Photography Diary, January - June 2026: Seasonal Photography on the Roads of the Kanto Region
Photography Diary｜February 22, 2026 Kawazu Cherry Blossoms in Full Blossom Revenge and My Son's Driving Practice
I want revenge. I really want to.
Visited last year.Kawazu Cherry Blossoms on Miura CoastA quiet case of "almost no bloom" occurred due to poor prior research. Facing those scanty branches, I vowed to myself, "Next year, I will hit the perfect full bloom. Next year, I will hit the perfect full bloom.
So this year, we tried again. The setting was the Miura Coast Cherry Blossom Festival. This time, it was also a drive to Kanagawa to practice driving for my son, who got his driver's license this year. My father was in the passenger seat, and he was nervous inside. But his face was calm. This is important.
Today's plan is,Miura coastline→Kannonzaki Park→Walking.Yokosuka Art Museum→Mimosa at Yokosuka Chuo Station→Verney ParkThis is a relaxing and safe driving plan that is not too crammed. It is a relaxing and safe driving plan that is not too packed. Probably.
I invited my daughter, too, just in case. "Wanna go?" I asked. The reply was a quick "no." She said she had a lot of assignments to do in high school. She is busy. He must be going through puberty. My father accepts it quietly. He says, "No."
The music in the car is my son's choice. Light Japanese hip-hop. To be honest, I don't really know the names of the artists. I do know some of them, but I am an adult enough to keep quiet about that.
Miura Beach is closer than I expected. I parked at the cheapest coin-operated parking lot I had researched beforehand and walked to the venue. And - it was in full bloom! The cherry blossoms were in full bloom! Kawazu cherry trees are in full bloom. Successful revenge.
But the problem is the light. Here, the sun is difficult to get in. The light is limited, and the battle for the best position is beginning. I was taking it easy, but in no time at all, there were people, people, people. My father was in a hurry.
roadside treeand moved toward the pond from theIntertwined with the water surfaceAim for the Then climb a little higher.Collaboration with trainsalso tried. However, the morning sky was a little whitish. Hmmm, should I change the time of day next time? I guessed the full bloom, but could not read the light. Photography is a bottomless swamp rather than a deep one.
It also brings back memories of the Miura daikon I saw here long ago. I would have definitely bought them if they had been available in that powerful size, but I couldn't find them this time. Why is it that I am still more unmoved by daikon radishes than cherry blossoms?
NextKannonzaki ParkI was informed that there are Kawazu cherry trees here as well. I was informed that there were Kawazu cherry trees here as well. When I arrived, I thought, "Isn't this place too big? Isn't it too big?" I don't know where they are blooming. I don't know where they are blooming. The staff showed me the way and I went to the flower garden. It was quite a walk from the parking lot near the museum, about 20 minutes. It was a good exercise.
At the Flower PlazaRape blossoms and Kawazu cherry blossoms line upThe spring colors of yellow and pink co-starring together. A local festival was just taking place, and the air was lively. Under the blue sky, time passed leisurely.
Downhill from there,Yokosuka Art MuseumWhen I arrived at the restaurant, I found that it was undergoing renovations. When I arrived, I found it was under renovation. Oh, no. I was a little disappointed because I was so impressed with this place during the hydrangea season. However, the Kawazu cherry trees in the garden were blooming beautifully.Mejiro Festival (white-tailed catfish festival, held annually on May 15)Such and such a pose. Such a pose, such a pose. The subjects have a great spirit of service. The continuous shooting never stops.
NextMimosa in front of Yokosuka Chuo StationA man holding a telephoto lens in front of a train station. A man holding a telephoto lens in front of a train station. The stares from the people around him sting a little, but they don't move. I am used to it. When I returned to the car, my son said, "What were you filming?" I was taking pictures. That's right. My father was frantically taking pictures of the yellow tree in front of the station. I gave a brief explanation.
FinallyVerney ParkThe city is famous for its military port tours. It is famous for its military port tours. There is also a rose garden, which must be gorgeous in season. The tour of the military port is very popular and sold out. This time, I photographed the warships from the park. The contrast between the massive ships and the soft spring air is interesting. The contrast is interesting.
Lunch was at nearby Sushiro. Although conveyor-belt sushi is no longer 100 yen, the satisfaction level is still high. Eat well and recharge your energy.
Today was just a light drive that also served as driving practice. On the way back, I took the wheel and drove to Kawaguchi with safety first. The next day is a national holiday, but I am working.
Revenge of the full bloom was a success. Driving practice went well. My daughter dumped me, but that is part of our spring.
Well, tomorrow, the engine will start full throttle again. Let's go to bed early. Spring is busy. But that makes me a little happy.
Photography Diary｜February 21, 2026 Spring Color Doubleheader (Mimosa x Kawazu Cherry Blossom / Morning Only)
On this day, I had no time anyway. In the afternoon, I accompanied my son to the hospital. Family comes first, this is the unspoken top priority in our family. Photos are important. But not in the wrong order. I finally learned recently (too late) that this is the key to keep going for a long time.
However, we were given only the morning. Moreover, we are bound to return to Kawaguchi before noon. I know that a small amount of time can make the difference between winning and losing. Meticulous schedule management is required, but in reality, it is just the manager in my head saying, "I can probably make it.
Today's destination,Kawazu cherry blossoms at Nagisa Park, ,Mimosa in Irifune ParkandMimosa around Yokohama MotomachiWe move at sunrise and return in the morning. The mission is clear.
On a morning when the air was still cool, I set out a little late. When I arrived at Nagisa Park, the deep pink of the Kawazu cherry trees stood out in the bluish morning light. The soft morning sun shone obliquely on the small tree-lined avenue. People strolling under them, one with a dog, and me holding a telephoto lens. I am completely floating.
White-tails busily flitting from branch to branch.I held the 70-200mm and took a series of shots, holding my breath. But the angle of the sun and the direction of the trees were not quite right. The flowers are beautiful, but the light is not quite right. Getting up early is supposed to be the best of three virtues, but today it's about two and a half. I was making a mental note to myself, "Wouldn't it be better to get up in the afternoon? I take note inwardly, but the manager in my head shouts, "Move! the manager in my head shouts, "Let's move!
Riding the expressway, I headed toward Yokohama. The morning roads are relatively smooth. Jill Scott's new album is playing in the car, and a soothing soul rhythm fills the cabin. I remember that Pitchfork scores have recently become limited to paying subscribers, and though I'm mildly damaged, I encourage myself that "at the end of the day, it's my ears. When I think of the number of subs I'm already subscribed to, it's tough to go any further.
Irifune Parkwas the prettiest park imaginable. The grass, the playground equipment, the peaceful air. In the midst of it all, I walked right and left, looking for mimosa. Where is it? I was wondering where it was, but it was too far out of sight.Giant yellow treeI found a There is a middle-aged person who doesn't notice it because it is too big.
When I looked up, fluffy yellow flowers covered the sky. However, the morning light was still low and only brightened one side of the tree. I fine-tune my standing position, looking for the boundary between shadow and light. A suspicious man moving his feet a few centimeters at a time. Still, the moment the light hit the fluffy yellow, I couldn't help but say, "Oh!
The sign warns, "During busy times...". It may be a popular spot during the day. It is quiet now. Biting into the luxury of being able to take pictures while it is quiet, we move on.
FinallyYokohama MotomachiThe following is a list of the most common problems with the "C" in the "C" column.Harbor View ParkWe parked our car nearby and took a short detour. The morning air was clear and the view across the harbor was clearer than I had imagined.Panoramic view to the Bay BridgeI said to myself, "This is a definite revisit at sunrise or sunset. I have more homework to do.
Walking to Motomachi, I found a line already formed in front of cafes and bakeries. In the fashionable air, I was carrying a telephoto lens on my shoulder. I am completely out of place, but I have gotten used to it.Mimosa next to the cafeThe yellow color of the photo is a good match for the white walls of the building, and the yellow color is more vibrant. The time spent exploring the composition while adding the atmosphere of the city to the background is enjoyable.
Mindlessly release the shutter. There is no time to worry about being seen. Rather, I take the liberty of interpreting that not caring is the first step toward improvement.
The return trip is smooth. Clock is on schedule. Returned to Kawaguchi in the morning. The mission is a success. After that, my son drives to the hospital, and I quietly face my father in the passenger seat.
Photos are important. But it is the priorities that we must protect that make the morning hours special. As spring approaches, the number of places I want to visit increases rapidly. This year I want to travel a little farther than last year. But first, we must carefully follow the season in front of us.
Well, tomorrow is early. For a man who gets up at 4 a.m., staying up late is his worst enemy. Spring is busy. But that busyness makes me a little happy.
Photography Diary｜February 15, 2026 Sunday Morning Photography Tour by a Man Who Has No Option of Taking a Day Off
The day before, I woke up at 2:30 a.m. for a day trip across Minami-Izu to Kawazu Town. He returned home at 9:00 p.m.
Normally, the correct response would be, "Let's take it easy today. Yes, normally.
However, I am not the one with the shooting disease.
For some reason, I am most tired during the week on Mondays. On Sunday I can still move. I would rather move. It's a problem.
So, I woke up “slowly” at 5:00 a.m. on this day.
As one would expect, we refrained from going too far and made a short expedition in Tokyo with a promise to stay until noon.
Click here to see the plan.
interpoint (interword separation)Shioiri ParkCherry blossom walking in
interpoint (interword separation)Kameido TenjinPrunus mume var. japonica
interpoint (interword separation)Kuramae Shrinemimosa in
interpoint (interword separation)Mukojima HyakkaenUme Festival at
Returned to Kawaguchi at noon. Perfect time management. Probably.
First, Shioiri Park.
I had always been curious about this place because of the rows of cherry trees I used to see from the highway.
I will look for it as soon as it arrives.
...... Huh? It's not blooming.
Recently, the "Kawazu cherry blossoms at their best in Shioiri ParkWe have seen information that "the
A complete brain mix with the row of trees seen from the highway.
The result was a row of Someiyoshino trees (probably); there was no way they would bloom on February 15.
Preliminary research, important. Learn.
I was so frustrated that I carefully photographed the two Kawazu cherry trees in the park.
Petals at the beginning of bloom are beautiful and fresh.
Then,Appearance of Mr. MejiroIs it a Is it comforting?
I activate the tracking mode, set up the EOS R, and frantically follow the flying figure.
Thank you, Mejiro. It meant a lot to come here today.
I'll come back again when the Someiyoshino is around.
Next stop was Kameido Tenjin for the second time this year.
Splendid weeping plum blossomsThe location is in the middle of the city, in the middle of the city's most popular shopping area. It was early in the morning and there were few people, so you could take all the pictures you wanted.
I can't wait to spend time exploring the composition, thinking about the way the light comes in.
also herewhite-tailed catfishIt is a good idea. Collaboration with ume plum is an iron plate.
Although he must have been a little tired after the expedition every day, his fingers were in high spirits as he snapped the shutter.
NextKuramae ShrineThe following is a list of the most common problems with the "C" in the "C" column.
Kawazu cherry blossoms and mimosa are famous for their coexistence, but on this day, only mimosa were on display.
Yellow pompons are beautiful against the sky.The following is a list of the most common problems with the "C" in the "C" column.
Mimosa is a flower that makes me think "there must be a better composition" every time I take a picture of it.
I have yet to take a serious collaboration with Kawazu cherry blossoms with my mirrorless camera, so I need to be prepared when they are in full bloom. I'm also prepared for the crowds.
Last isUme Festival in Mukojima HyakkaenThe following is a list of the most common problems with the "C" in the "C" column.
This is my first visit since the fall foliage season.
The park is bustling with activity. Plum trees are in full bloom and the air is gorgeous.
Depending on the composition, a collaboration of plum blossoms and the Sky Tree may also be possible.
On days when there is a time limit, on the contrary, you will be able to concentrate more. Quick shooting, quick take-down.
Drive safely on the expressway to return home.
Arrived at Kawaguchi at 12:00 pm as scheduled. Excellent.
We went straight to the neighborhood OK store to buy groceries.
In the morning, he takes pictures of cherry blossoms and plum blossoms, and at noon, he chooses foodstuffs.
This swing is life.
Next week is going to be busy, so prepare your blog now.
Full operation on Saturday and Sunday. My body is a little tired, but my heart is full.
Shooting disease, well underway.
Photography Diary February 14, 2026: Called by Kawazu Cherry Blossoms. Greedy one-day trip across Izu
I have been thinking about this for the past month.
I wondered if it would really be possible to go on a day trip."
My goal for 2026 is to “challenge places that have been difficult to reach in a day trip due to distance. We did go on an outing at the end of the year and the beginning of the new year, but that was an overnight stay. This time, however, it will be a one-day trip of 100% purity. My basic stance is to take day trips. Staying overnight relaxes my mind. And your wallet loosens up, too. That's why we are going for a day trip. But I don't tell you that my heart shakes every time I see a hot spring resort.
Destination,Kawazu Town, birthplace of Kawazu cherry blossomsI was so excited to see the cherry blossoms and rape blossoms in Minami-Izu Town. Then, while researching, I found the Minami Izu Town "Minami no Cherry Blossom and Rape Blossom Festival". I also found the Kawazu Nanadaki Loop Bridge, Shuzenji Plum Grove, and Shuzenji Temple.
If I think about it calmly, it is a completely crammed plan. But it is my nature to trigger the "I'm going all the way here, so..." feeling. The engine of my poor nature was running at full throttle from this morning.
If you want to photograph the sunrise, it is natural to count backwards. As a result, I woke up at 2:30 am.
I am an early riser. I get up at 4:00 every morning. But 2:30 is different. This is not a morning activity, but a “continuation of the night. As I was getting ready in the quiet house, I thought for a moment, ”Isn't that a bit much? But as soon as I got my camera bag on my back, I turned on the switch. We loaded up the car and headed out.
From the Tokyo Metropolitan Expressway to the Tomei Expressway, I passed through a toll booth before 4:00 p.m. I was told, "This qualifies for a discount. I was already in an expedition mode with a small hope that I could get a discount. I was already in the mood for an expedition. We entered the Izu area and took the inland route as instructed by the navigation system. The twisting and turning road over Amagi in the dim light was quite thrilling. I was thinking to myself, "Are you sure we are going the right way? I wondered to myself as I gripped the steering wheel. I felt zero drowsiness. Rather, excitement prevails.
Arrived in Minami-Izu town in about 3 hours. Just before sunrise. The moment the sky turns slightly orange, the tension quietly rises in the car.
First, a light photo was taken in a field of rape blossoms near the venue. The yellow color covered with morning dew was beautiful. And then, "theMinami Cherry Blossom and Rape Blossom FestivalTo the "Go to. I was first impressed by the free parking. In this day and age, I really appreciate it.
Kawazu cherry blossoms in full bloom along the river. The scenery, with both banks of the river dyed pink, was beyond my imagination. The steam from the hot springs was rising in the air, and the peaceful atmosphere flowed through the air. I am glad I came. The backlit shot I took on the stairs was the best shot of the day. The chase between light and shadow is the best.
The moment I thought, "Now I want to come back for an overnight stay," my day-trip mentality was shaken up a bit.
Next, we went to Kawazu Town. The drive along the sea is just so nice. We stopped on the way.Shirahama BeachThen, the clarity of the water was so clear that I braked. I slipped into a parking lot that happened to be empty and took a short break. Blue ocean, white sandy beach. I took a deep breath.
I'm convinced, "This is why I can't stop going on expeditions."
And Kawazu Town.Cherry trees along the Kawazu RiverThe view of the Kawazu cherry blossoms was breathtaking. I walked around the gazebo, the original Kawazu cherry trees, and the seaside, and kept snapping the shutter. No matter where I took a picture, it was a picture. It was a moment when all the hard work of getting up early was rewarded at once.
We filled our stomachs with yakisoba noodles from a food stall, and moved on to the next, chewing on our modest happiness.
Kawazu Nanadaki Loop BridgeOn the way to the "Giant Loop Bridge," as expected, we took a wrong turn and wandered into a narrow alley. However, we arrived at the huge loop bridge, which was very impressive. As a structure lover, I can't get enough of it. For some reason, the sight of the loop bridge drawing a circle around the bridge makes me very excited.
The last stop was in the direction of Shuzenji. We crossed the Amagi Mountains again. The clouds were getting threatening, and we were halfway to giving up on Mt.Shuzenji Plum GroveIt was still a little disappointing that I couldn't see it. Still, the scent of ume plum blossoms and the sight of white-eyes are soothing.
Just as I was about to leave, I saw a faint white shadow. Ah, there he is! It was Mt. It was Mt. It wasn't a perfect collaboration with the plum blossoms, but it was definitely there. I couldn't help but applaud in my heart. Blessings, blessings, blessings.
Shuzenji TempleThe air was quiet and the weeping ume (Japanese apricot) trees gently welcomed us. The atmosphere of the hot spring resort town was also pleasant, and my heart was again moved to say, "I would like to stay overnight here, too. My day-trip policy is in jeopardy.
The hot ramen noodles I had at the PA on the way home soaked into my body. I woke up at 2:30 am. As expected, I was tired. But when I recall the cherry blossoms along the river, the sea at Shirahama, and the faint view of Mt.
The first day trip expedition, a great success.
The distance I thought I might not be able to cover was surprisingly long.
Now, how greedy will they be next time?
I'm kind of looking forward to it myself.
Photography Diary February 1, 2026 Atami and Odawara, and the vanished Mt.
Originally, I would have liked to go on Saturday, but I normally work on Saturday.
So this time, I changed my mind and said, "No, thank you, it's Sunday! I changed my mind, and dared to make a one-day trip to Atami and Odawara.
The content is quite simple.
Sea, cherry blossoms, and plum blossoms" in Atami and "castle and plum blossoms" in Odawara.
It is ......, but this day is the mayoral election in Kawaguchi city where we live. Voting is a must.
If possible, I would also like to vote in advance for the House of Representatives election.
This means that we must be home by 4:30 p.m., which is quite a binding time.
Atami → Odawara → Kawaguchi, returning home at 16:30.
...... This is going to be a hard day.
Wake up is at 4:00 am as usual.
Most of the luggage has already been moved to the car the day before. This is the wisdom of a working person who can leave immediately upon waking up.
With a warm cup of coffee in my hand, I went from the Gaikan ring to the Metropolitan Expressway to the Tomei Expressway.
The highway is empty and comfortable early Sunday morning. It takes about 40 minutes from home to Tomei.
While I was thinking, "What time would be the best time to get the late-night ETC discount?
There are many fine toll roads around Atami.
A particularly high probability of getting in is the 500-yen section along the coast.
It would be great if the weather was clear and we could see the view, but it was still dark on this day.
Yes, no sense. I did it.
As we approach Atami, there is a slight brightness before sunrise.
There were clouds on the horizon. I was a little disappointed, thinking, "This will be a tough morning sunrise....
Still, as we waited on the beach, the sun peeked out from above the clouds, and the sky quickly turned red.
Ah, beautiful.
Sunrise at seais still a great feeling.
There were a surprisingly large number of people in the morning, and everyone felt like they got a little something out of it.
As soon as you see the sunrise.Atami cherry (Prunus incisa)To.
Cherry blossoms and townscape along Itogawa River, full of emotion.
The white-eyes came too, and the shutter didn't stop.
It is still nice to see cherry blossoms at this time of the year.
Next, we actually visited for the first timeAtami Plum GardenThe following is a list of the most common problems with the "C" in the "C" column.
The area is larger than expected and the plum trees vary from early bloom to full bloom.
The weeping plum blossoms are just beginning to bloom.
The park has elevation changes and a river, making it easy to photograph.
The time of autumn leaves looks good, too. This is a definite revisit.
Next, a famous power spot.Kuromiya ShrineThe following is a list of the most common problems with the "C" in the "C" column.
...... but the parking lot is full, full, full.
Still wanting power, I park in front of the station and walk.
The grounds have a fun atmosphere with cafes and a sense of entertainment.
Power supply is firmly replenished.
Next, we went to Odawara.
In fact, I had never walked properly.Odawara Castleis.
But first, let's get hungry.
We revisited Odawara Tanmen, which we visited last time.
Tanmen and dumplings. No doubt. Satisfying.
Odawara Castle is magnificent.
Many plum trees are in bloom around the perimeter and smell good.
Collaboration with the castle seems a bit difficult, but it definitely looks good during cherry blossom season. Memo.
FinallySoga Plum GroveThe following is a list of the most common problems with the "C" in the "C" column.
The aim is a collaboration of plum blossoms and Mt.
...... Huh?
Fuji, where?
It's sunny. It's crazy.
And yet, I can't see it.
That's when I started thinking, "No way, was that AI I saw on social media?"
A word from a passing wife.
Fuji was visible just a few minutes ago.
Eh.
Only a small portion of the area was slightly cloudy, but it was apparently hidden there.
Is that possible?
No luck today, so I took a picture of the plum grove, bought some pickled plums, and left.
There was no traffic jam on the way home, and we returned home at exactly 4:00 p.m.
Advance voting for the mayoral and lower house elections was also completed successfully.
Shooting, traveling, and elections.
It was quite an accomplishment to complete the whole day.
Let's keep up the good work this week.
Photography Diary January 31, 2026 A day chasing signs of spring from morning glow to white-eye festival
On this day, the plan was to take "just a little bit" of time off from work to take pictures.
Yes, it is a Saturday, but it is a normal work day. Yes, it's Saturday, but I have to work as usual. There are days like this in order to survive.
Am I a respectable adult now that I seriously start thinking about "a plan to work only on rainy days"? Probably not.
I have to work in the afternoon, so the morning is the best time.
I would like to say that it is fun ...... again to think about where to go in a short time, but the CPU in my brain is already under high load due to month-end inventory and closing work. Thinking time, I am completely short.
On Sunday, we plan to go to Atami and Odawara area. Then, Saturday is the right time to be in the vicinity.
I remember that your son had just told me that he wanted to practice driving too, and my mind is filled with thoughts of the Zao Onsen snowboarding trip that is coming up next week. Four college students driving on snowy roads. I have nothing but anxiety .......
Portable toilets, sleeping bags, food. This is the only way to let them have it.
Now back to the story.
I visited last week.Kasai Rinkai ParkCinderella Castle was very nice, but no tripod at that time.
I could clearly hear the voice of heaven saying, "Take your tripod and try again.
He also added a heavenly voice from another route, "In Shinjuku Gyoen, the cold cherry blossoms are in bloom and the white-eyes are peeping.
There is no more time to think.
Okay, let's go with that trend.
In the morning, I woke up at 5:00 a.m. as usual. Depart a little slower.
Kasai Rinkai Park is about 40 minutes from my home, Kawaguchi. The ocean is close. Closer than you can imagine.
"Perhaps this is the nearest ocean from Kawaguchi? We arrived at the beach with a smoother route than last time, thinking such questions as "Is this the nearest beach from Kawaguchi?
This time we are serious.
Tripod, ND filter, release. Fully equipped.
I'm going to try a "way that looks like it" that I saw on the internet.
Set the shutter speed as slow as you can and release it gently.
Only the attitude of not allowing even the vibration of pressing a button is one of a kind.
Result?
It was a sunny-leaning day, so I forced myself to agree, "Well, this is how it looks like.
This is another case of trying again on a day when the weather is going to be rough.
I have been a camera operator for a year and a half, and my training continues.
Afterwards, the park'sPlum,Wax plum,narcissusand move on to the next.
Next stop is Shinjuku Gyoen. We are aiming for the cold cherry blossoms and white-eye.
We slipped in just in time for the park to open. There it was,Cherry Blossom Festival (Kitano Shrine, Feb. 25)The following is a list of the most common problems with the "C" in the "C" column.
Piyo-piyo, piyo-piyo, spring here and there.
The number of whitebirds does not decrease no matter how many pictures I take.
But then suddenly a large green guest appeared.
"...... parakeets?"
Check it out,Wakame Hong Kong parrot (Phoenicopterus macrophyllus)They say it is called. Wild.
I was mildly shocked to see them munching on the blossoms rather than sucking the nectar of the cherry trees. Tokyo is a deep city.
narcissusI will take some photos of the "K" and "M", and that's all for this day. I am heading back to work.
And night.
I suddenly realized on my way home from work.
...... tripod, but no.
I did it completely.
I have cleanly forgotten about it in Kasai Rinkai Park.
I'll call you tomorrow. I will.
The tripod disappeared, but it was a very intense day, packed with shooting and work.
The photo diary continues to include these failures.
Photography Diary: January 25, 2026, Noon Return, A Reckless Plan Named "Four Scenes of Flowers
On this day, too, the morning was a flurry of activity.
The day before, I had a reunion with a friend from junior high school and had a good night, but the next day, the 25th, we were scheduled to meet at 14:00 at Fujimino station, which is only for lunch.
In other words, until then, it is free time.
When it comes to ......, there is only one thing to think about.
How far can you shoot before you get there?"
To my family, I apologize ahead of time for today.
What is the ideal flow that you have drawn up in your mind,
Shooting → return home → lunchtime drink (reunion with friends).
It is elegant in writing, but in reality it is almost a tightrope walk.
It's tough to go far away. Then let's go to Tokyo.
The day before was at Hanegi Park, so it naturally came to mind--
."EBARA Shrine, the problem that white-eye seems to be out.".
However, that place is not sunrise oriented.
So where do we go before we get there?"
Asking myself questions, and feeling appalled at my own greedy nature, here is the route I finally decided to take.
Kasai Rinkai Park (sunrise and daffodils)
Daiba (ice tulip)
Ebara Shrine (scarlet cherry blossoms and white-eye)
Kiba Park (mimosa, scarlet cherry and white-eye)
I accomplished everything and went home at 12:00.
The code name is "Noon Return, Four Views of Flowers".
If it fails, it is just a self-indulgent drive.
On the day of the event, I woke up at 4:00 a.m. as usual.
We are assuming that we will return home once, so our luggage is light.
The Gaikan ring and the Metropolitan Expressway will take you to Kasai Rinkai Park in no time.
It was still quite dark, but we walked quickly in the direction of the sea.
I thought, "No one will be there," but for some reason there were so many people.
...... That's what I mean.
Visible from the ocean at this time of year.Disneyland's Cinderella Castle and the rising sun nearly overlap.It seems.
It was a complete no-show.
I kneeled quietly in my mind, wishing I had brought my tripod.
I photographed the castle and the sunrise, and suddenly looked the other way,Beyond the sea, Mt.The following is a list of the most common problems with the "C" in the "C" column.
Winter air, too much work.
Also photographed here.
In addition, they started blooming near the Ferris wheel.Daffodils are illuminated by the morning sun.The following is a list of the most common problems with the "C" in the "C" column.
At this point, I'm already quite satisfied.
NextIce tulips in DaibaTo.
Flowers on both sides of the aisle, Rainbow Bridge in the back, and even Tokyo Tower.
This is already the violence of the golden ratio.
I release the shutter without hesitation.
It's about 20 minutes from there.Ebara ShrineThe following is a list of the most common problems with the "C" in the "C" column.
When we arrived, camera enthusiasts were out in force.
Everyone is silent, but the air is hot.
The scarlet cherry trees are in full bloom, and the white-eyes are close.The following is a list of the most common problems with the "C" in the "C" column.
Easy to take. Thankful.
Another 20 minutes,Kiba ParkTo.
Mimosas are beginning to bloom.
I was frightened by the speed of time in January, thinking, "Oh, it's that time of year already.
NearbyScarlet cherry blossoms along the riverWell then,The short tree makes the whitebaitis just around the corner.
Commemorative photo, complete.
Watch the clock.
...... Oh no.
Go home, go home!" And he turns the wheel hurriedly.
I returned home a little after midnight.
I shovel down the curry and do my best to spoil my reliable son, who offers to drive me to the station.
They are going to Sano on that leg.
You just got your license. I'm a little worried.
Reunited with old friends at 14:00 in Fujimino.
At the yakitori restaurant "Big," the old stories and updates never stop. One beer and five highballs. Still, I am surprisingly sober. It is almost 7:00 p.m. before I realize it.
The good times always come early.
On the way home, my son picked me up at Fujimino station. Thank you, son.
I went home smoothly on Kan-etsu and Soto-Kan.
What a day.
Shoot, run, drink, and laugh.
There was a lot going on, but it was great.
Very satisfied.
Photography Diary January 24, 2026: A railroad bridge in the morning and a plum grove in the evening---Tokyo in January, a double feature shoot
This week, I had plans to meet with a friend from junior high school on Saturday and Sunday, and as of Friday, all I could think was, "This is going to be a slam dunk...".
However, the desire to shoot does not look at a schedule.
We will meet at 10:30 on Saturday and at 14:00 on Sunday. Until then, you are completely “free”.
Family, I apologize ahead of time this week.
So, first up is Saturday, January 24.
I was reasonably busy with my day job (which I do have) during the week and did not have time to plan for a weekend shoot.
Lunch break, a second at McDonald's to fill my stomach, smartphone in hand, and a furious search for Insta and X.
It's time for the plum blossoms to start moving in the Kanto region. And if you are lucky, whitebait too.
With such faint hopes in mind, I chose Hanegi Park, one of the best plum groves in Tokyo, for my first visit.
However, there is a slight pause between sunrise and the brightness suitable for photography.
"Can't you shoot something at that time?" I found it by looking forHachiko Line, Tama River Bridge".
Reflection of sunrise x railway bridge x running train x water surface.
My insta-brain whispers, "This is going to look good.
Okay, the bridge for sunrise and the plum grove for main. Let's use this double feature.
The goal is to meet a friend in the Fujimino, Saitama area at 10:30.
The day of the event, I woke up at 4:00 a.m. as usual.
Of course, it was still dark. I wish the sun would rise a little earlier," I say to myself every year.
Lighter luggage, heavier feelings (time limit). Convenience store addicts buy BOSS and off we go.
Hachioji, through the Gaikan Ring, the Metropolitan Expressway, and the Chuo Expressway.Hachiko Line, Tama River BridgeGo to.
...... Huh? Hachioji is so far away from here?
Lately, my sense of distance has been completely broken. With a mysterious sense of urgency, I managed to arrive before sunrise - or should have.
Here is a certain festival.
Lack of preliminary research and do not know the point of shooting.
Which side of the river? It's dark, scary, and empty.
"Is this...the place?" I was half in doubt,
Train suddenly passes.
...... Yes, I didn't look at the timetable.
Hachiko Line at this time of the day, the number of trains seems to be low.
The decision was made to wait for about 30 minutes on the extremely cold riverbed.
In times like this, civilization is the best tool.
Open YouTube on your phone and watch "Mr. Sakuma's NOBROCK TV".
Alone on a dark riverbank, I burst out laughing.
If someone sees you, you are completely suspicious.
But time flies when you are laughing. Thank you, Mr. Sakuma.
The train is about to arrive, and this time we wait diligently.
After wondering whether to take a video or a photo, this time I decided to take a video and then take a squash.
Mission successfully completed.
Frankly, the light was more beautiful at the time before one.
And the composition is different from what I saw in the installations.
...... maybe the other side of the river.
If anyone knows the correct answer, please sneak it to me.
After getting back into the swing of things, next comes today's main objective,Plum trees in Hanegi ParkTo.
Returned by Tomei and arrived before 8:00 a.m.
But then, the parking lot opens at 8:00.
Is the bar broken?" I thought to myself for a moment and waited.
Park at the gate when it opens and go straight to the plum grove.
Flowering has just begun.
Still, some trees are blooming well and are fragrant.
Although I was unable to photograph them, I did see a few white-eyes here and there.
What a treat to even see Mt. Fuji over the plum grove.
I kept clicking the shutter until just before 9:00 a.m., a very satisfying morning.
Meetings with friends are on schedule. Time management is completed in my personal life. Main business will be implemented in the future.
For lunch, we went to Sanuki Udon Jobe near Kamifukuoka Station.
Former Giant and Jobe pitcher's restaurant.
It's cheap, tasty, and crowded. I can see why.
Shooting, getting lost, waiting, laughing,
See friends, eat good food.
It was a good day.
Dear family, I am so sorry for this week.
But I will probably say the same thing next week.
Photography Diary January 18, 2026 Operation Boomerang in Minami-Boso. Going to see cherry blossoms and white-eyes
The day was named "Operation Minami-Boomerang. It all started the night before, when I got into my futon and heard a piece of information that jumped into my ears. It was in Minami-Boso, Chiba.lakefront parkI heard that the cherry blossoms are already in bloom, and the white-eyes are coming in like crazy. ...... Wait a minute, it's January! Cherry blossoms already? And a white-eye festival? If I hear something like that, I'm screwed. A little green bird starts chirping in my head, and I am completely turned on.
I woke up at 4:00 a.m. as usual. I left a few words, "I'll be back by noon," and set off almost without any hesitation. I just wanted to see my white-eyes, that was all I cared about.
We drove safely, not at a brisk pace, via the Gaikan ring and the Metropolitan Expressway. We arrived at Kamogawa just before dawn. I was thinking how beautiful the ocean was when I arrived at my destination.lakefront parkI went to the The first thing I thought when I arrived was, "Oh, we are on top of a mountain. And on top of the mountain, the early-blooming cherry trees were almost in full bloom. With about 60 cherry trees, rape blossoms, and daffodils, it was already a springtime traffic jam.
First.Morning glow from the mountain topphotographed. No, this alone is worth the visit.Then daffodils. Great with the morning glow.And the shutter doesn't stop. And finally, the main dish of the day. It's not just a question of "Is there a white-tailed dog here? Yes, they are. There are so many of them. It was a complete white-eye heaven. Flying, perching, pecking, flying again. There were even a couple of white-tailed godwits in action, so this was more of a training session than a photo shoot. The number of pictures keeps increasing, but I decided not to look into the future of editing.
Before you know it, a lot of time has passed. However, I have a commitment to return home at noon. ...... is just one more place to go, please. So,Kamogawa Nanohana RoadI had been here before, but this time it was in full bloom. I had been here before, but this time it was in full bloom. Yellow carpets as far as the eye could see. I took a lot of pictures, both with forward light and backlight. Yes, I was very satisfied. I was able to photograph the first white-eye of the year, so I have no regrets.
The return trip went smoothly without traffic jams, and we got home safely around noon. After lunch, we went back to another mission in the afternoon. My son's driving practice resumed. This time, we took the Tohoku Expressway from the Gaikan Ring Road to "Michi no Eki Sakai" (Roadside Station). This is a roadside station that I personally like a lot, and it is a fun place with Okinawan collaborations. We bought mandarin oranges, hoshi-imo, sake, etc., and completed a nice side trip.
There is also Sekijuku Castle nearby, which I recognized again as a place I often see on Instagram. I made a mental note to come back in the evening when Mt.
The return trip was smooth with no traffic. My son drove, and it was a pleasant drive. It was a day with a lot of travel from the morning, but we had a great day of shooting and driving practice. It was a very satisfying and intense day.
Photography Diary January 17, 2026 - A day of shooting in Gotanda and side trips with a novice driver
The day started out with a bit of an eventful morning. The day before, my son had finally, really finally, obtained his driver's license, and we decided to practice. However, I was surprised when I heard where we were going. It was Gotanda, Tokyo. And it was the first day of getting his license. No, no, no, that's too high a hurdle, no matter how much I want to go there. I thought to myself, "I'm not going to use the highway," "I'm not going to overdo it," and "I'm going slowly.
The departure time is 10:00 a.m. Oh, 10:00 a.m.? Then the time until then is completely mine. Yes, yes, I understand.
So we woke up at 5:00 am as usual. I got up, got ready right away, and went to the standard spot ofArakawa bankWe headed to the We arrived before dawn and stood by in the quiet air. As I waited, thinking that a spectacular sunrise might not be possible because of the clouds, the sky slowly began to lighten. The clouds were sitting on the horizon, so it was not a fiery sunrise, but the sunrise had a somewhat disturbing and heavy atmosphere. This is not so bad. It's more of a "a lot is going to happen today" sky, which I personally quite like. Satisfaction.
Then we headed toOmiya No.2 ParkI saw on Instagram that the ume (Japanese apricot) trees were beginning to bloom. I saw information on Instagram that the plum blossoms were beginning to bloom, so I dropped by to do some reconnaissance. The parking lot was already open and there were a few people there. I went straight to the plum grove without hesitation. The state of blooming varied from tree to tree, but there were some trees that I thought, "Oh, these are in full bloom," giving me the impression that the season was almost over. Still, I took good pictures while looking for a place with good branches.
In addition, in the parkDaffodils were also in bloom, and I used the morning light to take sparkling ball blur photos.It is quite a luxurious time in the morning. It is quite a luxurious time in the morning. I returned home with petit satisfaction.
After breakfast, we finally departed for Gotanda. To be honest, I was a little nervous because I rarely sit in the passenger seat, but when we started driving, the driver was surprisingly calm. He was also checking for safety, and I thought to myself, "Oh, isn't he better than I thought he'd be? Isn't he better than I thought he would be? That was my honest impression. Probably much better than when I got my license. I was a little concerned about some points unique to Tokyo, such as changing lanes at intersections, but for a first day with a driver's license, it was probably a good performance. Am I an idiot? Yes, I am aware of it.
We arrived at the venue about 90 minutes later. While my son was shopping for snowboarding equipment, I stayed in the car. I asked him if he wanted me to drive him home, but he said, "I'll drive you home too. Oh, that's very encouraging. Then, let's ask him to be a little more selfish.
So, there are only two stops.
First.Kameido TenjinI got out of the car quickly and took a picture for about 10 minutes. I quickly got out of the car and took pictures for about 10 minutes. Plum blossoms, white plum blossoms, daffodils, etc., were blooming at the entrance, and I realized that it was early this year.
NextUeno ParkI was parked at the perfect spot and quickly took a 10-minute photo. I was parked at the right spot again and quickly took a 10-minute photo. The fountain square and ice tulips looked great. This “touch-and-go shooting” method is surprisingly excellent. Parking is expensive in Tokyo, and it may be easier to concentrate on a short period of time. I am thinking of contracting my son as a part-time driver.
So, while accompanying my son's driving practice, I was able to enjoy shooting in between. It was a good day off, with a good mix of tension and fun.
Photography Diary January 11, 2026 Morning glow dud, winds explode, but still a satisfying trip to Kanagawa
On this day, I went to Kanagawa in the morning.
Let's photograph the morning glow and plum blossoms!" This is a day of "Let's shoot the morning glow and plum blossoms!
Even though I had come home late the day before to see the icicle lights, I woke up at 4:00 am.
I am restless. I am a person who is in a hurry. Ha-ha-ha.
First, we will aim for the morning glow at Inamuragasaki.
I'm just fired up. I set out while it was still dark and bought a BOSS café au lait as usual.
By the way, the coupon is gone. But I will buy it as it is.
It's what you want. Completely.
While cheating sleepiness with a café au lait, the music was Clipse's 2025 album.
We approach the site through the Metropolitan Expressway, the Tomei Expressway, and a highway that feels like a barrier, as if to say, "How many times can we stop here? We are approaching the site after passing through the Metropolitan Expressway, the Tomei Expressway, and the expressway, which has a sense of a barrier.
...... Huh?
Stars, no.
Not a single one, no.
'Daily routine?' I doubted myself for a moment,
Yes, it was completely cloudy.
Morning glow? What's that? State of affairs.
That's enough.
On days like this, it is adults who do not drag it out.
It will clear up sooner or later anyway. Give up on the sunrise quickly and move on to the next.
So, to keep away from the disaster of "fogging up while shooting",
Famous in all directions.Samukawa ShrineThe first time you visit the hotel, you will be heading to the
When I arrived at the restaurant, thinking that it might be a little early, or that it might not be open, I found that something was wrong.
Traffic jam.
And it's not just a traffic jam.
Yes, January.
I completely underestimated the timing.
Ridiculous people, people, people. The lines in all directions are just amazing.
This time, due to time constraints, we were not able to visit the Happo Yoshiwara, but we did pay a visit to the temple.
I'll come properly next time," he declared in his mind.
The precincts of the temple are lined with food stalls. Takoyaki, yakisoba, this and that.
This liveliness, it has been a long time.
We didn't see the sunrise, but this was a good time.
Well, it looks like it's about to clear up, so next up.Odawara Flower GardenTo.
Plum blossoms and daffodils are beginning to bloom.
Frankly, I feel like I come here every year.
And I feel like I take pictures of the same little pink plum trees every year.
But that's okay.
You can take as many pictures of your favorite subject as you like.
We stayed quite a while, so what's next?
Yokosuka or Atami?
The final decision is made by looking at the sky.
It's Yokosuka today."Soleil HillThe first time you visit the hotel, you will be heading to the
But first, let's get hungry.
The desire to eat ramen suddenly arose, and I stumbled upon Odawara Tamen Sohonten.
The name already sounds delicious.
We shared the Odawara tanmen and fried yakisoba, which was a great decision.
Both are delicious.
This is a repeat case for sure.
Full stomachs and a fresh start.
Soleil HillNow, I will try to capture "rape blossoms and Mt.
The .......
On this day in Kanagawa Prefecture, the wind was just strong.
Strong winds or storms.
The level of agitation when holding up the camera.
I managed to cope by increasing the shutter speed.
To be honest, it was quite a struggle, but I think I just barely managed to get the shot.
I'm getting tired by now, and I think it's time to go home,
I was walking around the park, thinking, "Let's go around first."
The ocean seen from the top of the cliff at the far end is the most beautiful.
The stronger the wind, the rougher the waves.
The waves splash and are very powerful.
I took many shutterbugs here as well.
What was even more surprising was that you could go down to the beach. I had no idea.
Once you get down there, this is a different world.
It is too powerful and a bit scary.
The water splashes and it doesn't look good for the camera, so we left after a moderate amount of time.
I didn't see the sunrise, though,
The flowers, the sea, and the wind, all in all, a satisfying day.
The days that don't go the way you want them to, the more memorable they are."
With these thoughts in mind, I headed home.
Photography Diary January 10, 2026 Full course of icicles, starting with a car inspection, mostly haphazard
The day was unquestionably sunny.
However, I had a slightly less dreamy and less romantic schedule: a one-year inspection of my car in Nerima starting at 11:00 a.m.
In the last five years or so, the mileage has been about 100,000 km. The pace is 20,000 kilometers per year. It could be said that I drive too much, but the memories are accumulating as well. Since they work hard and are taken around a lot, inspections are important. This is already like a preparatory exercise before a photo shoot.
In the morning, I worked diligently on updating the blog.
Just when you think, "Okay, that sounds good," you look at your watch and it's time to go. It's the same story every time.
The inspection was completed successfully in about 60 minutes. In addition, I also completed the renewal of my son's limited driver's license because he is finally getting his license.
The feeling of "Here we are at last," and the ulterior motive of "The day when I can ask you to drive for me is near at hand.
Outside, the sky is still full of motivation.
I was convinced that "today is not the day to go home like this," even though no one had told me otherwise.
A place I could go in the afternoon: ...... Yes, the three major icicles of Chichibu.
I found myself in Chichibu for navigation. I am the type who moves before thinking.
First.icicle in MisotsuchiThe following is a list of the most common problems with the "C" in the "C" column.
The icicles lining the cliffs along the river are as spectacular as ever. The temperature is low and the air is crisp.
Here's a serious fact you'll notice. I left my tripod in the car.
For a moment, I wondered whether I should go back to get it, but I quickly decided, "Well, I guess today is hand-held training.
The result is dark, blurred, and more excuses.
But strangely, I don't feel bad. I am strangely convinced, "That's the kind of day it is today."
After the photo shoot, I bought miso at the store.
It instantly brought back memories of the delicious taste I used to buy. I forget the setting of the photo, but the memory of the taste is never blurred. Human beings are a wonder.
NextIce Pillars in Onouchi ValleyThe following is a list of the most common problems with the "C" in the "C" column.
Suspension bridge, canyon, icicles. The composition is perfect.
However, there is almost no place to set up a tripod.
When you think, "Here it is," the line of flow of people; when you think, "If it's here," the footing is unstable.
Nature does not always spoil us. But it is fun.
Since we started in the afternoon, we noticed that the sky was the color of evening.
I said, "We have to hurry," and headed for the end,icicle atop a high pole (esp. in Kyoto and Osaka prefectures)The lights are on. Lighting up is the real work here.
The nights in Chichibu are really dark, but that makes for a very extraordinary experience.
Aim for the tripod-allowed area and walk equipped with a tripod and boots.
To be honest, I walked quite a bit more than I had imagined.
Still?" in my mind several times, I finally arrived at the restaurant.
There is a world of colorful glistening icicles. There are many people, but that is part of the winter event atmosphere.
Setting up a tripod for a long exposure challengeThe following is a list of the most common problems with the "C" in the "C" column.
The setting is half intuition. But there is a feeling that I gradually grasp each time I release the shutter.
I feel that photography responds well when you face it properly.
Although we left in the afternoon, we stayed until nighttime to conquer the three major icicles in Chichibu.
On the way home, we bought rice at a roadside station and ate it in the car.
A few parts went as planned. But the satisfaction level is high.
It's days like this that make me think I'll "just go out" again the next time.
Photography Diary January 3, 2026 Inubosaki Beyond the Snow, New Year's Holiday Not Over Yet
This year's New Year's holiday is a whopping six days.
It is a length of time that I can hardly remember when I counted it in my working life.
On the 2nd and 4th, I will be at home relaxing & working on my computer. This means that the three days in between - I have no choice but to move.
This day had been planned for some time.Inubosaki, ChibaSunrise photography at
However, from the evening of the 2nd, full-blown snow began to fall in Kawaguchi City.
Moreover, our car was not equipped with studless tires. I gave up at first, thinking, "This is impossible....
However, it rained during the night and then cleared up.
The road conditions look fine. This...can work.
So, I woke up at 3:00 a.m. again. I definitely wake up earlier on my days off.
The highway is deceptively snow-free.
But as we approached Inubosaki, the scenery became snowier and snowier.
This was careful...well, super-careful. We proceeded slowly and surely, arriving safely just before sunrise.
Because it was the 3rd, there were fewer people than expected.
And the view in front of me is just perfect. The snow that fell during the night remains,
The ocean, a lighthouse, and snow. The combination, which is not often seen, raises the tension at once.
I found myself unable to stop releasing the shutter.
Cold? I don't feel it. Probably.
After the shoot, we visited the previous summerManganji TempleAfter a short stop at the "K" (the "K" in Japanese) to photograph the quiet precincts of the temple, we headed north.
NextKashima ShrineI visited the shrine at The crowd here was quite the turnaround. It is indeed a popular place.
Further north,National Hitachi Seaside ParkTo. While strolling in the park, I took pictures of ice tulips and wax plum blossoms.
Winter flowers are not flashy, but they are good.
I did not go deep that day and went home early. Looking back,
I feel that we really moved well from the end of the year to the beginning of the new year.
I would like to get through the year at this rate, though,
One practical problem. I took too many pictures, too many pictures. I can't finish organizing .......
I thought to myself, "I'll have a whole day on the 4th to organize photos."
It was still a wonderful day.
Photography Diary January 1, 2026 First Sunrise Starts Cloudy, But Still a Miracle Happens
Happy New Year!
We look forward to working with you again this year.
Now, the New Year's Eve, December 31, 2025, will be celebrated at the No Way to Go Club.
It was indeed a much more secure experience than staying in the car. Civilization is amazing.
Then January 1. As on the previous day, we woke up at 3:00 AM.
I was ready to go. and making a mysterious onomatopoeic sound, he prepared and immediately set out.
I move as soon as I have an idea, and this is my style.
We were headed for a sudden change of plans the day before.Tanuki LakeThe following is a list of the most common problems with the "C" in the "C" column.
Yes, today is the first sunrise of the year. I had heard that it would be crowded anyway, so I was a bit nervous as I headed there, but thanks to my early arrival, I managed to park successfully.
But when I look around, I see people people people people .......
It creates a strange sense of solidarity, as if to say, "We all think alike.
That's all well and good, but here is the biggest problem.
It's cloudy. No, it's quite cloudy. And snow? Sleet? It even started to rain.
What, since New Year's Day?" For a moment, it felt like the year was already over.
However.
Miraculously, there are no clouds in one part of the sky where the sun is about to rise.
That's really the only place. It was as if a spotlight was shining on it, and light began to shine through it.
The sky gradually brightens.
In the mystical atmosphere, I was able to safely see the first sunrise of the year, and I was already very satisfied with that.
Fuji at sunrise, but as the sun rose, Mt.
I returned home early that day and had plans to have dinner with my family, so it was time to move out.
...but I took a little detour.
On the way home, I had been curious about it for a while.Oobuchi SasabaTo.
This is a preliminary inspection for the new tea season.
The combination of the deep green tea fields and Mt. Fuji was so beautiful that I couldn't help but promise in my heart that I would come back.
After overcoming the Tomei and Metropolitan Expressway (which for some reason was very crowded), we returned home around noon.
We ate dinner and went on a first visit to the temple,
Thus, New Year's Day 2026 was a quiet but satisfying day.
