Re: "I had issues with the Nikon Z DX..."

• Totally agree! Grab the Nikon NIKKOR Z 24mm f/1.7 DX because its fantastic in dim temples and weighs almost nothing. Youll love the results!

@Reply #2 - good point! If youre trying to save money for the actual trip, these are the most cost-effective choices I have used:

• Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 16-50mm f/3.5-6.3 VR is incredibly light and easy to find used.
• Viltrox 23mm f/1.4 AF Z-Mount provides a fast aperture for dim temples at a lower price point. Both options balance weight and cost effectively for your Japan trip.

I had issues with the Nikon Z DX 18-140mm f/3.5-6.3 VR when I was in Kyoto. It felt bulky after hiking all day and that f/6.3 aperture at the long end is honestly disappointing for dim temples. Missing shots because of slow glass was frustrating. The Nikon Z DX 12-28mm f/3.5-5.6 PZ VR is better for tight streets, but unfortunately the power zoom feels laggy compared to a mechanical ring.

Building on the earlier suggestion about going light, i really think you should look at third-party options too. I used to be a total Nikon purist until i took a Sigma lens on a trip to Osaka and wow... the difference in low light was night and day! For temples especially, you really dont want those slow kit lenses.

• Sigma 18-50mm f/2.8 DC DN Contemporary for Nikon Z - its basically the perfect travel zoom because its f/2.8 but fits in a jacket pocket
• Sigma 16mm f/1.4 DC DN Contemporary for Nikon Z - way better for those wide temple interiors than the 12-28mm Comparing the Sigma 18-50 to the Nikon 18-140, the Sigma is just way more practical for all-day walking. Its so much lighter and that f/2.8 is a lifesaver when the sun starts going down in the city. Youll have an amazing time in Japan, just make sure you have enough SD cards lol!

Same here!