[Isehara and MtOoyama Specialty Products Sale at Sagami-Ono Station – Event Announcement] This weekend, on December 13 and 14, we will hold a sale of specialty products from Isehara and MtOoyama in the concourse of OdakyuLine Sagami-Ono Station. We will offer fresh local vegetables and local specialties such as Ooyama Manju from the popular MtOoyama shop Ryoben. In addition, we will introduce hometown tax return gifts and multicolor woodblock prints. Isehara City’s image character Kururin and Odakyu’s child-rearing support character Mokoron will also appear. Come and visit us for a weekend outing! Date: Saturday, December 13 and Sunday, December 14 Time: 10:30–15:00 Location: OdakyuLine Sagami-Ono Station concourse

[Notice: Isehara Yoga in MtOoyama] Join a relaxing yoga session held at Ryokan Asada at the foot of MtOoyama. This special event lets you gently release everyday fatigue with yoga, restore body and mind, and enjoy the ryokan’s signature tofu kaiseki for lunch. We hope you will join us. Date: Saturday, February 28, 2026 Time: Yoga from 10:00 (90 minutes) ※Registration from 9:30 Venue: Ryokan Asada Fee: 5,000 yen (includes meal) Capacity: 20 people (minimum 10 participants required; advance reservation needed) What to bring: comfortable clothing, a drink, and a yoga mat (rental available for 200 yen) Application deadline: Friday, February 13, 2026 For details, please see the official website. https://isehara-kanko.com/isehara-yoga/...

Notice of Trail Closures Due to Wildfire on Hinata Mountain A wildfire that started on Tuesday, December 9 has led to the closure of the hiking trails toward Hinata. We apologize for the inconvenience and ask for your understanding and cooperation. For more details, please check the city website. https://www.city.isehara.kanagawa.jp/kankou_guide/docs/2025121000010/...

[Announcement] Odakyu Family Fun Festa 2025 An event bringing memorable, fun times to children and families raising children The Odakyu Family Fun Festa returns this year! Enjoy a packed lineup for the whole family, including a railway staff job experience booth, workshops, and character stages! Date and time: Saturday, December 6 and Sunday, December 7, 10:00–16:00 Venue: Ebina Central Park (right next to ebina station) For more details, please check the official website. https://www.odakyu.jp/oyako/info/17837/...

I photographed a ginkgo tree with beautiful autumn leaves at a time when few people were around.

I took these photos against the large wall of Yokohama Stadium📸 The model is vocalist SAGI. They are active in Kanto. I have photographed promotional and jacket images, among others.

I photographed this near the man-made shoreline in Kawasaki. The sunset was beautiful…!

Isehara Autumn Foliage Report 2025.11.17 Here is today’s update on the autumn leaves in Isehara. The foliage at Afuri Shrine and Daisenji Temple has begun to change color. This weekend finally brings the illuminated autumn foliage displays. For details such as the schedule, please see the tourism association’s special site. https://isehara-kanko.com/autumn-lightup/... Although it is a weekday, many visitors have come. The autumn foliage season is expected to be very crowded with large numbers of visitors. Please take care when you visit.

Notice: Waiting-List Registration Opens for the Isehara MtOoyama Sky Lantern Event The MtOoyama Sky Lantern releases lanterns carrying written wishes into the sky from the grounds of Oyama Afuri Shrine Lower Shrine, located on the mid slopes of Mt Ooyama at about 700 meters above sea level. Due to its great popularity the event was fully booked and registration had been closed, but we have now opened a waiting list for registrations. Please take this opportunity to apply and join us. ◇ Event Dates and Times Saturday, January 17, 2026 and Saturday, January 24, 2026 ◇ Lantern Launch Scheduled for 5:30 PM ◇ Location The grounds of Oyama Afuri Shrine Lower Shrine For application details, deadlines, and other information, please see the official tourism association page. https://isehara-kanko.com/osl2025/...

Isehara Autumn Foliage Report — November 14, 2025 Here is today’s update on autumn colors in Isehara. The ginkgo row at Sports Park has turned even more vibrant. Some areas remain green, so it will take a little longer for all the trees to turn fully yellow. On Ooyama, the leaves around Afuri Shrine and Oyama Temple are gradually approaching peak color. Autumn foliage will be illuminated on Ooyama at night. For the schedule and details, please see the Tourist Association’s special site. https://isehara-kanko.com/autumn-lightup/... The foliage season is expected to be very crowded with many visitors. Please take care when you visit.

Isehara City Autumn Foliage Report Here is an update on the city’s autumn colors for today, November 12. The ginkgo-lined avenue beside Isehara City General Sports Park has started to turn a beautiful yellow. Some sections are still green, so it will take a little longer for the entire row to turn yellow. Autumn colors on Ooyama are progressing gradually, but peak viewing appears to be still ahead. Please note that there will be evening illumination of the autumn leaves on Ooyama. For details, please see the tourism association’s special site. https://isehara-kanko.com/autumn-lightup/...

Scuba Diving in Atami, Japan — A Day Full of Color and Connection 🪸 A few days ago, we went diving in Atami, Shizuoka, one of Japan’s most popular wreck diving sites just a short trip from Tokyo. The moment we descended, we were surrounded by thousands of colorful fish, swirling around the shipwreck like a living rainbow. The vibrant soft corals covering the wreck made the underwater scenery absolutely breathtaking. 🌈 It was an especially memorable day because one of our guests completed their PADI Advanced Open Water Diver course! 🎉 Congratulations on reaching this new milestone in your scuba journey. Every certification represents more confidence, more discovery, and deeper connection with the sea. We were also delighted to dive with a wonderful guest visiting from France 🇫🇷, who made the most of his stay in Japan through diving. Sharing the ocean with divers from around the world reminds us that the sea connects people beyond borders. 💙 Thank you to all our amazing guests for bringing your energy and smiles. Whether you’re trying fun diving near Tokyo, taking a PADI license course, or exploring Japan’s hidden underwater gems, we’re here to make every dive unforgettable. At Hokule’a Shonan, we offer small-group diving trips, from Atami and Izu to Okinawa — all led by certified PADI instructors. 🌺 Contact us anytime to plan your next diving adventure in Japan! 🌊 ---------------------------- 🌈 About Hokule’a Shonan Hokule’a Shonan is a PADI 5⭐️ diving center located in Hiratsuka, Kanagawa, just a short train ride from Tokyo. Our motto is “Let’s embark on a journey to the unseen world.” Through diving, we help people discover the beauty and joy of nature while exploring Japan’s rich underwater world. We offer more than 300 days of diving courses and tours every year, including Izu, Okinawa, and even overseas destinations. With small-group diving and personalized instruction, beginners can dive safely and comfortably. We also welcome custom requests — whether you want to try your first dive, take a PADI course, or join a local ocean adventure! Come and dive with us — let’s enjoy this beautiful blue world together! 🌊💙 #HokuleaShonan #DiveJapan #Atami #WreckDive #AOWDiver #PADI #ScubaDivingJapan #ExploreTheBlue #UnderwaterWorld #JapanDiving #AtamiDive

Atami – Where Adventure Meets Serenity Just 90 minutes from Tokyo, Atami in Shizuoka offers one of the most fascinating diving experiences in Japan — where adventure and serenity come together beneath the surface. Known for its wreck diving and mysterious blue cave, Atami attracts divers who seek both excitement and peace in one destination. The highlight of Atami is the wreck of Asahi No.16, one of the largest wrecks in Japan. Resting quietly on the seafloor, this massive structure is now covered in colorful soft corals and swarming with marine life. As you descend, the silhouette of the wreck slowly appears out of the blue — a breathtaking sight that makes you feel like you’re stepping into an underwater museum. Exploring this wreck is an unforgettable experience for divers who love large-scale structures full of history and mystery. Then, shift from adventure to calm in Atami’s Blue Cave. As you enter, sunlight pierces through the narrow opening, filling the space with an ethereal blue glow. The soft light, bubbles rising toward the surface, and the quiet stillness of the cave create a dreamlike world beneath the waves. It’s a moment of pure serenity — a dive that connects you deeply with the ocean. Whether you’re looking for thrilling wreck diving or a peaceful cave dive, Atami offers both just a short train ride from Tokyo. With easy access, clear water, and diverse dive sites, it’s a perfect destination for weekend divers and international visitors alike. If you’re searching for wreck diving in Japan, or want to discover the best diving spots near Tokyo, Atami is a must-visit. Dive into its hidden blue world — where every moment beneath the sea feels like a journey between adventure and serenity. 🌊💙 📍 Atami, Shizuoka, Japan About Hokule’a Shonan 🌈 Hokule’a Shonan is a PADI 5⭐️ Dive Center located in Hiratsuka, Kanagawa — just a short trip from Tokyo. Our motto is “Let’s embark on a journey to the unseen world.” Through diving, we help you discover the beauty of nature and the joy of exploring the ocean. We offer more than 300 diving tours and courses a year across Japan, from Izu to Okinawa and even overseas. With our small-group style, beginners can dive safely and comfortably while enjoying a personalized experience. Whether you’re taking your first breath underwater or joining an advanced adventure — we’re here to make every dive unforgettable. Let’s dive and enjoy the ocean together! 💙 #HokuleaShonan #DiveJapan #ExploreTheBlue #ScubaDivingJapan #UnderwaterWorld #DivingNearTokyo

[Notice: Applications Open for Isehara Ooyama Sky Lanterns] We have opened applications for the Ooyama Sky Lanterns, an event where participants release lanterns bearing their wishes into the sky from the grounds of Oyama Afuri Shrine Lower Shrine, located midway up Ooyama at about 700 meters above sea level. Against a backdrop of breathtaking night views, sky lanterns carrying heartfelt wishes will rise into Ooyama’s night sky, creating a magical scene. Come and experience this enchanting moment this winter. Event Date and Time Saturday, January 17, 2026 and Saturday, January 24, 2026 Launch Time Scheduled for 5:30 PM Location Grounds of Oyama Afuri Shrine Lower Shrine For application details, deadlines, and other information, please see the official tourism association page. https://isehara-kanko.com/osl2025/...

Photo from my father. 2025.11.01

Special Open Day for Takabeya Shrine, a nationally registered Tangible Cultural Property From November 1 for one week is Cultural Property Protection Week. During this period, people are encouraged to become familiar with the cultural properties around them, reconsider their value, and pass them on to the future. As part of this initiative, the nationally registered tangible cultural property “Takabeya Shrine: Haiden and Heiden, Main Hall” will be specially opened to the public. On the day there will also be a temple carpenter experience and a historical-site walk around Takabeya Shrine, offering a rare chance to feel the living presence of culture and history. Date and Time Monday, November 3, 2025 (national holiday) 10:00 AM–12:00 PM / 1:00 PM–3:00 PM *Event will be cancelled in severe weather. Details will be posted on the Isehara Cultural Properties site. Location Takabeya Shrine (2202 Shimokasuya, Isehara City) Admission Fee Free Access From Kanagawa Chuo Kotsu’s Isehara Station North Exit, platform 2, take the bus bound for Aikō-Ishida Station. Get off at Awakubo Iriguchi bus stop and walk 3 minutes. Please check the official site for the detailed schedule on the day. https://www.city.isehara.kanagawa.jp/bunkazai/docs/2025102200040/...

Notice of the Special Exhibition of the Treasure Hall at Hyuga Yakushi This fall, an exhibition will specially display precious temple treasures that delve into the history of Hyuga Yakushi. Organized by the Isehara City Council for Preservation and Use of Local Cultural Properties, the exhibition centers on the city-designated cultural property, the woodblock printing plate of the Den Myosawa Fudo (Den Myosawa Fudōson), and generously exhibits many temple treasures that are not usually on view. Come and see for yourself the breath of a long history and the crystallization of faith and craftsmanship that have been passed down. ◆ Exhibition Period October 31, 2025 (Friday) to November 13, 2025 (Thursday) Open daily from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM (closed in severe weather) ◆ Venue Hyuga Yakushi Hojobo Treasure Hall (1644 Hyuga, Isehara City) ◆ Admission Fee 300 yen (student rates, group rates, and other discounts available) For details, please visit the official website https://www.hinatayakushi.com/%e4%bb%a4%e5%92%8c7%e5%b9%b410%e6%9c%8831%e6%97%a5%e9%87%91-%ef%bd%9e-11%e6%9c%8813%e6%97%a5%e6%9c%a8-%e5%ae%9d%e6%ae%bf%e7%89%b9%e5%88%a5%e5%b1%95%e8%a6%a7%e4%bc%9a%e3%82%92%e9%96%8b%e5%82%ac/#news_single_body...

Autumn sky. A photo of my father's LINE confirmation of survival. 2025.10.30

It's getting cooler, isn't it? Photograph of 📸 my father's confirmation of his survival LINE 2025.10.27

Notice of the Hibita District Exploration Tour “A Day of Tracing Ancient Memories” For history lovers— This full-day tour begins with a formal visit to Sannomiya Hibita Shrine in Sagami Province and then takes you slowly through the Hibita district’s living “ancient memories,” including the former shrine site, burial mounds, and Jomon-period ruins, guided by a cultural heritage specialist. 🍱The tour comes with plenty of perks! Enjoy a special bento from Megumi Kitchen made with pesticide-free vegetables and fermented seasonings, plus a sake tasting of three cups from local Yoshikawa Brewery, letting you experience Hibita’s charms with all your senses. It promises to be an unforgettable day for nature, history, and sake enthusiasts. Date and time: Saturday, November 15, 2025, 9:00–14:00 (held in light rain) Meeting place: Sannomiya Hibita Shrine precincts (1472 Sannomiya, Isehara City) Participation fee: ¥4,000 (tax included; bento, three sake tastings, and insurance included) Capacity: 20 people (minimum 10 to run), advance reservation required The application deadline is October 27. Please take care to apply on time. For application details and more, please check the tourism association website. https://isehara-kanko.com/hibita_tour2025/... We sincerely look forward to your participation!

Today's sky in Kawasaki. Confirmation of survival from the father. 2025/10/5

To Nishi-Izu and Tago! Boat Diving Report 🌊⛵️ on a Sunny Sunday in Autumn Hello, this is 😊 Hokule'a Shonan The other day, we went boat diving to the popular area "Tago" in Nishi-Izu! ⛴️✨ Speaking of Tago, it is a diving spot with a wide variety of terrain and highly transparent waters. There is also good Access that can be reached on a day trip from Kanto, and it is 🙌 an area that is often requested in Hokule'a Shonan The first one this time is the point of the open sea, "Floating Shimane off the coast". This is one of the longest places for divers, and when you dive, you will see a spectacular fish shadow 🐟🐟🐟 in front of you! Snapdragons and squirrels flocked and danced 🎆 like fireworks in the sea The sight that covers one aspect of the scene will take your guests breath away ✨ And the second is to the mysterious cave point 🕳️🤿 that represents Tago. As you walk through the Gari, the light shining in from the end of the water channel shines in fantastically, as if you have jumped 🎬💫 into a scene from a movie The scenery of light and shadow touches my heart no matter how many times I visit. That's the real thrill of "cave diving"! On this day, the guests who participated in the yellowtail for the first time in a long time were with us, and the calm way of diving without feeling blank was really wonderful 😀👏 And next time, it's finally the 150th dive 🎉✨ that will be memorable for the guest! Spending time thinking about "where to dive" together is also an important pleasure 💕 of diving life There is a to 🙏🌺 everyone who participated On a pleasant sunny autumn Sunday ☀️🍂, surrounded by the best sea and smiles, we were able to share a happy time. Hokule'a Shonan Held in 🚤🏝️ tours not only in the vicinity of Kanagawa but also in various areas such as Nishi-Izu, Higashi-Izu, and Izu Oshima Island If you would like to try boat diving or cave diving, or if you would like to welcome a commemorative dive in a special place, please feel free to contact us 🤗✨ We look forward to working with you on your precious moments with peace of mind and reliable support! 💙 We also support English. Overseas guests are also welcome ✈️ #Hokule'a Shonan #HokuleaShonan #ScubaDivingJapan #WestIzuDiving #TagoDive #BoatDivingAdventure #CaveDivingExperience #HokuleaShonan #DiveWithUs #ExploreTheBlue #UnderwaterWorld #DiveJapan

Isehara Flower Report 2025.09.29 Here is today’s update on the spider lilies in Hyuga. In the Araimizu area they continue to bloom beautifully, as they did last week. If you are driving, please use the temporary parking lot at the Human Resources Development Center. The grounds of Hinata Yakushi appear to have just passed their peak viewing period. Along the walking path behind the Hinata Yakushi bus stop, the flowers have also started to fade slightly. This walking path’s gate is open from 7:00 to 17:00.

Isehara Flower Report 2025.09.26 Here is today’s update on the cluster amaryllis in Hyuga. They are blooming beautifully in the Aramizu area. If you are coming by car, please use the temporary parking lot at the Human Resources Development Center. White cluster amaryllis can be seen on the grounds of Hinata Yakushi. The walking path behind Hinata Yakushi bus stop is open from 7:00 to 17:00. Also, a temporary tourist information desk will open on Saturday the 27th and Sunday the 28th (9:30–15:00). Please make use of it. Weekends are expected to be crowded, so allow plenty of time to visit. For access and future updates, please check the tourism association’s website. https://isehara-kanko.com/news/flower/10997/...

[Odakyu Manatabi] Introducing “Exploring Ōyama Pilgrimage Through Rakugo” A tour of the Ōyama pilgrimage organized by Odakyu Electric Railway Co., Ltd. will be held. There are two plans, so please consider joining. For details, check the link. Plan 1 [Odakyu Manatabi] “Exploring Ōyama Pilgrimage Through Rakugo” – A storytelling event with an Ōyama tofu kaiseki and local sake tasting – https://dps.odakyu-travel.co.jp/tour/tourDetail?lang=ja&arrAreaCode=A002&depAreaCode=00&paxPerRoom=0&sort=lowPrice&page=1&tourId=SP25P110203&_bdsid=2GpyOG.psfLRZu.1758085278992.1758086266&_bd_prev_page=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.odakyu-travel.co.jp%2Fspecial%2Fmanatabi%2Findex.html&_bdrpf=1... Plan 2 [Odakyu Manatabi] “Exploring Ōyama Pilgrimage Through Rakugo” with a formal worship at Afuri Shrine※No meal or talk show included https://dps.odakyu-travel.co.jp/tour/tourDetail?lang=ja&arrAreaCode=A002&depAreaCode=00&paxPerRoom=0&sort=lowPrice&page=1&tourId=SP25P110204&_bdsid=2GpyOG.psfLRZu.1758085278992.1758086309&_bd_prev_page=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.odakyu-travel.co.jp%2Fspecial%2Fmanatabi%2Findex.html&_bdrpf=1...

[Isehara Flower Update] September 22, 2025 Here is today’s report on the spider lilies in Hyuga. They have begun blooming in the Araimizu district as well. When exploring this area, please use the parking lot at the Human Resources Development Center. Many white spider lilies are blooming within the precincts of Hinata Yakushi. The walking path behind the Hinata Yakushi bus stop is especially full of spider lilies and bustling with visitors. For access and future updates, check the Tourism Association website. https://isehara-kanko.com/news/flower/10979/...

Notice on the temporary closure of public toilets on Mt. Oyama and fallen trees on the hiking trails The summit toilet on Mt. Oyama is currently out of service due to damage to the water supply facility. Isehara City official site - Temporary closure of the Mt. Oyama summit public toilet https://www.city.isehara.kanagawa.jp/.../docs/2025092200099/... In addition, a fallen tree has occurred on the Mt. Oyama hiking trail near Honzaka 17-chome. Please exercise caution when passing through. Isehara City official site - Fallen tree on the Mt. Oyama hiking trail https://www.city.isehara.kanagawa.jp/.../docs/2025092200105/... For details, please check the city’s official website. We apologize for the inconvenience and appreciate your understanding and cooperation.

Isehara Flower Update 2025.09.19 Here is today's report on the cluster amaryllis in Hyuga. In the grounds of Hinata Yakushi, many large buds have formed and they look ready to bloom soon. Around Aramizu, the flowers have also started to open, slightly later than elsewhere. Many cluster amaryllis are still growing in various spots, so please watch your step while viewing them. Weekends are expected to be crowded, so allow plenty of time when you visit. For access and future updates, please check the Tourism Association website. https://isehara-kanko.com/news/flower/10971/...

Isehara Flower Report 2025.09.18 Here is today’s update on the cluster amaryllis in Hyuga. Behind the Hinata Yakushi bus stop, blooms are opening one after another, creating a beautiful display. Meanwhile, on the grounds of Hinata Yakushi and in the Aramizu area, it may take a little longer for flowers to open. Weekends are expected to be crowded, so please allow extra time when you visit. For access and future updates, check the tourism association’s website. https://isehara-kanko.com/news/flower/10956/...

[Isehara Flower Update] 2025.09.16 Every year from mid to late September, the cluster amaryllis in the Hyuga area reach their peak bloom. As of today, they have begun to bloom in the colony behind the Hinata Yakushi bus stop. Please note that the amaryllis colony is on private property. Observe the rules when viewing. For access and future updates, check the Tourism Association website. https://isehara-kanko.com/news/flower/10942/...