Niigata’s Principal Shrine: Hakusan Shrine | Wind Chimes Viewed Through the Foreground Blur

2026July 2026JulyNiigata PrefectureNiigata’s Principal Shrine: Hakusan ShrineVarious Scenerywind chime
A wind chime in the background, photographed through the sparkling foreground foliage at Hakusan Shrine, the guardian shrine of Niigata

This photo was taken at Hakusan Shrine, the principal shrine of Niigata Prefecture. I shot it from a slight distance, using the tree in the foreground to create a sparkling foreground blur, while capturing the wind chimes in the background. The interplay between the foreground blur—which resembles sunlight filtering through the trees—and the row of wind chimes creates a dreamlike and refreshing atmosphere.

Date & TimeJuly 4, 2026
photographerwithout batting an eyelid
LocationNiigata’s Principal Shrine: Hakusan Shrine
Address1-1 Ichibanbori-dori-cho, Chuo Ward, Niigata City, Niigata Prefecture
Photography EquipmentCanon EOS R
lensCanon EF70-200mm F2.8L IS II USM
F value2.8
suspended solids1/1000s
ISO800
Shooting route on the same dayNiigata’s Principal Shrine: Hakusan Shrine →directional marker or indicatorYorii Beach (Niigata) →directional marker or indicatorWithin Niigata Prefecture →directional marker or indicatorFukushima Lake →directional marker or indicatorNiigata Prefectural Botanical Garden →directional marker or indicatorEchigo Hills National Park →directional marker or indicatorHydrangea Park (Tokamachi City)

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