This photo was taken on May 23, 2023 (the 26th year of the Heisei era). This is a traditional flower water basin (hanamizuki) at Kawagoe Hachimangu Shrine.

Hirasawa, Shizuoka Prefecture. This is a quiet sea in Japan that can be visited as a day trip from Tokyo. From late spring to early summer, a special scenery appears in this sea. A forest of seaweed extending to the water's surface. A gently swaying green world. Soft light filtering through. It feels as if a forest is spreading underwater. As you quietly swim between the seaweeds, small blue fish appear. In the shadows of the rocks, small lives grow in the spring sea. These seaweed areas are called "moba" in Japan. They are important places where many fish and marine creatures live. From spring to early summer, it is also the spawning season for the bigfin reef squid. The changing scenery of the sea with each season is one of the charms of Japan's waters. The sea of Hirasawa is a bit different from the tropical seas of Okinawa. It lacks flamboyance. However, it possesses a quiet beauty. Light filtering through the seaweed. A time when only the sound of waves can be heard. The slowly flowing underwater scenery. You can feel the gentle air typical of Japan's nature. At Hokule'a Shonan, we offer guidance centered around the sea of Kanagawa and Izu, which can be enjoyed as a day trip from the Tokyo area. With a small group, even beginners can feel at ease. English support is also available. Experience the time of Japan's sea that cannot be encountered just by visiting tourist spots. It is recommended for those looking for "an experience in Japan that is more than just diving." Related Keywords: Hirasawa Diving / Nishi-Izu Diving / Izu Diving / Diving Near Tokyo / Japan Diving / Dive Near Tokyo / Japan Diving / Hidden Japan / Japanese Ocean Experience / Tokyo Day Trip

Hello, this is Crystal Sound! ✨ Shosenkyo Gorge is beautifully lush and welcoming a refreshing season. 🌿 Recognized as a Japan Heritage site, Shosenkyo Gorge is a popular tourist destination known as a power spot. ⛰️ Surrounded by magnificent valleys and rich nature, just walking through it brings peace to the heart. 🍃 The area features shops selling natural stones and various dining options, making it a great place to explore. Be sure to try Yamanashi's specialty "Hōtō" as well! 🍲 Why not spend some relaxing time in Shosenkyo Gorge, known for its negative ions, to rejuvenate from your daily fatigue? ✨ May's birthstone is the "emerald." 💎 This natural stone is captivating with its deep and beautiful green color. Its meanings are: 🍀 "Luck" 😊 "Happiness" ❤️ "Love" 🌟 "Hope" 🌿 "Healing" In the store, you can explore emeralds and natural stones from around the world. ✨ Perhaps you will encounter the perfect natural stone for you right now. 💍 We invite you to visit Shosenkyo Gorge! 🚗✨ All of our staff are looking forward to welcoming you. 😊

Taken on May 23, 2014 (Heisei 26). This is a flower water offering at Kawagoe Hachimangu Shrine.

The large-flowered trillium at Fureai Forest, a nature park in Bansei, is in full bloom! You can see the large-flowered trillium blooming in the Fureai Forest along the way to Horokayanto from Bansei Onsen. Be sure to visit this natural flower field to experience the beauty of spring! For tourist information about Taiki Town, click here! https://visit-taiki.hokkaido.jp//

Photographed on May 25, 2023. This is a traditional Japanese ritual called 'Hanamizuki' at Kawagoe Hachimangu Shrine.

A short train ride from Tokyo leads you to a peaceful seaside experience. This time, I visited Zushi in Kanagawa Prefecture. It's a popular beach for day trips near Tokyo. The previous day was closed due to strong winds. Excited to see how the sea has changed, I headed to Zushi in the morning. Upon entry, a clear blue underwater world awaited. Countless damselfish. Sardines and mackerel swimming while reflecting the light. Schools of fish filled the water. The scenery was unlike anything you'd expect near Tokyo. But the charm of Zushi's sea doesn't stop there. Looking down a bit reveals a small world beginning. A goby hiding in the rocks. Colorful sea slugs. As I searched slowly, new discoveries came one after another. What impressed me most was the moment I saw a Sagami ryugu sea slug riding on a scorpion fish. Just a few seconds of a small event. Yet, such serendipitous scenes remain as memories of the sea. Time spent observing the schools of fish. Time spent looking for small creatures. In the same sea, you can enjoy completely different experiences. That's the allure of Zushi's sea. After diving, I had lunch at a local diner. The calm air after returning from the sea is one of the joys of traveling in Japan. A glimpse of another side of Japan that you won't encounter just by sightseeing in Tokyo. A tranquil world by the sea, right near the city. Hokule'a Shonan offers small-group diving tours near Tokyo. Beginners and solo participants are welcome. Why not experience a "day by the sea" during your trip to Japan? 【Related Keywords】 Tokyo Diving / Diving Near Tokyo / Kanagawa Diving / Zushi Diving / Dive Near Tokyo / Japan Diving / Hidden Japan / Japanese Ocean Experience / Tokyo Day Trip

Today, I am exploring Tokyo. It's an oat milk latte and a banana chocolate donut. 🍌

A blue paradise spreads just beside the residential area of Kitamoto City, Saitama Prefecture. What lies ahead, pointed out by a finger, is a small yet unknown thrill. This city offers a unique scenery that can be encountered in everyday life.

Taken on May 25, 2024. I found hydrangeas (🤍) at Kawagoe Hachimangu Shrine.

View of the Kanmon Strait from Chofu This is near the end of Sangenyakaigan in Chofu In the distance, you can see Kojozan (Moji Castle) and the Kanmon Bridge Since I haven't visited recently, the rocky shore in the foreground may have been beautified further Although it may not be a picturesque landscape, it's a place I personally like, and I thought this was a "great shot" I submitted this photo to the 15th KenCon Photo Grand Prize organized by JCCA (Japan Civil Engineering Consultants Association) and was selected for a special award.

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.

Taken on May 25, 26. This is an oat milk latte and Earl Grey basque cheesecake.

Taken on May 25, 2014. After visiting Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine, I stopped by. This is an oat milk latte. The latte art is lovely. It made me feel relaxed.

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.'

Taken on May 25, 2014. These are the remnants of cherry blossoms at Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine. Since I take photos at the same time, they tend to look quite similar.

【Night Cherry Blossom Illumination and Tea Ceremony】 Despite being covered in snow and exposed to strong winds, the cherry blossoms remained intact. For two days following the holiday at the beginning of May, a night cherry blossom illumination and tea ceremony were held. This location, situated behind Korakuen Garden, is a perfect spot for viewing the Ezo cherry trees. As the sky darkened, the scattered lights gradually intensified in brightness. Visitors gazed in admiration at the sparkling cherry trees, branches, and petals. While enjoying the illuminated night cherry blossoms, we savored sweets and tea, making for a delightful evening.🌙 Illumination Support: Nishiokoppe Gakkai #Tea Ceremony

Today, I visited Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine. This is the windmill next to the Main Shrine. In the background, you can see the Main Shrine, designated as a National Important Cultural Property.

In early summer, Across Mountain in Tenjin, Fukuoka Photo taken on June 21, 2024 In the heart of Fukuoka City, the capital of Kyushu Island in Japan, there lies a mysterious mountain commonly known as "Across Mountain" Its "mountain face" The true identity of this green-clad mountain is the complex facility "ACROS Fukuoka," which features a large hall The southern slope is a quiet green space known as the "Step Garden" When the building was constructed, it was possible to enjoy a garden filled with greenery all the way to the rooftop, but upon my recent visit, it has now transformed into a splendid forest-covered low mountain This photograph is part of an initiative to showcase landscapes that have received the Urban Landscape Award from Fukuoka City, specifically selected for the "10th Landscape Award Photo Contest" During the award ceremony, I was humbled to receive generous remarks from the representative judge in the hall of the city museum, saying, "The composition is perfect."

Taken on May 1, 26. This is the lemon and poppy seed shortcake and café latte from cafe andon. The latte art is lovely too.😊☕️🍋

The hydrangeas at Shimoda Park are starting to bloom (^○^) While many flowers are still green, they are expected to change color all at once with the rain forecast at the end of the month ☔✨ From June 1st, we will hold the 55th Shimoda Onsen Ajisai Matsuri for a month! The best viewing time is expected to be around mid-month. Please come and visit Japan's largest hydrangea garden! ✨

Taken on May 1, 26. This is the lemon and poppy seed shortcake from CAFE ANDON. This is also a cake I look forward to every year.😊🍋

Taken on May 1, 2026. This is the Bolognese rigatoni from cafe andon.

Mojiko First Ship Dock The sun tilting over the strait and Shinsui Hiroba Photo taken on: May 16, 2026 Equipment: SONY α7II + Sigma 20–200mm Sunlight filtering through the Blue Wing in the Mojiko Retro Area The time when Shinsui Hiroba at the First Ship Dock is dyed in the sunset Mojiko, more people are coming to capture the sunset At the end of the last century, just when the retro project was starting, I used to wonder, "Why doesn’t everyone take pictures of the sunset here?"

Photographed on May 22, 2026. This is the flower arrangement at Hara Florist.

【Nishiokoppe Campground OPEN】 Thank you for your patience!🙌 The campground located in Nishiokoppe Forest Park will open on Saturday, May 23rd!🎉 Usage fee: 500 yen per tent per night Reception hours: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM *Reception will be available the following day after 4:30 PM Please check in at the administration building located before the batting center. The administration building also sells garbage bags. For more details, please visit our website. https://www.vill.nishiokoppe.lg.jp/feeuub0000001a7a.html... We look forward to your visit! #Campground #Open #Free site

Taken on May 17, 26. I visited Enko on the second floor of the building next to Kawagoe Hachimangu Shrine. It was a set meal with enzyme brown rice, sweet potato curry, kombucha, soup, and salad. It was a healthy lunch. I will visit again.

From the beginning to the end of the day. A place where everything becomes a special view. Feel the breath of nature and spend a relaxing time in a room overlooking the lake. Enjoy the breathtaking scenery of Lake Kussharo that stretches endlessly. Experience "the luxury of nature" at Kussharo Prince Hotel. You can make a reservation from the profile URL. 📍Kussharo Prince Hotel https://www.instagram.com/kussharo_ph/...