#snowy fuji

[cottonlemonade]

Stargazing

word count: 972 || avg. reading time: 4 mins.

pairing: Sakusa x chubby!Reader

genre: fluff

warnings: none

request: watching Goosebumps with caramel popcorn while dressed as a shark with Sakusa || fluffy, camping with crush Sakusa

As summer drew to a close the newly graduated third years of the Itachiyama volleyball club, along with a select few classmate friends, decided to go spend a weekend outdoors - away from the city and the constant noise, away from the impending pressure of university, soaking up those last few pockets of warmth before fall took over and their days would undoubtedly be ruled by studying once more. However, after Sakusa‘s ice-cold glare at the word “camping”, it quickly turned to glamping.

The sun started to set when the shuttle rolled smoothly along the narrow road up to a small grouping of dome-shaped tents nestled neatly in a wide clearing on an otherwise densely vegetated hillside. Fall had already begun to dot the trees with golds and vermillion and although the weather was cooling down by the day, many visitors strolled across the lawn, playing badminton or throwing a frisbee accompanied by a lot of loud hollering and laughter, much to Sakusa’s dismay. One by one you hopped off the bus and looked around, taking deep breaths of the fresh mountain air. Mount Fuji, the bottom of which was surrounded by a cloud of gray mist, was clearly visible in the distance and its snowy top seemed to glow in the remaining sunlight.

Sleeping arrangements were somewhat quickly decided with only minor squabbling and the group headed to the nearby town center to grab fresh supplies for this night‘s BBQ.

While Komori was busy orchestrating the grilling, Sakusa beelined to the still empty showers to escape the incessant chatter of the group for a while. He let out a long sigh as the hot water ran down his back, massaging his shoulder. It still felt stiff after the last match. He replayed the game in his mind, every block, every spike, every failed attack. He cringed when he remembered how he messed up a serve because he heard you calling his name in encouragement through the crowd‘s cheers. Leaning his head back, he closed his eyes for a moment, your voice still in his ears. You had stood with the reserves on the side of the court, the team jacket tied around your pudgy tummy, scribbling notes on your clipboard without looking at the paper so you didn’t miss anything. As the picture of your smile during the inevitable victory hug that followed became more vivid, he shut the water off.

When he rejoined the others, hair as curly as ever from the steam, they were already plating up.

“Hey captain, glad you could make it.”, Komori greeted him jokingly, “To be honest, we thought you might have called a taxi back to Tokyo.”

The group chuckled and his cousin nodded to the free seat next to you.

After dinner, it was voted that everyone would toss around a glow-in-the-dark volleyball that one of them bought just for the occasion. Sakusa didn’t feel the need to join and when he spotted you sitting outside your tent wrapped in a blanket he decided to push his bedtime back a little.

“Not in the mood?”, he asked, standing a bit awkwardly with his hands in his pockets in front of the wooden deck the tent was on.

“More so that I can trip on a well-lit court just fine. Invisible divots in the meadow would only make it worse.”

He nodded.

“Good point.”

“Hey!”, you laughed.

“Mind if I join you?”

“Uhm, no go ahead.”, you scooched over on the picnic blanket you had laid out and he sat down next to you.

“How come you’re here and not playing over there?”

“Not interested.”, Sakusa said simply, “But I don’t need Komori accusing me of being antisocial, so…”

“Ah, hiding in plain sight with the other introvert. I see I see.”

He smiled.

“So, what were you doing before I interrupted?”

“Just stargazing.”

He leaned back on his hands and followed your eyes. The night was strewn with stars, hanging like a thousand little lanterns on the inky sky. The crescent moon barely lit the campgrounds. Sakusa shivered when a breeze brushed past.

“Here.”, you said and tugged at the blanket around your shoulders, throwing part of it over his back. He had half a mind to shrug it off but it carried your warmth and scent, so instead, after a second thought, he pulled it closer.

“Look, there is Cygnus.”, he pointed to a cluster of stars somewhere to your right to distract you from possibly noticing the blush that crept onto his cheeks.

“Really?”

“No idea.”

You squinted at him and he chuckled.

For a while you were both quiet, just letting your eyes wander along the stars. The sounds of the fellow campers were more subdued now. People were talking over bonfires, toasting to the end of summer and someone was playing relatively pleasant music in the distance. The smell of roasted marshmallows wafted in your direction. Sakusa looked down and noticed that your hand was only inches away from his. If he moved his fingers a little further…

“I’m gonna miss being your manager.”, you sighed without taking your eyes off the sky.

“We’re going to the same university, aren’t we?”, he asked, still focused on slowly bringing his hand closer to yours.

“Oh, yeah but I meant, all of you guys. Not just you. Even though I’m gonna miss managing you more than - wait, not that I - uhm, I meant that-“

Your head snapped to the blanket where his large hand now covered your chubby fingers.

“I got it, don’t worry.”, he said, his voice sounding a lot raspier than he would have liked and so he attempted to covertly clear his throat.

Not even the night could hide his blush as he tried to look unbothered when you turned your hand up to lace your fingers with his.

art: @DcGhost_2710 on Twitter

a/n: request for @act-nat-ural

Thank you so much for this soft request! I hope you enjoyed it and thank you for your kind words! 🌟🫶🏻

for requests see here

[wofsidequesters]

!!! Introduction !!!

Hello! Welcome, all, to the official ask blog for my WoF OCs!

Everyone seems to really like their lore and general storyline, so I figured I should make an ask blog!

I'll introduce myself first- I'm @yellow-computer-mouse, and I go by Yellow, Snowfall (Snowy with friends), Winter, Aeolus, or Oscar! :3 I mark my rambles with 📻, the same as my other ask blogs!

Now, to introduce the stars of the show... (sorry that their ref sheets are inconsistent, I'll get them all together someday!)

Wishcloud!

She/Her

Aroflux Bisexual

SkyWing/NightWing

💙

The true main character, Wishcloud lived a fairly calm life in a small cottage just beneath SkyWing territory with her father, Sharpeye, her mother, Sparrow, and her sister, Chickadee. Wishcloud was happy to stay right where she was, but Chickadee always wanted to explore. She would go out on journalism trips to interview passing dragons, hoping to learn all she could about the continent.

However, one day, Chickadee did not return. Days, weeks, months passed, and still, no sign of Wishcloud's beloved sister. Wishcloud assumed she ran away, and eventually, she too left the nest. She took up residence in the NightWing village, where she met her friend Saffron. Eventually, Wishcloud discovers her sister's true end: she was murdered in cold blood. Wishcloud has since made it her mission to track down her sister's killer, no matter what it takes.

Saffron!

She/Her

Bisexual

SandWing/RainWing

🌼

Saffron grew up in the rainforest, raised with all the other RainWings. They all thought it was a little odd she was clearly half SandWing, but Saffron didn't care! She was fine! Never mind the odd looks they gave her, or her lack of venom, or the whispers of some Chameleon. She had never heard of this guy! She was just like any normal RainWing!

Until she wasn't. The rainforest turned on her, and she went to go live in a small town on the edge of SkyWing and SandWing territory. She met an old veteran by the name of Jackal, and he mentioned his mother having an affair with a RainWing at one point, ten years after he was born. The pieces fell into place, and Saffron decided to stay with Jackal and his husband, Pine, for a while until she heard there was a new queen of the rainforest. She tentatively headed back, where Queen Glory accepted her with open wings. She met Wishcloud, and the rest was history (see Wishcloud's character summary).

Igneous and Sandshrike!

He/Him

Aromantic asexual

NightWing/SkyWing

🌋

He/Him

Gay

SandWing/SkyWing

🐦

Igneous was abandoned at hatching, much like his best friend, Sandshrike (or Shrike, for short). The two were practically joined at the hip, and they certainly gave Jackal and Pine some trouble as hatchlings. They always wanted to be some legendary heroes someday (well, Shrike did), and this chick Saffron was offering just that! Of course they'd accept!

Fuji!

He/Him

Bisexual

SkyWing

🌸

Fuji never wanted to be much like other SkyWings, which was fine, because they never wanted to be much like him, either. He got odd looks for his light scales, and rumors questioning his bloodline got him booted from the kingdom. He set up a small cafe known as The Nettle Nest in a quaint little area between the Diamond Spray Delta, the Bay of a Thousand Scales, and the rainforest. He had two common patrons, sisters, Tragedy and Disaster. They were welcome to stop by, and the two often helped him and his husband, Agrias, out with his business. It was hardly a living...

...Until it was. All of a sudden, he had 7 dragons (counting the Sea/Night sisters) coming in every day to discuss murder. Oh well. All press is good press, he supposed, and they tipped well enough.

Tragedy and Disaster! (base by @sombrathedragon)

She/They

Bisexual

SeaWing/NightWing

🌊

She/Her

Straight

SeaWing/NightWing

✨

Tragedy and her sister, Disaster, were aptly named according to their parents. At least, that's what they assumed. Their parents weren't around, abandoning them on the shore as eggs. They were raised by a small troop of MudWings, getting snippets of what a dragon should be. They wandered, taking refuge at a small cafe, The Nettle Nest. The owner agreed to let them stay with him as long as they helped out with work. They agreed, moving in with him.

Disaster came to her sister one day confessing an odd dream. A vision, she called it, describing how certain she was of who their father is: a SeaWing prince. It made sense, she argued, seeing as there were 32 of them. Tragedy was much more doubtful. Surely they would know if they had royal blood. Besides, she had more important things to think about, like the true crime case brought to her by two overeager hybrids. It was a good distraction.

Harbinger!

He/They/It

Pansexual

NightWing

📜

The NightWing twins, the first of many to regain their tribe's powers, were cursed under a blood moon to only see devastation. Armageddon and Harbinger, as they were titled, grew up thick as thieves. Harbinger only wanted to blend in, Armageddon only wanted to prove his worth, but the red stars on their foreheads served as omens to their powers. The two were plagued by nightmares, horrible visions of fire and twisters and a dragon the color of rust with striking gold eyes.

Harbinger assumed it was only the worst possible futures, writing it off as nothing. Armageddon wanted to take action. He took a dagger, snuck off into the night, and returned with blood on his talons. Upon his return, the two were attacked by a mob of fearful NightWings, afraid of what the twins may do next. Harbinger was banished from his tribe, taking up residence in the rainforest, while Armageddon fled, his whereabouts never certain.

!!! Rules !!!

Here are just some basic rules and boundaries for the blog, so you can enjoy your stay here to the fullest!

No NSFW. I am a minor.

No serious roleplays. I'm okay with you introducing your OCs, but I have a storyline, and I don't want to work your character in. Same with canon characters- they all have a place.

I reserve the right to leave an ask unanswered. If it makes me uncomfortable, I don't have to answer it. That being said, don't assume I'm ignoring you! I will be posting art with every ask, so these will take a while! I'll post mostly on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.

Feel free to be a recurring anon! I love that type of thing :) Also, please send deep, lore-filled asks if you want! It's what keeps ask blogs running!

~ 📻

[daily-hyosatsu]

Since I am sitting pretty under nearly a foot of snow (New England, baby!!!), here’s an adorable print by Yoshitomo Nara: White Fujiyama Ski Gelände, “In the Floating World.” The horizontal text on the top and the vertical text on the left both read 白富士スキー Shira-Fuji Ski(ing).

白富士 Shira-Fuji is one of the many faces of Mt. Fuji. It means, as far as I understand, a Fuji that is snowy and white.

白 means white, and it's read しろ, しろ.い, しら-, ハク, or ビャク. In some typefaces/styles, it’s very easily confused with 臼 mortar, so watch out.

富 means wealth, rich, or abundant. It’s read と.む, とみ, フ, or フウ.

士 means gentleman, scholar, or samurai (though that last one is usually written 侍). It's read さむらい or シ. Be careful not to confuse it with 土 earth, which is long on the bottom and short on top (because you need to be able to stand in the earth; meanwhile, a gentleman has a small bottom).

[wifetomegatron]

countries and cities i've been to that i think the lost light crew will enjoy (vol. i)

i think ratchet would like switzerland. snowy alps, open green fields where purple and yellow poppies littered across the grass dance with the northern wind. he enjoys the secluded valleys and will spend hours just driving past the topaz lakes. he likes the quiet of it all, the serenity, the closure. he makes drift join him in their holoforms to walk, taking in the traditional log houses and brightly-colored buildings, shops, and restaurants surrounded by lush woodlands, upland meadows, and snow-capped cliffs. grindelwald because drift is fascinated by humans and their winter sports, ascona for when it gets warmer and the boats are out by the docks. in a first contact au, ratchet would most likely end up working in either zurich or geneva, working closely with earth's international bodies like the united nations to facilitate human-cybertronian relations. i can also see the medic crew stationed there as well; running the first cybertronian medical facility on earth.

drift, predictably, would prefer japan more. osaka and tokyo for its entertainment, where he and rodimus would spend hours exploring the nightlife in their disguises. at times, they would even go as their alt-modes. rodimus gets ahead of himself with all the attention he's getting. he'd travel through many prefectures, driving past the borders to clear his head — perks of having a conjunx that works closely with human organizations is that he gets exempted from all the paperwork — but always end up somewhere private, tranquil. the shrines, the forests, the mountains — he would even be bold enough to dream of settling down there. one time ratchet flew in to visit him at a resort by the foot of mount fuji, and his husband was neck-deep inside the natural saunas. content and purring, sinking into recharge against the stones.

i have a feeling brainstorm and skids would stir up trouble somewhere in the netherlands. most likely in the infamous lecture halls of leiden university, where great minds like descartes and rembrandt once walked in. they'd hate the weather, where the sun becomes optional the moment it hits autumn (even before, apparently.) the roads are small, so they'd have difficulty navigating at first, nearly driving into a canal because of how fast people bike. direct, with just the right amount of witty, the pair are glad to enjoy the company of dutchies without having to rely on their (human) food because nothing that they've seen looks appealing or digestible. getaway is also there, most likely in amsterdam, where his holoform is most likely to get cornered in an alley and have his bike stolen.

nautica would love the sea, the vast, great open oceans of southeast asia would be the perfect place for her. ever the adventurer, she would drag riptide and velocity with her to explore the islands of the philippines & indonesia. where she'd learn how to dive and swim with the animals past the coral reefs. sweet girl nearly cried when she saw a group of whale sharks. anode and lug are content sitting by the beach, sipping on their latest invention — coconut-infused energon. bali is where i imagine the girls ( and riptide ) would go for a nice getaway. the people are all smiles, warm and friendly, and passionate about their culture. even if the two are more inclined towards the sciences, the flourishing art and spirituality of the balinese people made them feel at home again. ( if not nostalgic for caminus.)

i know rodimus is living his life in spain. maybe it won't be his designated home on earth. but with the lost light stationed in geneva, where ratchet, minimus, and megatron are with the rest of the united nations council ( because there is no way they can park the ship anywhere in the new york branch ), barcelona was his first solo trip on earth without straying too far from his co-captain's watchful eye. it was the peak of summer and there he was under the sun. the people were only initially surprised, but then again, they'd probably seen weirder things than a sixty-foot-tall robot asking them if he could join their game of volley by the beach. he bumps into krok and his rag-tag team — who's also trying to get away from minimus — so that's how he and misfire end up nearly drowning after a competitive game of water tag.

[mail-me-a-snail]

oc interview: ✨✨vance✨✨

thank you to @swearingcactus AND @glitchinginthegarden AND!! @v-eats-bugs for tagging me !! finally got to sit down and answer this :3

let's hit it !

🧡 Name?

"Just call me V."

his first chosen name was penn, but he started going by vance after his medical transition. he doesn't give it out freely bc that was the name arasaka knew him by; he doesn't mention his surname, either, bc it's a pretty prominent one with much of its members still working for the megacorp in question.

🧡 Nickname?

"...Well, last I checked, 's still V."

apart from "mano" from jackie, vance doesn't have much in terms of nicknames. his old netrunning handle was N3tH0und (net hound); it's a retired username that's been largely scrubbed from the net, but sometimes he signs his major hacks with it just to fuck with people. it's a ghost's name, and it's fun to haunt the net only when he knows for certain that it can't be traced back to him.

🧡 Gender?

"Guy! Never been asked that outright before."

🧡 Star sign?

"'s not my scene--can't say I know much about it--but Misty's got me down as a Cancer, whatever that means. Says that's probably why I'm, er, so 'intuitive', as she called it. You ask me, that's just the merc work--bein' able to read a room, that is."

i first drew vance on july 7, 2023, so i consider that his birthday. like vance, i have no idea how being a cancer applies to him, but google says cancers are loyal, domestically inclined, and committed to their loved ones, so that sounds about right!

🧡 Height?

"Six flat. Johnny's pretty sure I'm taller than 'im...but he's slouchin' all the time, so don't think he's got a say in it."

🧡 Orientation?

"Usually go for other guys. But I guess the definition of that is pretty loose these days, 'specially in NC, huh. The hell does it matter to me if you've got certain...parts. If you're a guy, you're a guy, and if you're down, I'm down, y'know?"

vance is a gay man with a preference for masculine-identifying individuals. like he said, if you identify as a "guy" in any form, then that's good enough for him. he's not one to talk about having "appropriate" parts, and he thinks it's dumb that they're gendered in the first place. he's not usually looking for anything serious and he's more than okay with just being an input and having one as well.

🧡 Nationality/ethnicity?

"Nay's Indian. Tay's Filipino. Ya ask anyone, I look more like my mom."

nanay and tatay are the filipino words for mother and father, respectively. vance has a very limited grasp of either language but he at least knows that much from his dad's mother tongue.

🧡 Favorite fruit?

"Oh, man, 's been a while--this one time when I was growin' up, think I was ten or eleven, 'Saka sent Dad a basket of 'ganic fruit. For his 50 years o' service, I think it was. Anyway, had my first apple then. What I wouldn't fuckin' give for one right now."

he likes fuji apples the best :3

🧡 Favorite season?

"Gotta be winter. I got to go a lot of places back in '65--Europe, mostly--an' most of them were snowy. Loved seein' my breath fog up. You don't get that here. You get hot rains and the pavement steamin'--guess it's pretty, in its way, with all the city's neon shinin' through the rain.

"But it ain't a real winter without snow."

🧡 Favorite flower?

"If ya hike it out to the Badlands in the summer, you'll find these little white flowers blooming on the cacti; Net says they're called Saguaro blooms. I like their...tenacity, I 'spose."

"But if I had to give ya a traditional answer...blue hydrangeas. Maya--she used to grow 'em in her apartment, still don't know how she did it--she gave me some blooms for my birthday back in '70. A welcome home kinda thing. Don't got her green thumb, so they died a week later...but they were real pretty. Somethin' to look forward to comin' home to."

🧡 Coffee, tea, or hot chocolate?

"Coffee--can't say it works for me, though."

he likes all three and refuses to drink his coffee black. he will put so much milk and creamer in that cup that it might as well be a dessert. johnny is disgusted (affectionate).

🧡 Average hours of sleep?

"...Hours, plural?"

vance is a champ at power naps and between the relic and an insomnia left over from his arasaka days, he doesn't get to bed much. if you do somehow get him into bed by morning, however, be prepared to not see him until near-evening the next day.

🧡 Dog or cat person?

note: those 10,000 photos are just the ones he has on his phone; do not look at the cloud where his kiroshi photos are stored.

🧡 Dream trip?

"...Was actually, erm, thinkin' of--well, when we get all this shit sorted out--I was thinkin'...might bring Johnny somewhere colder. Somewhere with snow. Said he hasn't seen snow before, so, I-unno, thought he might like it out there."

please take this time to imagine johnny in his android body nuzzled up to vance in the snow, red-faced and, for the first time in a long time, in awe. they're going to have hot chocolate later in some cabin vance rented out for the season--but right now, they're watching their shared breath cloud together in the air, simpatico even in this.

🧡 Favorite fictional character?

"Oh, oh--there's this real old holovid I used to loop when I was fifteen. 's fucked how they got most of it right. Anyhow, Rick Deckard. I used to think he was so damn cool."

deckard, with his big-collared jacket and general gruffness, was definitely one of vance's transition goals. that, and he watched br2049 right after--with how deckard was treating K, vance started projecting Really Fucking Heavily on K. like wow! you're a total killing machine with a father who just might love you. that's crazay man. could not be me

🧡 Number of blankets you sleep with?

"Run pretty warm as it is already, so just the one. Like the...texture of it, as it were. The weight o' it."

get this man a weighted blanket please god. i think it would fix him. alternatively, just lay on top of him and he'll be happy.

🧡 Random fact?

"I used to klep a lotta shit when I was a kid. Wires, chips, motherboards--mostly tech, really, from the vendin' machines and bus stops 'round the city. Sold 'em for a pretty eddie down in Heywood; got no buyers in the Hill, not when we could all afford the tech those Heywood kids were tryin' to kitbash together in the first place. Don't really know why I did it.

"To strike out, maybe? Maybe I liked the challenge. There's somethin' about makin' a machine give its own parts to you; get a vending machine to dispense its motherboard, a bus stop sign its LED, and ya feel like ya can make anythin' bend to your will."

--

thank you again for the tags!! this was a lot of fun to do :3

tagging @netripper , @knuckle-cluster, @matapang-coffee, and

@nakitengoku AND whoever else would like to do this! no pressure to do so ofc!!

if u ever dont want to be tagged in these kinds of posts, just lmk!

[a-legacy-not-to-be-forgotten]

SequenceShift AU Locations

Since I already covered the main cast, I figured it'd be best to tacke the setting next. They are...vastly different from the ones in UT and UTY, so let's dive in.

The Remnants

The Remnants are pretty much the Ruins/Dark Ruins of this game. They're almost identical, aside from the fact that the Remnants are based more off of Japanese architecture compared to the occidental style of the Ruins. A few monsters live her, including Chujin, who has taken residence in Ceroba's childhood estate (there's also a hidden office there, which is only accessible on Neutral/Vengeance Routes). Dalv also lives there, helping maintain a corn field that he and Chujin set up.

Lakeside

Lakeside is the Snowdin equivalent. It's pretty much exactly what the name implies and is based off of the rural Japanese countryside. My idea was it used to be a cold and snowy place before the Swelterstone was excavated to act as the Underground's artificial sun, which terraformed the place into what it is nowadays. There's a small village set up here, known for its production of honey and vast fields of flowers. Moray and Mooch are set up here, keeping an eye out for any humans who exit the Remnants, along with the Dog Warrior Auxiliaries of the Royal Rangers (aka the Canine Unit from the OG Undertale).

Sand Dunes

The Sand Dunes...are the Dunes, basically. Okay, there's a bit more to it than that. In SS, it used to be Waterfall from the original, until the Swelterstone terraformed it, too, and unlike Lakeside, it wasn't for the best. It's still livable, of course, just really fucking hot. It has a lot of dense brush and canyons that used to be rivers. The Oasis, Wild East, and Sunnyside Farm are all still around, and of course, Starlo himself is based out here.

Frostpeak

Frostpeak takes the role of Hotland. It's a tall mountainous region, which takes inspiration from IRL Mount Fuji and the Grizzlies Mountain Range in RDR2 (my boyfriend is in the process of playing the game rn so). Currently, it's the least fleshed out, storywise. I don't have much for it rn, besides an entrance to the Steamworks as well as a gift shop at the summit.

Steamworks

Steamworks is fairly identical to how it is in UTY, while also having elements from the Lab. The main difference is, since there's no CORE in this AU, it acts as the primary source of power generation for the Underground, tapping into geothermal energies beneath Frostpeak. In addition, there's also the Lower Levels expansion of the facility, which takes the place of the True Lab and houses its own secrets. Martlet, the Royal Scientist, is based out in here, along with Axis, the Guardener, and most of the robots from the original Steamworks.

New Kingdom

The New Kingdom (yeah, Ceroba's naming skills are on par with Asgore's) takes the place of New Home, acting as the Capital of the Underground. It's a sprawling city which mixes in both traditional edo architecture with a more modern metropolis. Best example I can think of is something along the lines of modern Kyoto. This location also houses the Ketsukane Palace, where none other than the Empress herself awaits the seventh human...

And that's the general summary. If you guys want any further details, feel free to poke me!

[beardedmrbean]

A group of tourists wheel their bulky luggage and wind their way through the crowds in search of the perfect shot.

They huddle on a pavement opposite a convenience store - but this is no ordinary store. Rising behind it is Japan's highest summit, the majestic Mount Fuji.

The snowy 3,776m-peak forms a stunning backdrop for those in search of their next favourite selfie or instagrammable moment. The visitors got what they wanted – and just in time.

Fast forward a few weeks, to this morning, and that view is gone. The once-busy vantage point – the pavement – is now behind a black mesh screen, about the same length as a cricket pitch.

The barrier is the result of a chorus of complaints from locals, who say their lives have been disrupted by jaywalking and littering tourists.

The picturesque town of Fuji Kawaguchiko has been feeling the impact of a surge in tourism - arrivals to Japan crossed a record three million in March and April, driven up by a weak yen and a post-pandemic travel boom.

The screen is a desperate move and a sign of Japan’s struggle to accommodate this many visitors while protecting its streets, its famous spots and its particular way of living.

It has been an eventful Tuesday in Fuji Kawaguchiko.

Japanese officials had announced in late April that they would be putting up a screen - but the hour of installation brought more attention to this rural corner of central Japan. As workers fixed poles and hung up wires to hold the screen, they were surrounded by a scrum of cameras. Tourists gathered as well, curious to capture the hubbub.

If the screen is meant to keep them away, it isn’t doing that - yet.

Around us, visitors wonder how effective it will be: “It may work for a few days. But I’m sure someone will make a hole [in it] and take a picture at some point,” says Kazakh tourist Yuri Vavilin.

He is disappointed he missed the crucial shot but he says he shall return tomorrow and try from either end of the screen.

This dedication is surprising to 65-year-old Kazuhiko Iwama who has lived his entire life in Fuji Kawaguchiko. His house sits opposite the ubiquitous convenience store, with its florescent lights and famous blue sign that says Lawson.

“I see it every day from my window, so I really don’t have much to say about it,” he says, looking at the volcano that draws tourists from around the world. “I guess I take it for granted.”

It’s what many have dubbed a “very Japanese” scene - the banal Lawson shouldering such a spectacular view. It is even known online as “Mount Fuji Lawson”.

Mr Iwama isn’t convinced the screen would deter the most determined of tourists. With the pavement gone, he fears more of them will step on to the street to take pictures.

He says this is precisely the problem - he wouldn’t mind tourists, if they followed the rules.

“They cross the street and they don’t seem to care about the cars at all, it is dangerous. And they leave trash and cigarette butts everywhere."

This is seen as especially rude and careless in a country with few bins on the street - you are expected to carry your trash home and dispose of it there.

The screen was a last resort for local officials. One of them had said earlier in May, “It's regrettable we have to do this because of some tourists who can't respect rules."

They did try less drastic measures. They put up big road signs in multiple languages, telling people not to run onto the road. But, they say, these have largely been ignored.

When we visited weeks before, the road had local security to prevent accidents. We saw one man blowing his whistle furiously and yelling at jaywalkers to stop. When we tried to approach him, he stopped us: “I need to concentrate please.”

On the road, a driver aggressively honked at a camera-wielding pedestrian - a rare sound in Japan - who had parked themselves in front of the Lawson, obstructing traffic.

“I think one person posted a cool picture of themselves in front of this Lawson and it went viral and everybody decided ‘I want to go there. I want that picture on my Instagram,’” says Maddison Verb who had travelled here from the United States.

She and her two friends had been taking turns posing for the picture.

Unlike their serene, filtered photos that would soon be shared on Instagram or TikTok, the scene around them was crowded and tense.

“There's a guy working here just to prevent people from crossing the road. It is insane,” said Coralie Nieke, who had been visiting from Germany.

“If I didn't have social media, I wouldn't have come here. I wouldn't even have known that this place existed.”

She described how overwhelmed she felt by the sheer number of people jostling for that one snap. But, to her relief, she managed to get the “Lawson photo”.

Kikue Katsumata, a 73-year-old local who regularly walks her dog in the area, sympathised with both sides: “I feel sad for those tourists who come all the way to see the view and take pictures, but traffic here is quite heavy, and we are all very concerned about accidents.”

But now, with the screen up, tourists are still not convinced it will do the job.

“I think they’ll stand on the road to get the shot,” says Australian Maddie Godwin, echoing Mr Iwama’s concern.

Other visitors don’t see what the fuss is all about: Wandy Chow, a visitor from Toronto, says, “There are other places you can take beautiful pictures of Mt Fuji.”

Her son, Zachary, says he has found another shop with a good view of Mount Fuji.

But he won't say where. "I don’t want people to go there,” he says, smiling, thinking of his next shareable moment.

[pix4japan]

Restored 1950s Tokyo City Bus

Location: Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architectural Museum, Koganei, Tokyo Timestamp: 13:12 on October 25, 2023

Pentax K-1 II + DFA 28-105mm F3.5-5.6 31 mm ISO 400 for 1/360 sec. at ƒ/8.0

Nestled within the Edo-Tokyo Open-Air Architectural Museum lies a fascinating piece of history—a meticulously restored vintage bus, the TS11 model, built by Isuzu Motors after the war from 1952. As you explore the museum, you'll come across this relic, which I feel is just one testament of many to Japan's post-war resilience and innovation.

The bus in my photo is actually part of a personal collection that is on loan to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government for use at the museum. This is why when you receive your printed English guide at the museum, there will be no reference or information available regarding the bus. Please read on to learn some interesting facts and history!

The TS11 model, with its 4WD capability, played a small but influential role in post-war Japan. Its sturdy design allowed it to navigate even the most challenging terrains, including mountainous and snowy regions. In 1957, a similar bus was entrusted with the honor to transport the Emperor and Empress to Mt. Fuji for a climb to the summit, a testament to the reliability and trustworthiness of the bus.

Fast forward to the present day, vintage buses, like the TS11, are experiencing a revival, thanks to the efforts of rural bus operators. Newspaper articles from The Asahi Shimbun and The Mainichi highlight labor shortage struggles faced by bus operators who have turned to restoring old buses as a way to promote not only ridership from tourists on weekends and national holidays, but also to attract bus enthusiasts (bus spotters, bus otaku, etc.) as possible new hires at their companies.

The charm of these buses transcends generations, captivating both the young and old in Japan and even tourists from overseas who have become familiar with the retro design of these old buses from novels, anime, and manga.

If you examine my photo closely, you'll notice a replica of an old license plate near the radiator grill. Above the front window, you can also see the bus route number “47” (四七) and the route destination “Ueno-Hirokoji” (上野広小路), which is a subway station on the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line, in Taito Ward, Tokyo.

Unlike modern buses designed for maximum passenger capacity, these vintage buses, with engines positioned in front of the driver, offer several advantages: better engine cooling efficiencies, easier access for maintenance and repairs, reduced vibration and noise for passengers, and increased safety for drivers in frontal collisions.

Preserving these vintage buses not only honors Japan's history but I think they can help enrich the present and the future, connecting young and old through shared memories and appreciation for cool design and innovative engineering.

Visit my blog post for Google Maps links and links to all of the original source material that I translated for this post: https://www.pix4japan.com/blog/20231025-edo-bldg-museum.

[chkabstractions]

Snowy Branches.

Fuji X-T4. TTArtisan 50mm f0.95

[webspinning]

✨💼🎹❤️🍀💚🧠🍩 eros, florence, fuji, lilypad, rust haze, silk lady

ok this is a LOT even for me,, you very obviously don't have to do all of them lmao

but what if i want to :).

✨ Eros - Answered here Florence - Inspired by Florence + The Machine :) I thought it fit her well, I like the name, and I like that artist. Fuji - Got aer name before ae were made! I thought it was fitting for an ice/sky hybrid Since Mt. Fuji is cold and snowy and also a mountain.. younger me logic is flawless Lilypad - I think I just slapped it on her one day with very little forethought. Rust Haze - Her name is a reference to V.IV Rusty from Armored Core IV. Both him, with the name Rust - and her nickname is canonically 'Rusty' - and his AC, which is called Steel Haze. It's not for any particular reason other than I absolutely loved him at the time of naming her, and still do. Silk Lady - Her title of Silk Lady is one, supposed to be similar to White Lady in a way [to emphasise the regal/royal nature] and two, the silk part is simply from the fact that she's a common silk moth. Her real name Iveya was just something I thought of one day, and I liked it better than whatever her other name was that I forgot. 💼 Eros - She works at a coffee shop fairly regularly and occasionally picks up small jobs she can help with around town. She does Something Else as well that I'm not going to say publicly. [if you know, you know.] Florence - Doesn't do anything for a living. Her people barely have a society, let alone jobs. Fuji - Cartography! Aer well known to be one of the best in Possibility, if not the best, though ae'd never say that. Lilypad - Child. No job. Jobless. Might give her a fun one in the future, though. Rust Haze - Mercenary/bounty hunter, mostly a bounty hunter. She only takes merc jobs if money is really tight. Silk Lady - She used to actually weave silk and sell it :) doesn't anymore though. 🎹 Eros - Answered here Florence - Writing things that aren't about the downfall of her tribe, which she hasn't had time to do in a while. Fuji - Collecting things :) ae like trinkets and oddities and probably have a fair amount of actual animus items lying around aer shop without knowing it. Lilypad - Art! Painting, crafting..mostly painting. It calms her down. Rust Haze - I think she'd like either reading trashy romance novels or like, watching sitcoms. Something to turn her mind off from the day-to-day. Silk Lady - I'm not going to say wine. i won't say wine. She probably embroiders or weaves? I like to think she'd keep some of her culture around herself even if she can't do anything with it. ❤️ Eros - The day she realised she can have her own life is a time she looks upon pretty fondly. Otherwise, probably the time she spent with Loulou and co. Florence - Any time her brother was alive is painful but happy for her. She thinks about him a lot even though it hurts because she's scared of forgetting him, I really need to develop them more :) Fuji - When ae told Tethys aer was in love with her probably...

1/2

[hirocimacruiser]

20th century

NISSAN MOTORSPORTS

1958-2000

70~

Taking on the challenge of overseas rallies.

On a safari

Active in Monte Carlo

The domestic racing world of the 170s was compared to the excitement of the 1960s.

The market has become somewhat sluggish. This was further exacerbated by the oil crisis caused by exhaust gas pollution, and the world fell into a mood of refraining from racing activities.

The 1970s began with a strategic plan, but it started in the Middle East at the end of 1973.

Participation in overseas rallies was emphasized as a works activity. 510 Bluebird SSS won the overall victory in the 8th year of the safari challenge. The Fairlady 240Z won the safari in the first year of the World Championship, and has consistently maintained top results ever since, moving on to the Bluebird 160J and 710/PA10 Violet.

In Japan, the Fuji GC system, which is dominated by private teams,

Races such as Leeds and Suzuka F2 Championship started.

After many twists and turns, they gradually become established.

Works drivers belonging to the manufacturer also

He was transferred to an event team and competed in big races.

Furthermore, GC and F2 races using pure racing cars are also available.

Although it was an undercard race for the race, the race for modified touring cars also gained popularity. Skyline GT-R (later Fairlady Z) competes with Mazda rotary cars

The "Super Touring" that I made, and the Sunny (in the early days Cherry too)/Toyota Starlet (initial Corolla)

Every race is amazing with Honda, Civic, etc.

``Minor Touring'' was a fierce battle. The Sunny 1200 Coupe (KB110), which became the main character of the latter, was originally a popular car, but with the birth of normal car (unmodified touring car) racing in Japan, it became popular with everyone at circuits throughout Japan. Loved. It is no exaggeration to say that without the KB110, the foundation for domestic racing could not have been built.

World racer at Fuji Speedway from 1970 to 1977

The F1GP match was held, and there was also a sense of excitement among the children.

``Car boom'' began, and cars gradually became popular.

Brightness has returned to the environment surrounding the world.

PIC CAPTIONS

A Datsun 240Z races through the snowy Monte Carlo Rally. Announced in the fall of 1969

The Fairlady Z appeared in various competitions as soon as the 1970s began. It is active not only in circuit races but also in international rallies. At the 1971 Monte Carlo Rally, it placed 5th overall despite being the first to race, and the following year, in 1972, this car of Aaltonen/Todt took 3rd place overall.

_____________________________________________

The 510 Bluebird SSS (Hermann/Schuller) achieved an impressive victory in the 17th year of the Safari Rally, which is run over the rough roads of vast East Africa. Despite the poor conditions of rain on the first day of the competition, which turned into a quagmire, Bluebird finished in 1st, 2nd, 4th, and 7th place overall, achieving complete domination with overall victory, class victory, and team victory.

_____________________________________________

The Skyline GT-R, which debuted at the JAF-GP in the spring of 1969, went on to win consecutive races, and in 1971, when the hardtop version (KPGC10) was introduced, its strength increased, giving no chance to the new Mazda Rotary team. Then, in March 1972, at Fuji in heavy rain, this No. 15, driven by Kunimitsu Takahashi, lapped the 2nd place and below and won an easy victory, giving the GT-R its 50th victory in total. This was an amazing record at the time.

_____________________________________________

In the late 1970s, the hottest race in Japan was the "Minor Touring" race held as the undercard of the Fuji GC Series. 1.3'' engine cars tuned to the limit, Sunny, Starlet, and Civic all competed together. KB110 Sunny is a masterpiece car that will remain in Japanese racing history.

[itzalandevore]

Went on a little snowy stroll with fuji yesterday. Took many pictures ill post in a while but man it was so sweet listening to the trees blow while I held xer in my pocket with her belt around my wrist. It was like we were holding hands.

[unexpectedly-haunted]

Soo about art history! Well I studied a lot about applied art history - I really hope that's the right word but it's like furniture and stuff as well around architecture, sculpted and painted art (boii oh boi I really don't know the English terms sorry!!) And that was really interesting and I love learning more bc there's always so much more to know! I think my studies mainly focused on being able to put dates on art pieces and sort them into a time period - but also.. random funny artist stories my beloved XD Also for my thesis I had a look at Soviet war memorials so that's up my alley as well!

Hbu? Do you have any fav periods/genres/artists? :3

ooh applied art history sounds great! i wish my courses covered more architecture and practical crafts like furniture, it's pretty centered on painting and sculpture for the most part. and Soviet war memorials?? damn that's such a good topic, and hey hell yeah, congratulations on writing a thesis!!

and YES i do have favourites, putting it below a read-more sdkfgh:

RIGHT so my favourite movement is absolutely Impressionism, i love the depiction of light and the painting style of lots of small distinct brushstrokes is Such a wonderful effect. i'd have to say Claude Monet is one of my all time favourite artists, i especially love his sunsets:

Impression, Sunrise, 1872, oil on canvas, 48 × 63 cm, Musée Marmottan Monet, Paris

Also really like his snowy landscapes, and how he paints water, as well as his colour choices! it's not really displayed in these paintings, but in a lot of his more natural landscapes- especially the floral ones- the colours are so vibrant :D

Train in the Snow, 1875, oil on canvas, 59 x 78cm, Musée Marmottan Monet, Paris

The Magpie, 1869, oil on canvas, 89 x 130cm, Musée d'Orsay, Paris

The Water Lily Pond (Nymphéas), 1904, oil on canvas, 90 x 92cm, private collection

The Bridge at Argenteuil, 1874, oil on canvas, 60.5 x 80cm, Musée d'Orsay, Paris

Similarly, I really like J.M.W. Turner, particularly for his dramatic seascapes and his paintings of ruins! Some favourites would be:

Fishermen at Sea/The Cholmeley Sea Piece, 1796, oil on canvas, 91.4 x 122.2cm, Tate Britain, London

The Burning of the Houses of Lords and Commons, 16th October, 1834, 1934, oil on canvas, 92 x 123cm, Philadelphia Museum of Art, Philadelphia

Melrose Abbey, 1822, pencil and watercolour on paper, 19.6 x 13.3cm, private collection

and these are some more things I've studied that I ended up really liking!

Edouard Manet: he was So controversial in nineteenth century Paris it's ridiculous, and i found it fun to look at all the layers of constructed identity in his works! Most well known for Olympia.

Chez le père Lathuille, 1879, oil on canvas, Musée des Beaux-Arts Tournai

Caravaggio: LOVE the horror and detail and drama of his works, third life enjoyers might like all the beheadings skjfhdg. highly recommend looking into this guy's life story and historical context because he. man. he sure was a character! it's also hilarious to read about how hated he was for painting in a naturalistic style. (and. the murder but honestly it seems like they hated his painting more)

Saint Jerome Writing, c. 1605-6, oil on canvas, 112 × 157 cm, Galleria Borghese (one of the tamest of his works skjdfh)

Hiroshige Utagawa and Katsushika Hokusai: had a unit on Japanese print making and !!! i hadn't known much about print as a medium but Holy Shit it's so versatile and the works by these artists are just stunning! want to look more into print for sure :D

Utagawa Hiroshige, Plum Garden, Kamata (Kamata no Umezono), in One Hundred Views of Edo, 1856–59, woodblock print, 34 x 24.1 cm, Brooklyn Museum

Awa Province: Naruto Whirlpools, in Famous Places in the Sixty-odd Provinces, 1855, woodblock print, 36.5 x 24.4 cm, Museum of Fine Arts, Boston

Hokusai made SO MUCH work but his most famous work by far is:

Katsushika Hokusai, Under the Wave Off Kanagawa, in Thirty-Six Views of Mount Fuji, woodblock print, 1830-1832, 25.7 x 37.8 cm, Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York City

Gothic architecture: haven't gone into much depth with architecture, really liked what i learnt though, and the round arches, ribbed vaults, and tall windows with stained glass are beautiful.

St. Francis Xavier Church, c. 1840, Amsterdam, Holland

and thank you so much for the ask!!! i'd love to hear more about anything art history related from you (or anyone else!), as specific or in depth as you like :D

[hardcorehigh]

Snowy #sunday ❄️ . . . . #spitzingsee #bayern #winter #snow #nature #mountains #langlauf #loipe #fromwhereistand #photooftheday #white #fuji #fujixseries #fujix30 #fujifilmsimulation #kodachrome #bayernliebe #visitbavaria (at Spitzingsee, Bayern, Germany) https://www.instagram.com/p/Cokk6KfoeGj/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[markperson]

japan wine tasting tours

Japan Wine Tasting Tour: Discover the Elegance of Japanese Wines

Japan is quickly emerging as an exciting wine destination, offering travelers a unique combination of world-class wines, rich cultural heritage, and breathtaking natural landscapes. If you are looking to experience a truly one-of-a-kind wine tasting adventure, a Japan wine tasting tour promises exceptional vineyards, distinct varietals like Koshu wine, and the chance to explore regions where tradition meets innovation.

Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or simply seeking a new adventure, Japan’s winemaking culture is ready to surprise and delight you.

The Japanese Wine Experience: Tradition and Innovation

Unlike other global wine regions, Japanese wines offer a refined, delicate profile, reflecting the country’s precision and harmony with nature. Japan’s winemakers have perfected the art of producing light, clean wines that pair seamlessly with traditional Japanese cuisine.

The country’s most famous wine regions—Yamanashi, Nagano, and Hokkaido—are leading this growing industry. With lush vineyards and scenic backdrops like Mount Fuji, a wine tasting tour in Japan is not just about the wine—it’s about the beauty, culture, and unforgettable experiences.

Top Wine Regions for Tasting Tours in Japan

1. Yamanashi Prefecture – Home of Koshu Wine

Yamanashi, located near Tokyo, is Japan’s most renowned wine region, often called the “Napa Valley of Japan.” This area produces over 40% of Japan’s wine and is celebrated for its iconic Koshu grape.

Koshu Grape: This pale-pink varietal is unique to Japan and produces crisp white wines with subtle citrus flavors, floral aromas, and refreshing minerality.

Wine Tasting Highlights: Visit historic wineries like Château Mercian, Grace Wine, and Katsunuma Winery for intimate tastings. Enjoy vineyard walks with stunning views of Mount Fuji and sip wines directly from the source.

Koshu wines pair perfectly with Japanese cuisine, making Yamanashi a must-visit for wine enthusiasts.

2. Nagano Prefecture – The Alpine Wine Region

Nagano, with its cool climate and mountainous terrain, has emerged as a premier location for wine production. Known for both white and red wines, Nagano offers a rich variety of tasting options.

Wines to Try: Chardonnay, Merlot, and Pinot Noir are among Nagano’s signature wines. The region’s balanced wines reflect the purity of its alpine environment.

Tasting Experience: Wineries in Nagano combine modern facilities with warm hospitality, allowing visitors to enjoy tastings while surrounded by the beauty of the Japanese Alps.

3. Hokkaido – Japan’s Northern Wine Paradise

Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost island, has become famous for producing wines with a cool-climate elegance. Its vineyards benefit from clean air, volcanic soil, and wide temperature ranges.

Signature Wines: Hokkaido specializes in Pinot Noir, Kerner, and Riesling. The wines here are light, fresh, and aromatic.

Tasting Highlights: Explore Hokkaido’s boutique wineries, such as those in the Furano and Yoichi regions. The unique cold-climate wines and snowy landscapes offer a tasting experience unlike any other.

What to Expect on a Japanese Wine Tasting Tour

1. Vineyard Visits with Scenic Backdrops

Japanese vineyards are known for their picturesque settings. Whether it’s the rolling hills of Yamanashi with Mount Fuji in the background or the alpine views in Nagano, the scenery adds a serene element to the wine-tasting experience.

2. Tasting Unique Japanese Varietals

Japan’s wine tasting tours often focus on:

Koshu White Wine: A light, citrusy wine with a clean mineral finish.

Muscat Bailey A: A Japanese red grape known for producing fruity, light-bodied wines.

Experimental Blends: Many wineries are experimenting with European varietals like Chardonnay, Merlot, and Pinot Noir.

3. Wine Pairing with Japanese Cuisine

A highlight of Japanese wine tasting tours is the pairing of wines with traditional dishes:

Koshu White Wine + Fresh Sashimi: The subtle acidity of Koshu complements the delicate flavors of raw fish.

Sparkling Koshu Wine + Tempura: Light and bubbly, this pairing balances fried textures.

Nagano Pinot Noir + Grilled Wagyu Beef: The fruity and earthy notes of Pinot Noir enhance the richness of Wagyu.

Best Time for a Wine Tasting Tour in Japan

The ideal time to experience a Japanese wine tour is during the autumn harvest season (September to November). During this period, vineyards are alive with activity, and the surrounding landscapes glow with vibrant fall colors.

Spring is another wonderful time to visit, as cherry blossoms bloom and add a magical touch to the vineyards.

Why Choose Japan for Your Next Wine Tasting Tour?

Japan’s wine tours offer a harmonious blend of:

Authentic wines made from unique grapes like Koshu and Muscat Bailey A.

Stunning scenery, from Mount Fuji to the snowy landscapes of Hokkaido.

Cultural immersion, with Japanese hospitality, history, and cuisine enhancing the experience.

Unlike traditional wine regions, Japan’s approach to winemaking emphasizes precision, purity, and artistry, making it a refreshing destination for wine lovers.

Book Your Japan Wine Tasting Tour Today

Ready to discover Japan’s best-kept wine secrets? Whether you’re strolling through Yamanashi’s vineyards, sipping cool-climate wines in Hokkaido, or enjoying the alpine beauty of Nagano, a Japanese wine tasting tour promises a unique and memorable experience.

Visit WineryToursJapan.com to start planning your perfect wine adventure. Sip, savor, and explore Japan’s vibrant wine culture today!

[tripnest]

Tokyo’s Wellness Gateways: Escape to Hakone, Karuizawa, and Chichibu

Introduction While Tokyo is Japan’s bustling capital known for its skyscrapers and endless energy, it’s also the perfect starting point for wellness travelers. The city’s strategic location makes it an ideal gateway to some of Japan’s most serene and restorative wellness destinations. In this article, we’ll explore how wellness seekers can transition from the hustle and bustle of Tokyo to nearby escapes like Hakone, Karuizawa, and Chichibu, offering a blend of convenience and relaxation. Hakone: A Quick Retreat from Tokyo Only an hour and a half by train from Tokyo, Hakone is the perfect gateway for those seeking a wellness retreat close to the city. Known for its hot springs, scenic mountain views, and traditional Japanese inns (ryokans), Hakone offers a variety of experiences that cater to different wellness needs. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious onsen resort or a tranquil hike through nature, Hakone provides a holistic escape from the fast-paced energy of Tokyo. One of the highlights of Hakone is its onsens (hot springs), where visitors can soak in mineral-rich waters believed to have healing properties. Luxury ryokans like Hakone Ginyu offer private onsen baths with breathtaking views of the mountains, ensuring a deeply relaxing experience. Guests can also partake in guided meditation sessions or enjoy traditional Japanese tea ceremonies that encourage mindfulness. In addition to its wellness offerings, Hakone is home to numerous nature trails that allow for shinrin-yoku, or forest bathing, which is a form of nature therapy known to reduce stress and improve well-being. The proximity to Lake Ashi, with views of Mount Fuji, adds to the spiritual ambiance of the area, making Hakone a top choice for wellness travelers who want to combine natural beauty with relaxation. Karuizawa: A Gateway to Alpine Wellness Located just an hour from Tokyo by Shinkansen (bullet train), Karuizawa is a stunning wellness destination set in the Japanese Alps. Known for its mild, refreshing climate and beautiful forested landscapes, Karuizawa is an ideal summer retreat, offering relief from Tokyo’s heat and humidity. This picturesque town is renowned for its outdoor activities, making it a haven for wellness enthusiasts. At Hoshino Resorts Karuizawa, wellness travelers can immerse themselves in an array of holistic wellness programs. This luxury resort features a meditative onsen, a spa offering nature-based treatments, and yoga sessions by the river. The emphasis here is on harmony with nature, and visitors can participate in guided forest walks that focus on mindfulness and inner peace. These wellness experiences are designed to reconnect individuals with nature, which is an essential part of Japanese culture. Karuizawa is also famous for its hiking trails, cycling paths, and golf courses, making it a perfect destination for those who enjoy combining physical activity with relaxation. In the winter months, the town transforms into a snowy wonderland, offering skiing and snowshoeing opportunities. The area's high-end restaurants and organic cafes provide wellness-friendly dining options, serving nutritious and locally sourced meals that cater to health-conscious travelers. Chichibu: Hidden Wellness Close to the City If you’re looking for a wellness escape that’s off the beaten path but still close to Tokyo, Chichibu is the perfect destination. Just two hours away by train, Chichibu is a lesser-known gem that offers a blend of natural beauty and wellness-focused experiences. Nestled in the mountains, Chichibu is known for its lush forests, peaceful rivers, and scenic waterfalls that make it an ideal spot for relaxation and rejuvenation. One of the unique wellness experiences in Chichibu is forest therapy, which is similar to the Japanese practice of shinrin-yoku. Visitors can explore tranquil forest trails that encourage connection with nature and mental clarity. There are also opportunities for river meditation, where you can sit by the river and listen to the soothing sounds of flowing water, creating a serene environment for reflection and mindfulness. Traditional ryokans in Chichibu, such as Miyamotoke Ryokan, provide authentic Japanese wellness experiences, offering hot springs, Japanese-style rooms with tatami mats, and multi-course kaiseki meals made from locally sourced ingredients. The onsen baths, often with views of the surrounding mountains or gardens, provide a peaceful setting for relaxation after a day of exploring Chichibu’s natural landscapes. For travelers seeking deeper spiritual experiences, Chichibu is also home to a number of Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples, some of which are part of the famous Chichibu Pilgrimage. This pilgrimage route, consisting of 34 sacred temples, offers a spiritual journey that combines physical endurance with spiritual renewal, making it a popular activity for wellness and spiritual travelers alike. Conclusion Tokyo serves as the ultimate gateway to some of Japan’s best wellness destinations, offering a unique blend of urban excitement and natural tranquility. Whether you’re looking for a quick day trip to Hakone’s hot springs, a mountain getaway in Karuizawa, or a hidden wellness retreat in Chichibu, these nearby destinations provide the perfect escape from city life. By planning a wellness journey around Tokyo’s surrounding regions, travelers can experience the best of both worlds – the vibrant energy of Tokyo and the calming effects of nature. These wellness gateways not only offer relaxation and rejuvenation but also provide an opportunity to experience Japan’s deep connection with nature and its centuries-old traditions of healing and mindfulness. 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