It is called Osechi Ryori. This is a dish that families and clans gather to celebrate the New Year and eat together, with each item having a special significance for good fortune. Nowadays, many people buy it from department stores or supermarkets, but in the past, it was common to make it by hand. In rural areas, it is still customary to prepare it in advance at the end of the year so that women do not have to cook during the New Year. The photos show only my grandmother's handmade dishes, which are all a modest brown color, but they taste amazing. The locally famous red konnyaku, which turned bright red at the command of the famous Sengoku period warlord Oda Nobunaga, is also included. In addition, it is a tradition for the whole family to gather around a table filled with my grandmother's handmade rolled sushi and mackerel sushi for a celebration.

It's called chawanmushi. There are many videos online of foreigners being surprised by how different it is from their expectations when they try it for the first time. It's a "savory, hot egg pudding" that isn't sweet. This dish consists of a seasoned egg custard steamed with various ingredients like mushrooms, vegetables, fish paste, and fresh seafood or chicken. Often, a rare ingredient called yuri-ne (lily bulb) is also included. It’s actually a challenging dish to make, and the photo shows the chawanmushi that my skilled wife made for the first time after 35 years of marriage. She learned how difficult it was by watching my mother-in-law prepare it often. Since it looks plain, I decided to garnish it with chive flowers that I grow in a planter in the garden. In Japan, you can even find it on the menu at conveyor belt sushi restaurants.

【Kumamoto・Kikuchi Gorge】Limited to 10 days! Experience the fantastical space of the "Kikuchi Gorge Light Up 2026 Vol.5" with dancing dragons. The autumn "Aso-Kujū National Park Kikuchi Gorge" will be enveloped in magical lights during the "Kikuchi Gorge Light Up." This fifth installment features the powerful debut of the "Dragon Projection Mapping." Enjoy the natural beauty of the illuminated scenery and the art of light against the darkness. Admission to the Kikuchi Gorge Light Up requires a reservation and ticket. The ticket includes round-trip shuttle bus service, access to the market (available only at the separate Citizens Plaza), and hot spring bathing. You can comfortably arrive without the stress of traffic using the dedicated shuttle bus. 【Event Overview】 Event Dates (Total of 10 days): November 20 (Friday) to 23 (Monday, public holiday), November 27 (Friday) to 29 (Sunday), December 4 (Friday) to 6 (Sunday). Time: Light Up 17:00 - 21:00 / Night Market 16:00 - 22:00 Venue: 【Light Up】Aso-Kujū National Park Kikuchi Gorge (5026 Hara, Kikuchi City, Kumamoto Prefecture) *On-site parking will be closed. Please use the dedicated shuttle bus from "Kikuchi Furusato Revitalization Citizens Plaza" (tickets must be purchased in advance). 【Night Market】Kikuchi Furusato Revitalization Citizens Plaza (1273-1 Kumafu, Kikuchi City, Kumamoto Prefecture) 【About Tickets】 Price: Adults 2,700 yen (tax included) / Children 1,500 yen (tax included) (Free for preschool children sitting on laps) The ticket includes four items. Admission fee for the Kikuchi Gorge Light Up, round-trip shuttle bus ticket (Citizens Plaza ⇔ Kikuchi Gorge), 500 yen worth of tickets usable at the Night Market, and hot spring tickets (valid during the period). 【How to Purchase】 Purchase in advance via the official Kikuchi Tourism Association LINE account (supports credit card, Apple Pay, and PayPay payments). *Bus seats are completely assigned and on a first-come, first-served basis. 【Contact】 Kikuchi Tourism Association TEL: 0968-25-0513 (Closed on Tuesdays, next business day if a holiday) https://kikuchikanko.ne.jp/archives/featured/k-illumi2026...

At the end of the day, the sun sets into the sea. The sky transitions from blue to purple, then to a vibrant crimson. Even the ordinary scenery appears special for just a moment. This is the magic of twilight. Captured at Otago Coast, Nishi-Izu, Shizuoka Prefecture.

Water flows down the rocky surface in layers. Light filters through the gaps in the trees, illuminating the water's surface and the rocks. The sound of continuously flowing water fills the space, surrounded by deep green. Yuhidaki Waterfall, Horikiri, Izu City, Shizuoka Prefecture

I went to Shiba Park to see the autumn roses 🌹.

I went out to buy persimmons from Ishimaki Kankoen, where I can enjoy seasonal fruits.

Lake Tokuyama in autumn The blue sky, autumn leaves, and submerged forest reflected in the lake were beautiful. Lake Tokuyama, Ibi District, Gifu Prefecture November 3, 2026

Taken on November 3, 2014. This is the Yabusame Festival at Izumo Iwai Shrine. When I took photos in burst mode, I only captured motion blur.

Yokohama is one of my favorite cities. Various events are held in different places over the weekend. The Bashamichi Festival runs from October 31st to November 3rd, and although I couldn't see the horse-drawn carriages (only on Tuesday), I did get to see the gas lamps. At the National Hometown Fair at Akarenga, I enjoyed a lot of delicious food and got completely full.

On December 1, 2024, I visited Icho Namiki Avenue! Many people were taking photos and enjoying the ginkgo trees, which can only be seen at this time of year.🌙 It seems that this year's best viewing period is from late November to early December!

While I was taking a walk, I noticed the beautiful blooming osmanthus and took a photo. The way the flowers clustered together was striking, and it made me feel the essence of autumn.

Soon, it will be Shichi-Go-San. I captured the scenes at Akumi Kanbe Shinmeisha, famous for the Toyohashi Onimatsuri 📸.

"The vermilion Otorii Gate adorned with cosmos" A scene of autumn encountered at the Koizumi Cosmos Fields in Isesaki City, Gunma Prefecture. The vermilion Otorii Gate towers towards the blue sky, with vibrant pink, white, and reddish-purple cosmos blooming at its feet. The grand appearance of the large gate and the delicate cosmos swaying in the wind. I captured a beautiful landscape woven together by the traditional vermilion of Japan and the autumn flowers in a single photograph.

"The Crimson Bridge Crossing into a New Autumn" Akagi Ohnuma Woodpecker Bridge spans Gunma Prefectural Akagi Park, near Onuma. This bridge, leading to Akagi Shrine, completed its reconstruction on December 16, 2025, welcoming its first autumn in a new form. The vibrant crimson bridge stands against the backdrop of Mt. Akagi, which has begun to turn shades of red and yellow. And the endlessly clear blue sky stretches above. The newly transformed bridge meets the autumn that arrives unchanged every year. I captured this beautiful encounter in a single photograph.

The Tale of the Male and Female Boatmen in Autumn In autumn, the Tsuya River is covered with cluster amaryllis. Male and female boatmen float on the river surface, creating a picturesque scene captured in an aerial view. Tsuya River, Kaizu City, Gifu Prefecture 2026/10

This is a photo of a squirrel🐿️ as if it's at the top of Mount Fuji. It's a picture taken at the Squirrel Garden during autumn. The squirrel peeking out is quite adorable, isn't it?

Taken on October 17, 2014. It’s the first day of the Kawagoe Festival. This is the float from Saiwai-cho and Kogitsunemaru. There are still many more photos from the Kawagoe Festival.

This is part of the Osaka Castle projection mapping.

A Little Autumn Fairytale As I captured this moment, I was drawn into the warmth and magic of autumn. The golden sunlight, fallen leaves, colorful flowers, and adorable little dogs created a scene straight out of a fairytale. I wanted to preserve not just the beauty of this little picnic, but also the feeling of peace, warmth, and happiness it brought to my heart. For me, this photograph is a beautiful reminder that sometimes the simplest moments hold the most precious emotions. Location: Showa memorial park

The moon halo on the thirteenth night After work, I looked up at the night sky. A large ring of light appeared, enveloping the moon. I couldn't help but stop in awe at the fantastical moon halo created by the thin clouds. That night, my usual way home transformed into an unforgettable scene.

A landscape of autumn adorned with large trees and marigolds. As I walked through it, I reflected on the days of gradual growth of my daughter. While feeling the change of the seasons, I captured a moment of our simple family time.

A field of blooming marigolds under a clear autumn sky. I captured the image of my daughter enjoying her time among the vibrant flower beds. The beautiful colors of autumn and her little back, which can only be seen now, create a precious autumn memory for our family.

Weekend Outing Reference✨ Fall Foliage Update Captured on 10/23🍁 〈Don't forget to tap the "save mark" if you want to revisit later!〉 ①Kagami Pond (Togakushi) 【Fall Foliage Status】Peak Season *Captured on 10/23 The fiery autumn leaves are stunningly beautiful. For the best view of the Togakushi mountain range reflected in the pond, morning is recommended! 【Admission Fee】Free 【Parking】50 cars *Traffic regulations will be enforced during the fall foliage season. *For more details, please check the Togakushi Tourism Association website. ②Obo Pass (Kinasa) 【Fall Foliage Status】Beginning to Color *Captured on 10/23 From the observation deck, you can enjoy the magnificent view of Mt. Nishi and the Northern Alps. During the fall foliage season, the mountainside becomes vibrant with red colors, offering breathtaking scenery! 【Admission Fee】Free 【Parking】About 5 cars ③Okususobana Gorge 【Fall Foliage Status】Peak Season *Captured on 10/23 This beautiful gorge is counted among Japan's top 100 scenic views. Especially in October, the beech, oak, maple, and rowan trees change color to stunning reds and yellows, providing a picturesque landscape. 【Parking】None *There are no designated parking areas along the gorge. When stopping for photography, please park safely in a way that does not obstruct traffic and be cautious of oncoming vehicles. *The road along the gorge is one-way starting from Okususobana Bridge, allowing for a circular route. Additionally, a fee is required to enter the Okususobana Nature Park further in, so please be aware. ④Iizuna Highlands (Daizahoushi Pond) 【Fall Foliage Status】Beginning to Color *Captured on 10/23 Daizahoushi Pond, a landmark at the foot of Mt. Iizuna, which has long been revered as a sacred mountain for ascetic practices, beautifully reflects the autumn leaves of Mt. Iizuna on its surface, allowing visitors to enjoy the autumn breeze in the highlands. 【Admission Fee】Free 【Parking】Available *The "Nagano Tourism Net" webpage provides information on Nagano City's fall foliage! 🍁Please use it as a reference for your outing🍁 *As of 10/23, the site is under maintenance. *There is a link to "Fall Foliage Information" in the highlights. #Fall Foliage #Kagami Pond #Autumn Travel #Nagano City #Nagano Tourism

After the rain, a rainbow appeared on the road leading to the sea. The ordinary way home seemed a little bit special.

The nights have become pleasantly cool, making it a comfortable season. I went to Shinjuku late at night and took a few casual photos.

Reflected in the red umbrella is the traditional beauty of Kyoto. Standing amidst the vibrant autumn leaves is Aoi Tayū from Shimabara, Kyoto. The Shimabara Tayū carries on a tradition that has lasted since the Edo period. Her luxurious kimono, unique Japanese hairstyle, and hairpins embody the aesthetic sensibility and craftsmanship of Japan. The vivid autumn leaves and the elegant figure of the Tayū, passed down through generations, create a moment where Kyoto's autumn scenery and traditional culture intertwine. I captured this fleeting moment in a photograph. I hope that such culture and beauty will be inherited by future generations. Location: Arashiyama, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture Model: Aoi Tayū

Reflected in the red umbrella is the traditional beauty of Kyoto. Autumn in Arashiyama, Kyoto. Standing amidst the vibrant autumn leaves is Aoi Tayū from Shimabara, Kyoto. The Shimabara Tayū carries on a tradition that dates back to the Edo period. Her luxurious kimono, unique Japanese hairstyle, and hairpins embody Japan's aesthetic sense and the craftsmanship of artisans. The vivid autumn leaves and the elegant figure of the Tayū, passed down through time. I captured a moment where the autumn scenery unique to Kyoto overlaps with Japan's traditional culture. I hope that such culture and beautiful forms will be passed down to future generations. Location: Arashiyama, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture Model: Aoi Tayū from Shimabara, Kyoto.

On the morning at Kaida Highlands, the morning light began to shine on the large tree in the center, revealing its presence. I posted 10 photos on 10/16 but forgot to write comments. Although the photos are duplicated, I appreciate your understanding.

The representative mountain of Tomakomai, Mt. Tarumae. It was formed by a medium-sized eruption in 1909, resulting in the lava dome that can be seen today. This lava dome is designated as a natural monument by Hokkaido and is globally significant for academic research. As of October 18th, the volcanic alert level for Mt. Tarumae is at level 1. Climbing is possible, but access to the lava dome is restricted for safety reasons, so please enjoy the impressive aerial photos.