Water colors and Fall colors at Goshiki-numa

One of my earliest experiences of Japan's spectacular autumn leaves was during an employer-sponsored outing to Goshiki-numa in the Urabandai area of Fukushima Prefecture nearly 40 years ago. The area still holds a special place in my heart and, although my last visit, and hence my latest photos, was a few months ago, I'm writing … Continue reading Water colors and Fall colors at Goshiki-numa

Enjoy Autumn Leaves at Rikugien

This article describes two special features of north central Tokyo:  Rikugien Garden and Toyo Bunko Oriental Library.  Autumn leaves and nighttime illumination make late November an especially good time to visit Rikugien and a special Marco Polo exhibition at nearby Toyo Bunko is also a great experience.  (Archived article – Originally published by Japan Today.)

Going for gold — Tokyo’s ginkgo trees in their full glory

The ginkgo tree is the official tree of the Tokyo Metropolitan District, having been selected for that honor by popular vote in 1966.  While these trees are ubiquitous across the city--the majority of the half million trees lining Tokyo streets are ginkgo trees--they are at their most stunning during the month of December, when their … Continue reading Going for gold — Tokyo’s ginkgo trees in their full glory