In Yokote City, Akita Prefecture, the phrase "Are you going to the vineyard?" is commonly heard during autumn. There are many vineyards where children can enjoy grape picking, while adults savor a drink with imonoko-jiru (potato stew) and pickles. Additionally, Yokote is also famous as a production area for wine grapes, being one of the main regions for major wine manufacturers. During the day, enjoy the vineyards, and at night, relax with some wine to fully experience autumn. How about indulging in such an autumn experience? This year, make sure to visit Yokote.

Event Announcement 📣 On September 20th (Sunday), the 50th Hakurin Park Festival will be held in Taiki Town 😊 This autumn industrial festival offers a unique taste of Taiki Town, with its mountains and sea 🎵🎵 The event will kick off with a powerful performance of the local folk art "Hikata River Taiko," created to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Taiki Town's establishment in 1978! The special stage will feature performances by local children, a karaoke show by enka singer Keisuke Yamauchi, and an impersonation live show by Hiro Aoyama, making for a jam-packed program ✨✨ In the exhibition and experience booths, there will be popular activities like the "Fluffy Dome," badge-making, coloring, and woodworking workshops for children to enjoy. Plus, a gathering of "working vehicles"! 🚓🚒 The gourmet and product exhibition area will be rich with delicious local cuisine, including food booths and a direct sale of Taiki beef. Additionally, specialty products from sister city Sōma City, Fukushima Prefecture, and friendly city Yoshioka Town, Gunma Prefecture, as well as products from the Galactic Federation, will all be available to savor 😍 There will also be a "Fall Chum Salmon Catching" event exclusively for children under elementary school age, and the finale of the event will feature a fun lottery! 🎀 It's a day of fun for both adults and children. We hope you come with your family to create wonderful memories 🤗 🔶 Date: September 20, 2026 🔶 Venue: Hakurin Park, Taiki Town 🔶 Contact: 50th Hakurin Park Festival Executive Committee (Taiki Town Tourism Association Office) TEL: 01558-6-2114 https://visit-taiki.hokkaido.jp/sp_detail.php?id=150...

My hometown, Yokote City in Akita Prefecture, may seem like a place with nothing much, but when life feels stagnant, don't you find yourself gazing absentmindedly at the rice stalks and the sky?

The fallen leaves gently protect the lives of the next season. And it made me feel as if they were nurturing the earth softly. (Location: Yokote City, Akita Prefecture)

Dakigaeri Gorge near Lake Tazawa in Akita. This is a famous spot for autumn leaves in Akita, where the beautifully lit streams create a stunning scene. Nearby, you can find the base of Gekidan Warabi-za, a theater company that continues to perform 600 shows a year based on Tohoku's folk songs and history. This theater depicts the strength of people and the beauty of life, harmonizing gently with the tranquil landscape. How about visiting Akita this autumn?

Tohoku is known for its beautiful autumn foliage, but I also enjoy the time spent idly gazing at the autumn rice ears. From rice harvesting in September to October, autumn festivals, and the first snowfall in November, why not visit Tohoku this season?

Location: Former Ikeda Family Gardens, Daisen City, Akita Prefecture The Former Ikeda Family Gardens in Daisen City, Akita Prefecture. This was the residence of the prominent landowner Ikeda family, and the Western-style building within the gardens is designated as an Important Cultural Property. The wet red colors quietly stand out, subtly adding to the history of this place. Nearby, you can also find the nationally designated historic site, Hotta-no-saku Ruins (remains of an ancient castle). Why not come to Akita this autumn and trace its history?

Location: Former Ikeda Family Gardens, Daisen City, Akita Prefecture The Former Ikeda Family Gardens in Daisen City, Akita Prefecture, were the residence of the area's major landowner, the Ikeda family. The Western-style building within the gardens is designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan. The wet reds and greens quietly stand out, adding a gentle touch to the history of this place. Nearby, you can also find the nationally designated historic site, Hotta-no-Saku Ruins (remains of an ancient castle). This autumn, why not come to Akita and trace its history?

Gozan no Okuribi: Saidaimonji's Oya-bi This image captures the powerful figures of people carrying the Oya-bi (parent fire) of Saidaimonji during the traditional event "Gozan no Okuribi," which concludes the summer in Kyoto. Men dressed in happi coats and headbands marked with "Saidaimonji Preservation Society" carry a large, fiercely burning torch on long bamboo poles, advancing in a procession toward the fire platform on the mountain. In the darkness, the flames create a fantastical light and heat, conveying the serious expressions of the participants who uphold the tradition, along with the unique fervor and solemnity of the event. Ookitayamakagamiishichou, Kitaku, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture

I went to Miyagi Prefecture for a family trip. It was very hot, but the green trees and ice cream provided a sense of coolness. This photo was taken at a shop near Seiganji in Matsushima Town, Miyagi Prefecture, and it represents the scenery that makes me think, "This is summer in Japan."

Built in 1910, Kourakukan is a theater located in Kosakamachi, Akita Prefecture. While there are several theaters that remain as Important Cultural Properties, Kourakukan is one of the few that still hosts regular performances and is actively used today. "A building truly comes alive when it's in use." Although I can't include photos from the performances due to copyright restrictions, it's heartwarming to know that even grandparents have their favorite performers! This facility is a source of enjoyment for the townspeople—"that's why we can preserve it." Overall, it was a place that left a positive impression.

Akita dogs are really cute. These little ones also greeted us cutely lined up at the 'Roadside Station Kazuno Antler's showcase.' When you come to Akita, you can find such small moments of warmth everywhere.

A small path where I used to play with my friends when I was little. As this season arrives, I find myself nostalgically drawn back here. The cherry blossoms have always been here. That's how I feel.

"We are all connected!" The wrapped train of the Akita Nairiku Line seems to echo Shinnosuke's voice. Father's hometown, Akita; mother's Kumamoto; and now living in Saitama— the lands of our family are depicted on a single train car. "The tracks and the bonds are connected straight, aren't they?" After a long time, my heart warmed with nostalgia, and I pointed my camera. Why not come visit "Akita" on the Akita Nairiku Line?

From the summit of Mount Wagakuni, a breathtaking morning scene unfolds over Ibaraki. A sea of clouds completely blankets the towns below, creating a dreamlike landscape where the mountains appear to float above the sky. But if you look closely at the far right of the frame, you might notice a giant figure standing quietly above the clouds — and if I’m not mistaken, that silhouette is the famous Ushiku Daibutsu, watching over the horizon from afar. This is a hidden gem. Very few people know about this place. After I saw it I was astonished. Highly recommended hidden gem.

Crimson Clover in Katsurao Village, Fukushima Prefecture After the temporary evacuation was lifted due to the nuclear accident, cultivation began as a green manure to improve the soil of the deteriorated farmland. By incorporating Crimson Clover into the soil as green manure, it is said that the fertility of the farmland is restored. A photo of the entire field in bright red gradually spread on social media, and this initiative started to gain media attention. Tokyo Camera Club and Katsurao Village collaborated to establish photo spots (three locations) with the help of Michi-no-Eki Sera, aiming to boost tourism. If you take photos at the three locations and show them at Katsurao Village Reconstruction Exchange Hall Azalea, you will receive seeds of Crimson Clover. It is a symbol of the reconstruction of Katsurao Village. This year's photo spots were available until the 24th, but be sure to visit next year. The planting locations change every year, so it's convenient to check at Katsurao Village Reconstruction Exchange Hall Azalea before going. I participated in the photo tour organized by Tokyo Camera Club this time. It was held with the full cooperation of Katsurao Village, and I was moved by the warmth of the villagers. Please be sure to visit Katsurao Village.

Crimson clover in Katsurao Village, Fukushima Prefecture. Although the evacuation order was lifted temporarily due to the nuclear accident, cultivation began as green manure to improve the soil of the devastated farmland. By incorporating crimson clover into the soil as green manure, it is said that the fertility of the farmland will be restored. As a result, photos of the vibrant red fields began to spread gradually on social media, and this initiative started to gain media attention. The Tokyo Camera Club and Katsurao Village are collaborating to set up three photo spots with the support of Michi-no-Eki Sera, aiming to make it a highlight for tourism. If you take photos at all three locations and show them at the Katsurao Village Reconstruction Exchange Center Azalea, you will receive seeds of crimson clover. It is a symbol of the reconstruction of Katsurao Village. This year's photo spots were available until the 24th, but be sure to check them out next year. The planting locations change every year, so it's convenient to check at the Katsurao Village Reconstruction Exchange Center Azalea before you go. The photo is of a "sofa."

Crimson Clover in Katsurao Village, Fukushima Prefecture After the temporary evacuation was lifted due to the nuclear accident, cultivation began as a green manure to improve the soil of the devastated farmland. By incorporating Crimson Clover into the soil as green manure, the fertility of the farmland is said to recover. Then, photos of the vast red fields gradually spread on social media, and this initiative started to gain media coverage. Tokyo Camera Club and Katsurao Village collaborated to establish photo spots (three locations) with the support of Michi-no-Eki Sera, aiming to promote tourism. If you take photos at all three locations and show them at the Katsurao Village Reconstruction Exchange Hall Azalea, you will receive seeds of Crimson Clover. It is a symbol of the reconstruction of Katsurao Village. This year's photo spots were available until the 24th, but please come next year. The planting locations change every year, so it's convenient to check at the Katsurao Village Reconstruction Exchange Hall Azalea before you go. The photo is of a "swing."

Crimson Clover in Katsuraomura, Fukushima Prefecture Although the evacuation order due to the nuclear accident has been lifted temporarily, cultivation began as a green manure to improve the soil of the damaged farmland. By incorporating Crimson Clover into the soil as green manure, the fertility of the farmland is said to be restored. Soon, photos of the vibrant red fields began to spread on social media, and this initiative was featured in the media as well. Tokyo Camera Club and Katsuraomura collaborated to set up three photo spots with the cooperation of Michi-no-Eki Sera, aiming to promote tourism. If you take photos at all three spots and show them at the Katsurao Village Reconstruction Exchange Center Azalea, you will receive seeds of Crimson Clover. It is a symbol of the reconstruction of Katsuraomura. This year's photo spots were available until the 24th, but be sure to visit next year. The planting locations change every year, so it's convenient to check at the Katsurao Village Reconstruction Exchange Center Azalea before you go. The photo is titled 'Piano.'

Zao Fox Village, located in Miyagi Prefecture, is a special spot where visitors can interact closely with foxes. As soon as you enter the park, you can see the foxes freely moving around in the woods, some lazily lying down to sleep, while others stretch out in the sunlight, creating a very soothing scene. The most unforgettable experience this time was participating in the limited-time "Fox Hugging Experience." Under the guidance of the staff, I put on a special protective suit and carefully held the foxes in my arms. Two foxes snuggled comfortably in my embrace, their fur fluffy and warm. Although I usually have cats at home and consider myself familiar with animals, I still couldn't help but feel nervous the moment I held the foxes, worried they might suddenly move, while also finding them incredibly cute. In the park, you can also see the foxes resting casually on wooden houses, even sleeping directly in the sunlight, completely unconcerned about the visitors' gaze. Watching them stretch their limbs without a care in the world felt like time had slowed down. As I left, I looked back at those figures, some running and some sleeping. This memory of encountering the foxes up close became the warmest and most special moment of my journey.

Crystals of light dancing in Taisho-era romance ■Location Ginzan Onsen, Yamagata Prefecture ■Background and thoughts behind the work Ginzan Onsen sits quietly in the deep mountains of Yamagata. On a night when snow piled softly on the streets steeped in Taisho-era romance, I attempted something for the first time. I used the built-in flash to capture the “expressions of snow invisible to the eye.” Until then I had cherished natural light, but that evening I felt a strong urge to make each drifting snowflake shine like a jewel. The instant the flash fired, pure white snow crystals appeared against the dark, and the warm orange glow of the gas lamps contrasting with the cold snow created a dreamlike scene. In the subzero cold I kept shooting until my fingertips went numb, and when I saw the glittering snow on the preview screen, I felt an indescribable emotion. Through my first strobe shoot, I rediscovered the beauty of movement dwelling within frozen time. This photograph is an unforgettable and precious image for me.

Gala Yuzawa is one of my favorite ski destination near Tokyo. Its not only a good ski resort but also a fabulous sightseeing spots. The snow-capped mountain peaks looks very beautiful and during sunset time creates an unforgettable moments.

📍Matsushima Rikyu It was a wonderful spot where you could enjoy autumn leaves, illumination, and reflections all at once ✨🍁😍🍁✨

Urabandai in Fukushima is one of my most favorite autumn destination.

The autumn in Urabandai, Fukushima is amazing. I took this photo during a figgy day near lake Hibara. The small island inside the lake also full of autum colors which makes the frame more beautiful. Mist, autumn colors and lake, these are all what i can even imagined. It was so exciting and eye-shoothing. After thus trip I was really refreshed and energized again.

Amidst the gentle rain, the silhouette of a majestic mountain looms over the serene Lake Hibara, creating a breathtaking backdrop. As I sit by the lake’s edge, the tranquil atmosphere envelops me, turning this moment into something truly unforgettable. The tiny islands in the distance adds a touch of magic, making the scene feel like a painting come to life.

I visited the famed Toohoku peak MtAdatara (1,700 m). From the Okudake Trailhead I took the ropeway to the Summit Station, passed MtYakushi (1,322 m), and reached the summit of MtAdatara. I was moved by the stark volcanic landscape of the explosion crater (Numanodaira Crater), then continued to Mount Yahazu (1,673 m) and enjoyed autumn colors painting the slopes of MtTetsu (1,709 m). Location: Nihommatsu City, Fukushima Prefecture

I visited the famous Toohoku peak MtAdatara (1,700 m). I took the ropeway from Okudake Trailhead to Summit Station, passed MtYakushi (1,322 m), and reached the summit of MtAdatara. Then I was moved by the stark volcanic landscape of the explosion crater (Numanodaira Crater), continued to Mount Yahazu (1,673 m), and enjoyed the autumn colors painting the slopes of MtTetsu (1,709 m). Location: Nihommatsu City, Fukushima Prefecture

I visited Mt. Kurikoma (elevation 1,626 m), the celebrated Tohoku peak praised as the "carpet of the gods." At the temporary shuttle bus stop, Kurihara City staff warned that "bears have been appearing on the trail for four consecutive days!" and, ringing bear bells loudly, we made the ascent. By the grace of the gods, we encountered no bears and were treated to truly stunning autumn foliage. Thank you. Location: Kurihara City, Miyagi Prefecture