Photography Diary 2025: Seasonal Photography on the Roads of Kanto - Kanto Scenery Travel

撮影日記　2025年12月7日　落葉の本郷から、紅の太田黒公園へ。束の間の休日“撮影逃避行

この日は、お昼に「荻窪」でほんの少しだけお仕事。ほんの、ほんの少しだけです。にやり。
午後は買い物に出る予定だったため、14時には帰宅しなければいけないという軽めのタイムリミット付き。そうなると、その前後で撮影スポットどこかに行けないかな〜と、落ち着かない“撮影衝動病”がむくむくと発動します。

ふと思い出したのが、「東大本郷キャンパス".
「今年行ってないな。どうなってるんだろう？　朝7時開門だし、行っちゃう？」
そんな軽さで行き先は決定。そして荻窪周辺でもう一つ気になっていた場所が「太田黒公園」。ライトアップが“とんでもなく綺麗”と聞きつつ、いつも睡魔に負け続けてきた私……。今年こそ一歩前進なるか。

First, we headed to "本郷キャンパス".
以前訪れたときは、黄金の銀杏並木が本当に見事で「ここは都会のオアシスか…」と感動した記憶が蘇ります。ところが今年は少しタイミングが遅かったのか、かなり落葉が進んでいてちょっと寂しげ。それでも銀杏やケヤキの残った紅葉を撮影しながら散策。

その後、近くの格安駐車場で事件発生。
400円のつもりが、まさかの“違う番号に1000円をノールック投入”してしまい、合計1400円の痛恨出費。
バカバカバカバカ！これは家族に言ったら「あのねぇ…」と怒られるので、もちろん内緒案件である。

一度川口の会社に戻って仕事の準備をし、「荻窪」へ。
さささささ〜〜〜っと仕事を片付け、完全に撮影モードへカムバック。日曜の仕事は、あくまで撮影のついで…ではなく、撮影の“合間”と言っておこう。

向かったのは「太田黒公園」The following is a list of the most common problems with the "C" in the "C" column.
入口の門を飾る銀杏が美しいと聞いて訪れたものの、無人になるタイミングを待つのがなかなか大変。さらに銀杏も散り始めていたので、これは来年、開門直後を狙いたいスポットだと確信。それでも園内のモミジは圧巻で、こじんまりとしながらも密度の濃い紅葉美に完全に心撃ち抜かれました。「これはまた来るやつだな」と静かにメモ。

そこから歩いてすぐ、「Ogi-ga-so Park」にも寄り道。
ここもまた素敵で、赤く色づいたモミジがたくさん。建物内部は有料だったものの、歴史を感じさせる佇まいで見応えのある公園でした。

そして帰り道、買い物がてら浦和方面へ向かう途中でふと思い出す。
「そうだ、『Bessho-numa Park』があるじゃん。」
中浦和に住んでいたこともあるので、もはやホームタウン。ちょっと寄ってみようかな〜と軽い気持ちで向かったところ……想像以上の大混雑！駐車場は満杯で、慌ててコインパーキングへ避難。ホームタウン、まさかの難易度高し。

そんなこんなで買い物も無事に済ませ、早めに帰宅。
夜はパソコンを開き、ブログ更新タイム。撮ってきた写真を眺めながら「あぁ今日もいい1日だったな」としみじみするのでした。

The University of Tokyo Hongo Campus｜Autumn scenery of ginkgo trees lining the avenue, dyed golden

この写真は、東京大学本郷キャンパスの定番スポットで、黄金色の銀杏並木を撮影したもので、ピークアウト後のため葉が少なめながらも、学府らしい落ち着いた美しさが漂います。

The University of Tokyo Hongo Campus｜A Deep Composition Created by Zelkova Trees and Stairs

この写真は、東京大学本郷キャンパスで、美しい欅の木と階段の風景を撮影したもので、構内の奥深い雰囲気と紅葉の魅力がしっかりと伝わってきます。

Ota-kuro Park｜Autumn Charm in the Garden: Maple Leaves and a Small Gate

この写真は、大田黒公園で、カラフルなモミジを背景に小さな門を撮影したもので、庭園らしい風情と紅葉の彩りが調和した景観が印象的です。

Ota-kuro Park｜Beautiful Gradation of Red, Orange, and Yellow Autumn Foliage

この写真は、大田黒公園で、綺麗なモミジのグラデーションを見上げて撮影したもので、赤・橙・黄の移ろいが美しく重なる、秋ならではの魅力が詰まった作品です。

Ogisō Park｜A scene of slender-leaved maples where translucent light stands out

この写真は、荻外荘公園で、細いモミジが光に当たり輝く瞬間を撮影したもので、葉の透け感が美しく際立つ印象的なシーンです。

Ogaiso Park｜A serene autumn scene where buildings and autumn foliage harmonize

この写真は、荻外荘公園で、外側から建物ともみじの紅葉を撮影したもので、歴史ある建物と季節の彩りが調和した落ち着いた風景が広がります。

Bessho Pond Park｜The three-dimensional presence of the Metasequoia trees captured through front-focus blur

この写真は、別所沼公園で、紅葉したメタセコイアの背後をぼかし、手前の葉にピントを合わせて撮影したもので、立体感と奥行きが際立つ印象的な一枚です。

Bessho Pond Park｜The beauty of crimson maple leaves glowing in backlight

この写真は、別所沼公園で、真っ赤なモミジが逆光で鮮やかに光る様子を撮影したもので、透過光がモミジの美しさを際立たせる秋らしい一枚です。

撮影日記、2025年12月6日メタセコイアと紅葉と動物たち。欲張りすぎた一日の記録。

12月の1週目。気づけばもう師走。
毎年この時期になると、「え、今年あと何回シャッター切れるんだっけ？」と、写真好き特有の焦りが胸の奥でざわつきます。関東の紅葉も北関東から南関東へと駅伝のようにつながり、いよいよフィナーレの雰囲気。今年はどこも早めに落葉している場所も多く、金曜の夜は布団の中で“紅葉まだある？”を検索しまくっていました。

「今年は富士山に行ってないなぁ……来年はもっと行こう」なんて、ちょっと格好いい決意もよぎりつつ、候補として浮かんだのは「三渓園」「生田緑地」「相模原公園」「金澤動物園」の“神奈川ビッグ4”。とりあえず行けるところまで行ってみよう、そんな無計画のようで計画的なプランが完成しました。

翌朝は“遅め”の4時30分起床。普段が4時なので、これでも贅沢に寝たつもりです。首都高から東名を走り、まだ薄暗い「Sagamihara Park」に一番乗り。近くの学校では、朝から部活の学生さんたちが元気いっぱいで、こちらの眠気がすっかり吹き飛びます。

園内を歩き出すと、すぐに圧巻のメタセコイア並木が登場。「こりゃすご！」と声が出る見事な迫力。まだ日陰で光は弱かったものの、噴水池には美しいリフレクションが映り込み、朝一番からテンションは急上昇。さらに奥の日本庭園には思いがけない真紅のモミジ。「これは長居しちゃうやつだ…」と分かりつつも、見つけてしまったからには仕方ない。

名残惜しく公園を後にして向かったのは「Ikuta Green Space」。ここがまた素晴らしい。並木どころか“群生”レベルでメタセコイアが広がり、まるで木のテーマパーク。歩くだけで気持ちいい空気が流れていて、「日本民家園」や「岡本太郎美術館」まであるという懐の深さ。「これ、ここだけで一日いけるな…」と一瞬脳裏をよぎりました。天気が少し不安定でしたが、なんとか持ちこたえてくれて撮影は続行。

そして本日のメインステージ、「Sankeien GardenGo to.
混雑覚悟だったのに、想像よりスムーズに駐車場へ入れて拍子抜け。ピークは先週だったのか、少し葉は落ちていたものの、それでも十分すぎる美しさ。歴史ある建築物と紅葉が合わさると、もう反則級の絵になります。「三重塔」を背景にシャッターを切るたび「やっぱりここ強いな〜」と独り言が止まらない。歩き疲れて脚もプルプルしながら、それでも撮りたくなる魅力が三渓園にはあるのです。

すでにかなり満喫していましたが、最後のひと踏ん張りで「金澤動物園」へ。しかしここで予想外の展開。どうやら駐車場を間違えたらしく、動物園まで遠い遠い。修行かな？と思いつつも、園内バスに助けられ無事到着しました。

夕暮れのメタセコイアはほとんど日陰で撮影は厳しく、急遽“動物撮影チャレンジ”へ切り替え。しかしこれがまあ難しい。
瞳にピントを合わせるってどうやるんだろう？
EOS Rの瞳AFを探しながら四苦八苦し、結局いつもの適当スタイルでカンガルーやサイ、ヒツジを撮影。それでも新鮮で、なかなか楽しい時間でした。

メタセコイアに紅葉に動物に、盛りだくさんで幸せな一日。
帰りの高速はしっかり渋滞していましたが、そんなことすら気にならない満足感。やっぱり写真の旅は、少し欲張ったくらいがちょうどいい。

来年は富士山にもたくさん会いに行こう——そんなことを思いながら、川口へと戻っていきました。

Sagamihara Park｜Autumn Reflections of Metasequoia Trees in the Pond

This photograph captures the beautiful reflection of the Metasequoia avenue in the pond at Sagamihara Park. It is a shot with a calm, autumnal atmosphere, where the landscape stands out with its striking symmetry.

Sagamihara Park｜Soft-light shot of pampas grass with striking depth

この写真は、相模原公園で、パンパグラスの奥行きを意識して撮影したもので、穂の重なりが立体的な広がりを生み、柔らかな空気感を映し出しています。

Sagamihara Park｜The Yin-Yang Contrast of Maple Leaves Created by Light and Shadow

この写真は、相模原公園で、園内の美しいモミジの陰陽を意識して撮影したもので、光の当たり方による色彩のコントラストが印象的です。

Ikuta Ryokuchi | The imposing composition of metasequoia groves reaching toward the sky

This photograph was taken at Ikuta Ryokuchi Park, capturing the Metasequoia grove area from below using wide-angle mode. It dynamically expresses the overwhelming tree forms reaching toward the sky.

Ikuta Ryokuchi Park｜A single crimson maple leaf stands out against the green backdrop

この写真は、生田緑地で、緑を背景に真っ赤なモミジへ光が差し込む様子を撮影したもので、鮮やかな赤が際立つ美しい瞬間を写し取っています。

Sankeien Garden｜An Autumn Scene Where Old Houses, Autumn Leaves, and the Three-Story Pagoda Harmonize

This photograph captures a well-balanced composition at Sankeien Garden, featuring an old folk house, the autumn foliage of maple trees, and the distant three-storied pagoda. It expresses an elegant landscape where traditional architecture and the colors of autumn harmoniously blend.

Sankeien Garden｜A Story-filled Garden Shot: Maple Leaves in the Foreground Blur Lead the Way

この写真は、三渓園で、手前のモミジを大きくぼかし、奥にある古い建物を柔らかく描写し、さらに新郎新婦がうっすらと写り込むストーリー性のある構図に仕上げています。

Sankeien Garden｜Crimson Autumn Foliage Art Enveloped in Soft Bokeh

この写真は、三渓園で、真っ赤なモミジを背景を大きくぼかして撮影したもので、柔らかなボケが紅葉を引き立てる印象的な作品です。

Kanazawa Zoo｜The warm expression of the Metasequoia trees tinged with the colors of dusk

This photograph was taken at Kanazawa Zoo, capturing the metasequoia grove from below in the soft evening light. It is an impressive image where the warm hues characteristic of twilight envelop the trees.

Kanazawa Zoo｜Capturing the Moment of a Rhinoceros's Powerful Presence

この写真は、金沢動物園で、サイがこちらに向かってゆっくり歩いてくる迫力ある瞬間を撮影したもので、動物本来の存在感と園内の自然豊かな雰囲気が伝わるカットになっています。

Kanazawa Zoo｜Unique goats standing out against the backdrop of autumn leaves

この写真は、金沢動物園で、珍しい形の角を持つヤギをメタセコイアの紅葉を背景に撮影したもので、動物と秋の色彩が調和した印象的なシーンに仕上がっています。

Kanazawa Zoo｜A cute two-shot of kangaroos from behind

この写真は、金沢動物園で、小さめのカンガルーが2匹そろって後ろを向いているかわいらしい様子を捉えたもので、同じ方向を見る姿がほっこりとした空気感を演出しています。

Shooting Diary, November 30, 2025 The day I took a train to visit 6 spots in Tokyo on a grueling tour

The day before, "Yoro Valley」「Kimi no Mori」「Naritasan ParkRunning all over Chiba left me completely exhausted.
But I have a special skill: rapid charging.
I collapsed onto the futon for a few hours. When I came to, my HP was almost fully restored.
So, that day too, I woke up at 5 a.m. and started getting ready.
Today's plan is to tour Tokyo by train.

As for the schedule—
Hibiya Park → Gaien Ginkgo Avenue → Rikugien Garden → Former Furukawa Garden → Asukayama Park (unplanned) → Former Iwasaki Residence → Hotel New Otani.
……A bit reckless?
No, it's fine! Probably fine!

I rode my bike to the nearest station, then boarded the train with my camera backpack on my back.
The train was nearly empty in the early morning, and I secured a seat.
While organizing yesterday's photos on my phone, I arrived at Tokyo Station before I knew it.

Walk to Hibiya Park from Tokyo Station.
Heading toward the Imperial Palace from the Marunouchi Exit, there's a row of ginkgo trees, and I had planned to take photos there too—
Just as I was about to cross the crosswalk,WHITE KITTEI saw someone being sucked into the abyss.
"Huh? Open this early?" I thought skeptically as I went inside... and found KITTE completely deserted.
And the Christmas tree lights are shining brightly!
This is pure bonus time.
Getting to enjoy the tree all to myself first thing in the morning—what a great start to the day.

Keeping the mood upGinkgo Avenue in Marunouchiwhile filming,Hibiya ParkTo.
The ginkgo trees around the pond are just the right shade of color, and on a quiet morning, the water surface glistens like a mirror.
The beauty of the reflections has me thoroughly satisfied first thing in the morning.

NextThe Ginkgo Avenue of Meiji Jingu GaienTo.
Last week was the peak, so I was prepared for it... but yeah, totally out of the question!
I hastily snapped a few photos of the last few remaining ones to make them look somewhat presentable, then packed up and left.
This spot is quite challenging—shady in the morning, but packed to the gills by noon.

NextRikugienThe following is a list of the most common problems with the "C" in the "C" column.
I've been here many times, but I didn't have any photos of the autumn leaves, so I visited for my blog.
This place is absolutely packed!
The crimson of maple leaves and the gold of ginkgo leaves—truly the essence of autumn.
I hurried through the park, snapping photos like crazy.

Just keep walkingOld Koga GardenTo.
This place is famous for its roses, but on this day, the roses were at their absolute peak.
The autumn leaves layered on top of that, leaving me overwhelmed.
The roses were in perfect condition, and I was completely absorbed in photographing them here too.

It was unplanned, but I went with the flow.Asukayama ParkTo.
Hydrangeas are the most iconic image, but the autumn foliage is also incredibly beautiful, kicking off the “snap snap” mass-production season.
Before I knew it, I'd racked up quite a few steps just in the morning.

Having come this far nonstop, I'll grab some ramen at Oji Station.
I was so hungry I could have eaten anything and it would have tasted delicious, but no, it really was delicious.
I wanted to try the wonton noodles too, but I didn't have time and gave up.

After filling our stomachs, we visited for the first time.Former Iwasaki Residence GardenTo.
I didn't know it was so close to Ueno Park.
I tried to photograph the Western-style building from beneath the ginkgo tree, but due to the time of day, the building was in shadow.
It was such an alluring place that it made me think, "Next time, I'll have to come back and check the times when the light is just right..."

Summoning every last ounce of strength,Hotel New OtaniTo the Japanese garden.
The autumn leaves were at their peak, a beauty worthy of the finale of the journey.
I want to praise myself for making it this far.

After completing the entire journey, I returned home around 3:00 PM.
Then shopping with the family.
Weekend bulk shopping is essential for daily life.
And the fact that Monday after playing too hard was hell—that's a secret.

Ah, I walked a lot. I took a lot of photos.
The autumn foliage of 2025—this year, I really feel like I ran through it all.
But winter has only just begun.

WHITE KITTE｜Morning Illumination Featuring a Giant Tree

This photo was taken at WHITE KITTE during the early morning hours when it was empty, capturing the tree illuminations in their standard mode.

Tokyo Station Ginkgo Avenue｜Ginkgo Avenue Bathed in Morning Glow and Station Scenery

This photograph was taken facing Tokyo Station at the moment of sunrise along the ginkgo tree-lined avenue.

Hibiya Park｜Vibrant Reflections of Ginkgo and Maple Trees in the Pond

This photograph captures the reflections of ginkgo and maple trees in the pond at Hibiya Park during the early morning.

Meiji Jingu Gaien Ginkgo Avenue | The street view seen through the avenue

This photograph was taken at the Ginkgo Avenue in Meiji Jingu Gaien, capturing the Aoyama-dori signboard against the backdrop of the ginkgo trees.

Rikugien Garden｜Maple trees spreading like a canopy over the gate

This photograph captures the vibrant autumn colors of maple leaves spreading over a small gate at Rikugien Garden.

Rikugien Garden｜Expressions of Light and Autumn Leaves Floating on the Dark Pond

This photograph captures the moment at Rikugien Garden when light pierces the darkness over the pond, illuminating the autumn leaves as they shimmer on the water's surface.

Old Koga Garden｜The stately presence of the Western-style mansion seen through the frame of autumn leaves

This photograph was taken at the former Furukawa Garden, capturing the Western-style architecture from beneath a maple tree.

Old Koga Garden｜An elegant scene featuring white roses and a Western-style mansion

This photograph was taken at the Old Koga Garden, capturing the beautiful white blooms of a rose against the backdrop of Western-style architecture.

Asukayama Park｜A row of vibrant maple trees lining the path

This photograph captures the beautiful autumn colors of maple trees lining a path in Asukayama Park.

Former Iwasaki Residence Garden｜A wide-angle view capturing the grandeur of ginkgo trees and the Western-style mansion

This photograph was taken in the former Iwasaki Residence Garden, capturing the Western-style building from beneath a magnificent ginkgo tree using wide-angle mode.

Hotel New Otani｜A serene landscape where pale autumn leaves herald the season

This photograph captures the maple trees near the bridge over the pond at Hotel New Otani, showing their leaves beginning to turn a faint shade of red.

Hotel New Otani｜A serene moment created by the pigeons atop the gate

This photograph captures a pigeon perched atop the gate at Hotel New Otani, facing left.

Photo Diary, ,November 29, 2025 A day immersed in autumn foliage in Chiba, encountering sunrise at Umihotaru

This weekend is forecast to be sunny both Saturday and Sunday.
"Ah, I see!" I exclaimed, feeling a surge of motivation.
The autumn foliage is finally entering its final stretch. Tokyo is about to burst into full crimson mode, and I simply can't pass up the chance to capture it.

Since starting my blog, I've been making a point to prioritize visiting places I've never been to before.
However, when living in Kawaguchi, one tends to be naturally drawn northward, with the Kan-Etsu, Tohoku, and Joban Expressways being my specialty routes.
Before I knew it, Kanagawa and Chiba had become “friends who've grown a little distant.”
Determined to turn that situation around, I decided in August: "Alright, this year's autumn foliage trip will be to Yoro Valley in Chiba!"
When I went to see Mother Farm and the Kominato Railway, a flyer I happened to glance at became the trigger.

And this weekend, that moment has finally arrived.
The autumn foliage in Tokyo I couldn't see the previous week, and the long-awaited Chiba. I'm tackling both of these.

As usual, I woke up at 4 a.m. that day.
Almost like a sleepwalker, I got into the car and headed first to the mainYoro ValleyStraight ahead.
Smoothly cruising along the Metropolitan Expressway before dawn, heading via Umihotaru—
"Huh? Isn't this the exact sunrise?"
What perfect timing. I have to stop by.

Sea FireflyThe morning sun greets us.
On January 1st this year, I watched the first sunrise of the year at Mount Nokogiri, but I remember having to swallow my disappointment at Umihotaru due to admission restrictions.
No restrictions today, visibility is good.
I captured the moment the sun slowly revealed itself. Truly a “preview of the sunrise.”

With that, I set off again in high spirits,Yoro ValleyArrived.
I thought it would be more crowded, but the early morning hours made for a quiet atmosphere. This is a good start.

First, we headed to "Awa-mata Falls".
Why do autumn leaves and waterfalls complement each other so perfectly? Descending the stairs to the bottom, viewed right before your eyes, the white waterfall and the red and yellow leaves blend together beautifully.
Before I knew it, I was snapping away like crazy. The EOS R is finally putting in some serious effort for the first time in ages.

Next, we headed to "Kannon BridgeIt was also good.
The bridge and autumn leaves create a beautiful palette, and descending to the river's edge reveals lovely reflections on the water's surface.
The autumn leaves and bridge reflected like a mirror were so breathtaking, I couldn't stop taking pictures.
"How many shots am I planning to take today?" I suddenly became so level-headed midway through.

After savoring the atmosphere of the autumn foliage festival for a little while, it was finally time to head to the next destination...
It was supposed to be that way, but here comes a detour.
The day before, I happened to find it on Instagram.Kimi no Mori (Oami Shirasato City)The row of metasequoia trees along the avenue kept drawing my attention.

Kimi no Mori is just a row of metasequoias lining the road—yet it's simply beautiful.
The balance with the road width is just perfect—it's the kind of spot that seems to say, "This is what you like, right?"
The light was a bit dim when I visited, which was a slight disappointment, but I was still quite satisfied.

And now for the second main event of the day, "Naritasan Shinshoji Temple」and「Naritasan Park".
I had visited there before, yet I had no memory of the autumn leaves.
But this time is different.
The park is at the peak of its autumn colors, with the added surprise of live koto music drifting through the air.
It's completely a “Japanese-style theme park.”
Here too, my photography passion wouldn't let up, and I snapped away with abandon.

……However, a problem arises here.
Originally, I planned to head to Roppongi Keyakizaka next and then tackle the Tokyo Skytree illuminations, but my stamina gauge is flashing red.
"There's always tomorrow, so that's it for today!" I gracefully called it quits.
It's a sensible adult decision (probably).

Thus, having thoroughly enjoyed Chiba's autumn foliage, the day that began at Umihotaru came to a satisfying close.
Light and color at winter's doorstep. I took too many photos, but I have zero regrets.
Well, where should we go tomorrow?
I'll keep chasing the autumn colors of 2025.

Umihotaru PA｜The tranquil sea before dawn and the sight of the morning glow

This photograph captures the direction from which the sun will soon rise, taken at Umihotaru in the quiet of the early morning, just before sunrise.

Yoro Valley｜Autumn scenery painted by crimson maple leaves and mountain ranges

This photograph captures the vibrant red maple leaves and the mountain range at Yoro Valley.

Awamata Falls (Yoro Valley)｜A delicate autumn scene softly capturing the waterfall and autumn leaves

This photograph captures the waterfall and the faintly illuminated autumn leaves at Awamata Falls (Yoro Valley).

Kannon Bridge (Yoro Valley)｜Vibrant autumn foliage and a striking drum bridge create a beautiful autumn landscape

This photograph was taken at Kannon Bridge (Yoro Valley), capturing the vivid autumn foliage, the drum bridge, and the clear blue sky together.

Kimi no Mori Metasequoia Avenue (Oami-Shirasato City) | The slanted composition emphasizes the depth of the tree-lined path

This photograph was taken at the Metasequoia Avenue in Kimi no Mori, consciously capturing depth from an oblique angle.

Naritasan Shinshoji Temple｜A grand entrance where the imposing lanterns radiate a sense of history

This photograph was taken with a focus on the magnificent lantern at the entrance of Naritasan Shinshoji Temple.

Naritasan Park｜A serene autumn foliage scene with lingering traces of people (left side)

This photograph was taken at Naritasan Park, capturing a woman who had just finished a koto performance near the pond, blurred from the left, along with the maple trees in the foreground.

Naritasan Park｜A serene autumn scene where fallen ginkgo leaves take center stage

This photograph was taken at Naritasan Park, featuring fallen ginkgo leaves as the main subject with maple trees and a temple in the background.

Shooting Diary, November 23, 2025 Cloudy forecast and a string of mishaps. Still, off to see the cherry blossoms and autumn leaves.

That day, I thought, "The autumn leaves in Tokyo should be peaking soon," and planned to focus on shooting within the city. The night before, after returning home from a friend's place, I checked the weather forecast to discuss the next day's plans with my family... and was stunned.
It's cloudy in Tokyo.
Oh man, seriously? I still can't get cloudy skies to look good in photos. Handling the light is tricky, and with my skills, they tend to turn out dull and lifeless.

So, we held a strategy meeting while soaking in the bathtub.
I simmered my thoughts like a stew, right up to the point of feeling lightheaded, holding a solo meeting in my mind.
"The only place sunny is... Gunma? Huh? Come to think of it, there was a park where cherry blossoms bloomed in autumn and winter, right?"
In that instant, a lightbulb flashed behind the steam. I hurried out of the bath and started searching.

I found it.Sakurayama ParkThe following is a list of the most common problems with the "C" in the "C" column.
The cherry blossoms are just beginning to bloom and haven't reached their peak yet, but this is a spot where you can see them in collaboration with the autumn leaves.
"This is a sign from above!" we got all excited on our own, and our destination was decided.

On the day itself, I woke up at 4 a.m. as usual.
My body must remember, because my eyes open before the alarm goes off. I buy a BOSS hot café au lait at 7-Eleven (using a coupon, of course). This cup is the “ignition switch” for my morning routine.

However, Saitama is cloudy.
"Well, it should clear up as we get closer to Gunma," I thought, heading from the Outer Circular to the Kan-Etsu Expressway. But the further we went, the thicker the clouds seemed to get...
"Huh? Haven't we been seeing this pattern a lot lately?"
The weather forecast shows sunny skies sparkling bright, yet somehow it clouds over only on the day itself—a “bad weather gacha.” Just give up and charge ahead.

Sakurayama ParkI arrived a little early. The shops weren't open yet, and there were few people around. As I was walking around, a man in a blue car called out to me.

"They haven't bloomed here yet. They're blooming more at Shiromine Park."

Oh, what a helpful tip. But since I've come all this way, I'll start by walking through Sakurayama Park.
Though it was cloudy, the autumn leaves were truly beautiful. And vast. Just vast. Walking the mountain trails, I've gotten a decent amount of exercise since morning.
The cherry blossoms were still modest, but I fully savored the seasonal atmosphere. It's a place I'd like to revisit next spring or fall.

Next, I was toldCastle Peak ParkSoon enough, I reached the outskirts, but suddenly the directional signs vanished. With no other choice, I relied on Google Maps to proceed...

This is the entrance to hell.
Not to be mean, but Google Maps sometimes makes some pretty epic blunders.
Steep incline, fallen leaves obscuring the road, cliff on the other side—if an oncoming car appears, you're completely screwed.
"Is there really a destination ahead? Won't we get lost?"
After about 20 minutes of driving with that unease, we finally arrived. There was a campground, and seeing so many people was a relief.

And here, at last,
The collaboration of cherry blossoms and autumn leaves.
This is it, this. Beautiful even on a cloudy day. It was the moment I knew coming here was worth it.

Next stop.Manyo Grand Suspension BridgeThe following is a list of the most common problems with the "C" in the "C" column.
Here, the clouds finally parted, and the autumn leaves suddenly began to glow. The suspension bridge you can cross for 100 yen is a bit scary, but it makes for the perfect accent in photos. I snapped away like crazy.

On the way back,Former Yuzuhara Elementary SchoolTaking a breather at a roadside station along the way, then heading home at a leisurely pace.

It was a day full of unexpected events, but I was thoroughly satisfied to witness the seasonal miracles of cherry blossoms and autumn leaves.
Even when it's cloudy, even when you get lost, even when you take a wrong turn—if you just keep going, things will work out somehow. That's the kind of day it was.

Sakurayama Park (Fujioka City)｜A scene of depth created by pale red maple leaves and buildings

This photograph captures the scene at Sakurayama Park (Fujioka City), combining the pale red maple leaves with the buildings visible in the background. Its composition creates a sense of depth throughout the entire landscape.

Sakurayama Park (Fujioka City)｜Autumn scenery featuring vibrant foliage and expansive gardens

This photograph captures both the autumn foliage and the garden scenery at Sakurayama Park (Fujioka City), offering a view that showcases the expansive, park-like autumn landscape.

Shiromine Park｜A fantastical world created by winter cherry blossoms and bokeh-like autumn leaves

This photograph captures winter cherry blossoms flowing across Jōmine Park, with the maple trees in the background glowing as bokeh orbs, creating a dreamlike and soft atmosphere.

Shiromine Park｜A beautiful combination of pale cherry blossoms and bright red maple leaves

This photograph captures the vibrant red maple leaves in the foreground against the faint pink of cherry blossoms at Shōhō Park, depicting the seasonal beauty where cherry blossom pink and autumn red overlap.

Manyo Grand Suspension Bridge｜Spectacular views of the suspension bridge and autumn foliage

This photograph captures the suspension bridge and autumn foliage from the far side of the Man'yo Great Suspension Bridge, revealing a magnificent landscape where nature and architecture harmonize beautifully.

Former Yuzuhara Elementary School｜Nostalgic Autumn Scenery Created by the Old School Building and the Great Ginkgo Tree

This photograph captures the historic old school building of the former Yuzuhara Elementary School alongside a towering ginkgo tree, expressing a landscape where autumn colors and a nostalgic atmosphere harmonize.

Shooting Diary, November 22, 2025 How to capture the brief free time of the morning A small photo trip to Kawagoe

This day started off with a slightly hectic schedule. I had to pick up some belongings from the nursing home where my father resides before noon, and I had plans with a friend starting at 10:30 AM. Time seemed to be there, yet there was hardly any. Plus, sunrise was around 6:30 AM. No matter how I looked at it, there was only a "tiny window of time" to go take photos.

But on days like this, my urge to take photos just itches. Plus, the weather forecast has been iffy since yesterday, so I can't count on shooting the next day, Sunday.
"If you can go, it's only this morning," he said.

Since the meeting place is in Fujimino City, the Kan-Etsu Expressway area is easier to access. When I consulted ChatGPT for suggestions, it said, "Kuroyama Three Waterfalls」and「Nōninji Temple"How about this?" came the reply, and it had a promising feel to it. In my mind, I could already picture the sound of water and the quiet temple's autumn leaves spreading out...

Kuroyama Mitaki Falls has recently had “bear sightings.” Heading into the deep mountains alone in the morning would be reckless, to say the least. So I immediately abandoned the idea.
Therefore, I switched to the safer and more scenic route from "Metasequoia Grove at Isanuma Pond" to "Nōninji Temple," hastily devising Plan B.

Wake-up time is the usual 4 a.m. Early rising is the only thing I'm good at. I get ready quickly and buy a hot BOSS café au lait at 7-Eleven (don't forget to use the coupon). I actually quite like this time when my cold fingertips gradually warm up.

The sunrise looked promising, so I wanted to stop by the Arakawa River too, but today was all about racing against the clock. With a heavy heart, I skipped it and headed straight for Isanuma.

Metasequoia at IsanumaThe autumn leaves would be perfect if they turned just a bit more brown, but “Oh well.” This "Oh well" attitude—whether in photography or life—is surprisingly important.
But... somehow the tree's “hair volume” seems to have decreased? Or is it just my imagination? I'll make a mental note to come back next year and see how it's doing.

As I drove toward Nōninji Temple, what came into view was "Kita Ward (Tokyo Metropolitan Area)"Signboard."
"Oh, right! Nakain and Kita-in temples should be at their best for autumn leaves!" I slammed on the brakes. I slid into a parking lot near Nakain and immediately turned on the camera.

This is absolutely correct.
the empress, the empress dowager and the grand empress dowagerThen, the morning sun hit the maple leaves just right, creating a sparkling reward moment. It was an irresistible instant for a beginner photographer (though I say that, I feel like I'm gradually sinking deeper into the rabbit hole).

To be continuedKita Ward (Tokyo Metropolitan Area)The view was splendid. However, it was a bit too early for the light to hit just right, so I took a few quick shots and left. Autumn leaves reveal a different expression with just a single ray of sunlight, making this a place I'd like to revisit.

Well, I was about to head to Nōnin-ji Temple... but checking my watch, the timing was a bit iffy. If opening is at 9 AM, I'd be cutting it close—no, I'd be way too late.
After agonizing over it, what suddenly came to mind was "Kawagoe Water ParkHere you can enjoy both ginkgo and metasequoia trees at the same time, plus the parking lot is spacious and reassuring. So, yet another course change. This kind of flexibility is part of the charm of morning activities.

And the result was... spot on.

A golden carpet of ginkgo leaves, floating maple leaves dancing in the breeze, the deep reddish-brown of the metasequoia trees. It was as if I had savored an entire “full-course meal of colors” all at once.
I got so caught up snapping photos that, sure enough, I was cutting it close.

As a result, I couldn't make it to the nursing home to pick up the luggage and went straight to my friend's place.
Please rest assured that I safely retrieved my father's belongings on my way home from work on Monday.

A little free time in the morning.
Though the places I can go are limited, that's precisely why I can focus and savor the scenery.
That's how the day began. Blessed with good weather, my heart was content. Morning light really is something special.

Isanuma | Morning light on the Metasequoia avenue captured from a diagonal angle

This photograph captures the Metasequoia avenue at Isanuma from a diagonal side angle, highlighting the beauty of the long shadows cast by the morning light filtering through the trees.

Isanuma | Silhouette of a Metasequoia capturing sunlight in a star shape

This photograph captures a Metasequoia tree at Isanuma from the front, with the sunlight intentionally rendered as starbursts, creating a fantastical atmosphere where the rays shine brilliantly.

Nakain｜The vivid contrast created by crimson maple leaves and emerald bokeh

This photograph captures the beauty of autumn leaves bathed in soft light, showcasing the striking contrast between the vivid red maple leaves in the foreground and the green bokeh spreading out in the background.

Nakain｜A serene scene woven by vibrant maple leaves and gates

This photograph captures the vividly colored maple trees within the temple grounds alongside the atmosphere of the outer gate, resulting in a composition that conveys both the seasonal feel and the temple's tranquility.

Kita-in Temple｜A cluster of beautiful autumn leaves coloring the tile roof

This photograph captures the beautiful cluster of autumn leaves spreading across the tile roof at Kita-in Temple, creating a picturesque scene where the temple architecture and the colors of nature harmonize.

Kawagoe Water Park｜The expansive Metasequoia avenue encircling the pond

This photograph captures the metasequoia trees lining the pond at Kawagoe Water Park, showcasing the grandeur of the avenue and the beauty of the autumn foliage in a sweeping view.

Kawagoe Water Park｜A Moment of Autumn Capturing Falling Ginkgo Leaves

This photograph captures the moment ginkgo leaves scatter at Kawagoe Water Park, dramatically expressing the dynamic scenery of autumn.

Kawagoe Water Park｜Vibrant Ginkgo and Fallen Leaves Paint the Entrance to Autumn

This photograph captures the ginkgo tree and its colorful fallen leaves near the pool entrance at Kawagoe Water Park, presenting a seasonal autumn landscape.

Shooting Diary, November 16, 2025 From Machida to Jindaiji Temple, then onto the Koshu Kaido. Work or autumn leaves—which was the main focus again? That kind of day.

That day, I had work in Machida starting in the morning.
First, I stopped by the Kawaguchi office to prepare the documents and get the camera ready... and before I knew it, I was just as hyped about prepping for work as I was about prepping the camera.
Even the person themselves no longer knows which one is the "main character."

The work in Machida went smoothly and wrapped up without a hitch.
(No, I really did take it seriously! But it's true that when I have my camera, I get so eager to go take pictures that my steps feel lighter...)

And straight to the “true main event.”
The destination was Machida Yakushiike ParkThe following is a list of the most common problems with the "C" in the "C" column.
A place I visited during the rainy season and thought, "Next time, I absolutely want to come during the autumn foliage, iris, or lotus season!"
Last time, I missed the irises and lotuses by just a little—a disappointing timing. Today is my chance for redemption.

The maple trees around the pond are beautifully colored, and both the drum bridge and the pond's reflection look great.
Birds fly overhead, thatched-roof buildings exude a rustic charm, and subjects are so densely packed that you don't know where to point your camera.
The fatigue from yesterday's trip to Mito? A single autumn leaf blows it right away.

After enjoying the photo shoot, it's a bit early, but Jindaiji TempleMove to.
It took less than an hour by car. My luck with traffic is still going strong today.
When you think of Jindaiji Temple, you think of soba noodles. Every place looked delicious and got me excited, but they all had huge lines.
This time, I reluctantly gave up. ...Yeah, I can always come back another time. Jindaiji Temple isn't going anywhere.

Snap a quick photo and head to the next destination.
Actually, I had a meeting with a friend at Nishikokubunji Station at 2:00 PM that day.
It was pretty selfish of me to just blurt out "Then let's meet at Nishi-Kokubunji!" based entirely on my own convenience.
My friend, thank you.

On the way to Nishi-Kokubunji, something sparkled at the edge of my vision at an intersection.
"What the heck is this!?" I thought, so I made a U-turn to check it out,Autumn Foliage Along Fuchu's Zelkova AvenueThe following is a list of the most common problems with the "C" in the "C" column.
The golden trees lining the avenue are bathed in light, and if I had the time, I'd want to photograph them forever.
But since my meeting with a friend is coming up soon, I'll just take a few shots and reluctantly head out.

Upon arriving at Nishi-Kokubunji Station, I noticed an intriguing park near the station.
Musashi Kokubunji ParkIn the center stands a magnificent ginkgo tree—one you'll regret not visiting.
Picked up a friend and forced a detour on the way. How grateful I am for a friend who'll go along with a sudden "photo break"...

And then, the “real main event” of the day,
Ginkgo Avenue along the Koshu HighwayHey!
I finally got to visit this place I'd long wanted to see. Looking down from the footbridge, the golden tunnel stretching endlessly along both sides of the road was truly spectacular.
It was just dusk, with the backlight streaming in. The sky was pale, but the atmosphere was perfect. I could have kept taking pictures forever.

After that, I looked around thinking, "Let's eat Hachioji ramen!" but it was closed for the day.
So I decided to head back home and was driving toward the Ken-O Expressway when I spotted another beautiful row of ginkgo trees in the right-turn lane.
The curve and the ginkgo line made for a perfect composition, but because I was in the right-turn lane, I couldn't stop...
The opposite lane was jammed, so I couldn't turn back...
"Ahhh... I'll just have to come back next year..." was all I could mutter.

Instead of having Hachioji ramen for dinner, I went to the local Kurumaya Ramen.
My first car and ramen as an adult.
I ordered the corn butter miso ramen.
This was incredibly delicious, and I ended up with an unexpected “victory to finish off the meal” before heading home.

So, I spent the whole weekend having a blast,
On this Tuesday morning as I write this, my body still feels completely drained.
But precisely because the season of autumn leaves is fleeting, it makes you want to run through it with all your might.

Machida Yakushiike Park｜A picturesque composition where the drum bridge viewed through maple trees captivates

This photograph was taken at Machida Yakushiike Park, framed to look up at the Taiko Bridge from beneath a beautiful maple tree.

Machida Yakushiike Park｜A fantastical distant view where sea of clouds effects and ginkgo trees harmonize

This photograph captures a distant ginkgo tree at Machida Yakushiike Park, taken at the moment when the sea of clouds effect was projected onto the Taiko Bridge.

Jindaiji Temple｜Autumn leaves viewed from high above and the warm scenery of shop fronts

This photo was taken at Jindaiji Temple, capturing the autumn leaves and the dango shop from a slightly elevated vantage point.

Jindaiji Temple｜The pure autumn scenery where the ginkgo trees within the temple grounds shine golden

This photograph captures the beautiful autumn colors of the ginkgo trees within the grounds of Jindaiji Temple.

Zelkova Tree-Lined Street (Fuchu) | A seasonal snapshot of the town where zelkova trees and buses harmonize

This photograph captures the autumn foliage of the zelkova trees lining Zelkova Avenue (Fuchu) and buses passing by.

Musashi Kokubunji Park｜The beauty of crimson maple leaves standing out against a backdrop of yellow ginkgo trees

This photograph was taken at Musashi Kokubunji Park, capturing a vivid red maple tree against a backdrop of yellow ginkgo leaves.

Ginkgo Avenue along the Koshu Highway｜A ginkgo tree-lined avenue with focus on road signs to emphasize depth

This photograph was taken along the ginkgo tree-lined road of the Koshu Kaido, focusing on the road sign in the background and capturing the continuing ginkgo trees as the backdrop.

Kōshū Kaidō Ginkgo Avenue | A photo showcasing the depth of field with focus on the ginkgo trees

This photograph was taken along the Kōshū Kaidō Ginkgo Avenue, focusing on the ginkgo trees from a bridge over the road while blurring the cars and other traffic.

Shooting Diary, November 15, 2025 A day of deep breaths in Ibaraki. From Kairakuen to Kasama, chasing the autumn leaves.The following is a list of the most common problems with the "C" in the "C" column.

That week, the weather forecast unusually predicted "sunny" for both Saturday and Sunday.
I'd been feeling restless since midweek, sensing this was my chance. Lately, it's been one of those classic photographer's struggles: sunny days mean work, and when I can take time off, it's cloudy...
This week, I'm finally going to take those photos, I thought to myself, clenching my fist in determination.

That said, I have a bit of work to do Sunday morning, and I also have plans to meet a friend.
That meant the decisive day was Saturday. As someone who absolutely loves morning activities, I was already in full travel mode at that point.

The question is "where to go."
This is actually the most fun part. On Thursdays and Fridays, I hold my own mental tourism conference: "Yamanashi? Or Ibaraki?"
I'd like to go to the Mount Fuji area too, but not being able to see Mount Fuji really gets to me mentally...
After much deliberation, I decided to visit Ibaraki this year, a place I hadn't yet traveled to.

Of course, on the day itself, it was business as usual—up at 4 a.m.
Here I am, my usual self—rising before the alarm clock, before the sun. Up and out immediately, cruising smoothly along the Outer Circular Road and Joban Expressway, and before I knew it, I was in Mito.
"Huh? Already here?" That's how crisp and light it is. I usually head toward Oarai when visiting Ibaraki, but coming to Kairakuen feels somehow fresh.

Since I arrived earlier than planned, I started with breakfast at Gusto.
A fried-egg breakfast really hits the spot...! Is it just me, or does having a delicious breakfast alone make me feel like my chances of success on a trip go up?

As the sun came out, the first place we headed to wasIbaraki Prefectural Museum of HistoryThe ginkgo tree-lined avenue.
This place is truly beautiful during its peak season. But when we arrived... the clouds looked ominous.
"Nah, it'll clear up soon," I said, putting on a brave front. Since I planned to come back later, I went ahead and...Momiji Valley at KairakuenWalk on.

After walking for about 15 minutes, I arrived to find the autumn leaves softly colored.
The morning light is still rather faint, and it seems it'll take a little while for the sun to reach the valley.
Wait a moment before starting to shoot! The view when the light finally broke through was truly special.

On the way back to the History Museum,KairakuenBehind the building, the area around the pond also featured beautifully colored metasequoias and autumn foliage, so I took plenty of photos there too.
And when I returned, the ginkgo-lined avenue was already bustling with photographers and strollers. Just walking down the path, with its golden leaves swaying in the breeze, made me whisper, "I'm so glad I came."

Next, we headed to a spot we'd never been to before,
Kasama Art Forest ParkThe following is a list of the most common problems with the "C" in the "C" column.
Honestly, I was walking around feeling anxious, wondering, "Where are the autumn leaves...?" But the moment I stepped out into the plaza, the view suddenly opened up and I was moved.
Maple trees surround the pond, their leaves turning vibrant colors, creating a giant stage of autumn foliage.
I couldn't help but mutter, "Damn..." Seriously.

Next up is Kasama city center.
Personally, I believe “Kasama chestnuts” are the best, but that aside,
Sashirayama Foot Hills Park) The carpet of fallen ginkgo leaves is soft and fluffy, and the children playing innocently are adorable.
Seeing scenery like this really cleanses the soul, doesn't it?

as isKasama Inari ShrineWhen I arrived, the Chrysanthemum Festival was in full swing and bustling with people!
."Kasama History Exchange Center IzutsuyaI stopped by the flower shop too, and the scent of chrysanthemums wafted softly through the air—even I, who's usually insensitive to smells, thought, “Ah, that smells nice.”
The shrine grounds offered one captivating scene after another, and I couldn't help but sigh at the collaboration of autumn leaves and chrysanthemums.

FinallyAtago Mountain (Atago Tengu Forest)We stopped by to enjoy the autumn leaves near the torii gate and the view before heading back.
Since I had work the next day, I headed home early this time.
With almost no traffic jams, I made it home smoothly, making it a thoroughly satisfying day.

After all, autumn is the best.
And early mornings are... a photographer's best friend.

Ibaraki Prefectural Museum of History｜A heartwarming scene where ginkgo trees and everyday life blend together

This photograph was taken at the Ibaraki Prefectural Museum of History, capturing a row of ginkgo trees and a passing stroller from the side.

Kairakuen (Momiji Valley) | Seasonal scenery created by maple leaves spreading across the roof

This photograph captures the scene at Kairakuen (Momiji Valley), where autumn leaves spread over the roof of the rest area.

Kairakuen｜An evocative autumn scene where statues and autumn leaves coexist

This photo captures a statue and the autumn foliage I encountered while heading to the Ibaraki Prefectural Museum of History at Kairakuen.

Kasama Art Forest Park｜Autumn foliage views around the pond, seen through maple trees

This photograph captures the autumn foliage spreading around the pond from beneath the maple trees at Kasama Art Forest Park.

Sashirayama Foot Hills Park (Sashirayama Rokko Park) | A single shot where maple leaves glow translucent against a backdrop of yellow carpet

This photograph was taken at Sabakayama-roku Park (Sabakayama Foot Hills Park), capturing the vibrant red maple leaves from behind against a backdrop of the expansive yellow carpet of ginkgo leaves, with a conscious focus on the soft light.

Kasama History Exchange Center Izutsuya｜A splendid landscape where chrysanthemums and historic buildings harmonize

This photograph captures the vibrant chrysanthemums in full bloom at the Kasama History Exchange Center Izutsuya, taken at an angle to showcase the historic building.

Kasama Inari Shrine｜A beautiful display with a charming atmosphere where Japanese umbrellas create a striking effect

This photograph captures the beautiful display of Japanese umbrellas near the entrance of Kasama Inari Shrine.

Atagoyama (Atago Tengu Forest)｜A mystical and beautiful autumn scene woven by torii gates and autumn leaves

This photograph captures the beautiful scene of the torii gate leading to the shrine and the autumn foliage at Atago Mountain (Atago Tengu Forest).

Shooting Diary, November 8, 2025 A sunny Saturday, drawn by the autumn leaves—from Utsunomiya to Kofu Shrine, then to the Watase Valley

Saturday morning, the sky was sparkling clear! The forecast said "rain on Sunday." ──Well, if I'm going out, Saturday's the only day.
Clear skies across the entire Kanto region, and the start of the autumn foliage season. Spreading out the map, I agonized over "I want to go here, but that place is also hard to pass up." Ultimately, I chose the golden route through Tochigi and Gunma.

Yes, of course I get up at 4 a.m.
I can almost hear someone saying, "It's the same as always," but yes, I'm the type who revs up early in the morning, no matter if it's a weekday or weekend.

First, we headed to the place that got "rained out" last year.Utsunomiya Station East ParkIt's a rematch.
Lucky timing—I arrived just as the morning sun was streaming through! There was even a guy taking photos with his bike among the ginkgo trees, and I couldn't help but get lost in the scene, thinking, "What a picture-perfect moment."
Though it was still a bit early for the yellow carpet, the contrast between light and leaves was beautiful. Climbing the stepladder and trying out various compositions, I became completely absorbed. This is exactly what cameras are for, isn't it?

My stomach growled, so next I headed to the nearby Joyful. For some reason, I ordered the “Chicken Tempura Set Meal” instead of breakfast. A hearty bowl of rice and fried chicken first thing in the morning—and it was delicious!
Not just a "morning set meal," but a "morning battle meal."

Visited to walk off a mealTochigi Central ParkMaple, rose, and metasequoia trees—all tall trees—glistened in the autumn light. The reflections of the autumn leaves on the pond were also splendid, creating a feeling of “autumn's quiet gym.” Before I knew it, I had completed a full loop of the walking course.

Now, finally, today's main event──Komine ShrineThe following is a list of the most common problems with the "C" in the "C" column.
About an hour from Utsunomiya, this is a fall foliage spot that moved me last year too.
The moment I stepped through the torii gate, it was truly breathtaking. Light streamed through the trees, their leaves a blend of red and yellow. This is the very stage of autumn foliage crafted by the gods. I can only feel gratitude.
I'll make a mental note to definitely go again next year.

And then, just for the heck of it, one more place. The place where I went to see the peach blossoms in spring—"Watarase Valley Railway"Let's go there too!" I said as I grabbed the steering wheel... but this is where the little adventure began.

Heading toward Gunma on the mountain road from Kofu Shrine, with only three bars of gas left. "Well, it should be fine," I thought lightly—that was my downfall.
A deserted mountain road, endless curves, dappled sunlight filtering through the trees—it felt like the opening scene of a horror movie. Halfway through, I genuinely worried, "Will I ever make it back?"

At that moment, a gas station near the Ashio Copper Mine appeared like a savior. Truly a “beacon of civilization.”
The relief I felt after safely completing refueling... It hit me harder than coffee ever could.

After all that, we finally arrived at "Sōri StationJust then, the trolley train pulled in! God was watching over us.
FurthermoreKobe StationBut I got lucky again—I managed to photograph the autumn leaves and the train.

Last isgrassy lake＆Tomihiro Museum of ArtAdmiring the autumn leaves, we bought souvenirs and groceries before reaching our destination.
A day-long journey from Tochigi to Gunma, burning through both gas and passion.

After getting home, I looked through the camera data and thought to myself, "Ah, autumn really is the season that moves people."
And then, the following weekend too—the 4 a.m. alarm would quietly ring.

Utsunomiya Station East Park｜Ginkgo Biloba Trees Shining in the Morning Sun

This photo was taken early in the morning in Utsunomiya Station East Park as the morning sun shone yellow on the gingko trees, capturing a beautiful moment of golden light spreading in the silence.

Tochigi Central Park｜Mirror of Autumn Leaves Reflected in Pond

This photo, taken in Tochigi Central Park, shows the beautiful reflection of autumn leaves surrounding a pond on the surface of the water, capturing the scene as it is on a calm autumn day.

Tochigi Prefectural Central Park｜A sundial statue against a backdrop of autumn leaves

This photograph captures a bronze statue of a child's sundial against the backdrop of vibrant autumn foliage at Tochigi Prefectural Central Park, creating a serene image that evokes the harmony between art and nature.

Kofu Shrine｜Overlapping Gradations of Autumn Leaves

This photograph was taken at Kofu Shrine, capturing the autumn foliage of azaleas against the backdrop of a hedge's autumn colors and vibrant trees. The layered interplay of hues is particularly striking.

Komine Shrine｜Torii gate and autumn leaves

This photo was taken at Komine Shrine, a collaboration of the torii gate and the red and orange autumn leaves, representing the beauty of a typical Japanese autumn landscape.

Sawairi Station (Watarase Gorge Railway)｜Autumn scenery of autumn leaves and trains

This photo was taken from a bridge near Sawairi Station (Watarase Gorge Railway) as the trolley Watarase Gorge passes by, capturing a typical autumn scene of autumn leaves and trains.

Kobe Station (Watarase Gorge Railway)

This photo was taken at Kobe Station with the autumn leaves at the moment the Torocco Watarase Gorge train left the station, and it is a nostalgic shot that evokes the end of the trip.

Tomihiro Museum of Art｜Architectural beauty seen through autumn leaves

This photograph, taken at the Tomihiro Museum of Art, shows the glass walls of the museum through the maple trees, creating a sophisticated landscape where nature and architecture are in harmony.

Photography Diary November 2, 2025: Nikko Autumn Foliage Expedition, Traffic jam at the end of 5 hours

On this day, I was full of enthusiasm from the morning.
The weather forecast had been saying for some time that "clear skies are guaranteed! I decided to go to Nikko without hesitation.
The autumn leaves are also at their best, and my heart is racing.
I had taken pictures the day before and had no problems at all.
I am still young! I am young! --Let me say it twice.

There were only two missions for the day.
Mission 1:Akechidaira ObservatoryTo take pictures of Kegon Falls and Lake Chuzenji from the
Mission 2:Mount Half Moon ObservatoryTo take a picture of Haccho Dejima from the
Simple and roomy plan.
I won't be extravagant today. I will take pictures for sure!" I promised myself, and left Kawaguchi at 4:30 in the morning.
The time required is approximately 2 hours. Plenty of time to spare. ...... so until this time.

Yes, I can already see the end result.
I underestimated it. Nikko's autumn foliage season.
No, it's not that I was licking my chops, it's that I didn't know. I didn't know the seriousness of the autumn foliage traffic jam.

As a result, it took about five hours to reach the parking lot at Akechidaira.
Halfway through, he didn't move at all, to the level of "Is this training?" level.
Apparently due to the ropeway being shut down the day before due to strong winds,
On this day, tourists were concentrated all at once. Moreover, it was the middle of a three-day weekend.
I had to laugh and say, "No...on a day like this..."

When it was finally my turn, this time the sky looked strange.
"Oh no... is it now, Weather?"
Clouds were appearing more and more and the view was whitish.
Still, I managed to snap a few shutters and made a mental note to come back next year.
Next time I will try to leave at 2 am. Yes, I am prepared.

After that, the next destination ...Mount Half Moon ObservatoryTo.
Traffic was quite congested on the way, but we found a "short cut" sign and proceeded smoothly.
On the wayLake Chuzenji ObservatoryNantai and take a break to view the autumn leaves against the backdrop of Mt.
Finally, we arrived at the parking lot of the Half Moon Mountain Observatory.

But here is another incident.
I can't see the lake!"
Yes, the observatory was further up the mountain.
A 30-minute one-way hiking course. I cursed myself a little for not knowing.
Still, we regained our spirits and climbed to the summit, gasping for breath.

And what awaited us - the most spectacular view.
Haccho Deshima juts out into Lake Chuzenji, and Mt.
The scenery, which is the essence of “autumn in Nikko,” blew away my fatigue.
It was a small observatory, but I kept snapping the shutter like crazy and was very satisfied.

The way home,Iroha slopeWhile going down the road, I suddenly saw a few cars on the side of the road.
I was curious and stopped, and there it was.Kenganbou ObservatoryThe following is a list of the most common problems with the "C" in the "C" column.
The valley of autumn leaves spread out below us, dyed in the evening twilight, and it was just magnificent.
It seemed to be a hole in the road where only a few cars could park, and the view was a final reward.

The traffic jam continued, and we returned home after 9:00 p.m.
Dinner was two rice balls from a convenience store.
But strangely, a sense of fulfillment prevailed over fatigue.
Traffic jams and mountain climbs are all for this view.
It was one of those days.

Akechidaira Observatory｜Fantastic autumn scenery with waterfalls in the shade

This photo shows Kegon Falls and Lake Chuzenji from the Akechidaira Observatory in Nikko.

Iroha-zaka｜A spectacular drive in autumn with mountain roads lined with autumn leaves

This photo shows the Iroha slope, taken from the Akechidaira ropeway.

Mount Half Moon Observatory｜Quiet lake scenery in autumn with a sense of expanse

This photo was taken from the Hangetsuyama Observatory from a slightly pulled-back perspective of the view of Hacchodeshima and Lake Chuzenji.

Lake Chuzenji Observatory｜Magnificent view of the lake and mountains

This photo was taken from the Chuzenji-ko Observatory in Nikko, with a broad view of Lake Chuzenji and Mt. Nantai.

Mount Hangetsu Observatory｜A spectacular view of the island and the mountains during the fall foliage season

This photo was taken from the Hantōgatsuyama Observatory, with Hacchodeshima and Mt. Nantai towering majestically above.

Mount Half Moon Observation Deck｜Autumn mountains in subdued tones

This photo was taken from the parking lot of the Half Moon Mountain Observatory with a slightly darker tone to show the mountains in autumn colors.

Kengamine Observation Deck｜Spectacular cliff scenery colored by crimson autumn leaves

This photo was taken at the Tsurugamine Observatory to show the beautiful cliffs adorned with bright red autumn leaves.

Kengamine Observation Deck｜Autumn Moments when Light, Autumn Leaves, and Waterfalls Come Together

This photo was taken at the Tsurugamine Observatory, showing the autumn leaves, the waterfall, and the slight light that shines on it.

Photography Diary November 1, 2025 Under cloudy skies, the shutter still clicks

Rain was forecast all weekend.
I thought, "Here we go again ......," but somewhere along the way I had a small hope.

The night before, however, the weather forecast changed slightly and read, "Maybe it will be sunny.
Seriously. This may be the first weekend in a long time that I can shoot with a lot of gusto.
At the moment I thought that, my heart felt light and fluffy.

The autumn leaves are gradually descending on the Kanto region, and the trees along the streets are beginning to change color little by little.
The next day, we were planning to go to Nikko, but before that, we thought we would go to a nearby place to “loosen up” our shoulders,
After several candidates, we choseChichibu Muse ParkIt was.

This place is known for the early coloring of the gingko trees.
I visited last year, but that time I only took pictures with my phone.
I put my camera in my bag and started fidgeting the night before, thinking, "This year, I'm going to take my revenge with a mirrorless camera.

On the day of the event, we woke up at 4:30 a.m., a little looser than usual.
After a cup of coffee and some light housekeeping, we are on our way.
As we drove away, dawn broke and the eastern sky began to turn orange.
It was not long before I thought, "This is going to be a beautiful day."

As we approach Chichibu, clouds spread across the sky.
He chuckled as he mumbled, "Oh, my God, ......."
But once you've come this far, there's no turning back.

When we arrived at the site, as expected, the sky was overcast.
Even so, the sun occasionally shines through the clouds,
The gingko trees have turned a soft golden color.

The light on a cloudy day is somewhat calm and gentle.
The shadows of the leaves are soft and add depth to the photo.
You don't have to have clear skies to take a good picture."
Such a realization made me a little happy.

After the shoot, I was on my way home when I thought, "Let's go home early today.
Suddenly, I remembered that I had a mailbox at my parents' house in Kawagoe, and decided to make a detour.
When I finished my errands and went outside, the sun finally peeked out from between the clouds.

I searched nearby, thinking, "Maybe I can get some more shots."
That's where I found it,Cosmos field in ShimokosakaThe following is a list of the most common problems with the "C" in the "C" column.
Pink and white cosmos flowers were swaying in the wind in a flower field spreading out in a residential area.
The petals shine slightly transparent in the evening light.
It was a quiet, peaceful, and somewhat nostalgic scene.

I did not take a special spectacular view on this day.
But even under cloudy skies, flowers bloom and leaves turn color.
It was a day when I could feel such a natural thing through the viewfinder.

It was only a few hours of filming,
It's like an autumn breeze blowing easily through the back of my mind,
It was such a time.

Chichibu Muse Park｜The Beauty of Ginkgo Leaves Swaying on Spider Threads

This photo was taken at the Chichibu Muse Park, close up of a ginkgo leaf hanging from a spider's thread.

Chichibu Muse Park｜Golden avenue lined with fallen leaves

This photo was taken at Chichibu Muse Park, where the fallen leaves of the gingko trees continue into the distance.

Chichibu Muse Park｜Cute Autumn Scenery with Train-Shaped Buses

This photo was taken at Chichibu Muse Park of a train-shaped park bus and beautiful autumn leaves.

Shimokosaka Cosmos Field｜Cosmos flowers sparkling in the light

This photo was taken at the Shimokosaka cosmos field, where the cosmos shimmered in the light in the backlight.

Photography Diary October 30, 2025, 20 minutes lunch break, to autumn cosmos

On this day, I had decided from the morning. "Let's go take pictures at noon today.
The destination is a 15-minute drive from the office.Adachi-ku Urban Agricultural ParkThe following is a list of the most common problems with the "C" in the "C" column.
Once I hear that the "cosmos is in full bloom," I can't sit still.
My excuse to myself is "Just 20 minutes, just 20 minutes!
With that lighthearted attitude, I set out with my camera slung over my shoulder.

Driving in the afternoon sun.
The immorality of this “shooting during work” is not so bad, is it?
It feels as if you have just grazed a little bit of freedom.

When I arrived at the park, cosmos were all over the place, swaying in the autumn breeze.
Pink, white, and pale orange glint in the sunlight,
Just walking through them, camera in hand, makes you lose track of time.
Looking around, everyone from the elderly to the young were snapping their shutters as they pleased.
It's strange because only in moments like these does the world seem a little calmer.

As I was snapping the shutter in a frenzy, 20 minutes passed in the blink of an eye.
I have to get back."
We left the park looking back with regret.
The shadow of the cosmos flower is burned into the back of my lens and won't go away.

Back at the office, I spent the afternoon doing my usual computer work.
The light on the display is dazzlingly bright, different from the sun earlier.
I looked at the camera on my desk and giggled.
I'm glad we got the shot."

Lunch ended up being two rice balls from a convenience store.
But strangely, my heart was more satisfied than my stomach.

It was only a 20-minute outing, though,
It was enough time for me to reorient myself within the season.

Adachi City Urban Agricultural Park｜A fantastic view through cosmos

This photo was taken at the Adachi Ward Urban Agriculture Park and shows the Sky Tree in the distance through the pink-tinged cosmos.

Adachi-ku Urban Agricultural Park｜The beauty of cosmos fields lined up in regular rows

This photo was taken at the Adachi Ward Urban Agricultural Park to show the cosmos fields that are beautifully lined up in rows.

Photography Diary October 29, 2025 A Little Convenience Store Truth

Wednesday, October 29, 2025 The time is 16:50.
I headed to the company kitchen to take a break.
The moment I looked out the window to make a cup of coffee or something to refresh myself - or so I thought,
What caught my eye was a bright red sunset.

Wow, I can't miss this!"
Lately I've been so busy with work that I haven't had a chance to take sunset photos at all,
This was not the only sight to be missed.

I found my mouth moving on its own.
I'm off to the convenience store!"
--leaving a completely unintelligible excuse, he went outside with the camera in his hand.

I headed to a place just around the corner from my office.Arakawa bankThe following is a list of the most common problems with the "C" in the "C" column.
The western sky turned orange and pink,
A shimmering streak of light stretched across the surface of the river.
The autumn air is a bit cool.

It was only a 10-minute shoot,
It was the kind of time that loosened my tense mind at work.
After all, sunsets work better than any fine coffee.

Now let's go take the first morning sunrise in a long time.
With such a small promise in mind,
I returned to the office without my convenience bag.

Arakawa bank｜A beautiful silhouette of a tree and the setting sun

This photo was taken on the bank of the Arakawa River, with a beautiful sunset and a single tree standing like a symbol.

Photography Diary October 24, 2025 Miscanthus shines even in cloudy weather. A one-day trip to Hakone with rainbows, traffic jams, and laughter

Miscanthus shines even on cloudy days. A one-day trip to Hakone with rainbows, traffic jams, and laughter

Friday, October 24, 2025.
It is a weekday, but I am paid! I've always wanted to go to Hakone.
Beyond my usual 4:00 a.m. wake-up routine, today I'm going tostaying up until 3 o'clock in the morningI was in the middle of the night. I rubbed my sleepy eyes and took a sip of freshly brewed coffee. I quietly started the car at a time when only the street lights were still shining.

Gaikan, Metropolitan Expressway, and Tomei.
On the way, there was a huge line of large trucks in the opposite lane.
To the drivers who have been running all night, thank you so much for your hard work.
The lanes here are smooth and the cool early morning air is pleasant.
My feelings are gradually rising for my first long drive in a long time.

Thus, we arrived in Hakone much earlier than planned.
It was still dimly lit, and the ridges of the mountains floated dimly.
Even in Hakone, which is indeed a tourist destination, it is quiet early in the morning.
After spinning around in search of an open parking space, I finally found a small parking lot.
I bought a parking ticket from a ticket machine that looked like a juice vending machine and said, "Okay, let's go!" I looked at the sky and froze.

Hmm?　It's cloudy?　And it's raining!

The day before the event, the weather forecast was for “clear skies across the country. I was completely caught off guard.
But now that we have come this far, there is no turning back.
I headed for the silver grass meadow without an umbrella, muttering to myself, "This is why the weather is so thrilling."

On the way walking, I found a Lawson.
But the restaurant opens at 7:00. Too bad!
There is a morning of travel.

And finallyImmaculate ConceptionThe group arrived at the silver grass meadows of the
A cluster of silver grasses rustles in the wind as the rain drizzles down.
Although there was no light, the silvery ears swayed like waves and looked fantastically beautiful.

...... and then.
Suddenly, the rain stopped and blue sky peeked through the clouds,
A rainbow is faintly visible over the mountains in the distance!
It was only a few minutes long, but it was the most heart-wrenching moment of the trip.
The ears of silver grass shone a little in the light, as if they were saying, "Come again.
Nature is capricious but kind.

Incidentally, the sun crosses the mountains around 8:00 a.m. at this time of year.
I see, next time I will try again at that time.

Next stop.Owakudani (region around Osaka Bay, esp. Tokyo Bay, but also Sakhalin and the Kuril Islands)The following is a list of the most common problems with the "C" in the "C" column.
The white smoke and sulfur aroma that billows up in the air is truly a “hellscape.
Unfortunately, the tour I had signed up for was cancelled due to rain, but I bought the famous black eggs.
It looks black on the outside, but it's hunky-dory on the inside.
It is a little salty!
The weather may be bad, but our stomachs are very happy.

The next stop wasHakone Open-Air MuseumThe following is a list of the most common problems with the "C" in the "C" column.
I knew of this place only by name, but when I actually entered it, I was impressed by the place.
Artworks are scattered throughout the spacious garden, creating a picturesque space no matter where you take your picture.
The glass art in the Picasso Pavilion was particularly impressive, and the colors stood out even in the cloudy light.
I would like to visit here again on a sunny day and during the season of autumn leaves.

Lunch is just around the corner.Dumpling CenterRamen noodles with fried dumplings" at
The crispy dumplings are submerged in the hot soup and soak into the cold body.
This is the reward of travel.

On the way home--
Heavy traffic from the Tomei offramp to the Metropolitan Highway tunnel!
I left at 3:00 p.m. and returned home at 8:00 p.m.
We ran at a leisurely pace with the radio as background music, laughing and thinking, "This is more of an expedition than a day trip.

Cloudy, rain, rainbows, traffic jams.
It was a day that showed us many different faces, but all in all, a great trip.
The whims of nature and the rewards of getting up early are all spice.

I knew it--
Morning activities are the spice of life.

Today's BGM (Spotify)
Ty Dolla $ign "TYCOON
This one is my partner for the 3 a.m. wake-up drive.
From the very first song, the “heavy bass of the groove” seeped into my body.
Ty Dolla $ign is a genius at collaboration.
No matter who he works with, he is not too assertive, but has a great presence. It is like a "versatile seasoning" in the music world.
TYCOON“ is the first new album in five years, and as the name suggests, it is full of ”bossy" content,
It has everything from moist to gory.
It's strange because when I was listening to it in the Tomei traffic on the way home, I thought, "Well, traffic jams are part of the rhythm.

■Today's Reading (Audible)
Hitomi Kanehara, "Meets the World
This is already a peculiar title.
The story is set in Kanehara's world, where a "cabaret girl who wants to die" and a "rotten girl who wants to be pushed" meet.
Yukari, who is passionate about anthropomorphic yakiniku manga, and Rai, a cabaret girl she meets at night in Kabukicho.
The conversation between the two, who have just started living together, is exquisite, and while it is funny, it is also heartbreaking.
It made me realize that both love for one's favorite and love in real life are ultimately connected to “living”.
After reading this work, there is a strange lingering feeling that makes you want to relive the mountains of Hakone on a quiet night once again.

Sengokuhara (Hakone)｜The land of golden silver grass

This photo was taken in Sengokuhara (Hakone), an endless expanse of silver grass meadows.

Sengokuhara (Hakone)｜A fantastic silver grass meadow with a rainbow

This photo was taken in Sengokuhara (Hakone) at the moment of a beautiful rainbow over a field of silver grass.

Hakone Open-Air Museum｜Stained glass that shines like a tower of light

This photo was taken at the Hakone Open-Air Museum, looking up at the "Symphony of Happiness" sculpture from below.

Hakone Open-Air Museum｜An angel of sorrow seen through a hedge

This photo was taken at the Hakone Open-Air Museum over the hedge of the "Angel of Sorrows" object.

Hakone Open-Air Museum｜Autumn scenery where autumn leaves and art harmonize

This photo was taken at the Hakone Open-Air Museum with the objects in the museum and the autumn leaves.

Hakone Open-Air Museum｜Mysterious sculptures shrouded in mist

This photo was taken at the Hakone Open-Air Museum through the trees of an object called "Hand of God" under cloudy and foggy skies.

Photography Diary October 18, 2025 Greedy Photography Tour under Autumn Sky

Saturday, October 18, 2025.

As usual, the morning was packed with plans. I heard that the weather was going to break on the following Sunday, so Saturday the 18th was a perfect day for shooting. I had a meeting with a friend at 10:30 a.m., but before that, I wondered if I could visit two or three places. I was thinking, "Can't I visit two or three places before that? Yes, I am a greedy person, no matter how you look at it (laughs).

On Friday lunch break, with a cup of coffee in hand, I began my preliminary research. One of the candidates was a cosmos field near the Miraikan in Kazo. It is a place that goes well with the morning sunrise, but it has been some time since the Instagram post, and I was concerned about whether the flowers had it or not. I've been too busy with work lately and not enough research before shooting...well, that's my excuse.

In the midst of all this, something suddenly caught my eye.Kangawa Yu~Yu~Land“. What a unique name for a place. When I checked it out, I found that it was right around the time of the Cosmos Festival! Moreover, I could go there early in the morning. I decided that this would be an interesting ”first visit" to the area.
I contemplated the route: Kamikawa -> Marigold Hill -> Konosu Cosmos Arena -> friend's house. Yes, a perfect flow. No, too greedy?

So, as usual, I woke up at 4:00 in the morning. Looking up at the still starry sky, I stretched lightly before setting off! Driving along the Kan-etsu Expressway, we got off at Honjo and headed for Kangawa. Dawn was beginning to break, and I was a bit nervous... "Oh no, will I make it in time for sunrise? I was nervous inside. But I was determined to drive safely. As a result, we made it just in time! We were greeted by an expansive cosmos field at a beautiful place with a campground attached.

Moreover, it was almost deserted! You have the cosmos all to yourself, illuminated by the morning glow. This is the moment when “getting up early is the best of all worlds. I was so engrossed in clicking the shutter that the sun was already high in the sky before I realized it. Oh, how wonderful!

Next, we headed to the "The weather was not so good last week.Marigold Hill Park". This time, we succeeded in taking revenge. Having visited this place many times, we quickly took the standard shots and quickly left.

The last one is "Cosmos Arena Fukage". It is originally the best spot for sunset, but the cosmos in the daytime is also quite beautiful. The colorful flowers are in full bloom in the sun and look like an autumn carnival. Next year, we will make a return visit at sunset!

I was immersed in shooting until the very last minute and rushed to my friend's house. My heart is as full as my camera bag is heavy.

Today's BGM (Spotify)
Amber Mark, "Pretty Idea
Amber Mark is a magician who moves freely between the past and the present. When you listen to this song, your sense of time disappears. No, it is a dangerous song that takes away the concentration of the photographer (laughs).

■Today's Reading (Audible)
Yasushi Kozumi, "Happiness Junction - A Little Miracle Brought to You by a Camper
This is another interesting story! The story is about the main character of a bankrupt transportation company who sets out on a journey to help others in a camper he received in lieu of severance pay. It is warm, like a road movie of encounters and rebirth. After reading this book, I felt like going on a trip myself. Or maybe I already have. With a camera in hand (laughs).

Kangawa Yoo-Yoo Land｜A spectacular view of the morning glow and cosmos in full bloom

This photo was taken at Kangawa Y~Y~Land, a spectacular collaboration of a stunning morning glow and cosmos fields in full bloom.

Kangawa Y~Y~Land｜Focusing on three cosmos trees, autumn flower scenery

This photo was taken at Kangawa Y~Y~Land with three cosmos flowers in focus and a beautifully blurred background.

Marigold Hill｜Contrast between marigolds and blue sky

This photo was taken on a hill of marigolds, looking up from a diagonal position, with a large marigold in the foreground and the symbolic tree in the background to complete the composition.

Marigold Hill｜Refreshing view of marigolds from the hill

This photo was taken at Marigold Hill, looking down on the marigold fields that flank it from a high vantage point.

Cosmos Arena Fukage｜A fantastic moment of pink cosmos shining in the backlight

This photo was taken at the Cosmos Arena Wipe-Up, the moment the light hits the pink cosmos in the backlight.

Cosmos Arena Fukiai｜Cosmos with pretty pink borders and autumn sky

This photo was taken at Cosmos Arena Fukiai, combining the bridge with lovely cosmos, which are white and only pink at the edges.

Cosmos Arena Fukiage｜Spacious cosmos field with pathways and bridges

This photo was taken at Cosmos Arena Fukiage and shows the expanse of the cosmos field, the path, the bridge in the distance, and the blue sky in clear detail.

Photography Diary October 12, 2025 Cloudy Triathlon. Chasing the Light to Gunma

Sunday, October 12, 2025.

The forecast for this weekend is "Saturday=rain, Sunday=sunny.
It would have been great if it had been the other way around..." I said selfishly to myself about the weather, but Saturday was an all-clear day for housework and errands.
Blog update → Father's hospital → Family shopping. After all that, I designate Sunday as "Shooting Day".

When we asked the weather master, he oracle said, "It looks like it will be fine in the Gunma area.
Marigold Hill Park, Gunma Flower Park, Nashitaka Observation Hill of Flowers, Iris Hill--.
I made a rather greedy plan to visit four hills of flowers.

Waking up at 4:00 in the morning. Excitement prevails over sleepiness.
But on the way to the highway, I noticed something. Where's the sun? Where's the sun?"
First stop.Marigold Hill Parkwas, by no means, cloudy. Completely gray.
It seems that there are other laws of the universe at work than weather forecasting.

."Gunma Flower ParkI had decided to "arrive at the airport at 9:00 a.m.," so I waited in the car for a while.
While practicing taking pictures in cloudy weather, he prays to the heavens, "Someone please teach me the technique to take beautiful pictures even in cloudy weather.

We finished our photo shoot at Marigold Hill Park and were on our way to our next destination.
I found a sign for "Juwari Soba" open in the morning!
Appetite won out over the spirit of the shoot, and I warmed up with chikuwa-ten soba noodles, filling me up with energy.
However, the sky was still in cloudy mode after that.
The weather forecast says "clear skies" but I think the Wi-Fi is off only over me.

Still, the newly renewedGunma Flower Parkis well worth seeing.
As I was surrounded by the scent of roses and marigolds, I murmured in my mind a hundred times, "This would be great if it were sunny.

And on the way to the next destination - Iris Hill.
Here it comes, sunshine!
At that moment, it hit me in the head.
The one that can make the most use of the light right now... the cosmos!"

Cosmos is a flower whose expression changes at once the moment it is exposed to sunlight.
Not wanting to miss that moment of soft petals shining through, I changed course with a sharp steering wheel.
Nasataka Observatory Flower HillThe first time I went to the airport, I went straight to the

It is truly a paradise of cosmos.
Flowers in full bloom were swaying in the wind and glistening in the sunlight that peeked through the clouds.
This is it, this is what I wanted to capture! I shouted in my heart, and enthusiastically clicked the shutter.
It was a cloudy day, but I felt that this one moment of light made it all worthwhile.

After being completely engrossed in the photo shoot, the final destinationIris HillTo.
The weather returned to overcast again, but the dahlias bloomed beautifully, and the result was a success.
We were told that the white sunflowers would soon be in bloom, and we headed home, leaving behind a lot to look forward to the next time.

Traffic was jammed on the Kan-etsu Expressway on the way home. However, even though it was a cloudy day, I felt fine.

Today's BGM (Spotify)
Jay Som "Belong
First new release in 6 years. The subtlety and warmth of indie rock is exquisite and perfect for a cloudy drive.
Looking back, her "Tenderness" is what got me hooked on indie female artists.
The title "Belong" is also good. It overlaps with my own search for a "place" in the hills of flowers.

■Today's Reading (Audible)
Kusakabe Yoji, "God's Hand: First and Second Edition
The story of Shirakawa, a surgeon who chose euthanasia for a terminal cancer patient, and the reporter who follows him.
This is a heavy but engaging book that depicts the gap between ethics and reality.
While stuck in traffic on the way home from a photo shoot, I couldn't help but take a deep breath at a stoplight as the unfolding story played through my car's audio system.

Marigold Hill｜Morning marigolds and trees

This photo was taken at dawn on a cloudy day in Marigold Hill Park, with the marigolds and symbolic tree in a composition looking up from below.

Gunma Flower Park｜Waves of flowers seen from the view

This photo was taken at Gunma Flower Park, looking down on the marigold fields and rest spots from the top of the observation platform.

Gunma Flower Park｜Shades of roses with depth

This photo was taken in the rose garden of Gunma Flower Park, and was taken from the side of a beautiful rose with a beautiful shape in dark.

Hashitaka Observation Hill｜Cosmos field seen from the sky

This photo was taken from a stepladder at the Nasataka Observatory Flower Hill, and shows a beautiful cosmos field from a little higher up.

Nitaka Observation Hill of Flowers｜Cosmos bathed in light

This photo was taken at the Nashitaka Observatory Flower Hill, focusing on the beautifully shaped cosmos facing upward in the cosmos field.

Iris Hill｜Dahlias in full bloom

This photo was taken at Iris Hill, where many beautiful dahlia flowers are busily blooming.

Iris Hill｜Floral formations that stand out for their individuality

This photo was taken at Iris Hill with an unusually shaped dahlia flower in a powerful composition.

Photography Diary October 5, 2025: A spur-of-the-moment drive and higanbana---To Saifo-ji Temple, Yokohama, under cloudy skies

Sunday, October 5, 2025.
The day before was quite hectic, as I spent the morning updating my blog on my PC, followed by a hospital interview with my father.
And on this day, too, a mission to drop off and pick up my daughter from her mock exam awaits.
Drop off in the morning and pick up around 3pm.
─ ─ Now, how to spend the time between the two.

Normally, one would look up at the overcast sky and say, "Let's take it easy today.
However, it is my nature to not wholesale so.
I get the itch to sit still.
I was sipping coffee while thinking, "I want to go somewhere...but I have to be picked up from Omiya at 15:00...hmmm..." At that time, I was thinking, "I want to go somewhere...".
Biccone! Suddenly inspiration struck.

Yes, in Yokohama.western templeYou have the
On Instagram in the morning, a follower said, "Just in time to see it!" I remembered that she had posted this.
This is the only way to go.
It may be past its full bloom, but I am strangely attracted to the word "just barely".
Perhaps it is a photographer's way of thinking, but it is this kind of “endgame” that makes me feel romantic.

Open the map app and check the distance. Less than 2 hours round trip.
I can do this!" and the traffic calculation AI in the brain instantly gives the GO sign.
We jumped in the car and set off at a brisk pace through the cloudy skies. The road trip was surprisingly smooth and comfortable, with no traffic jams.
It's a good start for a spur-of-the-moment action.

When I arrived at Seiho-ji Temple, it was already crowded with people.
After all, the name “Higanbana Temple” is not a mere pretense.
Both sides of the approach to the temple are lined with manjusaka flowers that once burned bright red.
Unfortunately, however, the red flower in the foreground is already dying.
I smiled bitterly, but as I walked deeper into the precincts, I saw colorful flowers that were still in good health!

The combination of lanterns and higanbana flowers is exquisite and looks like a Japanese festival.
The soft light gently enveloped the colors of the flowers, creating a fantastic atmosphere.
While holding the Canon EOS R, I repeatedly release the shutter.
I was gut-punched in my heart, "This is it, this is the kind of moment I wanted to capture."

By the time we finished shooting and left the precincts of the temple, the mood was completely sunny.
It was a day too good to be true for a random act.
Back in the car, I headed home with Cate Le Bon playing on Spotify.
No traffic, feeling good.
I find myself already making plans for next year, thinking, "Next time, it'll be an early morning challenge."

It seems I am the type of person who can't help but go.
Even at the end of the day, there are views you can only see if you go there.
That is the true joy of this little adventure called photography.

Today's BGM (Spotify)
Cate Le Bon "Michelangelo Dying
Kate Le Bon's music always distorts reality a bit. In her new album, Michelangelo Dying, guitars melt like Dali's clock, synths reverberate far and wide, and words change shape. Her love of Bowie and John Cale is deepened here, and her art pop takes on an even deeper, more solitary beauty. At the end of “Le Bon Land,” which she has spent 15 years building, she is still chasing the freedom of sound.

Saifo-ji Temple (Yokohama)｜Warm scenery with lanterns and orange higanbana flowers

This photo was taken at Saifo-ji Temple (Yokohama) with orange higanbana and lanterns together from the bottom of the stairs.

Saiko-ji Temple (Yokohama)｜Orange and red cluster amaryllis seen from the top of the stairs

This photo was taken at Saifo-ji Temple (Yokohama) looking down on the orange and red higanbana from the top of the stairs.

Photography Diary October 3, 2025 "Higanbana Hill" found under cloudy skies ── Photography Diary of an early morning stroll in Mizumoto Park

Friday, October 3, 2025.
On this day, we are grateful for the annual Katsushika Ward, TokyoMizumoto ParkTo.
I have been to this place many times during spring and summer with hydrangeas, irises, and ancient lotuses - but this year I heard for the first time that there is a "Higanbana Hill".
What is that? I didn't know there was such a place?" I was surprised, but my mind was buzzing with the thought that I had no choice but to go there.

......, but the Tuesdays and Wednesdays at the end of the month and the beginning of the month are packed with work.
Instead of doing morning activities, I spend my days in front of the computer, staring at "inventory counts" and "numbers.
Still not ready to give up, he woke up at 4:00 a.m. on Friday morning and decided to take revenge.
Here is where the usual “early bird special” kicks in.

We drove to Mizumoto Park when it was still dark. We arrived just before sunrise.
The parking lot is also quiet, but surprisingly there are a few walkers here and there.
We exchanged a few pleasantries as we walked through the dimly lit park.
The air is cool and the soil feels good underfoot.

After walking for a while, we finally found "Higanbana Hill.
It was here~!" I couldn't believe it. I had been going here for years, but I had no idea.
This is why you can never be too careful, even in the usual places. I tweeted something like, “It's in the regular places that new discoveries are made” - a quote of wisdom from this morning.

Waiting for the sun to rise. But the clouds are still at .......
As I thought to myself, "What a subtle thing," the cloudiness grew thicker and thicker, and at last no light shone through.
Ah, this is a disappointing pattern.
Still, since I had come all this way, I set up my EOS R and snapped a few shots.
The higanbana under cloudy skies is not bad, as it has a somewhat moist atmosphere.
I told myself, "I'm not going to be able to see the whole picture..." and released the shutter.

Still, I wish the sun was out after all. ...... and look up at the sky, unmoved.
Photography is a world of difference with just a moment of light.
That's why it's difficult, fun, and makes you want to try again.
I wish I had the skills to take beautiful pictures even when it is cloudy,“ I muttered to myself, while in my mind I was already thinking about the composition of next year's photo shoot.

On the way home, in the car with a cup of coffee in my hand, I suddenly think.
The flowers, the weather, and the timing of work are not all as they should be.
But perhaps that uncertainty is the joy of photography.
Next time we will surely come back on a sunny day. When those hills get serious, I am sure there will be a tremendous sight waiting for us.

Today's BGM (Spotify)
Rochelle Jordan, "Through the Wall
Like the air in a late-night club, Rochelle Jordan's “Through the Wall” is glossy and serene. With the control of a Janet and the spaciousness of a Diana Ross, she tells us, "Don't be afraid to take up space. The sound of the 17 songs is supple and luxurious. She portrays dance music as "a place to reclaim yourself," with pop as her guiding light. The deeper the night goes, the more her world spreads comfortably.

Mizumoto Park｜Carpet of red cluster amaryllis seen from the top of the hill

This photo was taken in Mizumoto Park, looking down on the higanbana from the top of the hill.

Photography Diary September 29, 2025 Satte Gongendo, Don't miss the full bloom! Monday Dash's Higanbana Photography Diary

Monday, September 29, 2025.
The moment I opened my phone, my eyes were met with the words, "Satte GongendoHiganbana in full bloom! The text of the
What about ......?　May I ask you to wait a moment? Just a few days ago, I was thinking, “It's still a little while away...” and then, suddenly, it was in full bloom.
This is why higanbana is so tricky. They are the capricious queens of the flower world.

Monday morning I pound on my desk and regret that I should have gone on Sunday.
It's too late," my other calm self whispers in my head.
Yes, morning activities before work are impossible on Monday, and Tuesday and Wednesday are fixed busy days at the end of the month and the beginning of the month.
For all intents and purposes, it was supposed to be ...... impossible to photograph.

But my “shooting fool” spirit does not end there.
The technique of forcibly twisting the time to finish work, is activated.
Yes, we call it "the art of early go".
I indulged myself with the thought that it was okay once in a while, and before I knew it, the car was on the Metropolitan Expressway.
Today was another fine day. We arrived at our destination, Satte Gongendo, at exactly 5:00 p.m. after a brisk drive on the Tohoku Expressway.

At this point, the tension is maxed out.
From 5:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m., that's when the action is on!" and began preparations with almost the tension of a hot-blooded photographer.
The moment I grabbed my Canon EOS R and stepped into the cluster, I couldn't help but shout.
The evening sun is setting and the sky is tinged with gold. Crimson higanbana flowers spread out like waves through the sky.
Wow ...... this is amazing. A true “blazing fall prelude”.

Moreover, it was a Monday evening, so the place was sparsely populated.
It was quiet, with only the sound of the wind and the shutter clicking.
I thought to myself, "It's moments like this that made me take up photography in the first place.
The group of flowers I cut out was like a competition between light and shadow. I kept snapping the shutter, losing track of time.

Before I knew it, 30 minutes had passed.
As the red in the sky deepened, the fulfillment meter in my mind swung off.
I headed back home, congratulating myself on "a job well done, Monday Dash."
On the ride home, I soak up the afterglow while listening to R&B on Spotify.
The rhythm of the sound and the evening sky of Satte strangely matched, and it felt a bit like a movie.

The next day, Tuesday and Wednesday, of course, I was exhausted.
But every time I recall that sunset scene, I am truly glad that I went.
If you have time to regret, you better act.
Flowers don't wait for us, but the memory of that moment will remain.

Next year I'll probably do the same thing again, although I'm thinking of ...... a little earlier.
That is another way to enjoy the swamp called a camera.

Today's BGM (Spotify)
Mariah Carey, "Here for It All
I don't acknowledge time...─ Mariah Carey sings this at the beginning of her new album “Here for It All”. Her "I don't acknowledge time" attitude has become synonymous with her. Her insistence on only being photographed from the right side and her justification for being late are examples of her "diva-style pace. However, behind this is a resistance to the public gaze that grows colder with age. The entire album is filled with her will to renew her brilliance at her own rhythm, unbound by time.

■Today's Reading (Audible)
Ramo Nakajima, The Pig of Dagara 1
It was interesting. I was looking forward to the sequel to this book.
Taichiro Ooibe, a leading researcher on African witch doctors, is a popular “talent professor” on TV. His book, “Kill with the Power of Jutsu”, published during the psychic boom, became a bestseller. became a bestseller and a household name. However, his wife, Itsumi, has been deeply troubled since the death of their daughter, Shiori, in a balloon accident in Africa eight years ago. She eventually fell in love with a new religion that claimed to perform "miracles," and gradually left the family. In order to get Itsuki back, Oseibe teams up with Miracle, a magician, and embarks on a dangerous "plan to get Itsuki back"...

Kote Gongendo｜Carpet of higanbana turning red in the setting sun

This photo was taken at Satte Gongendo, where a carpet of higanbana flowers turn bright red in the setting sun.

Kote Gongendo｜Autumn scenery with higanbana dyed by sunset

This photo was taken at Satte Gongendo, together with the sunset viewed from the top of the embankment and the reddening higanbana.

Photography Diary: September 27, 2025, Guided by higanbana (cluster amaryllis)

September 27, 2025 After the autumnal equinox, higanbana flowers all over Kanto turn red.
This day was no exception, and we were greatly troubled from the night before by the "where to go problem. Koutokuji Temple in Shizuoka, Ganzutsumi Temple, or Saifo-ji Temple in Yokohama. I was even more greedy and was planning to go there to see the sunrise and higanbana flowers together.

However, the plan collapsed the moment I woke up in the middle of the night and checked the weather forecast. It was cloudy, cloudy, cloudy in both Shizuoka and Yokohama. My photos are “more about the sun,” so this was no match for me.
With my head in my hands, I said to myself, "Let's think for 10 minutes, I can't waste it," and began my search. Apparently, it was sunny in the Gunma/Tochigi area. Apparently there are places famous for higanbana (cluster amaryllis) in an area I had never been to before. If that's the case - I have no choice but to go.

Once I make a decision, I am quick, which is my special skill. We headed north on the pre-dawn road at once.

interpoint (interword separation)Shiroyama Park - Encounter with the Red Mountain

The first place I arrived at was Shiroyama Park in Motegi Town, Tochigi Prefecture. The higanbana blooming all over the mountain slope looked like a red carpet in the still soft morning light.
I am so glad I came...!" It was so beautiful that I couldn't help but shout out. It is a place that makes you want to visit again when the light shines brightly.

Surprises at unmanned stations. Tatara Station

Next was Tadara Station on the Moka Railway, which I happened to find along the way. Cosmos were swaying around the small unmanned station. I looked at the timetable and saw that a train was scheduled to arrive in a few minutes. I hurriedly set up my camera and snapped the shutter, and was rewarded with a wonderful collaboration of flowers and train.
When I learned that the SL train runs at this station, my expectations for the next trip grew even more. Coincidental encounters are one of the best parts of traveling, isn't that right?

Kochia turning red. East Takahashi Kochia Garden

The next stop was the Higashitakabashi Kochia Garden, which we had visited before. The kochia, which were green and round in the previous visit, turned bright red on this day. Combined with the neighboring rice paddies and higanbana (cluster amaryllis) blooming nearby, we felt the change of the season.

Tour of the village of higanbana and sunlight through the trees

And today's highlight. Gunma Prefecture "Yagihara Higanbana no Satoto the "Mere Old Man". The sight of countless red blossoms in the woods along the river and sunlight filtering through the trees is breathtaking. Black butterflies and swallowtail butterflies are fluttering about, and naturally the finger that presses the shutter can't stop.

On the way home, I also found a search for "Hayakawabuchi Higanbana no SatoWe also stopped by the "Hinokishin" (a place where the trees are dyed red in the forest). Here, too, a forest is covered in red, and the stage woven with light and shadow is like a fantasy.

And finally, Ota City's "Jorakuji TempleTo the "Mere Old Man". Slipping in before the sun set, we encountered higanbana flowers and stone statues bathed in the setting sun. It was a perfect ending to the day, a moment when red shone brightly in the silence.

We found ourselves in “greedy mode” for the day, visiting a whopping six places. Lunch? I had completely forgotten about it. I must have been so enchanted by the higanbana that even my stomach's memory was overwritten.

Today's BGM (Spotify)
dolo2000 "Let's Meet at Junes
California rapper dolo2000 was playing in the moving car.
The languid but dreamy cloud rap is music that seems to have been cut from a fragment of an urban night.
I was gripping the steering wheel, feeling a strange contrast between the “loose youthfulness” that was the exact opposite of my own chasing after red flowers.

■Today's Reading (Audible)
Momono Zoha, "The Hoshikuzu Murder"
At night, a space mystery on Audible. The "Space Hotel Locked Room Incident" begins with a hanging corpse in zero gravity space. Communication is cut off, murders occur one after another, and the passengers are peculiar....
You definitely shouldn't continue this tour! I couldn't stop listening to it.
Even if the era of space travel comes, I have decided that I would rather stay in a “safe business hotel than a space hotel.

Shiroyama Park (Motegi Town)｜Beautiful scenery with red, white, and orange higanbana and deep landscape

This photo was taken at Shiroyama Park (Motegi Town), where red, white, and orange higanbana flowers blend with the deep landscape.

Tadara Station (Moka Railway)｜A fantastic backlit shot of colorful cosmos in full bloom and a train

This photo was taken near Tadara Station on the Moka Railway, with the colorful cosmos in full bloom and the train from a backlit position, creating a fantastic reflection of the flowers and train.

East Takahashi｜A dynamic autumn landscape of pink kochias photographed with a wide-angle lens

In this photo, I used a wide-angle view of the kochia garden at East Takahashi to try to depict the scene of pink kochia spreading out.

Yagihara Higanbana no Sato｜A brightly lit shot of a swallowtail butterfly with its wings spread wide and vivid higanbana flowers

This photo was taken at Yagihara Higanbana no Sato, with a swallowtail butterfly with its wings spread wide and brightly lit higanbana flowers.

Hayakawabuchi Higanbana no Sato｜A scene of higanbana clusters extending deep into the valley, captured with an awareness of depth

This photo was taken at the Hayakawabuchi Higanbana no Sato (Higanbana Village), with an awareness of the depth of the Higanbana cluster that continues into the back of the village.

Jorakuji Temple (Ota City)｜A striking photograph of a stone statue among sparkling higanbana flowers

This photo was taken at Jorakuji Temple, focusing on a stone statue among the sparkling higanbana flowers and capturing the scene.

Photography Diary: September 21, 2025 Three views of autumn flowers - Cockscomb, cluster amaryllis and buckwheat flower

September 21, 2025 On this day, as usual, I woke up at 4:00 am. The engine was running at full throttle early in the morning, and my mind was already on the autumn flowers.
As autumn approaches, cosmos, higanbana (cluster amaryllis), and catechu (Japanese catechu) are abundant "seasonal appetizers" that can be enjoyed one after another before the autumn leaves change, making it a great time for camera enthusiasts to visit.

In search of Cockscombforest parkindicates direction or goal (e.g. "to")

The night before, as I got under the covers, I said, "Oh, last yearGerman VillageI remember with fondness, "Cockscomb was so beautiful when I saw it at the
I checked and found that Cato is also developing in Forest Park. And this year, it is at the west entrance plaza! It's nice to not have to walk to the back of the flower garden, but I also have a bit of a mixed feeling that I would have liked to have seen them at last year's location...

I left home early in the morning, but got stuck in a traffic jam on the highway and wondered if I would make it in time. I wondered if I would make it in time.
We arrived just in time and entered quickly from the west exit. The pool and athletic areas were packed with children, and I felt a bit nostalgic, thinking, "Oh, my children used to play like this in the old days.

Cockscomb was a little early blooming, but it was well worth seeing.
I especially like the pictures taken from afar with the telephoto lens, and I can't help but think, "Oh, my 70-200mm is still in use! I said to myself, "Oh, my 70-200mm lens is still working! I also enjoyed the beautiful coriolis field of flowers through the trees in a remote location!

First visit!Terasaka Terraced rice paddies

The next destination was the Terasaka Rice Terraces, which had been on my mind.
Here, red and white higanbana flowers bloom in terraced rice paddies, and Mt. If you like photography, you will say, "Oh! If you like photography, this combination will make you say, "Oh!
However, it was a little too early. Both the flowers and I are still in the process of "running for our lives".

Soba Flowers and a Little Unfulfilled

The weather was getting doubtful and I thought, "It's time to go home..." but I made one more stop.
."Chichibu Hanami no SatoThe flowers of soba (buckwheat noodles) were admired at the "Soba Noodles" exhibition. It was refreshing to see a field of white flowers spreading all over the place, and the aroma of autumn wafted into my nostrils.

The truth is that "Ryogamisanroku Hana no Sato Dahlia GardenI wanted to go all the way to the "Mere Old Man" but the weather and time were not on my side and I had to abandon the idea. I decided to save it for next year's homework.

The last dish is soba noodles!

Roadside Station Hanazono" where we stopped on the way home.Jyuwari Soba Restaurant Hanazono SobaThe restaurant was a great success, and the food was delicious.
After eating a hearty portion of inexpensive and delicious soba noodles, I headed back home, thinking to myself, "Ah, I'm glad I woke up early today, too.

Today's BGM (Spotify)
Calm Vibes Collective　A hot and humid summer day
I often enjoy a wide range of genres, including city pop, electro-pop and lo-fi.

Musashi Hill Forest Park｜Fantastic Cockscomb Flower Field Peeping Through a Grass Tunnel

This photo was taken at the Musashi Hills Forest Park's West Entrance Plaza flower garden, looking into the back from the grass tunnel in front of the flower garden; the field of catechu flowers seen through the tunnel is fantastic.

Musashi Hill Forest Park｜Corius field with a sense of depth and expansive flower landscape

This photograph of the Komorebi Flower Field in Musashi Hills Forest Park shows a scene of brightly colored corius fields extending all the way to the back, composed with an awareness of depth to convey a sense of scale of the entire flower field.

Terasaka Terraced Paddy Fields｜Red spider lilies and ears of rice blend together to form an impressive floral landscape

This photo was taken in the Terasaka terraced rice paddies, with the red higanbana flowers, rice paddies, and towering Mt. Mukou in the background, consciously placed to emphasize the landscape where nature and human life are integrated.

Chichibu Hanami no Sato｜Natural scenery of white buckwheat noodles flowers and magnificent mountain ranges

This photo was taken at Chichibu Hanami no Sato, combining the pure white blooming soba flowers with the towering Mt. Mukou in the background, a magnificent natural scene that can only be enjoyed in Chichibu.

Photography Diary September 14, 2025.　Searching for autumn colors at the beginning of bloom: Akebonoyama Agricultural Park and a walk in Matsudo

September 14, 2025

Following yesterday, the weather was also unstable on this day...
I thought, "Well, where should I go?" but I ended up waking up in a lazy mode. I woke up a little later than usual. I helped a little with the housework and started the day at a leisurely pace.

What shall we do today?" I wondered, "What shall we do today?" and set off for a light drive for now!

Akebonoyama Agricultural Park

First, we headed to "Akebonoyama Agricultural Park" They were actually supposed to come early in the morning, but they arrived late.

The sensation cosmos in front of the windmill seems to be a long way off. But instead, the two sides of the red-flowered cosmos are in full bloom again, which is nice!
It may be a little difficult to match them with the windmills, but the vivid array of blooms was a sight to behold.

We also scouted the area at the back of the park. The manjusaka...hmmm, they are not in bloom yet. I am sure they will color together when the sensation is at its best.

Matsudo, JapanTozai-ji Templeindicates direction or goal (e.g. "to")

I thought to myself, "I should cut it short here," but then I decided to make a detour to Matsudo.

The gate and deep greenery, which would definitely look good during the fall foliage season, were photographed despite the lack of light.
The cloudy skies, on the contrary, created a calm and serene atmosphere, which was surprisingly not bad!

Preliminary inspection of Soko-in Temple

I was even more greedy and went to Soko-in Temple, which is Soko-in Temple, which is known for its manjusaka flowers.
As expected, the flowers had not yet bloomed, and only a few light pink and yellow cluster amaryllis were showing their faces.

But I am sure this place will be beautiful when it is in full bloom! I am sure.
This year, we plan to explore new places around "Sokoin", "Terasaka Terraced Rice Field", "Ganzutsumi", and "Saifo-ji Temple". It is exciting to visit new places for the first time, isn't it?

A day to end with bread

I had been running around without eating so far, so I found a bakery near Sango Park calledAtelier DashaEnter "The
The bread here is fluffy, moist and delicious! And it's reasonably priced!
Biting into the car, he grinned and said, "This was the right expedition for today.

Today's BGM (Spotify)
blood orange - Essex Honey
It's been a while since I've seen the new blood orange. It's still cool!
He is a multi-talented singer/songwriter/producer from England, based in NY. This is his 5th album in a whopping 7 years, and you have to listen to it.

■Today's Reading (Audible)
OKUDA Hideo "In the Pool
Short stories on Audible. Is he a crazy teacher or a calculating teacher...anyway, he is full of laughter and surprises!
The first in the Irabu series, this masterpiece was nominated for the Naoki Prize. The characters are so quirky one after another that I was almost blown away.

Akebonoyama Agricultural Park｜Autumn scenery of yellow-flowered cosmos and blue sky

This photo was taken from behind in a field of yellow-flowered cosmos at Akebonoyama Agricultural Park, with the flowers in the foreground to the left.

Tozo-ji Temple｜Photographs capturing the deep greenery and serene atmosphere of the gate

This photo was taken of a gate near the entrance to Tozenji Temple in Chiba Prefecture, Japan, with a slightly lighter shade of green.

Photography Diary September 7, 2025.　Manjusri and lemon bright, race against time!

September 7, 2025.

Here we go again!
Shooting time attack project!
This is a special mode to be activated when you are short on time but really want to take a picture.

On this day, I met my sister at Kamifukuoka Station on the Tobu Tojo Line at 13:30. We had plans to bring snacks to the nursing home where my mother was staying.
"Well, how are we going to use the time until then...? and a strategy meeting with the car navigation system in my head.

At first, I had chosen the lemon-bright cosmos at Showa Kinen Park, but then I got into a bad habit. I thought, "Can't we stop by one more place?" I thought.
After all, I visited last week.Sakura Tsutsumi Park (Yoshimi)I decided to head there after photographing higanbana (manjusaka) at

Sakura Tsutsumi Park (Yoshimi)in

Last week, the flowers were in a "fluttering bloom" state, but on this day, the blooming was a bit more advanced. Although not yet in full bloom, there was a moment when the sun shone over the bank and spotlighted the flowers.
That moment was like a stage light prepared by nature! I was so engrossed in the moment that I kept snapping the shutter, and before I knew it, I was in a state of "I'm in a time attack, but I forgot the time! I was in a state of "I'm in a time attack!

We hurriedly withdrew and went to our next destination.

Showa Memorial Parkin

Arrive at the Sunagawa-guchi parking lot just in time for the gates to open at 9:30. We were 5th in line.
If you're in fifth place, you can totally sow!" ─ ─ No, it's not a race to begin with (laughs).

As soon as the gates opened, we walked quickly to Lemon Bright Hill.
Ooooh!" A yellow carpet that made me squeal. I'm so glad I came...!
I continued to photograph the colorful chair sculpture at "Everybody's Field. There was no one there, so I had the place to myself.

Lost track of time and immersed in shooting again. When I realized it was almost time to go! I hurriedly cut the shoot and departed.

Subsequent slapstick

Sipping ramen on the way, we arrived at Kamifukuoka Station just in time.
My sister has already prepared all the food for my mother and flowers for the graveside service. That's my sister who can do it....

I met my mother and visited her grave successfully. As a result."It was a day when both "Shakai" and "family events" were fully enjoyed.

Today's BGM (Spotify)
Big Thief - Double Infinity
This is the latest work by Big Thief, a US indie stalwart who has become a regular Grammy nominee.
This album is filled with the same heat that he produced while riding his bicycle to and from winter in Brooklyn. A little too intellectual for the background music of a time attack drive, but, well, "my heart is always in the middle of the indie scene".

■Today's Reading (Audible)
Miyabe Miyuki - "Brave Story (Top)
This is an epic story of an elementary school student, Wataru, who sets out on a journey to another world, the “world of illusion. I will change my destiny” - I was stepping on the gas pedal and saying, "I will change the traffic jam! I was pressing down on the accelerator pedal. After running from higanbana to cosmos, listening to this fantasy makes me feel light and real.

| Clusters of higanbana flowers blooming in layers, a powerful and gorgeous scene

This photo was taken at Sakura Tsutsumi Park, where higanbana (cluster amaryllis) are folding over.

National Showa Memorial Park｜Photographs of lemon-bright cosmos blooming all over the park and the big autumn sky

This photo was taken at the National Showa Memorial Park, with the lemon-bright cosmos blooming all over the park and the clear blue sky filling the entire image.

National Showa Memorial Park｜Open view of a field with a symbolic tree and colorful chairs

This photo shows a large symbolic tree and a colorful chair object at the National Showa Memorial Park's Everybody's Field.

Photography Diary September 6, 2025. Kochia in Igano, Minakami, Gunma and Manjusaka in Takumi no Sato｜Hana Meguri Diary in Early Autumn

September 6, 2025.

Let me start with the ...... excuse!
I've been very busy at work lately. I'm extremely busy. Even on weekends, I can't read my schedule at all!
You don't think your main job (i.e., sketchbook w/ ...... students bug you that your main job (i.e., sketchbook w/ ...... students) is taking a backseat?

It was right in the middle of the flower season, when the sunflowers had finished and the flowers were shifting to higanbana (cluster amaryllis) and cosmos (cosmos). The next day, I was planning to visit Showa Kinen Park, so I had some free time on this day.
But it's only at times like that that the ...... "I want to go somewhere disease" comes up. My son is going to Osaka Expo & USJ and I am so jealous. My dad can't lose!

The destination is...Minakami!

The night before, after work, I thought in circles and decided to go with a "I saw it on Instagram.Flower fields in IganoThe kochia of "The
Minakami! ...... far!" I was thinking, "How far away is Minakami!
He wakes up at 5:00 a.m. without the need for an alarm. As expected of an early riser. Although I realized how far away it was right after departure, when I arrived at ......

How uninhabited! Unattended time!
I thought this was what the word "monopoly" was all about. The kochia were still green and fuzzy, and I took a deep breath, imagining how beautiful they would be when they turned red. The mountain air is good, too.

We also found a large chestnut tree! Chestnuts were lying all over the ground, and I was almost drooling, "It would be great to make roasted chestnuts .......

Next stop: Takumi no Sato.

A search on the spot revealed that Gunma's "home of the valiantI was informed that the manjusaka are blooming in the "Mere Old Man".
I knew it! A good hunch, that's what.

Takumi no Sato" is a tourist spot where stores and food spots are concentrated. Here, we unexpectedly entered the mode of buying in large quantities. Vegetables are extremely cheap! I even bought some rare pink mushrooms and tamogi daikon mushrooms. I was half anxious and half excited, wondering how we would eat them.

After shopping, we went to explore Manjusaka. My goal was near "No. 8 Nobutsu". I am not good at maps, and as I expected, I went to the lost course ....... After going around and around on a narrow road, I finally found it!
Collaboration of manjusaka flowers blooming around wild buddhas, rice paddies, mountains and cosmos. The air of early autumn entered my body.

The last meal is a set meal of simmered pork cutlet

I woke up early on this day and was indeed in a tired mode from the long distance. On the way home, I stopped at a set restaurant and ordered a "Katsu-ni Set Meal. It is not a bowl of rice topped with pork cutlet, but a stewed cutlet. It was served on a separate plate, not on top of rice. This is a good way to go!
I returned home after a leisurely ride down the road. It was a day when I felt the entrance of autumn.

Today's BGM (Spotify)
The Beths - “Straight Line Was A Lie”
New record by New Zealand indie rock band The Beths.
They are masters of addicting listeners with their fluid choruses and catchy melodies. Their music, which inherits the DNA of the Dunedin sound, is sure to stick with US/UK indie lovers. By the way, former President Obama is also a favorite. While his son is screaming in USJ, his father is chillin' to the NZ sound. It's a good thing, isn't it?

■Today's Reading (Audible)
Shunichi Doba, "The Siege of Evil: The Last Line 5".
The series is stable and interesting! A smooth read.
With the shadow of the arms trafficking organization METO looming, the main character Iwakura is treated as a suspect! Although this is a police novel, reading it makes me think, "Could this be made into a drama on Netflix? I was so paranoid.

Igano Flower Fields｜Beautiful scenery of kochia fields cut by pulling and the mountain range in harmony.

This photo was taken in the flower fields of Igano, with the camera pointed at the kochia field from the gazebo with a slight pull.

Flower fields in Igano｜A scene of chestnuts and rich nature in autumn

This photo was taken in a flower garden in Igano, collecting chestnuts that had fallen under a large chestnut tree.

Takumi no Sato (Gunma)｜Calm and tranquility of the stone Buddha contrasted with the red of higanbana (cluster amaryllis)

This photo was taken of the "No. 8 Wild Buddha" and higanbana (cluster amaryllis) in Takumi no Sato, with the wild Buddha in focus this time.

Takumi no Sato (Gunma)｜Autumn scenery depicting the original Japanese landscape of rice paddies and mountains

This photo is a view of rice fields and mountains taken in the vicinity of Takumi no Sato in Gunma Prefecture.

Photography Diary August 30, 2025. From ”Yae Sunflowers in the Morning" to Mt. Myogi and Manjusaka - Kaitenzushi Time Attack Expedition

August 30, 2025.
On weekdays at the end of the month, my day job is very busy. During my lunch break, I tried to think of where to go for the weekend, but I couldn't think straight. What I ended up with was a forced plan that the majority of the world would have said, "No, no, no, don't do that. But don't worry, I'm a photo addict, and I'm a normal person. I think of it more like "reckless plans are the spice of life.

I woke up at 5:00 a.m. and got ready to go! On this day, I have a sushi bar with my daughter from 4:00 p.m.. In other words, we had to be home by then. It was a “time-limited expedition mode,” so to speak. It was like Mario Kart time attack. No item boxes (breaks), non-stop driving!

First, Ibaraki Prefecture ".Sunflower Festival in Ake no HimawariThe "Sunflowers". Double-flowered sunflowers are the specialty here, which is quite rare. When I arrived, I was surprised to find the place spacious! The mood was festive and the locals were in high spirits from the morning. We were also in a festive mood, and the locals were in high spirits. However, the sky was hazy and Mt. We will try again next year, just after dawn.

Next stop: Gunma.Niu sunflower fieldI saw it on SNS and thought, "I have to go! I saw it on social media and said, "I've got to go! My fears were proven true, and I was completely out of peak season. Zombie sunflowers gathered in large numbers! Surrounded by sunflowers with their heads hanging down, we were under the illusion that we were on the set of a horror movie. I was under the illusion that we were filming a horror movie. I want to scold myself for my lack of research. But instead,Mt MyogiThe collaboration with the rice paddies was a "Oh, is that a poster? class beauty. It instantly cleansed me of the sunflower zombie curse.

Lunch was a quick ramen at Michi no Eki "Shimonita" (roadside station), since a conveyor-belt sushi restaurant was scheduled for 4:00 p.m. It was important to manage the resources in my stomach. After buying some vegetables, we set out again.

Lastly, Saitama, Japan.Sakura Dike ParkTo. I scouted for the beginning of the blooming of manjusaka. They were blooming here and there, just like a "flying screening. I couldn't help but grin at one of the photographers who was also in a hurry. I shook his hand and said, "Comrade..." in my heart.

Thus, the expedition, which had been running at full speed since the morning, returned home safely in the evening. I made it home in time for sushi time with my daughter. In September, cosmos, manjusaka (red spider lily), and the Blue Impulse...my lens will have no time to rest again.

Today's BGM (Spotify)
Alison Goldfrapp - Flux
The synths are fluffy and the grooves are tingling. This is a piece of music that mixes delicacy and sensuality, shedding the image of the “electro queen” of the past. Your ears will be happy.

Today's reading (Audible)
YAKUMARU Gaku "Kami no Ko (God's Child) 1 & 2
Hiroshi Machida, a boy genius with an IQ of 161, is the main character. The film is a story of escape, rebirth, and the pursuit of the underworld. The development is speedy in spite of the profound theme, and it is strangely suitable to listen to while driving. It was a little too serious to listen to next to the zombie sunflowers, though (laughs).

Sunflower Festival in AKENE｜Two double sunflowers blooming side by side in close proximity

This photo was taken of two double sunflowers lined up vertically in close proximity at the Sunflower Festival in Akke.

Sunflower Field in Niu｜Loneliness and Emotions Overlain by Withered Sunflowers

This photo was taken during a visit to a sunflower field in Niu, where the flowers had already withered away.

Mt. Myogisan｜Fields beginning to turn golden and mountains heralding autumn

This photo was taken with Myogisan (Mt. Myogi) in the background, along with rice paddies that have begun to turn golden before the rice harvest.

Delicate petals and vivid red of mandshurica taken from the side

This photo was taken from the side at Sakura Tsutsumi Park, where manjusaka (higanbana) flowers are just beginning to bloom.

Photography Diary August 24, 2025. From “Mother Farm” to Yoro Canyon - A summery excursion to Chiba

August 24, 2025.
To tell the truth, I had never been to Mother Farm before. The admission fee was a bit expensive, so I had put it off until “some other time...” But this time, I really wanted to see the "peach-colored breath," so I set off first thing in the morning with the best of intentions. Although I had gone to bed late the day before, the lack of sleep from the previous two nights had taken its toll, and once I got under the covers, I fell into a deep sleep. I am famous as "Nobita Nobi of Kawaguchi City. I am famous as "Nobita Nobi of Kawaguchi City," and I am a world-class sleeper. Before I knew it, it was morning. I was so happy to have a good night's sleep.

After getting ready, we were ready to go. On this day, we took the greedy course of "Mother Farm → Kominato Railway → Yoro Gorge. Yoro Gorge was introduced by Sandwich Man on TV a while ago, and I was curious about this place. Now, let's go to the main attraction, Mother Farm. It is anyway far from Kawaguchi City! Since I had been to the Tomiura area last week, the view from the car window gave me a sense of déjà vu. I was thinking to myself, "I should have come last week," as I drove along.

mother farmThe “Mere Old Man” was indeed comfortable and sparsely populated, perhaps due to the heat. It was a pleasure to walk around feeling as if we had the place semi-rented out to ourselves. I intended to go straight to the "peach-colored breath" that I was looking for, but I made a mistake at the entrance (laugh). (Laughs.) There are multiple entrances to the ranch, so be careful. The parking lot is nearby, so I recommend that everyone enter through the correct gate. After a long walk through the vast ranch, we finally arrived at the ranch.

--Oh, oh, oh, oh, oh, oh!

A pink carpet spreading all over the area. It was truly a "I'm glad I came! moment. And next to it, a hill of kochia. The unexpected reward doubles the tension. After taking plenty of pictures, we headed to our next destination.

The next stop was,Kominato Railwayand Sumi Railway can be seen at the same time in Joso-Nakano. I was lucky enough to be there when the Kominato Railway arrived. I was able to take a perfect picture of the train as it drove away. When our stomachs were growling, we had lunch at the nearby "Teranoshita cafe COCORO". On that day, "Onigiri Stand YAHOO" was opening a pop-up store, and we took a break while enjoying their delicious onigiri. Inside the store was a pamphlet about the autumn foliage in Yoro Gorge, which made me decide, "I must definitely come back in the fall! I decided to come back in the fall.

On the way back, we took a drive to Yoro Gorge for a preview. The scenery must be spectacular during the season of autumn leaves. Sunday ended with an early return home. A healthy day, going out early and coming back home early. Now I will be back on full throttle from Monday.

Today's BGM (Spotify)
Ghostface Killah - Supreme Clientele 2
The sequel, long talked about as a mirage, is finally here, and features a stellar lineup of Nas and Wu-Tang Clan members.

■Today's Reading (Audible)
NAKAYAMA Nanari "Serial Killer: Frogman
The crime statement is so poorly written that it seems to have been written by a toddler, and the bodies are so brutal. A series of bizarre murders occur one after another in Hanno City. The investigation by Watase and Kotegawa leads them to a strange common denominator: the victims are targeted in iweo order. The media goes berserk, citizens panic, and the identity of the "Frog Man" is revealed. The suspense that unfolds in Saitama is a combination of fear and a sense of speed.

Mother Farm｜Peachy breath coloring the curves of the path and the symbolic tree

This photo shows peach-bellied petunias (petunias) in bloom at Mother Farm, along with the curves of the path and the symbolic tree towering in the back.

Kominato Railway｜Scenes of travel by train disappearing into the woods

This photo was taken at Kamiso-Nakano Station on the Kominato Railway as the express train passed through the station and disappeared into the woods.

Photography Diary August 23, 2025. Time Attack Challenge!

August 23, 2025.

I will meet up with a friend from Kawaguchi City at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday.
Normally, I would have enough time to leave home an hour before, but for some reason, I have a tendency to decide to make a "detour time attack".
The plan was to go from Kawagoe to Kumagaya and back again, and then meet up with the others with a nonchalant look on our faces - that is, until that night.

Usually, I drink a light glass of "Kirin Hon Shibori Grapefruit 500ml" at dinner time and go straight to bed.
Since it is only fruit juice and vodka, I never get drunk!　Moreover, I am called “Nobita Nobi of Kawaguchi City” by some people because I "fall asleep easily.

However, on this particular day, I couldn't sleep. Just as I was about to fall asleep, my brain was reawakened by my son's "Protein Shake Recital.
It was nearly midnight when I finally fell asleep.

Deciding that waking up at 4:00 a.m. was indeed impossible, he slid to 5:00 a.m. in tears.
Being an early riser is harder than it sounds. It's a reverse hell: you want to sleep on your days off, but you can't.

Kawagoe is gracefully passed and Kumagaya goes directly. The goal isKumagaya Sports Culture ParkSunflowers in the
A vast site with a dome welcomed us with flocks of summery yellows.

However, although the sky was forecast to be clear, it was not clear because of the summer's characteristic “barely-there” gas.
Well, that is also the air of the season.

Several varieties of sunflowers were in full bloom, and I was able to get a good "last look at summer" feeling.

I look at my watch and think, "Time to go..." and then I see I have a little time to spare. Greedy!
NearbyEndo FarmI made a side trip to It was my first visit - and it was beautifully dead (laughs).

However, the brown, drooping head is a "melancholy sunflower.
This is photogenic in its own way. I completed the photo shoot, strangely convinced that the beauty of the heaping up is not the only thing that makes a flower beautiful.

If you are not careful, the meeting time is just around the corner!
I rushed back and met my friend at 10:29.

Safe! No, is this safe?
But it's called "normalcy as usual".
Slipping in just in time seems to be part of my style.

Today's BGM (Spotify)
Laufey - A Matter of Time
Her voice, which traces the good old American songbook and playfully turns it upside down, gently envelopes the slapstick of a summer morning. Even in the midst of a time of regressive stagnation, the pleasure of escaping to retro is certainly comforting.

■Today's Reading (Audible)
YUZUKI Yuko "Jigure
A retired police officer, Kanba, encounters a kidnapping case of a young girl on his way to Shikoku pilgrimage with his wife; the overlap with an unsolved case from 16 years ago, his regrets and rebirth -- this is the story of a man who has been in a hurry to find a way out of his past. It is a "story that transcends time" in a different sense from my Time Attack. It is a book that sinks deeply into the summer air.

Kumagaya Sports Culture Park｜A technique for photographing sunflowers with front and back blur

This photo was taken at Kumagaya Sports Culture Park at f/4 to focus on the sunflowers in the foreground and blur the sunflowers in the background.

Endo Farm｜Sorrowful sunflowers that signal the end of summer

This photo was taken at Endo Farm's sunflower field, where sunflowers have passed their prime and lost a little of their vigor.

Photography Diary August 17, 2025. Summer Morning Activity Diary: Sunflowers at Kasai Rinkai Park and Shinagawa Flower Street

August 17, 2025.
It has been a while since I did morning activities!
Morning activity" refers to the luxury of getting up after 3:00 a.m. when the city is still asleep, arriving at the site before dawn, and photographing the landscape at sunrise. Of course, it is not a job; it is completely a hobby (laughs).

The weather forecast for the day was not so good, and to be honest, I was worried that if it was cloudy, it would be bad...Kasai Rinkai ParkI left for the airport. While driving, I found clouds in the eastern sky and had a bad feeling ....... However! As luck would have it, when we arrived at the site, there was a magnificent morning glow. Was this the result of my daily routine? I thought to myself as I snapped away.

In addition, the sunflower field was in full bloom! I was very happy to be able to take collaboration shots with big flowers, small flowers, and the Ferris wheel. I'm so glad I did this morning!

But I can't leave here, that's my style. Next. Shinagawa Flower Street I went to the "Kosmos" area. The orange and yellow cosmos flowers spreading along the bank were just at their best, and the petals shining through the morning light were so refreshing. I was crazy about taking shutterbugs here as well.

The shooting ended in the morning, and after that, I was in full swing. After visiting my parents' gravesite, visiting my father in the hospital, and cleaning up my parents' house, I went home and crashed. Sundays go by so fast, don't they?

Today's BGM (Spotify)
Maroon 5 - "LOVE IS LIKE"
The latest album from the monster band that has been a hit for over 20 years, with catchy yet evolving sounds such as "Priceless" with LISA (BLACKPINK) and "All Night" with its pleasant saxophone and slap bass. It was a perfect piece for the morning glow while driving.

■Today's Reading (Audible)
DOUBA Shunichi "Cracked Pride: The Last Line
This series features veteran detective Iwakura Tsuyoshi, "the man who calls in the cases. This time, Yuta Taoka, who was arrested for the murder of a female university student, was acquitted at trial, and a chain of disturbing events followed. I listened to the story during train rides and in between cleaning while being drawn in by the tension involving those around me. After all, Dooba's works never betray you!

Kasai Rinkai Park｜A fantastic moment when sunflower petals shine through the morning glow

This photograph of sunflowers shining through the morning sun at Kasai Rinkai Park shows the fantastic beauty of the petals enveloped in soft light.

Shinagawa Hanakamichi｜Urban floral landscape of yellow-flowered cosmos shining in the morning sun and sidewalks

This photo shows the Kibana Cosmos blooming on the sidewalk at the Shinagawa Hanakai Road, glistening in the morning sun, showing the beauty of flowers blooming in the midst of the city.

Photography Diary August 16, 2025.　Summer driving diary: Tomiura, Okamoto Pier, and visiting graves

August 16, 2025.
On this day, I unusually made up with my alarm clock in the morning (lol) and started a little slow. The purpose of the day was to visit a grave in Tomiura, Chiba. I was looking for a good spot to take pictures around the area, and I found a place I had always been curious about calledOkamoto PierThe name of the "Mere Old Man". I had no choice but to go! And with my camera in my hand, off I went.

I got on the expressway from Kawaguchi and thought, "It's going really fast! I thought...but...it didn't arrive at all. The map didn't show it so well, but I felt as if I was driving like Urashima Taro. Tomiura is surprisingly far away.

I finally got there.Okamoto Pierwas more lively than I had imagined! I was surprised at the number of people, as I had imagined it to be a "quiet hole-in-the-wall. The power of summer vacation, I must say.... It might be a good idea to come early in the morning or in the evening. If you are lucky, you may even be able to see Mt. Fuji at dusk in winter.

After enjoying the photo shoot to the fullest, we went to a coffee shop near Tomiura Station and had curry with pork cutlet. It was again delicious and soaked into my tired body after the long trip.... I was quite reluctant to choose "curry with pork cutlet before visiting the cemetery" (laugh). After visiting the gravesite safely, we joined hands to say "Thank you for everything.

On the way back, we left early to avoid traffic jams. We tried to stop by Umihotaru, but the traffic jam during the summer vacation was so bad that we had to abandon the plan. We eventually gave up the idea, but the view from the car window of the bright blue sea and the clouds overhead was the perfect ending to the day. It was a picture-perfect ending to our "summer vacation drive.

Now that the children are grown, I feel a little sad that I have fewer opportunities to go out with my parents, but it is still fun to be able to go on camera trips like this on a whim. Next time, we will go to Okamoto Pier again at dusk in winter. I will try to capture a once-in-a-lifetime encounter with Mt.

Today's BGM (Spotify)
Amaarae - "BLACK STAR
The latest album by Ghanaian-American singer Amaarae is a celebration of black diaspora dance music. It is an album that celebrates black diaspora dance music, and can be summed up in one word: “a triumphant parade of triumph in the midst of pleasure. The euphoric feeling of being taken away from your ears and body was perfect for a summer road trip.

■Today's Reading (Audible)
DOUBA Shunichi "The Last Line
The protagonist is Tsuyoshi Iwakura, a veteran detective with 10 years left before retirement. He is transferred from the Investigation Section to the Minami Ota Police Station, where he is in charge, and uses his unique memory and intuition to take on difficult cases. The film also highlights his uneven relationship with a rookie female detective and the human drama of his former subordinate who has now become his boss. This is a police novel that will keep you on the edge of your seat while listening to how the veteran detective runs his “last line.

Okamoto Pier｜The power created by the pier and blue sky captured from a low angle

This photo was taken at Okamoto Pier from a low angle with the pier against a blue sky and the sea, emphasizing the dynamic power and openness of the view by looking up from a low vantage point.

Photography Diary August 13, 2025. A day to make it to the barbeque, but also to shoot.

August 13, 2025.
On this day, my mind was fidgety from the morning. At 16:40 in the evening, I went to Yakiniku Kingu with my family. It is all-you-can-eat. I can never be late.
But this is the first day in a long time that the sun has shown its face. I want to go out with my camera. No, I should go.
The time attack began to enjoy both the shooting and the barbeque to the fullest.

At 5:30 a.m., I jumped up at the same time as my alarm, got ready, and left. First, I headed for a restaurant that a famous Instagrammer had introduced to me.Sunflower field in MashikoThe following is a list of the most common problems with the "C" in the "C" column.
We arrived a little too early. The bloom was perfect, but there were still very few people. I adjusted my time and looked for breakfast, and arrived at an area lined with Sukiya, Nakau, and a hamburger steak shop. For some reason, I didn't hesitate to order "Nakau's Katsu Katsu Curry" that day. The immorality of fried food in the morning is delicious and makes me feel like I am on a field trip.

When you arrive at the field, you will be overwhelmed by its scale. One million sunflowers bloom all over the long, vertical field. They are not in bloom in stages, but are in full bloom all at once. The view is so luxurious that photos with a sense of depth can be taken from anywhere. As you breathe in the morning air, your hands never stop clicking the shutter.

The next destination is the nearbyEast Takahashi Kochia GardenThe The green kochias sway in the wind and have a lovely round silhouette. This is a place you will want to revisit during the fall foliage season.

On its feet,Wakatake FarmThe bamboo grove is a filming location for the movie "Rurouni Kenshin". This bamboo grove, where the movie "Rurouni Kenshin" was filmed, is cool even in mid-summer. Families and children are playing with athletic equipment, and you can feel the peaceful bustle of the place. The bamboo grove will take on a different look during the bamboo shoot season.

Take a little detour on the way home,Satte GongendoI went to the sunflower field at This is the type that blooms horizontally in stages. Although the flowers had already finished blooming in the area of the big trees, the field on the left was in full bloom. With children enjoying picking sunflowers by my side, I was able to capture the yellow-flowered cosmos and swallowtail butterflies through my camera.

I return home a little after 3:00 PM. Put down the camera, change clothes, and switch to barbecue mode.
Thus ended a day of "going all out with the shooting and the yakiniku. Even a greedy plan can work out surprisingly well.

Today's BGM (Spotify)
Mysie - "controla"
Singer/songwriter from South East London. Her sound is pleasant, absorbing a wide range of influences from soul to alternative.

■Today's Reading (Audible)
SOMEI Tamehito "Kabukicho Lullaby
Set in Kabukicho, this shocking revenge drama depicts the fate of a runaway girl and the underworld. A social suspense by an up-and-coming writer.

Mashiko Sunflower Field｜Endless Sunflowers and People Walking

This photo was taken at the Mashiko sunflower field, showing endless sunflowers and people walking in the distance among them.

East Takahashi Bridge｜Contrast between blue sky and green kochia

This photo was taken at the East Takahashi Kochia Garden to show the contrast between the midsummer blue sky and the green kochia.

Wakatake Forest, Wakayama Farm｜Light shining on the sidewalk and bamboo grove near the exit

This photo was taken at the Wakatake Forest and Wakayama Farm to capture the beauty of the light shining on the walkway and bamboo grove near the exit.

Swallowtail Butterfly perched on a yellow-flowered cosmos

This photo was taken at Satte Gongendo, a lovely swallowtail butterfly perched on a yellow-flowered cosmos.

Photography Diary August 3, 2025. Lavender, tengu, sunflowers...and the thrill of the return journey.

Due to the "somewhat indigestible skies" of the previous day, the weekend was not tight in any way.
This can't end like this! I thought on Saturday night.

Yes, the tanbara I missed last week.Lavender ParkLet's go to
However...it is far away. I went to bed with the mind made up that this was a case of getting up early.

The next morning, however, I realized it was 5:00 am.
Oh no! I jumped out of bed in a panic and left at 5:30am. I managed to arrive before it opened. Good for me.

This is indeed a popular spot. It was already crowded with people, and the place was bustling with activity.
The lavenders are in a delicate balance: the early blooms are almost finished, the mid-blooms are at their best, and the late blooms are just a little more...but the fragrance and scenery are still wonderful and relaxing. However, the fragrance and the scenery are still wonderful and soothing.

Since this is a ski resort, climbing the mountain is a challenge.
I was out of breath and sweating. But when we reached the summit, a cool breeze blew through...yes, it was worth the effort.

The next stop was a place I had been curious about for a while.Shakyasan Ryuka-in Maitreya TempleThe following is a list of the most common problems with the "C" in the "C" column.
The big gate on the street, it looks like something out of an old tale. When I looked it up, I found out that this place...is a tengu temple!

I had no choice but to go! I turned the wheel, but the road was quite wild.
The road is narrow and riddled with falling rocks. I wondered if there was really a temple ahead. I was worried, but we arrived safely.
I was relieved to see so many tourists. ...but still...Beware of bears.I was thrilled, though, when I saw the sign for

Upon entering the temple grounds, one is greeted by an impressive collection of tengu masks!
The power of the masks lining the walls of the main hall was so impressive that I couldn't help but let out a squeal. It is well worth a visit.

And another treat on the way home.
flower with a lofty (high) noseThe sunflowers were in full bloom! And when you stop by the hill of "Muko", you will see sunflowers in full bloom!

NearbyShorinzan Daruma TempleNow, let's see what we can do to win the game, "Daruma! Bodhidharma! Daruma! on parade.
The colorful Daruma dolls are lined up in a tight row, and this one is also powerful of a different kind. I was filled with gratitude.

And so we headed home, satisfied that we had moved well today.

I thought....

Traffic jam.
Moreover, the remaining gasoline level "2 scale".
This is not good! and my back was sweating.
I returned home feeling a little sorry for my over-run weekend, but also feeling on edge.

Today's BGM (Spotify)
Lelo - "New Detroit
Hip-hop with a full-blown street feel from Detroit.
This song is filled with mainstream ”Detroit groove” such as 42 Dugg, Peezy, and Veeze. It goes well with a summer drive.

■Today's Reading (Audible)
Gaku Yakumaru, "Criminal Defense Lawyer.
A former detective becomes a lawyer and tries to get to the bottom of the case.
People lie, and the real reasons behind their lies.
Suspense to be heard by ear, thrilling and you can't take your eyes off (no, you can't take your ears off) until the end.

Tanbara Lavender Park｜A Symphony of Purple, Sky, and Lift

This photo was taken at Tanbara Lavender Park.

Shakyasan Ryuka-in Maitreya Temple｜The expression of silence in the light

This photo shows the tengu masks in the main hall of Maitreya Temple at Kabasan Ryuka-in Maitreya Temple, from a viewpoint that looks inside.

Nitaka Observation Hill｜A single flower shining in the light of summer

This photo was taken at the Nashitaka Observation Flower Hill, and was taken just as the sun's rays hit the beautiful sunflowers blooming in the sunflower field.

Shorinzan Dharma Temple｜Quiet gaze surrounded by incense smoke

This photo was taken at Shorinzan Daruma Temple with Daruma on the other side of the incense smoke, softly enveloped through the smoke.

Photography Diary August 2, 2025. A sign of a typhoon, water lilies, and sunflowers in full bloom.

The weather that day was very troubling. A typhoon was coming or not in the morning....
While updating my blog at home, I glanced out the window and was in a wait-and-see mode, thinking, "Hmmm, I wonder if I can go out for this...".

But it kind of cleared up before noon. I suddenly felt like...maybe we can go! I suddenly felt upbeat and rushed to start preparations!

However, it is Saturday afternoon. I was afraid of traffic jams if we left too late.... I was having a brainstorming session, and I suddenly remembered....

."Ashikaga Flower ParkYou just said the water lilies are beautiful."

Once I decide, "This is it," I am quick to act! I am quick to act once I have made up my mind.
Canon EOS from this year.
Since the R is equipped with a telephoto lens, I should be able to get a good shot of distant flowers like water lilies...!

I ran out of the house in high spirits and headed for the Flower Park.
When I arrived, my first thought was, "It's so hot!" I thought. But it was off-season and there were few people. That alone made it quite comfortable.

What's more, admission to the park is free with JAF membership privileges. I am too grateful. I'm glad I got my annual membership fee paid off.

The ponds in the park are really beautiful with pink and white water lilies in bloom. However, this is surprisingly difficult...
Even though I used the telephoto to get very close, I struggled with focus and composition. Well, I still need more practice.

But as you walk through the park, you can see that it is well cared for in all seasons.
Even in the off-season, there were many staff members working on the project, and I was deeply impressed by the fact that "no wonder the wisteria season is so beautiful...". Thank you very much.

Afterwards, I had a little time to spare, so I went to Kasukabe's "Ushijima Furukawa ParkWe also stopped by the "Mere Old Man.
There is a magnificent field of sunflowers here, just in full bloom! Across the street, Kasukabe's famous (?) The statue of Crayon Shin-chan, a Kasukabe specialty (?), is still standing across the street.

Sunflowers are truly "sparkling summer" in the evening light.
It was almost sunset time...but there were fireworks displays in many places that day. To avoid traffic jams, we left early with regretful memories. Today's BGM

Today's BGM (Spotify)
Sofia Kourtesis - "Volver"
The exotic electro sound is a blend of South American Peruvian roots and Berlin club culture, making editing work a breeze while listening on Spotify.

■Today's Reading (Audible)
Please find my dead body." Mami Mori
The disappearance of a writer and the disturbing words left on his blog. The more you listen, the deeper the mystery becomes...a true “mystery to be read by ear.
It is perfect for “reading while commuting” or during development.

Ashikaga Flower Park｜Flowers on the surface of water reflecting tranquility

This photo was taken at Ashikaga Flower Park from a low vantage point to show water lilies floating on the water's edge.

Ushijima Furukawa Park｜Yellow carpet wrapped in afternoon light

This photo was taken during an afternoon visit to the sunflower field at Ushijima Furukawa Park.

Photography Diary July 30, 2025. Chasing wind chimes and the sun during a break from work.

Weekday shooting, here we come.
On this day, I worked mail order business as usual in the morning. In the afternoon, I had an exhibition scheduled at Hamamatsucho and Tokyo Big Sight.

But in the meantime - I wanted to go there. "Nihonbashi, Mori no Fu-ring Lane".
I had been curious about this place ever since I saw it on Instagram. Even if I had to sacrifice my lunch, I wanted to see the sound and shimmer of those wind chimes. Yes, just a little bit, just a little bit.

So I got the morning work done at God's speed. Prepared to leave as soon as possible, even a minute earlier. Car or train, ...... yeah, no room for hesitation in this heat wave, I went out by car! Air-conditioning is vital.

After about an hour of safe driving with a boon, we arrived at the "Forest Wind Chime Lane.
The sun was supposed to be out, but as soon as we got there, the clouds were muffled. Hey sun, where did it go!
But I didn't give up, and I continued to shoot in short bursts, using close-ups, pulls, reflections, and waiting for the wind to blow. I kept shooting as if I were a wind chime craftsman. That feeling of being able to concentrate because of the limited time available. I couldn't get enough of it.

After a sweaty cleanup, it's time to change in the car (this is important for summer shoots!). After the photo shoot, we went to the exhibition in Hamamatsu-cho and then to Tokyo Big Sight. We went straight to the exhibition in Hamamatsucho and then to Tokyo Big Sight. After walking around the exhibition booths and gathering information (......), my energy gauge was already red at this point. So, the natural course of action was to go straight home. I refreshed myself in the bath and sipped cold soda water. I'm still addicted to this mix of summer shooting and weekday work.

Today's BGM (Spotify)
Mei Semones "Animaru
May Simones is a Brooklyn-based SSW and guitarist with a Japanese mother.
Somehow nostalgic yet new, this is a pleasant mix of soft Japanese and English. It is perfect for a summer afternoon.

■Today's Reading (Audible)
Take Yakumaru, "The Last Prayer
This is a quiet and deep story in which the families of the victims, the perpetrators, and the theme of prayer collide. It touched my heart.
Even in the hot summer, I just can't stop reading.

Wind Chime Lane in the Forest (Nihonbashi)｜Summer Sound Swaying in the Gentle Breeze

This photo was taken at the forest wind chime alley (Nihonbashi). I captured the moment when the light caught the strips of wind chimes and the way they swayed in the gentle breeze felt very cool.

Photography Diary July 26, 2025.　Midsummer “limited” hunters in Kanto

Isn't summer in Kanto a bit too serious?
The heat is so intense that the annual battle between "I want to go away" and "No, I just can't" is intensifying. This year, I was all set to go to Tanbara Lavender Park, but I was too tired on a weekday and the heat wave got the best of me, so I postponed the trip. Next week..!

In the midst of all this, I saw on the web a while ago, "Institute for Ecological and Harmonious Agriculture, The University of TokyoI was fascinated by the "Lotus sample garden and lotus viewing event (limited opening on July 25 and 26). Why is the word "limited" so attractive?
As one would expect from the University of Tokyo, the variety of lotus flowers in bloom was spectacular. I was healed by the flowers blooming in the morning stillness.

Next, we headed for the "Kiyose Sunflower FestivalI arrived a little early for my appointment. I made my reservation a little early and arrived at the site when the gates opened at 9:00 a.m. About 30% of the trees were in bloom, but it was still a sight to behold. Next week might be the peak of the blooming season. I have a feeling that I will visit again.

I went to the "Kawagoe Summer Festival of One Million Lanterns" on the same day. However, I was at the end of my physical strength and could only watch the lanterns from the car window.
I think, "It must be beautiful when they glow at night," but I am not good at getting up at night, so I tend to miss this kind of night event every year. I want to take fireworks photos someday...

And the last stop was,Kuizu Shrine in IwatsukiThe following is a list of the most common problems with the "C" in the "C" column.
The red and blue wind chimes decorating the precincts of the temple were the ultimate in “beauty”. I was so engrossed in shooting that I found myself taking quite a few pictures. It's moments like this that make a camera so rewarding to use.

The day was indeed hot and exhausting. After returning home, I cooled down with a cup of cold barley tea.

The next day, the 27th, I woke up at 3:30 a.m. to focus on “morning activities only. The destination wasShinobazu PondThe following is a list of the most common problems with the "C" in the "C" column.
Wind chimes in Benten-do, lotus flowers, and the moment the morning sun shines through...it is truly a golden hour. This time of day, before the temperature rises, is truly a luxury.

Weekend afternoons are spent relaxing, organizing photos and updating the blog. It was extremely hot outside, but the room was filled with the lingering warmth of the aftermath of the shoot.

Today's BGM (Spotify)
Tyler, The Creator "Don't Tap The Glass
Pleasant. It was perfect for a summer morning eve.

■Today's Reading (Audible)
Tonkatsu-ya no Tama-chan (Tamae Ando)
The fact that his family used to be a tonkatsu shop in a flower district is enough to draw you in, but the characters all have their own quirks that make you laugh and cry in this excellent essay. I was drawn in only by the fact that his family used to be a tonkatsu shop in the Hanamachi district, but all the characters had their own quirks that made me laugh and cry.

The University of Tokyo Organization for Harmonious Ecological Agriculture｜Flowers and Dragonflies

This photo is a close-up of a lotus flower and dragonfly taken at the University of Tokyo's Institute for Ecology and Harmonious Agriculture.

Kiyose Sunflower Festival｜Sky and Sunflowers

This photo was taken at the Kiyose Sunflower Festival, capturing the sunflowers growing straight up from an angle and the blue sky together.

Kuizu Shrine, the general guardian of Bushu-Iwatsuki｜Echoes of Depth

This photo was taken at the Kuizu Shrine with the second wind chime from the front of the blue wind chime display in focus and the wind chimes in front and behind softly blurred.

Shinobazuno Pond｜Harmony of lotus and serenity

This photo was taken at Bentendo, Tokyo, with beautiful lotus flowers as the main subject and the historic Bentendo in the background.

Shooting Diary July 20, 2025. Shooting Frenzy - Kawaguchi's Camera Addict Goes

Hello everyone. It's a camera addict here in Kawaguchi who hasn't finished organizing his photos yet after a weekend of shooting and being shot at (a side effect of getting up early is that I can't turn my head anymore).

On July 20, 2025, undeterred by the triple attack of lilies, wind chimes, and sunflowers on the previous day, I turned on shooting mode again on Sunday!Ofuna Flower CenterI went to the "Lotus" in the morning only. My goal was to see the "morning-only lotus". It was beautiful! I was snapping away at the potted lotus plants lined up in rows, from below, from the side, and even from a slight angle, as I leaned in close to the lotus. And there were cosmos, sunflowers, and wind chimes in the park. Ofuna is a place to be.

The next stop wasTsuruoka Hachimangu ShrineI visited here before during the hydrangea season. When I visited during the hydrangea season before, I found out that "Oh, this place also blooms lotuses? I was curious about it. And when I went there, I found that there were many, many white and pink lotuses in full bloom, in full bloom in paradise mode. A dreamy view spread all over the pond, and I was so absorbed in taking pictures ...... that the parking fee was not a dream. Including the thrill of having a time limit, I was able to take a picture that turned out okay.

Next up.Kawasaki Wind Bell Market!!! This is already a festive summer event. Wind chimes from all over the country are lined up in a row, and every time the wind blows, an orchestra of sound is heard. Speaking of wind chimes, not only their appearance but also their “sound” plays a leading role. The sound of the wind chimes is not only a visual attraction, but also a main feature of the event.

After such a healing wind chime time, I went for the Kawasaki specialty, new tan tanmen! The unexpected discovery of a convenience store led us to rush to the site. The spiciness and garlic punch punched me in the stomach, and I felt as if I were reunited with an old friend, saying, "This is my first time eating this, yet it tastes so nostalgic. I'm hooked....

And just when I thought, "Let's go home," he said, "No,Todoroki ValleyLet's stop by," the devil whispered. As a result, the overly cool scenery of the canyon woke up our brains. It was like an oasis for the photographer whose stamina had been sapped by the scorching sun.

I visited about 8 spots on Saturday and Sunday and felt like a “walking tripod. Sorting through the photos after taking them is heavier than doing homework during summer vacation (laughs).

■Today's Reading (Audible)
Rujaku" Somei Tamehito
Lives crumbling, desires intersecting, and a sense of despair slowly creeping in.... Still, you can't help but read “A Quiet Hell”. Perfect for summer nights.

Today's BGM (Spotify)
Justin Bieber "SWAG
Justin's latest work is one that is much deeper in sound and heart.

Ofuna Flower Center｜The presence of pink lotus

This photo was taken at the Ofuna Flower Center, looking up at the bright pink lotus flowers from below at an angle, a composition that accentuates the flowers' presence.

Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine｜White lotus and buildings speak of the beauty of serenity

This photograph was taken at the lotus pond of Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, with the white lotus flowers and the buildings in the background side by side in the composition, with the intention of creating a historical scene in a quiet setting.

Kawasaki Daishi｜Colorful Daruma Wind Bell Competition

This photo was taken at the wind-bell fair at Kawasaki Daishi to capture the lively atmosphere of the Daruma wind-bell market, where red, white, and other colorful Daruma wind-bells are displayed in a mixture of colors.

Todoroki Valley｜Harmony of water and greenery flowing from stone statues

This photograph captures the water flowing from a stone statue set in a fresh green forest at Todoroki Gorge, and represents a space where nature and culture blend together.

Photography Diary July 19, 2025. Luck Bug Day - Lilies, Umbrellas, and Sunflowers Triumvirate

This was a "lucky day" when luck was on my side for some reason. There are days like this.

Round 1: Lilies and swallowtail butterflies at Fukaya Green Park!
First thing in the morning, Saitama Pref.Fukaya Green ParkTo.
We set out in the cool of the morning, arriving at 8:00 a.m. We were in serious mode. When the parking lot in front of the entrance was empty, I grinned and said, "Today is my lucky day. It was also lucky that we were able to enter the park before 9:00 a.m. from there.

The main attraction is, of course, the lilies in full bloom.
What's more! This time, I unexpectedly got a two-shot with a swallowtail butterfly.
Every time the shutter sound of the EOS R echoed, I sent a grateful "Thank you, Mr. Swallowtail...!" I was sending a thank-you note to the photographer.

Round 2: After work, "Shiomachi Umbrella Sky" in Tatebayashi City, Gunma Prefecture.
After that, I came back to reality for a bit...I had to greet a client for a job I couldn't miss.
(I'm not pretending to work, I'm working! Probably)

But in the afternoon, I was back in camera mode again, this time at the "Tatebayashi" in Tatebayashi City, Gunma Prefecture.Castle Town Umbrella SkyGo to.
It was my first visit in a year, and again this year, colorful umbrellas were dancing in the sky.

And on this day, it was also a clear day.
This is already making me wonder if today's luck is buggy. I am so skeptical.
The shadows cast by the umbrella on the road were so photogenic that I ended up taking more shutterbugs.

Round 3: Too Greedy? Nogi Town Sunflower Festival!
And lastly,Nogi Town Sunflower FestivalThe following is a list of the most common problems with the "C" in the "C" column.
It was no longer a photo shoot, but a pilgrimage. I found myself saying to myself, “You're still going?

But even here, the golden combination of full bloom + clear skies.
The view of sunflowers from the gazebo is just like summer itself.
The sight of him dizzy on his feet but persisting, "One more last shot..." must have been hotter than the sunflowers.

I was worried that it would rain so hard the next day.
The light was exquisite in every spot, and every time I took a photo, I wondered if it was luck or skill that I was able to witness this moment...no, it was luck, and before I knew it, my SD card was full.

■Today's Reading (Audible)
"Comrade girl, shoot the enemy."
The story of a female sniper in World War II.
The theme is a bit of a shocking one, but the writing style draws you in. I don't think I will be able to escape from this world for a while.

Today's BGM (Spotify)
ALEX G - HEADLIGHTS
Quietly sinking, but with a core. It was perfect for my morning developing work.

Fukaya Green Park｜Soaring butterflies and vivid lilies

This photograph of a swallowtail butterfly gracefully fluttering over lilies in Fukaya Green Park, along with a background of vibrant flowers, is full of a sense of season and life.

Joumachi Umbrella Sky｜A path of flowing umbrellas and shadows

This photo shows a series of umbrellas flowing in the wind and the beauty of the shadows on the ground together in the Castle Town Umbrella Sky.

Nogi Town Sunflower Field｜Spectacular sunflower field spreading out in front

This photo, taken from high above the Nogi Town sunflower field toward the front, is one that documents the spectacular view of sunflowers filling the field of vision.