Curves Japan: Stefan Bogner’s Journey Through Japan’s Unique Roads

Curves Japan follows photographer Stefan Bogner as he covers 7,000 km exploring Japan’s culture, hidden roads and Porsche models. Discover this special edition.

Photographer and Curves magazine founder Stefan Bogner has ventured somewhere his project’s wheels had never rolled before — Japan. After years of exploring Europe’s mountain passes, he shifted his focus to a country whose roads and culture defy easy categorisation. “Japan is like a different world. It doesn’t fit into a box, and that’s exactly what makes it so fascinating,” Bogner explains.

The journey took about five weeks and covered nearly 7,000 kilometres. The team explored not only the famous ‘Japanese Alps’ but also lesser-known ribbons of asphalt that run along coastlines and through dense forests. Cities like Tokyo and Kyoto served more as vivid backdrops — the real aim was to move with the country’s own rhythm rather than tick off tourist sites.

Bogner’s garage for this trip featured a colourful mix of Porsche models, from a 718 Boxster in striking Rubystar to fully electric Taycans. This choice highlighted the contrast between traditional mountain roads and modern demands for sustainability. The shoots themselves were meticulously planned — equipment, time of day and even weather played crucial roles.

Since its launch in 2011, Curves has covered some of the world’s most scenic regions. The Japan edition continues the tradition of capturing the spirit of the road without falling back on postcard clichés or must-see lists. That approach has clearly resonated — total circulation has already topped half a million copies.

The new Curves Japan issue is now available in stores. Where the next stop will be remains to be seen, but there’s little doubt that Stefan Bogner and his team will once again find a route where the road matters more than the destination.