2025-04-08

Daigahara-shuku Post Town


Echoes of Edo: Exploring Daigahara-shuku on the Koshu-Kaidō
江戸の面影を残す宿場町・台ヶ原宿を歩く


Tucked away in the mountains of Hokuto, Yamanashi Prefecture, Daigahara-shuku still echoes with the footsteps of Edo-period travelers. Once a vital stop along the Koshu-Kaidō, this preserved post town offers a glimpse into Japan’s living history.

The Koshu-Kaidō was one of the five great highways developed by the Edo shogunate. Stretching about 205 km (127 mi), it connected Nihonbashi in central Edo (modern-day Tokyo) to Shimosuwa-shuku in Nagano Prefecture.

As the 40th of 44 post towns along the route, Daigahara-shuku provided lodging and services to travelers moving between Edo and the provinces of Kai (Yamanashi Prefecture) and Shinano (Nagano Prefecture). During its heyday in the Edo and Meiji periods (1603–1912), the town hosted a honjin (main inn) reserved for feudal lords, elite samurai, aristocrats, and royalty, alongside numerous inns that catered to common travelers.

Many of these historic features remain: Shinto shrines, ornate wooden gates of merchant homes, and the Kitahara family residence, which famously welcomed Emperor Meiji in 1880. Today, the Kitahara estate also houses the Shichiken Sake Brewery, founded in 1750, where visitors can sample sake brewed with the region’s pristine spring water.

Just down the street from the brewery, the Kinseiken confectionery occupies a former inn. This long-established sweet shop is renowned for inventing mizu shingen mochi, a delicate, transparent dessert made from pure mountain water.

Every October, Daigahara-shuku comes alive with the Daigahara-shuku Market, where the main street is closed off to vehicular traffic so that hundreds of stalls can line the street to sell antiques, crafts, and local specialties.

With its preserved streetscape, celebrated sake and sweets, and vibrant seasonal events, Daigahara-shuku is a historic landmark that offers visitors a timeless experience waiting to be explored.

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Weeping Cherry Tree

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Bridging Heaven and Earth: The Weeping Cherry Trees of Japanese Cemeteries
昔のしだれ桜を通じて、魂たちはこの世へ、美しい春の花としてそっと戻ってくる


In the stillness of a rural temple cemetery, a grand old weeping cherry tree (Cerasus itosakura) blooms with branches heavy with soft pink and white blossoms, its roots resting beneath generations of headstones. Petals drift in the breeze, like quiet echoes of lives once lived, reminding us that life, in some form, always continues.

Cherry trees are a common sight in many of the cemeteries I’ve visited across Japan, whether during road trips to remote mountain villages or on daily walks with my dog through the neighborhoods I've called home over the past 40+ years.

One commonly cited reason for this presence is the belief that the cherry tree’s brief bloom symbolizes the fleeting nature of human life. The renowned folklorist Kunio Yanagita (柳田 國男, 1875–1962) traced this association between cherry blossoms (sakura) and death back to ancient times, when the deceased were often buried beneath cherry trees. It was believed their souls might briefly return to the living world through the ethereal beauty of spring blossoms.

In one of his writings, Yanagita suggests that weeping cherry trees, in particular, are inherently spiritual. He viewed them as sacred markers of the ground beneath which the dead rest thus deserving of respect and reverence. Their beauty being not merely ornamental but deeply symbolic.

Sakura blossoms are also widely regarded as symbols of rebirth. Ancient Japanese believed that cherry trees were thought to embody mountain deities who later descended to become gods of the rice fields. As such, the sakura marked the beginning of spring; a season of renewal and hope. 

Today, their bloom coincides with the start of Japan’s academic and fiscal year which starts on April 1st, offering a sense of optimism as students enter new schools and workers begin new jobs. In this way, cherry blossoms have become intimately tied to some of the most memorable milestones in a person’s life.

Back to older beliefs held in some regions, weeping cherry trees serve as conduits between the worlds of the living and the dead. Yanagita linked this idea to ancient spiritual practices that saw weeping cherry trees as dwellings for spirits. These trees were planted in cemeteries because they were thought to help souls travel between heaven and earth.

As I look at this tree, I can’t help but wonder: did the family who owns this plot plant the weeping cherry to ease the journey of their departed loved ones? And perhaps more personally, I find myself drawn to the idea of forgoing a traditional headstone one day, and instead resting among the roots of a weeping cherry tree, returning each spring in a quiet flurry of petals.

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Location: Ryufuku-ji Temple, Hokuto, Yamanashi, Japan
Timestamp: 2025/04/08・13:28
Pentax K-1 II + DFA 28-105mm F3.5-5.6 + CP
28 mm ISO 100 for 1/800 sec. at ƒ/5.6

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Location: 2306 Hakushūchō Daigahara, Hokuto, Yamanashi 408-0312, Japan

Ryufuku-ji Temple

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Dragons in Japan: Sacred Symbols, Folklore, and Modern Culture
日本の龍：宗教的なシンボル、伝承、そして現代カルチャーへ


In Japan, dragons are not just mythical creatures, but are also  symbols of protection, wisdom, and nature’s power. Revered throughout Japanese history, art, and folklore, dragons appear in many forms across the cultural landscape.

One of the most common places to encounter a dragon in everyday life is at a purification fountain (手水屋; chozuya or temizuya) found at Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples. Visitors use these fountains to wash their hands before approaching the sacred grounds to offer prayers or pay their respects. While not always the case, it is often at these fountains that we find a water spout in the shape of a dragon’s upper body.

This connection between dragons and water is no coincidence. In Japanese mythology, dragons are strongly associated with watery realms such as oceans, lakes, and rivers. This symbolism is vividly demonstrated at the Nine-Headed Dragon Shrine in Hakone, where a purification fountain features nine dragon heads overlooking Lake Ashi (Ashinoko). Another example is the legend of the golden dragon of Tanuki Shrine, which gazes out over Lake Tanuki in Shizuoka Prefecture.

In Buddhist tradition as well, dragons hold deep significance. By the 9th century, Chinese Buddhism had incorporated dragons as protectors of Buddha and guardians of Buddhist law, which had an   influence on Buddhism that spread to Japan. This Buddhist association is reflected in the frequent use of the character for "dragon" (龍; ryū) in the names of many Japanese Buddhist temples, including Ryūfuku-ji (龍福寺), where I took this photo.

Of course, dragons in Japan are not confined to religious contexts. In the modern era, they have also found a place in Japanese popular culture. Today, dragons appear in tattoo art adopted by a small number of contemporary young people (though still more commonly associated with the Yakuza) as well as in manga, video games, fashion, and many other forms of post-modern Japanese expression.

Personally, I had always pictured dragons as fearsome creatures of terror. That is why I find it fascinating to encounter an alternate view of these beings as revered and protective figures. In Japan, we see this perspective reflected in dragons carved into the beams of Shinto shrines, painted on temple ceilings, and gracefully adorning purification fountains. It is a beautiful reminder of the many layers of meaning that mythological creatures can hold regardless of cultural boundaries.

  • Location: Ryufuku-ji Temple, Hokuto, Yamanashi, Japan
  • Timestamp: 2025/04/08・12:43
  • Pentax K-1 II + DFA 28-105mm F3.5-5.6 + CP
  • 63 mm ISO 100 for 1/50 sec. at ƒ/5.6

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Location: 2306 Hakushūchō Daigahara, Hokuto, Yamanashi 408-0312, Japan

Koinobori and Sakura

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Koinobori & Sakura: Carp Streamers and Cherry Blossoms at Firefly Waterway Park
春爛漫のほたる親水公園で泳ぐ鯉のぼり


Carp streamers (鯉のぼり, koinobori) have long been a colorful symbol of celebration in Japan, traditionally flown on the fifth day of the fifth month for Boys’ Day. Originally, a streamer was flown for each male child in the family. This tradition dates back to the Kamakura period (12th century), when Tango-no-Sekku was recognized as an official holiday by the shogunate. The practice continued until 1872, when the holiday lost its official status following the start of the Meiji Period.

From the Meiji Period until World War II, koinobori became increasingly popular among commoners as part of Boys’ Day celebrations. In 1948, the holiday was renamed Children’s Day (Kodomo-no-Hi) and became a national holiday to celebrate the happiness and healthy growth of all children, regardless of gender. Today, koinobori are typically flown from late April through early May to honor children across the country.

Koinobori are windsocks shaped like koi fish, with open mouths attached to a pole or rope so their tails flutter freely in the spring breeze. These poles are often topped with two arrow-shaped wheels (矢車, yaguruma) and a spinning ball-shaped vane, believed to attract the attention of the gods.

While not a strict rule, some of my friends’ and relatives’ families in rural areas still decorate their poles with a five-colored streamer representing the five elements of Chinese philosophy. Below that, they hang a large black or dark-colored koi to represent the father, a red koi for the mother, and smaller, colorful koi for each child.

But why koi fish? These freshwater fish are admired for their strength and perseverance, known for swimming upstream against swift currents. Because of this, koinobori have come to symbolize courage, determination, and success.

In modern Japan, koinobori can be seen flying from homes, schools, and public parks, especially during Golden Week. In cities where private yards are rare, communities often display large installations in open spaces, drawing young families, grandparents, and tourists alike. Whether in the countryside or urban parks, these vibrant streamers continue to inspire hope that children will grow up strong and resilient—and they make for a wonderful photographic subject on a warm spring afternoon.

As a fitting backdrop for seasonal celebrations, Hotaru Shinsui Kōen (ほたる親水公園, literally "Firefly Waterway Park") adds another layer of meaning to the koinobori display. Developed in 2014 by volunteers from three surrounding villages in Hokuto Town, the park was designed to harmonize with nature. 

Fresh water from the nearby Ojira River is channeled into a series of slow-flowing, meandering creeks, creating an ideal environment for fireflies to thrive. Each spring, a local children’s club releases firefly larvae into the park, helping sustain a population that dazzles visitors with glowing displays from June to July. The combination of carp streamers fluttering above and fireflies dancing below highlights the deep connection between seasonal traditions and the natural rhythms of this rural community.

① Koinobori and Sakura
  • Timestamp: 2025/04/08・12:26
  • Pentax K-1 II + DFA 28-105mm F3.5-5.6 + CP
  • 31 mm ISO 100 for 1/640 sec. at ƒ/4

② Koinobori and Mountains
  • Timestamp: 2025/04/08・12:28
  • Pentax K-1 II + DFA 28-105mm F3.5-5.6 + CP
  • 63 mm ISO 100 for 1/250 sec. at ƒ/5.6

③ Koinobori and Village
  • Timestamp: 2025/04/08・12:47
  • Pentax K-1 II + DFA 28-105mm F3.5-5.6 + CP
  • 105 mm ISO 100 for 1/400 sec. at ƒ/5.6

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Location: Hotaru Water Park, 98 Hakushūchō Daigahara, Hokuto, Yamanashi 408-0312, Japan

Suwa Hachiman Shrine

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Tranquil Morning Light at Suwa Hachiman Shrine
朝の光に包まれた諏訪八幡神社の静けさ


Tucked away in the rural town of Hokuto in Yamanashi Prefecture, Suwa Hachiman Shrine (諏訪八幡神社) stands quietly behind two historic school buildings—the Taisho-era Tsugane Elementary School (built in 1924) and the original Old Tsugane School from 1875, both of which I featured in a recent post here: https://www.pix4japan.com/blog/20250408-schools

Though the exact founding date of the shrine remains unknown, Suwa Hachiman Jinja was officially registered as a "village shrine" in May 1872.

Among the quiet cedar and pine trees, you’ll find traditional Shinto architectural details and spiritual markers that tell stories of the area’s cultural roots. One prominent stone monument features a carving of a deity associated with sericulture, holding a branch of mulberry leaves—a vital plant in the cultivation of silkworms, which were once essential to the region’s silk industry. 

Suwa Hachiman Shrine
  • Timestamp: 2025/04/08・10:20
  • Pentax K-1 II + DFA 28-105mm F3.5-5.6 + CP
  • 28 mm ISO 100 for 1/60 sec. at ƒ/11

Stone Monuments
  • Location: Hokuto, Yamanashi Prefecture, Japan
  • Timestamp: 2025/04/08・10:23
  • Pentax K-1 II + DFA 28-105mm F3.5-5.6 + CP
  • 34 mm ISO 800 for 1/400 sec. at ƒ/5

Goddess of Sericulture
  • Location: Hokuto, Yamanashi Prefecture, Japan
  • Timestamp: 2025/04/08・10:25
  • Pentax K-1 II + DFA 28-105mm F3.5-5.6 + CP
  • 34 mm ISO 200 for 1/400 sec. at ƒ/4

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Historic Schools

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  • Location: Hokuto, Yamanashi Prefecture, Japan
  • Timestamp: 2025/04/08・09:36
  • Pentax K-1 II + DFA 28-105mm F3.5-5.6 + CP
  • 28 mm ISO 100 for 1/320 sec. at ƒ/8

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  • Location: Hokuto, Yamanashi Prefecture, Japan
  • Timestamp: 2025/04/08・09:59
  • Pentax K-1 II + DFA 28-105mm F3.5-5.6 + CP
  • 40 mm ISO 100 for 1/100 sec. at ƒ/11

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  • Location: Hokuto, Yamanashi Prefecture, Japan
  • Timestamp: 2025/04/08・10:03
  • Pentax K-1 II + DFA 28-105mm F3.5-5.6 + CP
  • 28 mm ISO 100 for 1/100 sec. at ƒ/11

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  • Location: Hokuto, Yamanashi Prefecture, Japan
  • Timestamp: 2025/04/08・10:07
  • Pentax K-1 II + DFA 28-105mm F3.5-5.6 + CP
  • 45 mm ISO 100 for 1/100 sec. at ƒ/11

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  • Location: Hokuto, Yamanashi Prefecture, Japan
  • Timestamp: 2025/04/08・10:10
  • Pentax K-1 II + DFA 28-105mm F3.5-5.6 + CP
  • 28 mm ISO 100 for 1/50 sec. at ƒ/11

Historic Meiji and Taisho Era Schoolhouses in Rural Japan
明治と大正時代の歴史的木造校舎―旧津金学校と大正校舎（山梨県北杜市）


These photographs capture two historically significant school buildings in Hokuto City, Yamanashi Prefecture, nestled in the mountains at the southern foot of Mt. Yatsugatake. The building on the left is the Taisho Era School (大正校舎, Taishō-Kōsha), originally constructed in 1924. To the right stands the Old Tsugane School (旧津金学校, Kyū-Tsugane-Gakkō), built in 1875 and in continuous use until 1985.

Together, these schools illustrate Japan’s architectural and educational transformation during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

The 1875 Tsugane School reflects the Meiji-era movement to modernize education, blending traditional Japanese wooden construction with Western influences such as glass-paneled windows, gabled entrances, and symmetrical layouts inspired by European schoolhouses. The 1924 Taisho Era School, built to serve a growing student population, continued this hybrid style while incorporating updated materials and spatial arrangements suited to Japan’s rapidly evolving social and educational systems.

Although the original Taisho building was demolished in 1997, it was faithfully reconstructed using original blueprints and now functions as a community cultural center. The Old Tsugane School has been thoughtfully repurposed to house a retro-themed café and the Sutama History Museum, preserving both its atmosphere and architectural integrity.

Together, these structures stand as enduring symbols of Japan’s transition from feudal governance under the Tokugawa shogunate to a modern constitutional monarchy, embodying a national education system influenced by both global innovation and Japanese tradition.

I discovered these schools by accident while exploring the local area near the Waterwheel Village Park and I'm genuinely glad I took the time to check. The moment felt like stumbling across a time capsule in the foothills of Mt. Yatsugatake — a reminder of how much history is quietly waiting to be found in Japan’s rural heartlands.

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Waterwheel Village Park

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  • Location: Hokuto, Yamanashi Prefecture, Japan
  • Timestamp: 2025/04/08・07:54
  • Pentax K-1 II + DFA 28-105mm F3.5-5.6 + CP
  • 73 mm ISO 100 for 1/160 sec. at ƒ/10

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  • Location: Hokuto, Yamanashi Prefecture, Japan
  • Timestamp: 2025/04/08・08:13
  • Pentax K-1 II + DFA 28-105mm F3.5-5.6 + CP
  • 28 mm ISO 100 for 1/320 sec. at ƒ/3.5

Traditional Waterwheel Mill and Cherry Blossoms in the Rural Highlands of Hokuto, Yamanashi, Japan
山梨の高原に咲く桜と水車小屋のある風景


Nestled in the rural highlands of Hokuto, Yamanashi Prefecture, Suisha-no-Sato Koen (Waterwheel Village Park) offers a tranquil view of Japan’s traditional countryside, framed by the majestic Mt. Kaikoma in the Southern Japanese Alps. This peaceful green space features a charming waterwheel mill house, a thatched-roof rest area, and seasonal blooms like pink and white sakura (cherry blossoms), making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and photographers.

Established in 1994, the park was created through the efforts of local volunteers to promote tourism, provide a relaxing destination for visitors, and revive the nostalgic scenery of rural hometowns. A functional waterwheel was installed using a gently flowing stream, which is powered by an undershot flow mechanism, and is connected to a working stone mill inside the traditional mill house.

Both the mill house and the covered rest pavilion were designed in harmony with regional architecture and feature authentic thatched roofs, which were renewed in 2020 to preserve their cultural and structural integrity.

The gentle creaking of the turning waterwheel, the sound of flowing water feeding into a pond teeming with colorful koi, and the view of snow-dusted peaks in the distance all create an atmosphere of deep serenity offering an enduring connection to Japan’s rural heritage and the natural landscape.

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Sakura Palette

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Sakura in Yamanashi’s Hokuto Countryside – A Palette of Pinks and Whites
山梨県北杜市の里山に咲く桜「淡紅と白の春色パレット」


Springtime at Suisha-no-Sato Koen (Waterwheel Village Park) in Hokuto, Yamanashi Prefecture, Japan, is a serene experience where vibrant pink and white cherry blossoms frame a gentle mountain stream that powers the park’s traditional waterwheel. This peaceful rural landscape captures the timeless beauty of sakura and the enduring charm of the Japanese countryside.

Arriving early in the morning, before other visitors appeared, gave me the rare opportunity to slow down and fully take in the scene: the vivid colors of the blossoms, the subtle floral aromas, birds chirping in the trees, the whisper of a soft breeze, the creaking of the waterwheel behind me, and the gentle murmur of the stream as it powered the wheel.

This kind of setting restores my spirit and recharges my motivation, thus giving me the strength to endure another week in the daily grind of life in the Tokyo metropolis before I can escape again to explore another quiet corner of Japan’s countryside with my border collie.

  • Location: Hokuto, Yamanashi Prefecture, Japan
  • Timestamp: 2025/04/08・08:12
  • Pentax K-1 II + DFA 28-105mm F3.5-5.6 + CP
  • 34 mm ISO 100 for 1/160 sec. at ƒ/10

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Border Collie and Sakura

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Dale-chan Enjoying Spring at Hokuto Waterwheel Village Park
水車の里公園で楽しむデールちゃん


My Border Collie, Dale-chan, truly seemed to enjoy soaking up the warm spring sunshine beneath the blooming cherry blossoms at Suisha-no-Sato Park in Hokuto, Yamanashi, Japan.

We were lucky to arrive early in the morning at this rural and somewhat secluded park, which was completely empty of other visitors. It felt especially nice to explore the grounds and set up my shots and tripod without worrying about getting in anyone’s way or causing a disturbance.

Dale-chan doesn’t handle Japan’s hot, humid summers very well, so I’m hoping to return to this park with her in the autumn to enjoy the cooler weather and the beautiful fall foliage!

  • Location: Hokuto, Yamanashi Prefecture, Japan
  • Timestamp: 2025/04/08・08:03
  • Pentax K-1 II + DFA 28-105mm F3.5-5.6 + CP
  • 95 mm ISO 200 for 1/320 sec. at ƒ/5.6

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Koi Fish

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Tranquil Spring at Suisha-no-Sato: Koi, Cherry Blossoms, and Waterwheels in Hokuto, Japan
春の清流と鯉が彩る北杜の水車の里公園


Springtime at Suisha-no-Sato Koen (Waterwheel Village Park) in Hokuto, Yamanashi, Japan, offers a peaceful scene where a mountain stream powers a traditional waterwheel before flowing into a clear pond. In this tranquil setting, colorful koi fish drift gracefully beneath the warm morning sun, embodying the calm beauty of Hokuto’s highland spring.

For photographers and tourists alike, places like this offer a  blend of natural serenity and cultural charm. Away from the crowds, rural locations such as Suisha-no-Sato reveal Japan’s quieter rhythms—ideal for thoughtful composition, slow exploration, and capturing moments of everyday magic free of crowds. Whether it's the reflection of cherry blossoms on water or the creak of a turning waterwheel, these off-the-beaten-path gems remind me that beauty often lives in simplicity.

  • Location: Hokuto, Yamanashi Prefecture, Japan
  • Timestamp: 2025/04/08・08:02
  • Pentax K-1 II + DFA 28-105mm F3.5-5.6 + CP
  • 28 mm ISO 200 for 1/320 sec. at ƒ/5.6

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Suisha-no-Sato Koen

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Cherry Blossoms and a Traditional Rest House in Hokuto’s Countryside
春空の下、桜に包まれた茅葺きの休憩所


Springtime at Suisha-no-Sato Koen (Waterwheel Village Park) in Hokuto, Yamanashi Prefecture, Japan, where vibrant pink and white cherry blossoms frame a traditional thatched-roof gazebo. In the distance, snow-capped Mt. Kaikoma rises majestically in the Southern Japanese Alps, creating a serene rural landscape that celebrates the charm of historic Japanese architecture and the enduring beauty of cherry blossoms.

Since its opening in 1994, this park has been visited by many locals and visitors from outside of the prefecture as a great spot for sketching, water painting, and photography thanks to its scenic beauty.

Resting beneath the blossoms with my border collie and the mountains rising beyond, I felt a quiet appreciation for how nature and tradition blend so harmoniously in the rural corners of Japan.

  • Location: Hokuto, Yamanashi Prefecture, Japan
  • Timestamp: 2025/04/08・07:59
  • Pentax K-1 II + DFA 28-105mm F3.5-5.6 + CP
  • 34 mm ISO 100 for 1/160 sec. at ƒ/10

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Location: Suishanosato Park, 2569 Mukawachō Mifuki, Hokuto, Yamanashi 408-0301, Japan

Jisso Temple Gate

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  • Location: Hokuto, Yamanashi Prefecture, Japan
  • Pentax K-1 II + DFA 28-105mm F3.5-5.6 + CP
  • Timestamp: 2025/04/08・07:10
  • 28 mm ISO 100 for 1/160 sec. at ƒ/8

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  • Location: Hokuto, Yamanashi Prefecture, Japan
  • Pentax K-1 II + DFA 28-105mm F3.5-5.6 + CP
  • Timestamp: 2025/04/08・07:16
  • 28 mm ISO 100 for 1/160 sec. at ƒ/8


Symbols of Devotion: Exploring the Gate and Stone Monument at Jissō-ji Temple
実相寺の山門と法界塔：春の朝に見る仏教建築と信仰の象徴


The impressive temple gate in this photo is called a Sanmon (山門), the traditional main gate of many Japanese Buddhist temples. Standing just beyond the gate is a tall stone monument known as a Hōkaitō (法界塔), inscribed with sacred calligraphy.

The engravings on the monument read:

  1. 南無妙法蓮華経 (Namu Myōhō Renge Kyō) – This central phrase is a core mantra of Nichiren Buddhism. Often translated as “I devote myself to the teachings of the Lotus Sutra” or “Homage to the Sublime Dharma of the Lotus Sutra,” it is chanted as a spiritual practice to eradicate negative karma, reduce suffering, and guide the practitioner toward enlightenment.
  2. 法界塔 (Hōkaitō) – This refers to the stone tower itself. It serves both as a symbolic marker and a spiritual vessel, bearing the temple’s name and the powerful chant inscribed above.
  3. 大津山 (Otsuyama) – Located on the lower right of the stone, this part of the inscription refers to the mountain name traditionally associated with the temple.
  4. 實相寺 (Jissō-ji) – Found on the lower left, this is the formal name of the temple. Together with 大津山 (Otsuyama), it forms the full name: Otsuyama Jissō-ji (大津山實相寺), which is read right to left in the traditional Japanese writing style.

Captured on a peaceful spring morning in Yamanashi Prefecture, with cherry blossoms in bloom and the distant mountains dusted with snow, this scene embodies the tranquil beauty and spiritual depth of traditional Japanese Buddhist architecture.

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Jisso Temple Landscape

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Snow-Capped Mountains Beyond Temple Gardens with Spring Blossoms and Manicured Matsu Pines
実相寺の桜を見守る甲斐駒ヶ岳


At Otsuyama Jisso-ji Temple in rural Japan, cherry blossoms (sakura) bloom gracefully behind a weathered stone wall, accompanied by the delicate elegance of a manicured matsu pine. In the distance, the snow-capped peak of Mt. Kaikoma towers above the landscape, adding a touch of grandeur to the serene temple grounds.

Although Otsuyama's highlands rest at just 643 m (2,110 ft), the early morning air was frigid when I arrived just before sunrise. By 7:00 a.m., sunlight began to spill over the horizon behind me, warming the gardens in a gentle glow. The contrast was striking with the warmth of spring blossoms against the backdrop of Mt. Kaikoma's snow-dusted peak, which rises to 2,300 m (7,545 ft).

Standing here, I couldn’t help but feel the sense of tranquility  that the Jisso-ji Temple landscape emanates where nature and history exist in perfect harmony.

  • Location: Hokuto, Yamanashi Prefecture, Japan
  • Timestamp: 2025/04/08・07:09
  • Pentax K-1 II + DFA 28-105mm F3.5-5.6 + CP
  • 95 mm ISO 100 for 1/200 sec. at ƒ/9

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Jisso-ji Temple Belfry

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The Timeless Beauty of Jisso-ji Temple’s Cherry Blossoms and Bell
実相寺：歴史と復活の花が咲くお寺


Takeda Shingen (1521–1573) was a powerful feudal lord of Kai Province, known today as Yamanashi Prefecture. Renowned as the "Tiger of Kai," Shingen was a legendary military strategist and one of the most influential warlords of the late Sengoku period.

In 1559, Shingen became a patron of Jisso-ji Temple. Two years later, in 1561, he donated the site of a castle once owned by one of his vassals to the temple, facilitating its relocation to that very spot. Today, the temple still stands on this historic ground, surrounded by serene gardens and centuries-old cherry blossoms.

Jisso-ji Temple endured two devastating fires in 1735 and again in 1848. Tragically, the flames consumed all of its wooden structures and religious treasures. Yet, some relics withstood the destruction such as the gravestones near the temple, the bronze bell, and the ancient Yamataka Jindai Zakura cherry tree, which believed to be between 1,800 and 2,000 years old.

The bell tower captured in my photograph is a classic example of traditional Japanese architecture. The open wooden structure, supported by stout corner pillars, houses a large bronze bell. During ceremonies, a monk pulls back a wooden pole and strikes the bell with deliberate strength, producing a deep, resonant tone that echoes across the temple grounds. This architectural style dates back to the 13th century, preserving a design that has connected generations through ritual and tradition.

An inscription on the bronze bell reveals it was gifted to Jisso-ji Temple on July 16, 1655. Its significance is amplified by its survival through World War II. During the war, nearly 90% of Japan's ancient bronze bells (over 70,000 in total) were melted down for the war effort. Jisso-ji's bell is one of the few that survived, standing today as an important historic artifact and a symbol of resilience.

Visiting Jisso-ji Temple was like stepping back through centuries of Japanese history. The ancient cherry blossom trees, revered as divine symbols of resilience, are often prayed to by visitors seeking strength to overcome life's challenges. Alongside them stands the centuries-old bronze bell, another testament to endurance, having survived both time and war. Together, these sacred relics create an atmosphere steeped in tradition and reflection—a place where the past is not just remembered but deeply felt, inspiring hope and perseverance.
  • Location: Hokuto, Yamanashi Prefecture, Japan
  • Timestamp: 2025/04/08・06:42
  • Pentax K-1 II + DFA 28-105mm F3.5-5.6 + CP
  • 105 mm ISO 100 for 1/40 sec. at ƒ/8

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Yamataka Jindai Zakura

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Majestic Yamataka Jindai Zakura – Centuries-Old Cherry Tree in Yamanashi, Japan

古の時代から咲き誇る、大津山實相寺の山高神代桜


The Yamataka Jindai Zakura (山高神代桜) at Jissoji Temple in the highlands of Yamanashi's Hokuto region is one of the Three Great Sakura Trees of Japan. Standing at just 10.3 meters (33.8 ft) tall and spanning 11.8 meters (36 ft) at the trunk, it may not be the largest, but it is certainly among the oldest, with an estimated age of 1,800 to 2,000 years. This remarkable tree was designated as Japan’s first-ever Natural Monument in 1920, a testament to its historical and cultural significance.

Through the centuries, Yamataka Jindai Zakura has endured countless natural disasters. Although it is smaller than it once was, its thick trunk, and gnarled branches still stretch proudly, supported by wooden poles to preserve its legacy for future generations. These poles are not just practical—they are symbols of the local community’s commitment to this living monument.

Legend holds that the tree was planted by Yamato Takeru, a warrior prince and folk hero of ancient Japan. Centuries later, the Buddhist priest Nichiren (1222–1282), who was thee founder of the Nichiren school of Buddhism and Jissoji Temple itself, allegedly found the tree withering and prayed for its survival. His prayers, according to temple tradition, helped revive it. Since then, generations of monks at Jissoji Temple have carefully nurtured the ancient cherry tree, ensuring its survival through time.

Jindai Zakura has become a symbol of peace and unity, with its seedlings planted across Japan and around the world. Notably, you can find its descendants in Hungary, the Vatican, Italy, San Marino, Poland, Australia, Vietnam, Taiwan, and more, with each  sapling a living diplomat and promoter of peace between Japan and countries around the world.

In a remarkable journey beyond Earth, Jindai Zakura seeds were sent into space aboard the Space Shuttle Endeavour to the Japanese Experiment Module "Kibo" on the International Space Station. After returning to Earth in 2009, only two of the 118 seeds germinated. One seedling was planted at a local junior high school, and the other found its home back at Jissoji Temple. Surprisingly, the sapling at the temple flourished and even began to bloom. Its blossoms are unique: while typical cherry blossoms have five petals, the "Uchu Zakura" (Space Sakura) has six petals, making for a mysterious reminder of its time in space.

With a greater understanding of this tree’s life story, I feel that the Yamataka Jindai Zakura stands as a living bridge between past, present, and even the stars, symbolizing resilience, history, and hope for the future.
  • Location: Hokuto, Yamanashi Prefecture, Japan
  • Timestamp: 2025/04/08・06:36
  • Pentax K-1 II + DFA 28-105mm F3.5-5.6 + CP
  • 45 mm ISO 100 for 1/40 sec. at ƒ/9
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Otsuyama Jisso-ji Temple

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Spring Awakens with Cherry Blossoms and Daffodils in Yamanashi Highlands
水仙と神代桜に見守られる實相寺


Otsuyama Jisso-ji Temple (大津山 實相寺), located in the Hokuto Highlands of Yamanashi Prefecture, is home to around 30 Somei-Yoshino cherry trees and a stunning display of 80,000 trumpet daffodils. These vibrant blooms create a striking contrast with the snow-capped peak of Mt. Kaikoma (甲斐駒ヶ岳), part of the Southern Alps, offering a perfect blend of spring warmth and alpine majesty.

Getting to the temple is relatively easy with only a 2.5-hour drive (156 km/97 mi) from central Tokyo via the Chuo Expressway if you set off before sunrise. The early start is well worth it, as you’ll arrive just in time to witness the morning light illuminating the blossoms and Mt. Kaikoma.

Unfortunately, the temple grounds were closed during my visit, so I wasn’t able to make an offering or pay my respects before exploring the area for some nice compositions. Over the years, I’ve made it a habit to offer my respects whenever visiting a holy site. It’s a personal ritual that helps me set my mindset, reminding me that I am stepping into a place that holds deep significance for the locals—even if, for visitors like me, it may feel more like an adventure.

Though the morning air was still crisp with winter’s lingering chill, the vibrant spring blossoms filled me with hope for warmer days ahead. After what has felt like an unusually harsh winter back home in Yokohama, this glimpse of spring was a much-needed reminder that brighter days were just around the corner, encouraging me to shake off the winter blues.

  • Location: Hokuto, Yamanashi Prefecture, Japan
  • Timestamp: 2025/04/08・06:11
  • Pentax K-1 II + DFA 28-105mm F3.5-5.6 + CP
  • 45 mm ISO 100 for 1/40 sec. at ƒ/9

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2025-04-07

Jigen-ji Temple

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Where Cherry Blossoms Bloom in Remembrance: Jigen-ji Temple in Odawara
慈眼寺の松月：元禄地震犠牲者供養の寺


After a meeting with clients in Odawara, which is a historic castle town located about 30 minutes south of Tokyo by bullet train, I stumbled upon this quiet temple on my way back to Odawara Station.

Though I wasn’t able to find specific details about when the temple or its Sanmon Gate was built, I did learn that the temple itself was originally constructed to honor the many lives lost during the Great Genroku Earthquake.

This devastating earthquake struck at 2:00 a.m. on December 31, 1703, with Odawara near the epicenter. In addition to widespread structural collapse, fires broke out across the city, greatly compounding the destruction and loss of life.

What first caught my eye was the Sanmon Gate--a traditional gabled structure with dark gray clay tiles, seamlessly connected to a white plaster wall crowned with matching tiles. Behind the gate, a grove of cherry trees was in full bloom.

The variety, known as Shogetsu (Prunus serrulata ‘Shogetsu’), is especially striking. Each blossom begins as a pale pink bud and opens into a large white flower with around 20 delicate petals. The soft clouds of blossoms spilling over the temple wall created a moment of quiet beauty that was both fleeting, yet timeless.

  • Location: Jigen-ji Temple, Odawara, Kanagawa, Japan
  • Timestamp: 2025/04/07・10:35
  • Fujifilm X100V with 5% diffusion filter
  • ISO 160 for 1/340 sec. at ƒ/8
  • Classic Negative film simulation

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