Pix4Japan: 2021

2021-09-22

Mt. Nyukasa

Mt. Nyukasa (1,955 m/6,414 ft) is a small peak on the Akaishi Mountain range located among the Japanese Southern Alps in Nagano Prefecture, and is approximately 241 km (150 mi) northwest of Tokyo.

Mt. Nyukasa Peak:

https://goo.gl/maps/CEQCfDynYkT3UWt68

Address:

Fujimi, Suwa District, Nagano 399-0211

If you take the train to Fujimi Station where you can catch a shuttle bus, your trip will take about 3 1/2 hours.

Excellent Blog Post with Access Details by Train and Bus (Courtesy of Michele Fullarton, Japan):

https://yamaonna.wordpress.com/2010/09/22/mt-nyukasa/

User Hyperdia to configure your train route and timetable to Fujimi Station near the base of the mountain:

http://www.hyperdia.com/

Driving to the parking lot located at the base of the mountain takes about 3 hours if you take the expressway from Tokyo, or about 5 to 6 hours if you avoid toll roads.

Goshodaira Parking Lot at base of mountain:

https://goo.gl/maps/qsqUFu3awt7SaKke7

During winter, the slopes of this mountain are used for ski slopes. Other activities that are available on the slopes of this mountain including viewing varieties of flowers, bicycle trekking, paragliding, skiing, and snowboarding.

富士見パノラマリゾート (Japanese)

https://www.fujimipanorama.com/summer/trekking/

Fujimi Panorama Resort (English)

https://www.town.fujimi.lg.jp/kanko/en/nyukasa.html

References used in this blog:

Hiking to the peak from the trailhead without using the gondolas:

https://ridgelineimages.com/hiking/mt-nyukasa/

Distant Mountain Peak

Rising above cloud formation and the tree line, a shot of Mount Kaikoma (2,966 m/9,734 ft), which is part of the Minami Alps mountain range in Yamanashi Prefecture as seen from the peak of Mt. Nyukasa (1,955 m/6,414 ft) looking south.

Pentax KP + HD Pentax-DA 55-300mm F4.5-6.3 ED PLM WR RE

300 mm ISO 100 for 1/20 sec. at ƒ/22

#landscapephotography #clouds #mountain #peak #Yatsugatake #MountAka #MountNyukasa #hiking #Japan #Pentax #Pix4Japan

#山頂 #雲 #風景写真 #夏の写真 #山の風景 #山の頂上 #入笠山 #長野県 #ペンタックス

Distant Mountain Range

Rising above the clouds, looking northwest from the peak of Mt. Nyukasa, you can see the peaks of the South Yatsugatake (lit. 8 peaks range) volcanic mountain range, which is alpine in nature with very steep slopes. The volcanoes erupted thousands of times between 600 and 800 years ago, with the highest peak, Mt. Aka, standing at 2,899 m (9,478 ft). They eroded over time and with the eruptions of Mt. Fuji ongoing, Mt. Fuji became the highest peak in the country at 3,776 m (12,388 ft).

Pentax KP + HD Pentax-DA 55-300mm F4.5-6.3 ED PLM WR RE

98 mm ISO 100 for 1/60 sec. at ƒ/18

#landscapephotography #clouds #mountain #peak #Yatsugatake #MountAka #MountNyukasa #hiking #Japan #Pentax #Pix4Japan

#山頂 #雲 #風景写真 #夏の写真 #山の風景 #山の頂上 #入笠山 #長野県 #ペンタックス

Central Alps of Japan

Telephoto shot of the Japanese Central Alps taken from the peak of Mt. Nyukasa. The tallest peak in the Central Alps, Mt. Kisokoma, rises to an elevation of 2,955 m (9,698 ft). These alpine peaks are located in Nagano Prefecture, approximately 241 km (150 mi) northwest of Tokyo.

Pentax KP + HD Pentax-DA 55-300mm F4.5-6.3 ED PLM WR RE

190 mm ISO 100 for 1/60 sec. at ƒ/18

#landscapephotography #clouds #mountain #peak #CentralAlps #KisoMountains #MountNyukasa #hiking #Japan #Pentax #Pix4Japan

#山頂 #雲 #風景写真 #夏の写真 #山の風景 #山の頂上 #入笠山 #木曽山脈 #長野県 #ペンタックス

Beard Moss

Beard moss (Usnea longissima) growing on a dying cedar tree where loss of a canopy has opened up an opportunity for this moss to grow and slowly take over the tree. There is a small patch of trees covered in this moss just before you reach the treeline of Mt. Nyukasa in Nagano Prefecture, Japan.

Pentax KP + HD Pentax-DA 55-300mm F4.5-6.3 ED PLM WR RE

55 mm ISO 100 for 1/4.5 sec. at ƒ/200

#landscapephotography #trees #mountain #moss #MountNyukasa #hiking #Japan #Pentax #Pix4Japan

#ナガサルオガセ #山頂 #風景写真 #夏の写真 #山の風景 #山の頂上 #入笠山 #長野県 #ペンタックス

Border Collie on Mountain Peak

Dale-chan the border collie taking a rest atop the peak of Mt. Nyukasa in the Suwa District, Nagano Prefecture, Japan located about 190 km (118 mi) northwest of Tokyo.

Pentax K-S2 + smc Pentax-DA 50-200mm F4-5.6 ED WR

62.5 mm ISO 100 for 1/320 sec. at ƒ/8.0

#bordercollie #dog #pet #landscapephotography #trees #mountain #mountainpeak #MtNyukasa #NaganoPrefecture #Japan #Pentax #Pix4Japan

#ペット #ボーダーコリー #愛犬 #犬 #木 #山の頂上 #入笠山 #長野県 #風景写真 #ペンタックス

Below is a list of the equipment I took with me on this photo shoot.

Camera Gear:

Pentax KP
https://amzn.to/2EbbLRZ
Standard zoom lens: smc Pentax-DA 18-135mm F3.5-5.6 ED AL[IF] DC WR
https://amzn.to/2Ysz5lJ
Telephoto zoom lens: HD Pentax-DA 55-300mm F4.5-6.3 ED PLM WR RE
https://amzn.to/3iNEsDF
Tripod: Manfrotto MT190CXPRO4 (carbon fiber legs with quick locking clamps)
https://amzn.to/2Fqpghd
Ball head: Manfrotto Cloud XPRO Series Ballhead BHQ2 with 200PL locking plate
https://amzn.to/3g6WI9j

Video Gear:

Canon EOS Kiss M/M50 Double Zoom Kit
https://amzn.to/2Ef3mNg
SIGMA 16mm F1.4 DC DN | Contemporary C017 (Canon EF-M Mount, APS-C Size, Mirrorless Only)
https://amzn.to/3axkn1w
PolarPro 67mm QuartzLine Circular Polarizer Filter
https://amzn.to/2FUTBVS
Zhiyun Weebill-S Gimbal
https://amzn.to/32c0FFL
RODE Road Wireless GO Wireless Microphone System WIGO
https://amzn.to/35lygz1

Filters & Filter Systems:

PolarPro QuartzLine ND 64 Filter - 67mm (ND64 6-stop reduction in light)
https://amzn.to/2J9VSOM
PolarPro QuartzLine ND1000 Filter - 67mm (ND1000 10-stop reduction in light)
https://amzn.to/39rwWwW
PolarPro QuartzLine ND100k Filter - 67mm (ND100K 15-stop reduction in light)
https://amzn.to/3q7YHAm
PolarPro QuartzLine Circular Polarizer - 67mm
https://amzn.to/3fOwgCY
PolarPro Summit | Landscape Filter System Custom Kit (Core, Thread Plate, ND4-GR filter, ND8-GR filter, Circular Polarizer)
https://amzn.to/37hjkBv

Pack:

F-stop Tilopa 50L Adventure and Travel Camera Backpack (Essentials Bundle: backpack, rain cover, internal camera unit)
https://amzn.to/2XfjDIE
F-stop Tripod Bag (large)
https://amzn.to/3pXW57n

*Links to Amazon are affiliated links, which means that if you choose to purchase an item that I may get a small commission, which has no effect on your purchase price whatsoever.

Music tracks used in the YouTube video were licensed through Epidemic Sound. Visit this link to subscribe:

https://www.epidemicsound.com/referral/0uag9f/

“Gelatin Nature” composed by “HeOl”and performed by Epidemic Sound.

“Parallax” composed by Henrik Olsson and performed by Parallax.

“Live for the Moment” composed and performed by Gavin Luke.

“Bermuda” composed by Henrik Olsson and performed by Ooyy.

Pix4Japan by Iketani, Daisei is licensed under a
Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License.
Permissions beyond the scope of this license are available at Pix4Japan.

2021-08-04

Jogasaki Coast

The Jogasaki Coast is a part of the Izu Peninsula UNESCO Global Geopark located on the eastern coast of the Izu Peninsula in Shizuoka Prefecture, and is located approximately 140 km (84 mi) south of Tokyo.

Driving to Jogasaki can take anywhere between 2 and 3 hours if you take the expressway from Tokyo, or about 4 or 5 hours if you avoid any toll roads.

Parking lot at the Jogasaki-Kaigan Parking Lot (城ヶ崎海岸駐車場) is available at a flat rate of 500 yen.

Google Maps link:

https://goo.gl/maps/rAghJBBJ63gsg6bU8

Address:

842-242 Futo, Itō, Shizuoka Prefecture 413-0232

〒413-0232 静岡県伊東市富戸842-242

Access by train and bus is also possible. You can take a JR Line from Shinagawa Station (Ito Line, Ueno-Tokyo Line, Odoriko Line, Shinkansen bullet train) to Atami and transfer to the Izu-Kyuko Line to Jogasaki-Kaigan Station.

Google Maps link:

https://goo.gl/maps/ekEnhKmJYwBo4LSXA

Address:

Futo, Itō, Shizuoka 413-0231

〒413-0231 静岡県伊東市富戸

User Hyperdia to configure your train route and timetable:

http://www.hyperdia.com/

Recommended sites for travel, history, and activity information:

Japan National Tourism Organization: Jogasaki Coast 城ヶ崎海岸 (English and many other languages available)

https://www.japan.travel/en/spot/163/

Japan Visitor: Jogasaki Coast, Ito City, Izu Peninsula, Shizuoka Prefecture 城ヶ崎海岸伊東市伊豆半島静岡県 (English)

https://www.japanvisitor.com/japan-city-guides/jogasaki

Tourist in Japan: Jogasaki Coast Hike (English)

https://www.touristinjapan.com/jogasaki-coast-hiking-trail/

References used in this blog:

Jogasaki Coast (城ヶ崎海岸, Jōgasaki Kaigan)

https://www.japan-guide.com/e/e6308.html

城ヶ崎海岸

https://ja.wikipedia.org/wiki/城ヶ崎海岸

Kadowaki Lighthouse (門脇埼灯台 / kadowaki-zaki todai)

https://www.mapple.net/spot/22010778/

Suspension Bridge (Jogasaki Coast, Shizuoka Prefecture)

The first time I crossed the Kadowaki Suspension Bridge (門脇吊橋 / Kadowaki-tsuribashi) was back in the 1980s. At that time, the bridge would vibrate and swing quite a bit, especially if people tried jumping up and down on it. The bridge deteriorated and was completely replaced in 1997 and is extremely rigid now. The bridge straddles coastal cliffs with a small picnic area on the northern side of a deep, narrow inlet and a lighthouse on the southern side. The bridge is also part of the Izu Peninsula UNESCO Global Geopark. (Jogasaki Coast, Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan)

Link to access info, video, and sources:

https://www.patreon.com/posts/jogasaki-coast-55026835

Pentax KP + smc Pentax-DA 18-135mm F3.5-5.6 ED AL [IF] DC WR

18 mm ISO 100 for 1/50 sec. at ƒ/11

#bridge #Izu #Japan #Jogasaki #lushfoliage #nationalpark #park #Pentax #Pix4Japan #seascape #seascapephotography #Shizuoka #summer #suspensionbridge #UNESCOGeopark

#ペンタックス #ユネスコ世界ジオパーク #伊豆半島ジオパーク #吊橋 #東伊豆 #海の風景 #門脇吊橋 #門脇埼灯台

Japanese Black-Eared Kite (Jogasaki Coast, Shizuoka Prefecture)

This raptor can be found throughout most of Japan, and there were many flying gracefully over the cliffs and sea stacks of Jogasaki Coast (Izu Peninsula, Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan). Unlike other raptors, the black kite (鳶 / tonbi or tobi) is a scavenger. So, I wasn’t surprised to see them near the Jogasaki coastline following the many fishing boats sailing up and down the coast hauling in their catch from the deep coastal waters.

Link to access info, video, and sources:

https://www.patreon.com/posts/jogasaki-coast-55026835

Pentax KP + smc Pentax-DA 18-135mm F3.5-5.6 ED AL [IF] DC WR

135 mm ISO 200 for 1/250 sec. at ƒ/18

#kite #bird #raptor #JapaneseKite #blackearedkite #Jogasaki #Izu #seascapephotography #Shizuoka #Japan #Pentax #Pix4Japan

#とび #鳥 #鳶 #ペンタックス #ユネスコ世界ジオパーク #伊豆半島ジオパーク #東伊豆 #伊豆半島 #海の風景 #静岡県

Coastal Cliffs (Jogasaki Coast, Shizuoka Prefecture)

View of the waves crashing against the steep cliffs along the Jogasaki coastline (Izu Peninsula, Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan). The cliffs were formed by a large lava flow that reached the ocean from a nearby volcano, Mt. Omuro. The lava flowed (approx. 4,000 years ago) to the sea and cooled when hitting the sea surface creating columnar joints.

Access info & video:

https://www.patreon.com/posts/jogasaki-coast-55026835

Pentax KP + smc Pentax-DA 18-135mm F3.5-5.6 ED AL [IF] DC WR

48 mm ISO 200 for 1/30 sec. at ƒ/11

#crashingwaves #cliffs #Izu #Japan #Jogasaki #nationalpark #ocean #park #Pentax #Pix4Japan #seascape #seascapephotography #Shizuoka #summer #UNESCOGeopark

#ペンタックス #ユネスコ世界ジオパーク #伊豆半島ジオパーク #海岸の崖 #崖 #東伊豆 #海の風景

Coastal Cliffs (Jogasaki Coast, Shizuoka Prefecture)

Morning light bathes the steep cliffs along the Jogasaki coastline (Izu Peninsula, Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan). These cliffs were formed when a lava flow from approx. 4,000 years ago struck the seawater surface and cooled creating columnar joints.

Access info & video:

https://www.patreon.com/posts/jogasaki-coast-55026835

Pentax KP + smc Pentax-DA 18-135mm F3.5-5.6 ED AL [IF] DC WR

60 mm ISO 100 for 1/320 sec. at ƒ/4.5

#cliffs #Izu #Japan #Jogasaki #nationalpark #ocean #park #Pentax #Pix4Japan #seascape #seascapephotography #Shizuoka #summer #UNESCOGeopark #waves

#ペンタックス #ユネスコ世界ジオパーク #伊豆半島ジオパーク #海岸の崖 #崖 #東伊豆 #海の風景

Jogasaki Coast Beach (Jogasaki Coast, Shizuoka Prefecture)

Following along one of several paths at the Jogasaki Geo Park (Jogasaki Coast, Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan) revealed this view of a rocky beach far below the coastal cliffs. I was impressed with how clear the water was and both surprised and relieved that there were no visible plastics or other garbage that had washed ashore this beach.

Access info & video:

https://www.patreon.com/posts/jogasaki-coast-55026835

Pentax KP + smc Pentax-DA 18-135mm F3.5-5.6 ED AL [IF] DC WR

53 mm ISO 100 for 1/400 sec. at ƒ/4.5

#cliffs #Izu #Japan #Jogasaki #nationalpark #ocean #park #Pentax #Pix4Japan #seascape #seascapephotography #Shizuoka #summer #UNESCOGeopark #waves

#ペンタックス #ユネスコ世界ジオパーク #伊豆半島ジオパーク #海岸の崖 #崖 #東伊豆 #海の風景

Coastal Cliffs and Sea Stack (Jogasaki Coast, Shizuoka Prefecture)

The sea stack (left) has varying shades of dark gray and black thus columnar joints indicating magma that flowed directly into the sea and cooled rapidly. Conversely, the red rock (right) appears to be scoria, which indicates magma with dissolved gas that may have cooled and solidified on the surface of an older lava flow.

Access info & video:

https://www.patreon.com/posts/jogasaki-coast-55026835

Pentax KP + smc Pentax-DA 18-135mm F3.5-5.6 ED AL [IF] DC WR

18 mm ISO 100 for 1/40 sec. at ƒ/14

#crashingwaves #cliffs #Izu #Japan #Jogasaki #nationalpark #ocean #park #Pentax #Pix4Japan #seascape #seascapephotography #Shizuoka #summer #UNESCOGeopark

#ペンタックス #ユネスコ世界ジオパーク #伊豆半島ジオパーク #海岸の崖 #崖 #東伊豆 #海の風景

Japanese Black-Eared Kite (Jogasaki Coast, Shizuoka Prefecture)

Close-up shot of a Japanese black-eared kite (a kind of raptor) perched on the edge of a cliff overlooking Jogasaki Coast (Izu Peninsula, Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan).

Link to access info, video, and sources:

https://www.patreon.com/posts/jogasaki-coast-55026835

Pentax KP + HD Pentax-DA 55-300mm F4.5-6.3 ED PLM WR RE

300 mm ISO 100 for 1/40 sec. at ƒ/14

#kite #bird #raptor #JapaneseKite #blackearedkite #Jogasaki #Izu #seascapephotography #Shizuoka #Japan #Pentax #Pix4Japan

#とび #鳥 #鳶 #ペンタックス #ユネスコ世界ジオパーク #伊豆半島ジオパーク #東伊豆 #伊豆半島 #海の風景 #静岡県

Kadowaki Lighthouse (Jogasaki Coast, Shizuoka Prefecture)

Built in 1995, the Kadowaki Lighthouse (門脇埼灯台 / kadowaki-zaki todai) helps ships safely navigate the sea routes between Jogasaki Coast and Oshima Island, which lies about 23 km (14 mi) off the coast. Visitors can climb to the top of the lighthouse to enjoy panoramic views of the cape.

Access info & video:

https://www.patreon.com/posts/jogasaki-coast-55026835

Pentax KP + HD Pentax-DA 55-300mm F4.5-6.3 ED PLM WR RE

55 mm ISO 100 for 1/320 sec. at ƒ/11

#lighthouse #Izu #Japan #Jogasaki #lushfoliage #nationalpark #park #Pentax #Pix4Japan #seascape #seascapephotography #Shizuoka #summer #UNESCOGeopark

#ペンタックス #ユネスコ世界ジオパーク #伊豆半島ジオパーク #灯台 #門脇埼灯台 #東伊豆 #海の風景

Coastal Cliffs (Jogasaki Coast, Shizuoka Prefecture)

Cliffs along the Jogasaki coastline (Izu Peninsula, Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan) formed over 4,000 years ago when magma from a nearby volcano flowed into the sea and quickly cooled forming columnar joints that can be easily seen near the waterline.

Access info & video:

https://www.patreon.com/posts/jogasaki-coast-55026835

Pentax KP + HD Pentax-DA 55-300mm F4.5-6.3 ED PLM WR RE

70 mm ISO 200 for 1/250 sec. at ƒ/4.5

#cliffs #Izu #Japan #Jogasaki #nationalpark #ocean #park #Pentax #Pix4Japan #seascape #seascapephotography #Shizuoka #summer #UNESCOGeopark #waves

#ペンタックス #ユネスコ世界ジオパーク #伊豆半島ジオパーク #海岸の崖 #崖 #東伊豆 #海の風景

Outcrop of Volcanic Rock (Jogasaki Coast, Shizuoka Prefecture)

View of Sagami Bay from an outcrop named Mozugane (モズガ根) formed of various types of volcanic rock. This outcrop is also a popular location for fishing if you dare get close enough to the cliff’s edge.

Access info & video:

https://www.patreon.com/posts/jogasaki-coast-55026835

Pentax KP + smc Pentax-DA 18-135mm F3.5-5.6 ED AL [IF] DC WR

24 mm ISO 100 for 1/20 sec. at ƒ/22

#cliffs #cape #outcrop #Izu #Japan #Jogasaki #nationalpark #ocean #park #Pentax #Pix4Japan #seascape #seascapephotography #Shizuoka #summer #UNESCOGeopark #waves

#ペンタックス #ユネスコ世界ジオパーク #伊豆半島ジオパーク #海岸の崖 #崖 #モズガ根 #東伊豆 #海の風景

Border Collie on Coastal Trail

Although we arrived early to shoot the coastline, it was already very hot and humid by 6:00 a.m. Here, I am giving Dale-chan a much needed rest as we hiked the Jogasaki Coast trail into the humid woodlands that flourish atop the jagged cliffs of the Jogasaki coastline.

Access info & video:

https://www.patreon.com/posts/jogasaki-coast-55026835

Pentax KP + smc Pentax-DA 18-135mm F3.5-5.6 ED AL [IF] DC WR

88 mm ISO 200 for 1/8 sec. at ƒ/6.3

#bordercollie #dog #pet #trees #woodland #Jogasaki #Izu #Shizuoka #Japan #Pentax #Pix4Japan

#ペット #ボーダーコリー #愛犬 #犬 #木 #ペンタックス #ユネスコ世界ジオパーク #伊豆半島ジオパーク #東伊豆 #伊豆半島 #静岡県

Lone Flower on Volcanic Rock (Jogasaki Coast, Shizuoka Prefecture)

Shot of a coastal day lily growing among on a barren outcrop of volcanic rock that juts out into the sea. This particular type of lily can be seen in other rocky and inhospitable-looking areas along the Jogasaki Nature Study Course—a trail that extends for almost 10 km along the Jogasaki coastline.

Access info & video:

https://www.patreon.com/posts/jogasaki-coast-55026835

Pentax KP + smc Pentax-DA 18-135mm F3.5-5.6 ED AL [IF] DC WR

78 mm ISO 200 for 1/320 sec. at ƒ/10

#lily #coastaldaylily #cape #outcrop #Izu #Japan #Jogasaki #nationalpark #ocean #park #Pentax #Pix4Japan #seascape #seascapephotography #Shizuoka #summer #UNESCOGeopark

#ペンタックス #ユネスコ世界ジオパーク #伊豆半島ジオパーク #海岸の花 #ハマカンゾウ #東伊豆 #海の風景

Below is a list of the equipment I took with me on this photo shoot.

Camera Gear:

Video Gear:

Filters & Filter Systems:

Pack:

F-stop Tilopa 50L Adventure and Travel Camera Backpack (Essentials Bundle: backpack, rain cover, internal camera unit)
https://amzn.to/2XfjDIE
F-stop Tripod Bag (large)
https://amzn.to/3pXW57n

*Links to Amazon are affiliated links, which means that if you choose to purchase an item that I may get a small commission, which has no effect on your purchase price whatsoever.

Music tracks used in the YouTube video were licensed through Epidemic Sound. Visit this link to subscribe:

https://www.epidemicsound.com/referral/0uag9f/

“Blue Flares” composed and performed by Trevor Kowalski.

“Secrets of the Earth” composed by Daniel Kadawatha and performed by Lama House.

“Sixteen Hours” composed by Ian Luxton and performed by Lasse Lyx.

“Timeless Clouds” composed and performed by Luwaks.

“Bermuda” composed by Henrik Olsson and performed by Ooyy.

2021-07-06

Odawara Castle

Odawara Castle Ruins Park is located within walking distance of Odawara Station on the JR Tokaido Line, the Odawara-Odakyu Line, the JR Tokaido Shinkansen Line, the Daiyuzan Line, and the Hakone Tozan Line.

Reference information and useful links posted below after the photos.

Japanese Castle

Pentax KP + smc Pentax-DA 18-135mm F3.5-5.6 ED AL [IF] DC WR

21 mm ISO 400 for 1/400 sec. at ƒ/4.0

#landscapephotography #castle #OdawaraCastle #Japanesecastle #urbanlandscape #urbanpark #Odawara #Pentax #Pix4Japan

#風景写真 #都市景観写真 #小田原 #小田原城 #小田原城址公園 #公園 #ペンタックス

Originally built in the mid-15th century, Odawara Castle was destroyed by an earthquake in 1703 and rebuilt; dismantled in 1870 after the final demise of the Tokugawa shogunate (military government); and was rebuilt in its current form in the 1960s. The current castle keep primarily houses museums and is surrounded by gardens and moats.

Castle Roof-Ridge

Pentax KP + HD Pentax-DA 55-300mm F4.5-6.3 ED PLM WR RE

135 mm ISO 100 for 1/15 sec. at ƒ/11

#landscapephotography #castle #OdawaraCastle #Japanesecastle #shashi #shachihoko #urbanpark #Odawara #Pentax #Pix4Japan

#鯱 #鯱鉾 #風景写真 #都市景観写真 #小田原 #小田原城 #小田原城址公園 #公園 #ペンタックス

Copper-plated mythical creatures called shachihoko (鯱鉾 / lit. killer whale) from Japanese folklore with the head of a tiger and body of a carp are often mounted at both ends of a roof-ridge of castles and some shrines to protect the structure from fire since the creature has the “power” to bring rain.

Mythical Creature

Pentax KP + HD Pentax-DA 55-300mm F4.5-6.3 ED PLM WR RE

300 mm ISO 100 for 1/15 sec. at ƒ/11

#landscapephotography #castle #OdawaraCastle #Japanesecastle #shashi #shachihoko #urbanpark #Odawara #Pentax #Pix4Japan

#鯱 #鯱鉾 #風景写真 #都市景観写真 #小田原 #小田原城 #小田原城址公園 #公園 #ペンタックス

Close-up shot of one of the copper-plated shachihoko (鯱鉾 / lit. killer whale) from Japanese folklore with the head of a tiger and body of a carp mounted at both ends of the castle roof-ridge.

Japanese Castle

Pentax KP + HD Pentax-DA 55-300mm F4.5-6.3 ED PLM WR RE

55 mm ISO 100 for 1/40 sec. at ƒ/11

#landscapephotography #castle #OdawaraCastle #Japanesecastle #urbanlandscape #urbanpark #Odawara #Pentax #Pix4Japan

#風景写真 #都市景観写真 #小田原 #小田原城 #小田原城址公園 #公園 #ペンタックス

Eastern view of Odawara Castle rising 38.7 m (approx. 126.9 feet) high. Originally built in the mid-15th century, the current form was rebuilt in 1960 using modern earthquake-resistant materials. Design of the current structure resembles models and blueprints from the late Edo Period (1603-1868) with the most recent upgrades completed in 2016.

Vermillion Bridge

Pentax KP + smc Pentax-DA 18-135mm F3.5-5.6 ED AL [IF] DC WR

24 mm ISO 100 for 1/50 sec. at ƒ/13

#landscapephotography #moat #bridge #moatbridge #Japanesecastle #urbanlandscape #urbanpark #Odawara #Pentax #Pix4Japan

#学橋 #水堀 #風景写真 #都市景観写真 #小田原 #小田原城 #小田原城址公園 #ペンタックス

Built across the castle moat in 1949, this Manabi-Bashi bridge (east of the castle) affords tourists greater access to the castle park, and gives school children easier access to nearby schools. The arched bridge is aesthetically pleasing and is a popular viewing spot when the cherry trees along the moat are in full bloom.

Wall, Moat, and Turret

Pentax KP + smc Pentax-DA 18-135mm F3.5-5.6 ED AL [IF] DC WR

28 mm ISO 100 for 1/30 sec. at ƒ/13

#landscapephotography #moat #stonewall #turret #Japanesecastle #urbanlandscape #urbanpark #Odawara #Pentax #Pix4Japan

#石塀 #角櫓 #水堀 #風景写真 #都市景観写真 #小田原 #小田原城 #小田原城址公園 #ペンタックス

Located nearly due east of Odawara Castle (Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan), this photo shows a moat and stone wall (left), and turret or guard tower (right) near the Umademon Gate (馬出門, lit. horse exit gate) to the castle. Behind the wall is another gate that led to the livery stables of the castle. The moat, gates, and walls were designed to force troops through a zigzag pattern before reaching the keep as a defense measure should the castle come under attack.

Two Castle Gates

Pentax KP + smc Pentax-DA 18-135mm F3.5-5.6 ED AL [IF] DC WR

28 mm ISO 100 for 1/400 sec. at ƒ/5.0

#landscapephotography #castlegate #castlewalls #Japanesecastle #urbanlandscape #urbanpark #Odawara #Pentax #Pix4Japan

#馬出門 #枡形 #内冠木門 #風景写真 #都市景観写真 #小田原 #小田原城 #小田原城址公園 #ペンタックス

Located on the eastern side of Odawara Castle (Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan), the Umadashi-mon gate (馬出門) in the foreground leads to a small open square called a masugata (升形), which is enclosed by an earthen and stone wall, and provides access to the Uchikabuki-mon inner gate (内冠木門), which is set at a right angle to the Umadashi-mon gate, and opens to the horse stables.

A castle’s masugata squares have have an outer gate that protects the castle entrance by providing a place to gather cavalry forces out of sight of enemy forces; and with the inner gate and outer gate at right angles, the masugata squares also help slow down attackers by preventing direct entry to the castle. The outer Umadashi-mon gate is 6.3 m (20.6 ft) tall, and the Uchikabuki-mon inner gate is 5.3 m (17.3 ft) tall. Reconstruction of the gate in 2009 by hand using traditional materials and building techniques dating back to at least 1672 cost 500 million yen (4.5 million USD) to complete.

Castle Corner Turret

Pentax KP + smc Pentax-DA 18-135mm F3.5-5.6 ED AL [IF] DC WR

21 mm ISO 100 for 1/200 sec. at ƒ/6.3

#landscapephotography #moat #stonewall #turret #Japanesecastle #urbanlandscape #urbanpark #Odawara #Pentax #Pix4Japan

#石塀 #角櫓 #水堀 #風景写真 #都市景観写真 #小田原 #小田原城 #小田原城址公園 #ペンタックス

View of a moat and turret of Odawara Castle (Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan) located on the eastern side of the castle. The original turret collapsed in the 1923 Great Kanto earthquake (which also reduced major cities such as Tokyo and Yokohama to rubble), and was rebuilt to half its height in 1934. This turret is flanked on both sides with cherry trees, which create a beautiful scene in early spring.

Border Collie at Japanese Castle

Pentax KP + smc Pentax-DA 18-135mm F3.5-5.6 ED AL [IF] DC WR

48 mm ISO 100 for 1/320 sec. at ƒ/5.6

#dog #pet #BorderCollie #cityscapephotography #stonewall #Japanesecastle #urbanlandscape #urbanpark #Odawara #Pentax #Pix4Japan

#石塀 #土塀 #銅門 #馬出門 #犬 #愛犬 #ボーダーコリー #都市景観写真 #小田原 #小田原城 #小田原城址公園 #ペンタックス

Dale-chan the border collie relaxing in front of the Umadashi-mon gate located east of Odawara Castle (Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan) with a stone moat wall and Akagane-mon Gate in the background.

Labyrinth of Castle Walls

Pentax KP + smc Pentax-DA 18-135mm F3.5-5.6 ED AL [IF] DC WR

68 mm ISO 100 for 1/15 sec. at ƒ/22

#landscapephotography #earthenwall #stonewall #castlewall #Japanesecastle #urbanlandscape #urbanpark #Odawara #Pentax #Pix4Japan

#石塀 #土塀 #風景写真 #都市景観写真 #小田原 #小田原城 #小田原城址公園 #ペンタックス

Exterior walls lining the moats at Odawara Castle follow an often-used construction found at many Japanese castles with a stone foundation and earthen upper portion topped of with clay roof tiles. The moats, walls, and gates are designed to create a labyrinth some gates leading to dead ends as a means to hinder invaders. If you look closely, you can see rectangular ya-zama　(矢狭間) holes (arrow slits) that were used for shooting arrows, and triangular teppo-zama (鉄砲狭間) holes (gun ports) for shooting with muskets.

Reference Info & Links

Odawara Station:

https://goo.gl/maps/m9g9pR1YAVn3KSJM6

From Shinjuku:

Odakyu Line: 91 minutes (commuter train)

Odakyu Romance Car: 59 minutes (special express)

From Tokyo Station:

Tokaido-Sanyo Shinkansen: 33 minutes (bullet train)

Ueno-Tokyo Line & Tōkaidō Line: 77 minutes (commuter train)

Access from Odawara Station (5-minute walk):

https://goo.gl/maps/nNYuqC2sRA1MhDjf9

The castle is located about 81 km (approx. 50 miles) southwest of central Tokyo (Nihonbashi), and can be reached in less than two hours if you take expressways. If you want to avoid toll road fees, the drive will take 2 to 4 hours depending on traffic.

Parking near castle:

https://goo.gl/maps/D7Puw3M82ng9CEGM8

If the castle’s primary parking lot is full, there are many parking lots in the immediate area where you can pay for parking in 60-minute increments (approx. 300 to 400 yen per hour).

Recommended sites for travel, history, and activity information:

Odawara City Official Odawara Castle Website

https://odawaracastle.com/

Odawara Castle: A reconstructed castle at the entrance to Hakone

https://www.japan-guide.com/e/e5222.html

Odawara Sightseeing Guide: Explore Odawara Castle and the New Ninja Museum

https://www.tokyoweekender.com/2019/12/odawara-sightseeing-guide-explore-odawara-castle-and-the-new-ninja-museum/

"Odawara Castle" -You can Go there Very Easily from Tokyo!

https://matcha-jp.com/en/179

Explore Odawara: Day Trip to the Castle Town Near Tokyo!

https://livejapan.com/en/in-tokyo/in-pref-kanagawa/in-hakone_odawara/article-a0003435/

Take a trip to the town overlooked by Odawara Castle

https://japan-highlightstravel.com/en/odawara_travel/

References used in this blog:

小田原城址公園

https://odawaracastle.com/castlepark/

Guide to Japanese Castles: Odawara Castle

http://www.jcastle.info/view/Odawara_Castle

City of Odawara: Odawara Castle, Symbol of Odawara

https://www.city.odawara.kanagawa.jp/kanko/language/english/castle.html

馬出門

http://www.scn-net.ne.jp/~yanya/umademon.htm

馬屋曲輪

http://www.scn-net.ne.jp/~yanya/umayakuruwa.htm

城址公園 (Castle Ruins Park)

http://www.scn-net.ne.jp/~yanya/jyoushikouenn.htm

隅櫓 (corner turret)

http://www.scn-net.ne.jp/~yanya/ninomarusumiyagura.htm

Japanese Castles:

https://www.japan-guide.com/e/e2296.html

Japanese castle

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Japanese_castle

駿府城

https://ja.wikipedia.org/wiki/駿府城

Japanese Castles:

http://castle.jpn.org/en/

Masugata:

http://www.aisf.or.jp/~jaanus/deta/m/masugata.htm

Kabukimon

http://www.aisf.or.jp/~jaanus/deta/k/kabukimon.htm

Himeji Castle, a World Heritage Site

https://web-japan.org/nipponia/nipponia17/en/feature/feature03.html

Urban Renewal for an Old Castle Town

https://web-japan.org/nipponia/nipponia17/en/feature/feature12.html

Below is a list of the equipment I took with me on this photo shoot.

Camera Gear:

Video Gear:

Filters & Filter Systems:

Pack:

F-stop Tilopa 50L Adventure and Travel Camera Backpack (Essentials Bundle: backpack, rain cover, internal camera unit)
https://amzn.to/2XfjDIE
F-stop Tripod Bag (large)
https://amzn.to/3pXW57n

*Links to Amazon are affiliated links, which means that if you choose to purchase an item that I may get a small commission, which has no effect on your purchase price whatsoever.

Music Tracks Licensed for this video through Epidemic Sound. Visit this link to subscribe:

https://www.epidemicsound.com/referral/0uag9f/

“Nippon” composed by Johannes Bornlöf and performed by Yi Nantiro.

“Soft Rains” composed by Anders Schill Paulsen and performed by Hushed.

“Soul Temple” composed and performed by Christoffer Moe Ditlevsen.

“The Wisdom Of Trees” composed by Yonder Dale and performed by Epidemic Sound.

“Bermuda” composed by Henrik Olsson and performed by Ooyy.

2021-06-16

Onshi-Hakone Park

Onshi-Hakone Park is located on the top of a small hill overlooking Ashinoko Lake in the mountain resort of Hakone, Japan.

Located about 97 km (60 miles) southwest of central Tokyo, Onshi-Hakone Park can be reached in about two and a half hours on an Odakyu Line commuter train, two hours and 14 minutes on the Odakyu Line Romance Car, or two hours if you take the Shinkansen bullet train. Regardless of which train you take, you will need to take an Izu-Hakone Bus at Odawara Station to the Onshi Koen Mae bus stop.

Maps and links to useful references below the photos below.

Ashinoko Lake and Mt. Fuji

Pentax KP + smc Pentax-DA 18-135mm F3.5-5.6 ED AL [IF] DC WR

100 mm ISO 100 for 0.3 sec. at ƒ/22

#landscapephotography #torii #shrinegate #toriigate #peacetorii #Hakone #HakoneShrine #LakeAshi #AshinokoLake #MtFuji #MountFuji #Japan #Pentax #Pix4Japan

#風景写真 #鳥居 #平和の鳥居 #箱根神社 #芦ノ湖 #箱根 #富士山 #ペンタックス

This view of Mt. Fuji and the "Heiwa-no-Torii" (Gate of Peace) located on the shoreline of Ashinoko Lake in Hakone, Japan, is probably one of the most popular shots taken at this location due to its close proximity to the huge parking lot for tour buses in front of the lakeshore port. Although taken during the rainy season, I was lucky to catch a glimpse of Mt. Fuji when she still had a bit of snow on her peak.

Hakone View of Mt. Fuji

Pentax KP + smc Pentax-DA 18-135mm F3.5-5.6 ED AL [IF] DC WR

100 mm ISO 100 for 0.3 sec. at ƒ/22

#landscapephotography #Hakone #LakeAshi #AshinokoLake #MtFuji #MountFuji #Japan #Pentax #Pix4Japan

#風景写真 #芦ノ湖 #箱根 #富士山 #ペンタックス

This view of Mt. Fuji was the clearest shot I could get on this cloudy, rainy morning in Hakone, Japan. I want to visit this area again in the middle of winter when I can catch a clearer shot with more snow on the peak. From the shore of Ashinoko Lake, Mt. Fuji is only 32.30 km (20.07mi) away due northeast.]

Japanese Sacred Gate

Pentax KP + smc Pentax-DA 18-135mm F3.5-5.6 ED AL [IF] DC WR

40 mm ISO 100 for 1/20 sec. at ƒ/14

#landscapephotography #torii #shrinegate #toriigate #peacetorii #Hakone #HakoneShrine #LakeAshi #AshinokoLake #Hakone #Japan #Pentax #Pix4Japan

#風景写真 #鳥居 #平和の鳥居 #箱根神社 #芦ノ湖 #箱根 #ペンタックス

The "Heiwa-no-Torii" (Gate of Peace) is a torii gate located on the shoreline of Ashinoko Lake in Hakone, Japan. This is the first of several large torii gates that are located up the side of the mountain to the Hakone Shrine. This shot was taken from across the lake on a small foot path hugging the shore of the lake.

Hakone Peace Torii Gate

Pentax KP + HD Pentax-DA 55-300mm F4.5-6.3 ED PLM WR RE

300 mm ISO 100 for 1/20 sec. at ƒ/11

#landscapephotography #torii #shrinegate #toriigate #peacetorii #Hakone #HakoneShrine #LakeAshi #AshinokoLake #Hakone #Japan #Pentax #Pix4Japan

#風景写真 #鳥居 #平和の鳥居 #箱根神社 #芦ノ湖 #箱根 #ペンタックス

A close-up view of the "Heiwa-no-Torii" (Gate of Peace) on the Ashinoko Lake shoreline in Hakone, Japan. Most visitors to Hakone Shrine will pose below the gate with the lake in the background. If you ever visit, be sure to arrive early to avoid the long line that will form as tourists take turns taking a shot below the gate!

Lakeside Walking Trail

Pentax KP + HD Pentax-DA 55-300mm F4.5-6.3 ED PLM WR RE

70 mm ISO 100 for 0.4 sec. at ƒ/7.1

#landscapephotography #trees #moss #path #trail #hiking #woodland #OnshiHakonePark #Hakone #Japan #Pentax #Pix4Japan

#木 #森　#森林 #苔 #神奈川県立恩賜箱根公園 #箱根 #風景写真 #森の写真 #ペンタックス

From the observation deck overlooking Ashinoko Lake in Onshi-Hakone Park (Hakone, Japan), I noticed a small foot path that seemed to lead down to the lake. Wasn’t sure if I was entering a prohibited area, but I soon realized that there is a small, well maintained footpath that hugs the shoreline and offers wonderful views of the lake, Mt. Fuji, and the huge torii gate across the lake. If you follow the trail, it will take you all the way back to the parking lot.

Moss-Covered Fence

Pentax KP + HD Pentax-DA 55-300mm F4.5-6.3 ED PLM WR RE

190 mm ISO 100 for 1/4 sec. at ƒ/6.3

#landscapephotography #trees #moss #path #trail #hiking #woodland #OnshiHakonePark #Hakone #Japan #Pentax #Pix4Japan

#木 #森　#森林 #苔 #神奈川県立恩賜箱根公園 #箱根 #風景写真 #森の写真 #ペンタックス

Parts of the footpath that hug the Ashinoko Lake shoreline in Onshi-Hakone Park (Hakone, Japan) have sturdy fences to keep visitors from falling into the lake. The abundance of moisture creates a haven for moss to grow on nearly every possible surface.

Border Collie on Ancient Highway

Pentax KP + HD Pentax-DA 55-300mm F4.5-6.3 ED PLM WR RE

135 mm ISO 3200 for 1/80 sec. at ƒ/5.6

#bordercollie #dog #pet #landscapephotography #trees #moss #Tokaido #ancienthighway #Hakone #Japan #Pentax #Pix4Japan

#ペット #ボーダーコリー #愛犬 #犬 #木 #杉並木 #苔 #旧東海道 #箱根宿の杉並木 #箱根 #風景写真 #森の写真 #ペンタックス

After following me all over Onshi-Hakone Park (Hakone, Japan) during a warm and humid, early morning rainstorm, Dale-chan took a rest on what was once part of the Tokaido Highway--a major highway that stretched for 514 km (319 mi) connecting Kyoto with Edo (modern-day Tokyo). The quiet, giant cedar trees that were planted along the sides of the highway over 300 years ago provided us with refuge from the elements as they did for travelers dating back to the Edo Period.

Border Collie and Giant Cedars

Pentax KP + HD Pentax-DA 55-300mm F4.5-6.3 ED PLM WR RE

120 mm ISO 3200 for 1/80 sec. at ƒ/5.6

#bordercollie #dog #pet #landscapephotography #trees #moss #Tokaido #ancienthighway #Hakone #Japan #Pentax #Pix4Japan

#ペット #ボーダーコリー #愛犬 #犬 #木 #杉並木 #苔 #旧東海道 #箱根宿の杉並木 #箱根 #風景写真 #森の写真 #ペンタックス

This avenue of giant cedars planted over 300 years ago is easily accessible as you cross the street at the Onshi-Hakone Park (Hakone, Japan) parking lot. There are historical markers along the trail, which was once part of the old Tokaido Highway linking Kyoto with Edo.

Ancient Highway Giants

Pentax KP + smc Pentax-DA 18-135mm F3.5-5.6 ED AL [IF] DC WR

31 mm ISO 100 for 0.8 sec. at ƒ/16

#landscapephotography #trees #hydrangea #path #trail #hiking #woodland #Tokaido #Hakone #Japan #Pentax #Pix4Japan

#木 #森　#森林 #紫陽花 ##旧東海道 #箱根宿の杉並木 #箱根 #風景写真 #森の写真 #ペンタックス

Access to this section of the Old Tokaido Highway is right across the street from the parking lot located at the foot of the Onshi-Hakone Park (Hakone, Japan). Hydrangea typically start blooming when the rainy season starts. However, at this higher elevation, the ajisai flowers had not yet come out even though it was mid-June. Late June or early July might be the best time to visit this corridor of giant cedars planted over 300 years ago for travelers making the long journey between Kyoto and Edo.

References & Useful Links

Onshi Koen Mae Bus Stop

恩賜公園前（バス）

https://goo.gl/maps/KAdm6kQ2cupk3EHSA

If you drive, it can take between three and five hours depending on traffic if you avoid tolls. If you take an expressway, you can cut your time to about two or three hours.

Depending on traffic, you can reach the cape in about 2 hours and 40 minutes if you drive on Route 246 and Route 1, or reach the cape in about 1 hour and 40 minutes if you take the Shuto and Tomei Expressways.

P 10 Onshi-Hakone Park Parking Lot

P10 恩賜箱根公園駐車場

https://goo.gl/maps/KKtjxigC3Hxo2r7AA

The park offers numerous, well maintained foot trails that crisscross across the park offering beautiful views of Mt. Fuji, Ashinoko Lake, the Hakone mountains, the Peace Torii Gate leading to Hakone Shrine (across the lake), and flowers of many varieties that ensure floral blossoms regardless of the time of year that you visit.

Park Observation Deck

弁天の鼻展望台

https://goo.gl/maps/9JKkBBiDDddwNibt9

Museum and cafe

箱根恩賜公園湖畔展望館

https://goo.gl/maps/6Ym8Z9dkEduF4uJL8

Old Tōkaidō Road Ancient Cedar Avenue - East End

旧東海道箱根宿の杉並木

https://goo.gl/maps/cEJz2rVzdTK15Aix5

Old Tōkaidō Road Ancient Cedar Avenue - West End

旧東海道箱根宿の杉並木

https://goo.gl/maps/jG4g5tkb1z7MPNL3A

Useful References:

“History: Take a Trip back in Time. Onshi Hakone Park” is a well written article on the origins of the park. Learn how a German physician persuaded the Japanese government to establish the imperial retreat in 1886, and learn how the imperial retreat became a public park:

https://hakone-japan.com/discover/history/hakone-history/onshi-hakone-park-2/

Another article by “Japan Highlights Travel: Kanagawa Prefectural Park Onshi-Hakone Park” provides valuable access details on how to reach the park with fees and museum hours:

https://japan-highlightstravel.com/en/travel/odawara/030045/

You can also download a PDF of the park prepared by Kanagawa Prefecture, which includes a map, access details, shows all the trails, and directs you to the restrooms in the park:

https://www.pref.kanagawa.jp/documents/27832/onsi-e.pdf

Below is a list of the equipment I took with me on this photo shoot.

Camera Gear:

Video Gear:

Filters & Filter Systems:

Pack:

F-stop Tilopa 50L Adventure and Travel Camera Backpack (Essentials Bundle: backpack, rain cover, internal camera unit)
https://amzn.to/2XfjDIE
F-stop Tripod Bag (large)
https://amzn.to/3pXW57n

*Links to Amazon are affiliated links, which means that if you choose to purchase an item that I may get a small commission, which has no effect on your purchase price whatsoever.

Music Tracks Licensed for this video through Epidemic Sound. Visit this link to subscribe: