[Notice of Ooyama Star Festival (Tounen-seki Memorial Service)] At Daisenji Temple, a star festival will be held to honor the nine planetary stars (tounen-seki) that govern the year’s fortunes and to pray for turning misfortune into blessing in the coming year. Date and time: Monday, December 22, 14:00– Prayer fee: from ¥1,000 (postal applications accepted) How to apply: Please inquire by phone (applications accepted until December 21) Phone: 0463-95-2011 For details, please see Daisenji Temple’s website. https://oyamadera.jp/other/%e3%80%90%e5%a4%a7%e5%b1%b1%e3%81%ae%e6%98%9f%e3%81%be%e3%81%a4%e3%82%8a%ef%bc%88%e5%bd%93%e5%b9%b4%e6%98%9f%e4%be%9b%ef%bc%89%e3%80%9112-21%ef%bd%9e12-22/...

[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.

[ISEHARA Bread Festival Wheat Fest Announcement] The popular annual event returns this year. Delicious bakeries, confectioneries, and food trucks will be on site! Come with your family and friends. Date and time: Sunday, November 30th, 2025, 10:00–15:00 Venue: Isehara City General Sports Park Admission: Free Please note that parking will be very crowded on the day. When coming, please use public transportation.

This is Yokohama Landmark Tower in Yokohama Minato Mirai. (Around JR Sakuragichō Station, Yokohama City, Kanagawa Prefecture)

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/...

Night at Kanazawa Hakkei

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

【Takamuro Shrine National Tangible Cultural Property Special Open to the public】 One week from November 1 is "Cultural Property Protection Emphasis Week". The purpose of this period is to familiarize ourselves with the cultural properties around us, to reconsider their value, and to protect and pass them on to the future. As part of this Traditional Japanese straw raincoat, a special Open to the public will be held at the National Tangible Cultural Property "Takamuro Shrine Worship Hall, Shrine and Main Shrine". Implementation of the "Palace Carpentry Experience" and "Walking around the historical sites around Takamuro Shrine" will also be held on the day of the event, making it a valuable opportunity to experience a space where culture and history are alive. 〇Date and time 2025 (Reiwa 7)Monday, November 3 10 a.m. ~ 12 p.m. / 1 p.m. ~ 3 p.m. * Canceled in case of bad weather. Details will be announced on the "Isehara Cultural Properties Site". 〇Venue Takamuro Shrine (2202 Shimosuya, Isehara City) 〇Visiting the site fee free 〇Access From Kanagawa Chuo Kotsu "Isehara Station North Exit" No. 2, Aiko-Ishida Station Outbound bus Get off at "Awakubo Entrance" bus stop 3 minutes on foot Please check the official website for the detailed schedule of the day. https://www.city.isehara.kanagawa.jp/bunkazai/docs/2025102200040/...

Morning at Biwashima Shrine (Kanazawa-ku, Yokohama City, Kanagawa Prefecture)

【Hinata Yakushi Treasure Hall Special Exhibition Held in】 This autumn, a special exhibition will be held in to open to the public the precious temple treasures of the history of Hinata Yakushi. Sponsored by the Isehara City Regional Cultural Properties Preservation and Utilization Council, a number of temple treasures that cannot usually be seen are exhibited, centering on the city-designated cultural property "Denmyosawa Fudoson Wood". Please take a look at the breath of history and the crystallization of faith and skills that have been passed down with your own eyes. ◆Event period 2025 (Reiwa 7) October 31 (Friday) ~ November 13 (Thursday) 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day (Cancelled due to stormy weather) ◆Held in Hinata Yakushi Hojobo Hohoden (Hyuga 1644, Isehara) ◆ Admission fee 300 yen (Other student fees, group fees, etc.) For more information, 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 Hinata Area Exploration Tour "A Day of Ancient Memories" Held in】 For history buffs: Starting with an official prayer at the Sannomiya Hibita Shrine in Sagami Province, this is a full-day tour of the "ancient memories" that live in the Hibita area, such as the Motomiya Shrine, Kofun Tumulus, and Jomon Ruins, with a professional guide in charge of cultural properties. 🍱 Privileges of the tour are also substantial! With a special bento box made by Megumi Kitchen using Pesticides-free vegetables and fermented seasonings, and a tasting of three cups of Sake brewed by Local Yoshikawa Brewery, you can experience the charm of Hitoshi with all five senses. There is no doubt that it will be an unforgettable day for those who love Nature, history, and Sake. Date & Time: Saturday, November 15, 2025 (Reiwa 7), 9:00-14:00 (light rain) Meeting place: Sannomiya Hibita Shrine Precincts (1472 Sannomiya, Isehara City) Participation fee: 4,000 yen (tax included, lunch box, 3 Sake Tasting glasses, insurance fee included) Capacity: 20 people (minimum 10 people), advance registration required The application deadline is October 27th. Please be careful. For details such as how to apply, please check the website of the Tourism Association. https://isehara-kanko.com/hibita_tour2025/... We look forward to your participation!

It's been a long time since yellowtail sunny. From my father's survival confirmation LINE. 2025/10/23

[Isehara Halloween 2025] It's Halloween season again this year! At "Isehara Halloween 2025" sponsored by the Isehara City Federation of Merchants' Associations, let's dress up and go out to get sweets! And various events for each shop association, and there are a lot of of gimmicks that the whole family can enjoy! Body paint (for a fee) also appeared, making the costume even more authentic! Date: Sunday, October 26, 2025 Held in for details such as the official website https://isehara-shoren.com/post-14.html...

【Isehara Daijingu Shrine Annual Grand Festival News】 The autumn tradition "Isehara Daijingu Annual Grand Festival" will be held in. The Precincts is lined with many Stalls, and there are Mikoshi parades, dance stages, and the annual mochi throwing. In addition, the Dedication of the Powerful Presence "Iwami Kagura" is also planned. Enjoy an autumn day with your family and friends at Isehara Daijingu Shrine. Date: Sunday, October 19, 2025 Venue: Isehara Daijingu Shrine (3-8-1 Isehara, Isehara City)

On Dobuita Street. (Yokosuka, Kanagawa) This is the inside of Sukajan painter Hirotomo Yokochi's souvenir shop [ichi]. I feel like I'm standing in the middle of a huge intersection where people, time, culture, and technology are interwoven. It is said that it is about to open soon. Please check out hiromichi yokochi on various social media.

【Sannomiya Hibita Shrine Antique Flea Market Held in】 Held in an Annual event antique flea market in the Precincts of Hibita Shrine. Stalls by antiques dealers and art lovers. You might find what you're looking for or a bargain! In addition, there will be free distribution of flower seedlings, exhibitions of cultural properties, and sales of vegetables. We invite you to come to the fascinating world of collections. Date & Time: Sunday, October 19, 2025 9:00~15:30 Location: Sannomiya Hibita Shrine (1472 Sannomiya, Isehara City) Inquiries: 0463-95-3237 (Sannomiya Hibita Shrine)