In Sakurai City, Nara Prefecture, at Haseiji Temple. While I often find myself looking up to capture the beauty of the autumn leaves, I was suddenly struck by the sight of maple leaves scattered on the stone steps when I paused to look down. The black of the stone steps and the green of the moss contrasted beautifully with the red and orange of the maple leaves, creating a stunning autumn scene that captivated my heart.

Humobility World 1 Daihatsu-cho, Ikeda City, Osaka Prefecture Opening Hours: [General Admission] Opening Dates: Every Saturday ... Free 9:30 AM to 12:00 PM (Reception until 11:00 AM) 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM (Reception until 4:00 PM) No reservation required Parking available ... Free Located within Daihatsu Headquarters. Explore the history of Daihatsu with various car exhibitions where you can learn a lot. Parking is across from Daihatsu, and the bicycle parking is on the Daihatsu side.

This time, I enjoyed a special lunch with my friend at Restaurant Ashiya Takezono in Hotel Takezono Ashiya, fully savoring the traditional Ashiya Takezono experience. According to my friend Hitomi, the first appetizer was eggplant mousse. It had a rich flavor that made it hard to tell it was eggplant at first. Next, the cold Genovese sauce offered a strong basil flavor that spread throughout, along with the deep taste unique to cold dishes. The pike eel cutlet had a mild flavor complemented perfectly by the salty and tangy plum sauce. The steak was cooked medium and was tender, just how I like it. I was able to slowly enjoy the dishes steeped in tradition and elegance. As Hitomi said.

Mentaiko! Spiced pollock roe, even when translated into English, isn't immediately familiar for many native speakers. "Spicy fish eggs" gets the meaning across clearly, but isn't likely to win any new converts. For either committed fans or the merely curious though, there are Mentai Parks that combine a large variety of mentai-flavored foods, a production line where Mentaiko is made, and a surprisingly expansive play area complete with games, slides, trick art and even a theater showing Mentaiko videos, all at no entry fee. Visitors can watch the magic happen with windows that offer a behind-the-scenes look at Mentaiko production, or hear about Mentaiko-related trivia from a cheerful Mentaiko professor character. That there should be one such Mentai Park would be a curiosity, an idiosyncrasy of Japan, which can often be found celebrating things seen as oddities from a more global perspective, but in fact there are no less than a half dozen, spreading west to east from Kobe, Biwako, Tokoname, Izu, Gunma and Oarai. If you are in the area of one, you could do far worse than visit. The food court offers Mentaiko (of course) and very little else, but that can take the form of onigiri, noodle dishes, baguettes, or even ice cream. There is a free tea dispenser, which is a further nice gesture. You may find yourself coming home with a cuddly soft spiced pollock roe toy, or awaken a new love of mentaiko-flavored ice cream. Whatever the case, the price is right, and its sure to be a distinct and pleasant experience.

This photo was taken at the historical site "Odoi mound" of Kitano Tenmangu in Kamigyō-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture. The vibrant red and yellow trees illuminated beautifully, along with the carpet of fallen leaves at my feet, adorn the autumn nights of Kyoto splendidly. Captivated by the beauty of the illuminated tunnel of autumn leaves and the carpet of fallen leaves, I pressed the shutter to capture the enchanting deepening of autumn and its tranquil presence.

This is a photograph of the moss-covered thatched roof of Horyuin Temple, located in Sakyo Ward, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture. As autumn deepens, the surrounding foliage turns vibrant colors, creating a stunning contrast with the green moss. Combined with the stone-paved path, it presents a breathtaking view that evokes a sense of tranquility and the spirit of wabi-sabi. I was captivated by the heaviness of the moss-covered thatched roof and the vivid autumn leaves enveloping it. I strongly felt the desire to capture this quiet moment where the passage of time and the beauty of nature coexist.

Nisshoin Temple in the colorful autumn, a single golden leaf. Located in Sagano, Kyoto, Nisshoin Temple is known as a famous spot for autumn foliage and is a Tendai sect temple. The maple trees lining both sides of the stone steps leading to the temple are breathtaking. It enshrines Shaka Nyorai and Amitabha Buddha. Focusing on the vibrant yellow leaves in the foreground, I wanted to capture the stone steps of red leaves leading deeper into the temple, expressing the tranquility of this historic temple and the fleeting beauty of deepening autumn.

The Brick Bridge Carrying the Autumn of the Ancient Capital This brick arch bridge is the Suirokaku Aqueduct, located within the grounds of Nanzenji Temple in Sakyo Ward, Kyoto City. It was constructed as part of the Biwako Sosui to channel water from Lake Biwa into Kyoto City, and water still flows through it today. It is one of the iconic landscapes of Nanzenji, where retro architecture blends with rich nature. I was captivated by the contrast between the retro Suirokaku, which retains the charm of the Meiji era, and the vividly colored autumn leaves. I wanted to capture the weight of history and the passage of the seasons in a single shot, so I pressed the shutter.

Kyoto Daikaku-ji is the headquarters of the Shingon sect located in Saga, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture. The important cultural property, Ōsawa Pond, is said to have been a place where Heian aristocrats enjoyed boating, and its beautiful nature continues to captivate many people. I was captivated by the beauty of the autumn leaves reflected on the surface of Ōsawa Pond. I strongly desired to capture the fantastical scenery created by its vibrant colors.

In the late autumn at Gionji Temple, nestled deep in Arashiyama, Kyoto, the roofs are covered with vibrant red fallen leaves, contrasting with the fiery hues of the remaining autumn foliage. The juxtaposition of these colors against the still lush green leaves captures a moment of "silent passion" as the seasons change. The contrast of red and green beautifully conveys the weight of time and the transience of nature.

"Autumn Beyond the Bridge" In December 2024, while visiting Arashiyama in Kyoto, I caught sight of a water scene from Togetsukyo Bridge. The water cascading down the height resembled a small waterfall, and beyond the clear stream lay mountains dyed in autumn colors and quiet rows of houses. While many people on Togetsukyo Bridge were gazing at the expansive views of the mountains and river, I found myself drawn to this tranquil water scene that unfolded when I turned back. Despite being right next to the bustling activity, it felt as if a different time was flowing there, offering a sense of calm that seemed somewhat detached from the world. The scenery was so pleasant that I couldn't help but take pictures and record a short video. What stays in my heart during my travels are not just the famous grand views, but perhaps these quiet scenes encountered when casually looking back. Location: Togetsukyo Bridge, Arashiyama, Kyoto

Guided by the Autumn Leaves In December 2024, while visiting Tenryuji in Kyoto, I stumbled upon this scenery as I walked through the temple grounds. Scattered across the stone steps were fallen leaves, with maple trees, a torii gate, and the shrine deep in the background ahead. At that moment, I felt that the scene before me was dreamlike, so I paused to take this photo. At the time of taking the photo, I didn't pay much attention to the name of this place, but later I learned that it was the Reiki Shrine within Tenryuji. Looking at this photo again, it seemed as if the autumn leaves on the stone steps gradually led my gaze deeper toward the torii gate, so I named it 'Guided by the Autumn Leaves.' This unexpectedly encountered scene also became an unforgettable moment during this trip. Location: Reiki Shrine, Tenryuji, Kyoto City

The End of a Summer Day July 26, 2026, Sayocho, Hyogo Prefecture, Sunflower Field Captured at the sunflower field in Sayocho, Hyogo Prefecture. I encountered the sight of the summer sun setting beyond the sea of blooming sunflowers at dusk. I pressed the shutter to capture the end of a summer day, as the sky and sunflower field were painted by the sunset.

A Summer Break July 14, 2026 Photographed at Yamasa Lotus Garden, Yumesaki Town, Himeji City, Hyogo Prefecture While photographing the lotus flowers, I spotted a small dragonfly resting on the tip of a petal. Its appearance, as if taking a brief break in the summer sunlight, left a lasting impression, and I gently pressed the shutter.

Minase Shrine Address: 3-10-24 Hirose, Shimamotocho, Mishima District, Osaka Prefecture Nearest Station: Minase Station [East Exit], 12 minutes on foot Parking: Available, free Set in a beautiful landscape, the shrine features a guest hall built in the Shoin-zukuri style of the Momoyama period, a main hall established in the early Edo period, and the tea room known as Tōshintei. National treasures and important cultural properties related to Retired Emperor Go-Toba are also preserved here. Located north of the sacred gate, the roof is designed in the irimoya style, with sangawara roofing, wooden latticework on the gable, and umebachi kakegyo decorations. Built during the Taisho era, the front of the stone basin is inscribed with "dedicatory wash basin" (Hono Kansou), and the side is engraved with "Kosha". This water was selected as one of the "Top 100 Famous Waters in Japan" by the Ministry of the Environment in 1985, being the only one in Osaka Prefecture. At the water collection area within Minase Shrine, many people visit daily from early morning to collect water, and there are constant reports of improvements in conditions such as atopic dermatitis. The shrine is cherished by many, and preservation activities are actively conducted.

Nomi Shrine Address: 6-6 Nomicho, Takatsuki City, Osaka Prefecture Nearest station: Takatsuki Station [Exit 7], 7 minutes on foot Founded in the 9th century, it was originally located within Takatsuki Castle. It was also known as the shrine of Gozu Tenno, and it was highly revered by successive lords of the castle. The deities enshrined are Nomino Sukune and Susanoo-no-Mikoto, and it is believed to have moved from the former Shikinai Shrine, Nomi Shrine, which was located near Jōgū Tenmangū. The Nagai Shrine, dedicated to Naokiyo, the first lord of the Takatsuki Domain, stands in the lush green grounds. Its main hall and karamon gate are designated cultural properties of the city, and votive plaques that evoke the appearance of the former Takatsuki Castle are offered.

Jōgū Tenmangū Address: 1-chome Tenjinmachi, Takatsuki City Access: About a 10-minute walk north from the north exit of Takatsuki Station Jōgū Tenmangū is a shrine located in Tenjinmachi, Takatsuki City, Osaka Prefecture. It was formerly classified as a local shrine. It is commonly referred to as "Uenomiya Tenmangū" and is also known as "Kitayama no Tenjin-san." It is said to be "the second oldest Tenmangū in Japan after Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine," and the name "Jōgū" is believed to have been given because its establishment predates that of Kitano Tenmangu in Kyoto. The shrine grounds have a first and second parking lot for visitors from the Kansai region, with a total capacity of about 30 vehicles. During busy periods such as New Year's visits, the parking lots may be closed, so it is advisable to consider using nearby coin parking or reservation-based parking. The goshuin can be received at the shrine office from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

Shinjo Park, located in Tanabe City, Wakayama Prefecture, is a place of relaxation for the citizens. Throughout the four seasons, visitors can enjoy beautifully planted flowers. During the scorching summer, many people took walks early in the morning to avoid the daytime heat. In one corner of the park, sunflowers were in full bloom, surrounding a chainsaw art sculpture.

I visited the stunning Italian restaurant 'amarancia' in Minamiawaji with a friend, overlooking the sea. The food was delicious, the staff were cool and friendly, and the restaurant had a wonderful atmosphere with breathtaking views! If you find yourself in Minamiawaji, be sure to stop by; I highly recommend it! The meal included a lunch course an assortment of appetizers marinated shrimp a choice of pasta fresh fish aquapazza a selection of grilled meats that we chose. According to my friend Hitomi, all the dishes were very generous in portion. I think it's rare for Italian restaurants in Japan to serve a course meal with appetizers to the main dish on large plates for sharing, which felt fresh and nice. The marinated shrimp was flattened, creamy yet rich in flavor, and it was my favorite dish!❣️ Since it was a special occasion, I chose the seafood oil pasta. The toppings were simple with tomatoes and mussels, but the various seafood flavors were delightful, making it a joy to eat!‼️ All three meat dishes had a wonderful charcoal-grilled aroma, each offering a unique meat flavor! By the time the main dish was served, I was nearly full, but it was so satisfying that I could have gone for some rice or bread!❣️❣️ (Hitomi's comment) Sharing delicious and hearty dishes with close friends while chatting, surrounded by a stylish interior and breathtaking views of Naruto Ohashi, with kind and cool staff. This space allows you to enjoy the joy of eating and the precious time spent with important friends through all your senses. You can have a great time at 'TRATTORIA amarancia.'

On my way home. I love this scenery.

Matcha has exploded in popularity worldwide, and Kyoto needs no introduction. But whether you have newly come to like Matcha or are an old fan from before the boom, Uji is the place to go, and well worth braving the Kyoto crowds. Uji has been a center of green tea production for centuries, and my dusty 1935 book on the history of tea affords it pride of place, describing it in detail, indicating it was known to America as a famous matcha center even in the first half of the 20th century. 2026 isn't 1935, and there's considerably more ice cream than there used to be, to say nothing of foreign visitors. But there is a core of authentic continuity there that continues to serve locally made tea, and its hard to beat the flavor. As a plus, the area is quite beautiful, with notable historical sites like the Byodoin temple, and a peaceful atmosphere. I always feel happier after having visited, so it has become a repeat destination for me.

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

Kibune Shrine Surrounded by Fresh Greenery: Okumiya and Hirakado This scene captures the sacred gate (Hirakado) of Okumiya standing amidst the blue leaves and deep green trees at Kibune Shrine in early summer Kyoto. Lush moss and towering cedar trees line both sides of the approach, adorned with vibrant red lanterns, creating a sacred and clear atmosphere. In front of the gate, a quietly standing worshiper adds to the tranquility, making this image a striking representation of the deep emotional beauty of Okumiya and the rich nature surrounding it. Kuramakibunecho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture

Gion Festival Shinko Festival: Countless smartphones capturing the Mikoshi procession This image captures the magnificent sight of the Mikoshi procession filling Shijō Street during the "Shinko Festival" of the Gion Festival, which symbolizes summer in Kyoto. The Tōmi Mikoshi, shining in gold and white, is powerfully carried by bearers in white garments. In a bid to catch a glimpse of this historic moment, the crowd lining the streets raises a multitude of smartphones in unison. This vibrant scene represents the fusion of traditional festival culture and modern societal behavior, encapsulating the spirit of our times. Gioncho, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture

Gion Festival and Kankō-sai: The fervor and procession that fills the night in Kyoto This scene captures the grand procession that fills Shijō Street during the finale of the Gion Festival, known as Kankō-sai. As the warm light of lanterns illuminates the streets, a large number of men dressed in white garments march powerfully alongside the big tall lanterns of "Shiwaka" and the portable shrine. The gaze and excitement from the spectators resonate in the vibrant night streets of Kyoto, echoing the overwhelming fervor and vitality unique to this traditional event as they escort the deities back to Yasaka Shrine. Gioncho, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture.

Gion Festival and Shinko Festival: The Enthusiasm of Children Connecting to the Future This scene captures the adorable yet reliable figures of children supporting the Gion Festival's "Shinko Festival," which colors the summer of Kyoto. Dressed in matching white hanten jackets and headbands, the children stand in a line, carefully holding onto a single rope. Their serious gazes and smiles amidst the lively atmosphere convey the warmth of this traditional event, as well as the vibrant spirit that connects it to the next generation. Gioncho, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture

Ikusato Matsuri at Miwakare Park, Tamba City, Hyogo Prefecture was a fun festival with a free lottery, food stalls, and a stage, creating a relaxing atmosphere. (^_^♪

Yuzu Sunflower Yuyu Farm in Kasugamachi, Tamba City, Hyogo Prefecture It was fun with a sunflower maze, food stalls, and free sunflower picking!

I am a big fan of Toyooka's Mongol Culture Center, and find myself visiting there once every couple of years, even though it has not had many major updates. Imagine my surprise, then, to learn it has a collaboration with a new anime! Incredibly, the original work's author seems to be named "Tomato Soup". What a world we live in! For this new collaboration, which will run from August of this year to the next, the focus will be on notable female figures in Mongol history, especially Sorkhokthani Beki and Töregene. For fans of the anime, apparently there will be anime-related goods and content as well, so it is sure to have something for fans of either history or anime. Already the museum had a very interesting section where you could not just see but even try on various Mongolian clothes, but it sounds like they may specifically be adding some based on these Mongolian princesses. I think it is great that Toyooka maintains such an active cultural life, and I can't wait to go to my favorite museum in Hyogo again to see the new exhibit! Toyooka is a bit out of the way, but visitors are well rewarded with the famous Kinosaki Onsen, delicious crab cuisine, and lots of beautiful wildlife, including the nearby Stork Preserve. I would definitely recommend visiting!