Travel became a significant source of inspiration. Bernard Buffet painted places that fascinated him, such as New York, where the verticality echoed the geometric lines that structured his works.

However, he felt the deepest connection with Japan. Japanese culture left a lasting imprint on his imagination. Over the years, the Land of the Rising Sun became a second home for the painter, so much so that his only and final wish was to rest for eternity in the gardens of his museum.