-colored aluminum cladding, giving it a luxurious and modern appearance.

The Pontsteiger building mainly consists of high-end apartments and penthouses. The top levels (the "bridge" section) house some of the most expensive apartments in Amsterdam, with stunning views over the city and the IJ River. The lower levels feature rental apartments, commercial spaces, and a few retail spots.

The Pontsteiger building is situated in the Houthavens district, an old harbour area that has been transformed into a trendy, sustainable neighbourhood. It offers waterfront living with boat access, making it attractive for affluent residents. And it's close to Westerpark, a popular park with cultural venues, cafés, and green spaces.

#jdjphotographynl #amsterdam #amsterdamnoord #noordholland #oogvoornoordholland #inholland #netherlands #hollandspracht #bestofnetherlands #nederland_wat_ben_je_mooi #hollands_mooiste_fotos #landscape #landscapephotography #nightphotography #cameranu_nl #zoomnl #cameraland_nl #ferry #pontsteiger #ij #river #zonsondergang #sunset

The Saint Bavo church in Haarlem. Dare I say the pride of Haarlem? Either way, she was looking good this particular evening. 😊

Sony A73 - Sony FE 24-105mm lens
20 seconds, F/9, ISO 100
2nd of March 2025, 20:00 CET

The St. Bavo Church in Haarlem (Grote Kerk van St. Bavo) is a stunning medieval church located in the heart of Haarlem, Netherlands. It is one of the most famous landmarks in the city, known for its Gothic architecture and impressive Müller organ which has been played by Mozart, Händel, and Mendelssohn.

#jdjphotographynl #haarlem #noordholland #oogvoornoordholland #inholland #netherlands #hollandspracht #bestofnetherlands #nederland_wat_ben_je_mooi #hollands_mooiste_fotos #landscape #landscapephotography #nightphotography #cameranu_nl #zoomnl #cameraland_nl