Category: Japan
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The Gōdo Sanno Matsuri
The Gōdo Sanno Festival dates back to the 12th century. The main event is the procession of seven portable shrines surrounded by bales of lit taimatsu carried by men who are not allowed to stop until the procession is complete.
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A Tragic Cry
As I mentioned in this previous post, my mother-in-law passed away last week due to an illness. She had been ill for a while so her death was expected. During the cremation, at the other end of the vast hall, was another family. From where we were, I could see ten or so people in…
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Ikuko
Just over six months ago, we said goodbye to my father due to a rare illness. And just yesterday, almost in the blink of an eye, we also lost my mother-in-law, once again to illness.
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The Three Peaks in the Rain
Never presume you’re the only hiker on a mountain in Japan. I’ve hiked solo through the night in remote areas on numerous occasions, and there was always somebody else ahead. Always.
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The Fire Festival
“Do you want to go to a festival?” “Yes. Where is it?” “I’m not sure. Somewhere in Gifu. N-san is driving.” “Okay.” “I think it’s one of those crazy fire festivals similar to the one we went to a few years ago.” “What time does it start?” “Around midnight.”
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Finding Photographic Inspiration Close to Home
Over the years, I’ve amassed a collection of photography books, predominantly Japanese but also from elsewhere, serving as inspiration and guidance. These books, by both renowned and lesser-known photographers, have been my teachers and motivators.
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Looking Ahead to 2024
Happy New Year, everyone. Unfortunately, Japan hasn’t gotten off to the best of starts. Wajima was hit hard. The whole of the Noto Peninsula in Ishikawa is one of my favourite places in Japan – my wife and I have camped there before, I’ve cycled around the whole peninsula, and when we were blessed with…