Pix4Japan

Jizo Bodhisattva & “23rd Night” Stone Tablet・地蔵尊と「二十三夜塔」

Leaving the T**e Trail, I climbed down from the nearby mountain into a small mountain farming village before traversing one more peak to reach the parking lot. It was here that I came across this very typical rural scene.

On the far left and right are stone engravings of Bodhisattva Seishi, a Buddhist deity believed to be the incarnation of the moon.

In the middle are two Jizo Bodhisattva statues with red hoods. Affectionately known in Japan as O-Jizō-sama (お地蔵様), the beloved patron of children, expectant mothers, firemen, travelers, and pilgrims.

The primary object at this site is the stone tablet with the engraving of 「二十三夜塔」 (23rd Night Monument). This phrase references Tsukimachi (月待ち), a folk tradition where local villagers would gather to eat and drink while waiting for the moon to rise on the 23rd day of the lunar month to pray for a bountiful harvest.

Full write-up (2-minute read) and links to Google Maps and sources for further reading:
https://www.pix4japan.com/blog/20241126-tsukimachi

23rd Night Stone Tablet・二十三夜塔
Location: Hikawa Gorge, Tokyo, Japan
Timestamp: 14:50・2024/11/26
Fujifilm X100V with 5% diffusion filter
ISO 320 for 1/250 sec. at ƒ/2
Astia/Soft film simulation

O-Jizō-sama Statue・地蔵尊
Location: Hikawa Gorge, Tokyo, Japan
Timestamp: 14:52・2024/11/26
Fujifilm X100V with 5% diffusion filter
ISO 320 for 1/300 sec. at ƒ/2.2
Astia/Soft film simulation


#二十三夜塔 #お地蔵様 #月待ち #奥多摩 #氷川渓谷 #ストリートスナップ

Golden Solitude: The Splendor of a Lone Beech
奥多摩の秋風景：輝くひとブナ

Hiking path on the T**e Trail surrounded by towering Japanese cedars (sugi) with a lone beech tree. This serene trail is located in Okutama, where the mountain slopes contribute to the primary headwaters of the Tama River.

Location: Hikawa Gorge, Tokyo, Japan
Timestamp: 14:17・2024/11/26
Fujifilm X100V with 5% diffusion filter
ISO 400 for 1/250 sec. at ƒ/2.0
Provia/Standard film simulation

Links to Google Maps and sources for further reading (1-minute read): https://www.pix4japan.com/blog/20241126-toke-trail


#ブナ #奥多摩 #氷川渓谷 #登計トレイル #風景写真

Autumn Splendor: Vibrant Reds and Oranges on the T**e Trail・奥多摩の登計トレイル：鮮やかな赤とオレンジの紅葉

This intimate shot of a small canopy of vibrant reds and oranges in full autumn splendor frames a narrow footpath along the T**e Trail, which winds through the lush forest of Hikawa Gorge in Tokyo Prefecture, Japan.

Throughout Hikawa Gorge, most slopes are blanketed by dense sugi forests, with only occasional patches of autumn color dotting the landscape. In this particular shot, a cluster of shrubs with vibrant reds and oranges stood out strikingly. By filling my frame with these eye-catching hues, I aimed to convey the intensity of the beautiful colors I encountered during this photowalk.

Location: Hikawa Gorge, Tokyo, Japan
Timestamp: 13:51・2024/11/26
Pentax K-1 II + DFA 28-105mm F3.5-5.6 + CP
40 mm ISO 100 for 1/10 sec. at ƒ/11

Full write-up and links to Google Maps and sources for further reading (1-minute read):
https://www.pix4japan.com/blog/20241126-therapy



#紅葉 #登計トレイル #氷川渓谷 #奥多摩 #風景写真

Autumn Hues and Emerald Greens in Hikawa Gorge・氷川渓谷の紅葉と印象的なエメラルドグリーン

In the crisp autumn air, the upper reaches of the Tama River wind through Hikawa Gorge in the northwesternmost part of Tokyo Prefecture, Japan. Unlike the lower reaches of the river, where decades of industrial pollution necessitated extensive restoration, the headwaters here remain pristine—a haven for fishing, camping, and hiking.

As I crossed the Hikawa-Kobashi pedestrian suspension bridge, my eyes were immediately drawn to the lazily flowing emerald waters below. The vibrant green river, framed by a verdant shoreline, rugged wet stones, and slopes adorned with bright autumn leaves, created a captivating composition waiting to be photographed. The tranquility of the gorge, coupled with the vivid autumn colors, made this afternoon photowalk all the more enjoyable and a perfect reminder of nature's enduring beauty.

Location: Hikawa Gorge, Tokyo, Japan
Timestamp: 12:35・2024/11/26
Fujifilm X100V with 5% diffusion filter
ISO 3200 for 1/250 sec. at ƒ/11
Astia/Soft film simulation

Links to Google Maps and sources for further reading:
https://www.pix4japan.com/blog/20241126-emerald



#多摩川 #氷川渓谷 #風景写真

Tranquil Autumn Stroll in Hikawa Gorge・氷川渓谷の静かな秋散歩

Located in the Hikawa Gorge, the Hikawa-Kobashi Bridge (氷川小橋; Hikawa-Kobashi) is a pedestrian suspension bridge just a short walk from Oku-Tama Station on the Ome Line. It offers unobstructed views of the emerald green waters of the Nippara River (日原川; Nippara-Kawa) and the lush slopes of the ravine, blanketed in evergreen trees and vibrant autumn foliage.

Situated in the northwesternmost part of Tokyo Prefecture, the Hikawa Gorge (氷川渓谷; Hikawa-Keikoku) is only a 90-minute drive from central Tokyo via the Chuo Expressway.

Visiting on an overcast weekday, my border collie and I enjoyed the serene river scenery and autumn foliage in peaceful solitude, with only the rustling trees, the gentle rambling of the river below, and the sound of our footsteps on the bridge and gravel breaking the calm.

Location: Hikawa Gorge, Tokyo, Japan
Timestamp: 12:17・2024/11/26
Fujifilm X100V with 5% diffusion filter
ISO 3200 for 1/140 sec. at ƒ/11
Astia/Soft film simulation

Links to Google Maps and sources for further reading:
https://www.pix4japan.com/blog/20241126-kobashi



#氷川小橋 #奥多摩 #氷川渓谷 #風景写真

Showa Bridge: A Vermilion Landmark Amidst Autumn's Splendor・昭和橋：紅葉に映える朱色のランドマーク

Located in the Hikawa Gorge, the Showa Bridge is a steel-framed deck arch bridge featuring a braced spandrel design that was built in 1959.

Conveniently located just a 3-minute walk from Oku-Tama Station on the Ome Line or a 2-minute walk from the Choei Hikawa Parking Lot, this bridge offers a stunning vantage point. It spans high above the confluence where the Nippara River meets the Tama River.

Both sides of the bridge are equipped with wide sidewalks, providing breathtaking views of the Hikawa Gorge. Here, the rivers carve their way through the steep, verdant slopes of the Okutama Mountains, situated in the far western reaches of Tokyo Prefecture.

Location: Hikawa Gorge, Tokyo, Japan
Timestamp: 12:15・2024/11/26
Fujifilm X100V with 5% diffusion filter
ISO 3200 for 1/180 sec. at ƒ/11
Astia/Soft film simulation

Links to Google Maps and sources for further reading:
https://www.pix4japan.com/blog/20241126-showa



#昭和橋 #奥多摩 #氷川渓谷 #風景写真

Photowalk at Lake Ashi & Onshi-Hakone Park in Hakone, Japan・箱根の「芦ノ湖」と「恩賜箱根公園」と「旧東海道」でフォトウォーク

Join me and my border collie, Dale-chan, for a serene photowalk in Hakone, Japan, where we explore three iconic destinations: Lake Ashi (芦ノ湖 / Ashinoko) with its breathtaking views and calm waters, Onshi-Hakone Park (恩賜箱根公園), known for its connection to the former Hakone imperial villa, and a section of the historic Old Tokaido Highway (旧東海道 / Kyu-Tokaido), lined with majestic cedar trees over 300 years old. Together, we uncover the beauty of these locations through landscape photography.



#芦ノ湖 #恩賜箱根公園 #旧東海道 #箱根 #風景写真 #フォトウォーク

Photowalk at Lake Ashi & Onshi-Hakone Park in Hakone, Japan・箱根の「芦ノ湖」と「恩賜箱根公園」と「旧東海道」でフォトウォーク Join me and my border collie, Dale-chan, for a serene photowalk in Hakone, Japan, where we explore three iconic destinations: Lake Ashi (芦ノ湖 / Ashinoko) with...

Still Waters, Moving Clouds: Fuji’s Late Afternoon Reveal・雲間に現れた富士山：芦ノ湖での静寂なひととき

All day, Mt. Fuji remained hidden, shrouded in thick clouds as if she were reluctant to reveal herself. Morning and afternoon passed without even a glimpse of the iconic peak during my photowalk.

As I walked back to my car along the southeastern shore, ready to head home, Mt. Fuji finally emerged from behind the clouds—a fleeting but magical moment. Determined not to leave without capturing the famous peak, I quickly set up my gear.

Late afternoon on a partly cloudy day is not my usual choice for landscape photography, especially in such a bustling spot. The lake was alive with hundreds of tourists boarding ships traveling between its southern and northern shores, making it challenging to find a moment of stillness.

After waiting for over an hour, I finally managed to capture a tranquil scene of Lake Ashi (Ashinoko), free of tourist watercraft crisscrossing the view, just before the peak disappeared once more behind the shifting clouds.

Using a 10-stop ND filter combined with a circular polarizer, I aimed to create a serene, minimalist composition. I used a 160-second exposure to soften the lake’s surface and blur the movement of clouds with the hope of drawing the eye directly to Mt. Fuji in the distance, framed by tranquil water and shadowed mountains.

Location: Hakone, Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan
Timestamp: 15:56・2024/10/15
Pentax K-1 II + DFA 28-105mm F3.5-5.6 + CP + 10-stop ND filter
80 mm ISO 100 for 160.0 sec. at ƒ/11



#芦ノ湖 #箱根 #富士山 #風景写真

Kyū-Tōkaidō: A 17th-Century Path Lined with Ancient Giants・旧東海道：江戸時代に植えられた杉並木の道

A preserved section of the ancient Tokaido Highway, lined with towering cedars planted over 300 years ago to provide shade and shelter for travelers journeying between Kyoto and Edo during the Edo Period (1603–1868).

While there were once over 1,000 trees lining the route, modernization in 1904 led to the construction of a new road, which replaced portions of the ancient trail.

Today, approximately 400 trees remain, their towering forms reaching heights of 30 to 40 meters. At roughly 350 years old, these ancient giants stand as living witnesses to history.

Full write-up and links for further reading (1-minute read):
https://www.pix4japan.com/blog/20241015-tokaido

Location: Hakone, Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan
Timestamp: 15:34・2024/10/15
Fujifilm X100V with 5% diffusion filter
ISO 320 for 1/350 sec. at ƒ/2.5
Astia/Soft film simulation



#杉並木 #旧東海道 #箱根 #風景写真

A Smile of Contentment: Dale-chan’s Rest in Onshi-Hakone Park・満足げな笑顔：恩賜箱根公園でひと休みするデールちゃん

As our photowalk in Hakone’s Onshi-Hakone Park drew to a close, we stumbled upon a charming wooden bench near the southwestern edge of the park, just about 110 meters from the parking lot.

Dale-chan, my ever-loyal border collie, has been slowing down a little this past year, needing more frequent breaks during our adventures. The cooler mountain air of October has been a welcome relief after the relentless heat of summer, and this bench provided the perfect spot for a brief rest before the end of our visit.

If you’re planning to explore Onshi-Hakone Park with your furry companion, remember that dogs must be kept on a leash. After ensuring the area was clear of other visitors—some might be uneasy around dogs, or have dogs of their own that could tempt Dale-chan into an impromptu play session—I gently helped her onto the bench. Tucking her leash out of sight, I captured a moment of pure joy and contentment as she rested against the backdrop of this historic park.

Read my full write-up (1-minute read) here: https://www.pix4japan.com/blog/20241015-bench

Location: Hakone, Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan
Timestamp: 15:18・2024/10/15
Pentax K-1 II + DFA 28-105mm F3.5-5.6 + CP
95 mm ISO 800 for 1/125 sec. at ƒ/5.6



#ボーダーコリー #愛犬 #恩賜箱根公園 #箱根

Lakeside Panorama Hall: Discover the Hakone Imperial Villa’s Timeless Charm・旧御用邸の面影を訪ねて：恩賜箱根公園の湖畔展望館

Completed in 1886, the Hakone Imperial Villa was a grand retreat designed for the imperial family, blending traditional Japanese architectural elegance with European influences.

For decades, German, Russian, Austrian, Romanian, and British royalty, alongside ministers from Italy, the UK, and Siam (modern-day Thailand), were received here with grandeur.

Tragically, the Great Kanto Earthquake of 1923 dealt a devastating blow to villa complex, with further damage following the Kita-Izu Earthquake in 1930.

By 1945, the grounds were transformed into Onshi-Hakone Park in an effort to preserve the villa’s legacy. Completed in 1992, the Lakeside Panorama Hall—crafted from hewn white granite—now houses a cozy café and a museum.

The park’s beautifully preserved landscaping, with meandering paths and sweeping views of Lake Ashinoko and Mt. Fuji, hints at the artistry of the original imperial gardens.

Read my full write-up (2-minute read) here: https://www.pix4japan.com/blog/20241015-kohantenbokan

Location: Hakone, Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan
Timestamp: 14:20・2024/10/15
Pentax K-1 II + DFA 28-105mm F3.5-5.6 + CP
28 mm ISO 200 for 1/200 sec. at ƒ/6.3



#恩賜箱根公園 #湖畔展望館 #箱根 #風景写真

From Emperor’s Retreat to Scenic Haven: Onshi-Hakone Park・恩賜箱根公園：皇室の別荘が公共の宝へ

In 1886, this park, blessed with breathtaking views of Lake Ashi and Mt. Fuji, was home to the Hakone Imperial Villa—a symbol of elegance where the imperial family found respite and foreign dignitaries were warmly hosted.

Sadly, the villa was severely damaged by earthquakes in 1923 and 1930, falling into neglect for decades. But in a remarkable gesture, the Imperial Household Agency gifted the land to Kanagawa Prefecture, where it was reborn as the serene public park we enjoy today.

Uncover more of this park's fascinating history and its transformation (1-minute read):
https://www.pix4japan.com/blog/20241015-onshi-hakone

Location: Hakone, Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan
Timestamp: 14:40・2024/10/15
Pentax K-1 II + DFA 28-105mm F3.5-5.6 + CP + 6-stop ND filter
28 mm ISO 100 for 5.0 sec. at ƒ/10



#恩賜箱根公園 #芦ノ湖 #箱根 #風景写真

From Emperor’s Retreat to Scenic Haven: Onshi-Hakone Park・恩賜箱根公園：皇室の別荘が公共の宝へ

In 1886, this park, blessed with breathtaking views of Lake Ashi and Mt. Fuji, was home to the Hakone Imperial Villa—a symbol of elegance where the imperial family found respite and foreign dignitaries were warmly hosted.

Sadly, the villa was severely damaged by earthquakes in 1923 and 1930, falling into neglect for decades. But in a remarkable gesture, the Imperial Household Agency gifted the land to Kanagawa Prefecture, where it was reborn as the serene public park we enjoy today.

Uncover more of this park's fascinating history and its transformation:
📖 [1-minute read]
🔗 https://www.pix4japan.com/blog/20241015-onshi-hakone

Location: Hakone, Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan
Timestamp: 14:20・2024/10/15
Pentax K-1 II + DFA 28-105mm F3.5-5.6 + CP
48 mm ISO 200 for 1/250 sec. at ƒ/7.1



#恩賜箱根公園 #芦ノ湖 #箱根 #風景写真

Heiwa-no-Torii: A Sacred Gateway Meets the Shores of Lake Ashinoko・芦ノ湖に佇む箱根神社の入口・平和の鳥居

Rising gracefully from the waters of Lake Ashi, this vermilion Heiwa-no-Torii (Gate of Peace) marks the path to Hakone Shrine, nestled 213 meters up the hillside. Unlike traditional torii gates, it stands boldly over the water—a symbol of peace commemorating the end of WWII.

Whether posing for photos with the lake’s serene backdrop or honoring Shinto traditions, the Heiwa-no-Torii invites us to reflect on history, culture, and tranquility.

Discover the story behind the gate, its connection to peace, and respectful practices for visiting (1-minute read):
https://www.pix4japan.com/blog/20241015-torii

Location: Hakone, Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan
Timestamp: 13:36・2024/10/15
Pentax K-1 II + DFA 28-105mm F3.5-5.6 + CP
105 mm ISO 100 for 1/400 sec. at ƒ/10



#平和の鳥居 #芦ノ湖 #箱根 #風景写真

Photowalk in the Forest Trails of Pola Museum, Hakone・箱根「ポーラ美術館」森の遊歩道でフォト散歩

Join me and my border collie as we explore the serene nature trail weaving through the woodlands surrounding the Pola Museum of Art in Hakone, Japan. Along the way, we capture travel photography, macro shots, and the vibrant autumn scenery.


#ポーラ美術館 #箱根 #フォト散歩 #フォトウォーク

Photowalk in the Forest Trails of Pola Museum, Hakone・箱根「ポーラ美術館」森の遊歩道でフォト散歩 #hakone #x100v #japan Join me and my border collie as we explore the serene nature trail weaving through the woodlands surrounding the Pola Museum of Art in Hakone, Japan. Along t...

Ai Weiwei’s “Iron Root”: Art Rooted in the Struggles of Uprooted Lives・アイウェイウェイの『鉄樹根』：根こそぎにされた人生を映し出す芸術

Ai Weiwei's “Iron Root,” permanently displayed at the Pola Museum of Art in Hakone, Japan, may look like a weathered tree trunk at first glance. But a light tap reveals its true nature: a hollow sculpture made of iron—a clever interplay between nature and art.

This striking piece reflects the theme of being “uprooted,” addressing global issues like the plight of refugees, the destruction of Indigenous lands, and Ai’s own experiences with displacement, including his arrests in China and his journey into exile.

Dive deeper into the story behind this artwork and explore more about Ai Weiwei’s life and inspirations in my latest blog post. Full write-up here (1-minute read): https://www.pix4japan.com/blog/20241015-ironroot

Location: Hakone, Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan
Timestamp: 10:03・2024/10/15
Fujifilm X100V with 5% diffusion filter
ISO 160 for 1/20 sec. at ƒ/4.5
Velvia/Vivid film simulation



#アイウェイウェイ #鉄樹根 #ポーラ美術館 #箱根