Ways of Seeing: 6581 | A Photo Exhibition in Kyoto
Running from 8-16 August at Nutshouse Kyoto, presenting photography from Shophouses of Singapore: Beyond the Facade and selected work by Lim Yu Heng (@mazterz)
Ways of Seeing: 6581
Date and Time: 8-16 August, 3-8pm
Address: Nutshouse Kyoto 夏屋
66 Murasakino Kamimonzenchō, Kita Ward, Kyoto 603-8217
〒 603-8217 京都市北区紫野上門前町66
入場無料 ｜ Free Admission
“Seeing comes before words”, wrote John Berger in his seminal work, Ways of Seeing; the book that this exhibition takes its name after. In our visual-saturated culture, this statement feels more apparent than ever before.
The history of Japan spans 14,000 years, whereas a young nation like Singapore typifies the new with just over six decades of independence. But what if we flip the narrative on this preconceived notion of the two countries? Even Japan’s ancient capital is not immune to change, adapting to the evolution of urban living. As Singaporeans residing here, we appreciate and celebrate the unique mix of heritage and modernity that makes this city so liveable. The area code numbers in the title allude to these contrasting nuances, representing Singapore (+65) and Japan (+81).
Set within the context of a Kyomachiya in Kita ward, this exhibition at Nutshouse Kyoto invites visitors to view, discuss and compare the evolving urban landscapes of two strikingly different countries. We present contrasting scenes of modern architecture in Japan with photography of historic shophouses in Singapore. Like the kyomachiya, the Singapore shophouse similarly combines both a residence and a business, and features an elongated layout with a narrow frontage and a deep rear.
Pure geometry, clean lines and proportion are hallmarks of the work of architectural photographer Lim Yu Heng, presented here in selected photography featuring contemporary structures across Japan. These are juxtaposed against the scenes lensed by Franz Navarrete for the book, Shophouses of Singapore: Beyond the Facade, co-authored by Hong Xinying and Kissa Castañeda. The book chronicles the history and stories of 30 heritage buildings that are adorned with intricate Peranakan-style tiles and art deco details, featuring photography by Navarrete and other notable Singapore-based photographers.
This exhibition is held in conjunction with the summer 2026 launch of Shophouses of Singapore: Beyond the Facade, a coffee table book published by Man Mo Media. We hope you’ll enjoy the exhibition and walk away with a newfound appreciation for the streetscapes not just here in Kyoto, and wherever your next journey takes you to.
Hong Xinying (@xy_writes) and Lim Yu Heng (@mazterz)
About the Venue
Nuthouse Kyoto is a creative cultural space where design, art, and community come together. Rooted in Kyoto's thoughtful pace of life, it offers a welcoming place to gather, discover, and connect through exhibitions, conversations, and everyday moments. instagram.com/nutshouse_kyoto
About the Exhibitors
Lim Yu Heng (also known as @mazterz) is a photographer and visual storyteller known for creating cinematic, high-impact imagery. He specialises in portraits, automotive, cosplay, fashion, and commercial photography, blending technical precision with creative direction to produce bold, memorable visuals. mazterz.com
The art of telling a good story lies at the heart of Hong Xinying’s passion as a writer and editor. A Singaporean currently based in Kyoto, she was formerly regional editor of Tatler Homes, a luxury design magazine that profiles the most creative interiors across Asia. She is the co-author of Shophouses of Singapore: Behind the Facade, a book published by Man Mo Media in July 2026, now available in bookstores across Southeast Asia. hongxinying.com
Franz Navarrete is a Singapore-based photographer drawn to texture, everyday moments and subtle details. Guided by observation and a thoughtful eye, he creates images that feel intimate and evocative. The ocean is a constant source of inspiration in his work, shaping the way he sees light, movement and atmosphere. franzn.co
