Fujifilm X100V with 5% diffusion filter
ISO 160 for 1/750 sec. at ƒ/3.2
Astia/Soft film simulation
Exploring Shishi Rocks: A Border Collie's Adventure
Location: Hirasawa-Toge Pass, Nagano Prefecture, Japan
Timestamp: 07:31 on July 5, 2023
On my way to Mt. Meshimori (飯森山) in Nagano Prefecture, I stopped by a small hill located just north of the Hirasawa Pass (平沢峠) parking lot.
The small hill, which is also near the trailhead to Mt. Meshimori (飯森山), features the Shishi Rock (しし岩), which derives its name from the lion-like shape of one of the prominent rocks.
From this vantage point (1,450 m) where my dog climbed, you can witness the awe-inspiring sight of the majestic peaks of the Yatsugatake Mountain Range and Mt. Fuji on a clear day.
The area surrounding Shishi-iwa is fenced off to safeguard the stunning orange and yellow day lilies that grow here to ensure that these blossoms remain untouched by the local deer population. If you plan your visit during spring or summer, you'll be treated to the sight of these vibrant flowers in full bloom.
The Hirasawa-Toge Pass parking lot is also the trailhead to the peak of Mt. Meshimori. Make sure to add Shishi-iwa to your itinerary before heading up to Mt. Meshimori.
Pentax K-1 II + DFA 28-105mm F3.5-5.6
45 mm ISO 100 for 1/100 sec. at ƒ/11
Mt. Meshimori Peeping through Fog
Location: Meshimori-yama, Nagano Prefecture, Japan
Timestamp: 09:02 on July 5, 2023
Located in Nagano Prefecture, approximately 173 km (108 mi) northwest of Tokyo, Mt. Meshimori (飯盛山) is a captivating, small conical peak reaching a height of 1,643 m (approx. 5,390 ft). If you depart from Tokyo in the early morning before sunrise, when traffic is minimal, it will take you about three hours to reach this delightful mountain.
Embarking from the trailhead, you'll enjoy a pleasant 90-minute hike along a well-marked and relatively easy trail, suitable even for beginners. Spanning a mere 7.2 km, reaching the summit will be a gratifying experience, particularly if you are new to hiking.
The mountain's name, Meshimori-yama, originates from its resemblance to a steaming bowl of rice adorned with a generous serving. This whimsical name aptly captures its distinctive appearance.
Rising above the treeline, Mt. Meshimori offers a breathtaking panoramic vista of the Yatsugatake Mountain Range, and on clear days, you'll be treated to an unobstructed view of the majestic Mt. Fuji.
During your visit, you'll come across several placards highlighting the mountain's location on a central watershed. This means that rainfall on the northern slope of this mountain range eventually flows into the Sea of Japan, while rainfall on the southern slope finds its way towards the Pacific Ocean.
Although I ascended to the peak on an overcast day accompanied by a gentle drizzle, the cooler temperatures provided a comfortable hiking experience. Moreover, the air was infused with the fragrance of blooming flowers, while the melodies of diverse bird species filled the canopies of the trees. This encounter made the hike truly worthwhile, offering a refreshing escape from the bustling urbanscape of Japan.
Pentax K-1 II + DFA 28-105mm F3.5-5.6
105 mm ISO 100 for 1/250 sec. at ƒ/8.0
Sea of Amur Daylilies
Location: Jumonji-Toge Pass, Nagano Prefecture, Japan
Timestamp: 09:07 on July 5, 2023
After descending from Mt. Meshimori (飯盛山), I proceeded towards Mt. Omori (大盛山) through the Jumonji-Toge Pass (十文字峠), a highland field adorned with a vibrant display of blooming flowers.
The meandering path was surrounded with naturally growing flowers, casting a picturesque scene. The pass is known mostly for its yellow Amur daylily (ニッコウキスゲ), purple plume thistles (ノアザミ), and bistort (イブキトラノオ).
Although the hike between Mt. Meshimori and Mt. Omori takes less than 10 minutes, I spent nearly an hour immersing myself in the enchanting fields of blossoms that stretched between the two peaks. Even on this damp and overcast day, capturing the beauty of these flowers swaying gracefully in the brisk winds and occasionally playing hide-and-seek amidst the ebb and flow of the fog was a delight.
Pentax K-1 II + DFA 28-105mm F3.5-5.6
68 mm ISO 400 for 1/4000 sec. at ƒ/4.5
Highland Meadow of Lilies & Bistort
Location: Jumonji-Toge Pass, Nagano Prefecture, Japan
Timestamp: 09:41 on July 5, 2023
Situated between the summits of Mt. Meshimori and Mt. Omori lies the picturesque Jumonji-Toge Pass, a lush highland expanse adorned with vibrant flowers that thrive throughout the majority of the summer season.
During the period from late June to mid-July, the southern slope of Mt. Omori comes alive with the bloom of Amur daylilies. Amidst this sea of yellow and green, the presence of bistort flowers gracefully emerge, their delicate heads adding a delightful texture to the floral tapestry.
Pentax K-1 II + DFA 28-105mm F3.5-5.6
80 mm ISO 400 for 1/800 sec. at ƒ/11
Japanese Highland Meadow: A Kaleidoscope of Colors and Contrasts
Location: Jumonji-Toge Pass, Nagano Prefecture, Japan
Timestamp: 09:59 on July 5, 2023
Nestled at a modest altitude of 1,641.4 m (5,385.17 ft), this highland meadow bursts forth with the bright colors of Amur daylilies and bistort blossoms.
Scattered amidst the sea of yellow and white blossoms, you can discover small clusters of crimson-purple plume thistles, offering a captivating contrast to the surrounding yellows and greens.
Following a brief yet invigorating hike, the kaleidoscope of rich and vibrant hues within this highland meadow made me forget my fatigue. As the ebb and flow of thick mist rose from the valley below, I found myself captivated by the beauty that filled my camera lens.
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