Pix4Japan

2024-08-13

Union Jack

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Sitting Pretty with the Union Jack・英国の風、横浜イングリッシュガーデンのユニオンジャックベンチ

Location: Yokohama English Garden, Yokohama, Japan

Timestamp: 16:29・2024/08/13

Pentax K-1 II + DFA 28-105mm F3.5-5.6 + CP

45 mm ISO 400 for 1/160 sec. at ƒ/4.0

In addition to the gazebo, several wooden, stone, and concrete benches were scattered throughout the garden, making it a delight to sit and relax while soaking in the vibrant colors, fragrant aromas of flowering plants, and the gentle hum of insects thriving in this urban oasis.

One bench that particularly caught my eye was this white bench adorned with a Union Jack. Although I knew the Union Jack is the national flag of the United Kingdom, I was less familiar with its origins.

According to the official website of the British Royal Family, the flag is a blend of three different flags, with subtle changes made over the years: the cross of St. George, patron saint of England since the 1270s; the cross of St. Andrew, patron saint of Scotland; and the cross of St. Patrick, patron saint of Ireland.

For me, the wear and tear on this particular bench, with its peeling paint, adds a charming touch and nostalgic-like vibe, perfectly complementing the character of this English garden.

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Mid-Summer Blossoms

Location: Yokohama English Garden, Yokohama, Japan

Timestamp: 15:57・2024/08/13

Pentax K-1 II + DFA 28-105mm F3.5-5.6 + CP

68 mm ISO 640 for 1/160 sec. at ƒ/4.5

The first shot captures what appears to be a classic sunflower, standing resilient despite beginning to slightly wither under the intense summer sun. I was drawn to this particular bloom because it stood a little apart from the other sunflowers, whose leaves had darkened considerably. Nestled slightly in the shade, I could isolate it from the surrounding foliage, allowing it to shine as the star of my composition.

Location: Yokohama English Garden, Yokohama, Japan

Timestamp: 16:16・2024/08/13

Pentax K-1 II + DFA 28-105mm F3.5-5.6 + CP

105 mm ISO 2500 for 1/160 sec. at ƒ/11

I’ve encountered this particular rose in numerous parks and gardens throughout Yokohama. Though I haven’t been able to pinpoint the exact variety—perhaps a Blush Rambler, Blushing Knockout, or Peach Lemonade—its charm doesn’t escape me. Despite my limited botanical knowledge, I’m captivated by its simplicity, with petals that gracefully transition from deep pink to almost white, and delicate yellow structures at its center.

Location: Yokohama English Garden, Yokohama, Japan

Timestamp: 16:22・2024/08/13

Pentax K-1 II + DFA 28-105mm F3.5-5.6 + CP

105 mm ISO 1600 for 1/160 sec. at ƒ/9

Perhaps a Marigold or African Marigold—though I admit to being quite ignorant about flowers and gardens. What I do recognize, however, is when a beautiful tapestry of color and light fills my frame. This garden, with its clusters of diverse flowers growing side by side or across the path, allowed me to focus on a single bloom with fresh petals, while the greens, pinks, yellows, and oranges of other flowers in the background created a warm, festive atmosphere—like Christmas lights in the middle of summer.

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Yokohama English Garden

Yokohama English Garden: Wind Chimes and Toy Windmills

横浜イングリッシュガーデンのトンネル「風鈴と風車」

During the annual “Summer Festival,” which runs from June 25th through September 12th, visitors can experience a unique art display that beautifully marries tradition and whimsy.

This installation features quintessential Japanese wind chimes (風鈴・furin), each adorned with vibrant strips of paper, alongside playful, colorful toy windmills.

As you stroll through the lush so-called “Rose Tunnel,” the gentle breeze sets off a soothing symphony of glass chimes, while the windmills spin in a joyful dance of color.

This delightful combination makes the summer heat feel a bit more bearable, turning your walk into a relaxing experience.

References:

Pentax K-1 II + DFA 28-105mm F3.5-5.6 + CP

37 mm ISO 640 for 1/200 sec. at ƒ/8.0

Location: Nishi Ward, Yokohama, Japan
Timestamp: 15:43・2024/08/13
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Pentax K-1 II + DFA 28-105mm F3.5-5.6 + CP

48 mm ISO 3200 for 1/250 sec. at ƒ/7.1

Location: Nishi Ward, Yokohama, Japan
Timestamp: 15:50・2024/08/13
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Pentax K-1 II + DFA 28-105mm F3.5-5.6 + CP

105 mm ISO 400 for 1/200 sec. at ƒ/5.6

Location: Nishi Ward, Yokohama, Japan
Timestamp: 15:52・2024/08/13
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2024-07-17

Miyagase Dam

Miyagase Dam・宮ヶ瀬ダム

Fujifilm X100V with 5% diffusion filter

ISO 160 for 1/500 sec. at ƒ/3.2

Velvia/Vivid film simulation

Map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/gcoNXTCpUdgf7ZLu9

Shin-Ishigoyabashi Bridge・新石小屋橋

Fujifilm X100V with 5% diffusion filter

ISO 320 for 1/420 sec. at ƒ/2.8

Velvia/Vivid film simulation

Map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/du7686Xyu1grKnQ76

Miyagase Dam Spillway・宮ヶ瀬ダムの放水路

Fujifilm X100V with 5% diffusion filter

ISO 320 for 1/680 sec. at ƒ/3.6

Velvia/Vivid film simulation

Map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/gNrWt2hMkyyeEeP27

Nestled about 60 km west of Tokyo, the Miyagase Dam offers a nice blend of natural beauty and engineering feat. Just a two-hour drive via the Chuo or Tomei Expressways, this impressive structure is easily accessible from the bustling cities of Tokyo and Yokohama. Located in the town of Aikawa, Kanagawa Prefecture, the dam has convenient parking at several lots within walking distance of the dam, with parking fees starting at a modest ¥500.

This was my first visit to the dam, but my fifth visit to the Lake Miyagase area. I fondly recall my first visit to the area in the early '90s when I would drive my Nissan Silvia (RS-X/S12) along the winding roads of Kiyokawa and Tsukui villages. Back then, residents were being relocated to make way for the dam, which eventually submerged several villages beneath the deep waters of Lake Miyagase, which was finally formed in 1998. This visit, however, wasn't for a photo shoot but a nostalgic reunion with old friends from the '80s.

Miyagase Dam provides ample resources in English and other languages, enhancing accessibility for international tourists. For detailed maps and references, please see the links below:

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2024-07-10

Kazusa-Nakano Station

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The Nostalgic Charm of Kazusa-Nakano Station

Location: Otaki Town, Chiba Prefecture, Japan

Timestamp: 13:50・2024/07/10

Fujifilm X100V with 5% diffusion filter

ISO 640 for 1/250 sec. at ƒ/2

Provia/Standard film simulation

On my journey home from Katsuura along Chiba’s Pacific coastline, I headed inland and stumbled upon a hidden gem—Kazusa-Nakano Station. This quaint little train station instantly transported me back in time with its unmistakable Showa-era charm, a relic of a simpler, quieter Japan when I was much younger. Serving both the Isumi Line and Kominato Line, this station feels like a nostalgic postcard from the past.

Kazusa-Nakano Station, with its single platform, seems almost suspended in time. One side of the platform is for the Isumi Line, while the other side welcomes the Kominato Line. The station remains unstaffed, enhancing its tranquil and somewhat remote atmosphere. Here, there are no bustling ticket gates, loud announcements—just the hum of a diesel train waiting for departure. Be sure to carry exact change for your fare, or plan ahead and purchase tickets at the terminus, Ohara Station.

Originally constructed in 1928 and rebuilt in 1989, the station has retained its old-world charm. The analog clock above the entrance is a delightful reminder of days gone by, ticking away in harmony with the slow pace of life here. The hand-carved station sign is weathered by time with parts of the lettering preserved by the warmth of nearby lamps.

Inside, where my border collie found a peaceful spot to rest, the station offers a few simple amenities—a collection of pamphlets for curious tourists, a timetable for planning unhurried journeys, and a large notebook brimming with anonymous messages. These notes capture the thoughts and feelings of visitors, whether they’re reflecting on the quiet beauty of the station, the gentle ride along the Isumi Line, or their adventures in the local area.

In the background, a single-car train of the Isumi Line waits patiently for its next departure. The schedule is leisurely, with trains arriving about once an hour. There are even moments when the station falls silent for up to 90 minutes, allowing you to pause and savor the tranquility of your surroundings.

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Carriage 351

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Nostalgic Encounter with an Isumi Line Carriage・昭和レトロの旅：上総中野駅といすみ線の350型の黄色い一両列車

Location: Otaki Town, Chiba Prefecture, Japan

Timestamp: 13:48・2024/07/10

Fujifilm X100V with 5% diffusion filter

ISO 320 for 1/320 sec. at ƒ/2.2

Pro Negative High film simulation

While exploring the quaint Kazusa-Nakano Station, I was delighted to experience the charm of an old train station that has a Showa-era vibe. To my surprise, a single yellow carriage of the Isumi Line rolled gently into the station, its vibrant colors contrasting beautifully against the lush green backdrop.

Intrigued, I wandered behind the station for a closer look at the train that had just arrived. This particular train is an Izumi Model 350, a diesel railcar series introduced to the Isumi Line in 2013 and 2014. In the photo, we can see carriage No. 351, one of only four carriages on the entire line. The other carriages are Nos. 301, 302, and 352.

The Isumi Line’s fleet of only 4 carriages is thoughtfully designed to cater to both commuters and tourists. Two of the carriages feature long, bench-style seating that runs parallel to the length of the carriage—perfect for the bustling weekday commute. The other two carriages are fitted with cross-seating, where groups of four seats face each other, providing a more intimate setting ideal for leisurely weekend rides. These cross-seating carriages offer tourists a panoramic view of the picturesque countryside as they journey through the rural countryside.

The 350 Series is a modern iteration inspired by the classic Kiha 52 series, first introduced to Japanese railways in 1958. These diesel railcars are powered by a robust in-line 6-cylinder, 355 PS diesel engine, with a transmission that combines one gear and two direct gears, offering a smooth ride and efficient operations.

As I stood there, listening to the hum of the idling diesel engine, memories of my first ride on a single carriage diesel train came flooding back. It was on the Sagami Line in the 1980s, an experience that left a lasting impression on me as most other trains I rode were all electrified. The low rumble of the diesel engine reminded me of driving a diesel farm tractor on my father’s farm—a sound both comforting and evocative. I hope to relive that experience one day, perhaps on this very train, when I have a chance to secure a sitter for my border collie.

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Karugamo Ducks

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Sunlit Karugamo Ducks and Shimmering Falls ・カルガモと一緒に、粟又の滝を満喫

Location: Otaki Town, Chiba Prefecture, Japan

Timestamp: 12:59・2024/07/10

Pentax K-1 II + DFA 28-105mm F3.5-5.6 + CP

105 mm ISO 100 for 1/800 sec. at ƒ/9

During my visit to Awamata Falls on the Yoro River, I was delighted to see several families with young children and toddlers playing in the cool, shallow waters. This heartwarming sight brought back memories of my own childhood, spent exploring the soothing creeks and streams that meandered through narrow valleys in the mountains.

Alongside these families, some waterfowl rested peacefully on the river's shoreline, unfazed by the humans enjoying the water. Among them was a pair of Eastern Spot-billed Ducks (Anas zonorhyncha), basking in the warm summer sun on small stone islands in the middle of the river.

Eastern Spot-billed Ducks are a common sight throughout most of Japan. They thrive in diverse habitats such as lakes, marshes, wetlands, rice fields, tidal flats, and rivers. These ducks are year-round residents in the southern half of Japan’s main island, Honshu.

Given that their breeding season spans from mid-June to early August, I suspect this pair is a male and female. I would love to return in late August to see if there are any ducklings along the shores of the Yoro River waiting to be photographed!