Hugo
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hugokyoto.bsky.social
Hugo
@hugokyoto.bsky.social
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I am a Belgian from Antwerp, having lived in Kyoto and Nara for approximately 30 years. I cover major festivals, temples, and shrines. I've done some timelapse footage, moon shooting, and vertical video with my iPhone 15 Pro Max.
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hugokyoto.bsky.social
Nagano Soba: Pure Buckwheat, Mountain Tradition.

We had dinner at the Soba Enokigawa Matsumoto Station Store (駅そば榑木川 松本駅店). We heard that soba dishes are a speciality in Nagano, and we were not disappointed. #soba #japanesefood #そば #matsumoto
December 16, 2025 at 8:07 AM
hugokyoto.bsky.social
The breathtaking view from Takabotchi Highlands in Nagano is simply stunning. #panorama_photo #panoramas #observationdeck #美ヶ原高原 #nagano #japantrip #japantravel #autumn #autumn🍁 #高ボッチ高原 #scenicjapan
The road leading to the observation deck is narrow and sometimes difficult to navigate. Once you reach it, it becomes overwhelming. Google Maps led us to a street on the main road that I wasn't sure I could pass in my Noah car. Fortunately, a postman on a motorbike arrived and offered to guide us to the mountain entrance. He was a blessing sent from above. Takabotchi Highlands (高ボッチ高原) in Shiojiri, Nagano, is a scenic highland plateau at approximately 1,665 meters. Renowned for its breathtaking panoramic views and natural beauty, it stands as one of Nagano's most picturesque viewpoints. You can immerse yourself in the grandeur of mountain scenery, expansive skies, and invigorating fresh air at this remarkable location.
December 16, 2025 at 7:01 AM
hugokyoto.bsky.social
Calm Reflections at Konin-ji Temple in Nara. #autumn #autumnphotography #japantrip #japantravel #nara #visitnara #弘仁寺 ##yamanobenomichi #山辺の道
It’s been a while since I visited this Buddhist temple nestled on a hill in the countryside of Kokuzocho, Nara Prefecture. The atmosphere here exudes a profound sense of tranquillity and serenity. Take a moment to admire the captivating paintings adorning the Hondo. They are truly a feast for the eyes. In the parking lot, local farmers were diligently constructing a straw horse to celebrate the upcoming zodiac sign for 2026. However, as they were beginning, I couldn’t capture a photo of their progress.
December 10, 2025 at 6:29 AM
hugokyoto.bsky.social
The Moon, adorned with crimson autumn leaves, glows in the evening sky.

#autumn #autumnphotography #autumnleaves #もみじ #紅葉 #japantrip #japantravel #moon #WaxingGibbous #waxinggibbousmoon
The almost full moon casts a crimson glow over the grounds of Chishakuin Temple (総本山 智積院) in Kyoto, Japan. The vibrant autumn leaves frame the scene. The moon is currently Waxing Gibbous, and the full moon is expected to occur this coming Friday.
December 2, 2025 at 9:42 AM
hugokyoto.bsky.social
Autumn Whispers of Shōnen-ji in Nagano.

Autumn Whispers of Shōnen-ji, where the moss-covered grounds softly murmur and create a serene atmosphere. (浄土真宗 称念寺 )

#称念寺 #浄土真宗 #mossgarden #japan_photo_now #japantrip #japantravel #nagano #autumn #autumn🍁 #maple #mapple #苔庭
November 30, 2025 at 2:27 AM
hugokyoto.bsky.social
Autumn Reverie at Magatama Pond, Nara, Japan.

A short video clip captures my hiking adventure around Mt. Torimiyama, where I revelled in the breathtaking autumn foliage.

#autumn #autumnphotography #autumnleaves #もみじ #紅葉 #japantrip #japantravel #宇陀市 #observationdeck #展望台 #mountainscape
November 28, 2025 at 8:15 AM
hugokyoto.bsky.social
Autumn Glory on the Slopes of Mt. Torimi in Uda, Nara.

Torimiyama Park in Haibarahagihara, Nara Prefecture. The park has two observation decks and breathtaking autumn foliage. #autumn #autumnleaves #もみじ #紅葉 #japantrip #japantravel #宇陀市 #observationdeck #mountainscape #japanesehistory #日本史
Today, I drove to Torimiyama Park in Haibarahagihara, Nara Prefecture. The park has two observation decks and breathtaking autumn foliage. Unfortunately, the weather turned rainy, so I had to cut short my exploration. I’ll definitely come back to see the park again. The following is courtesy of the web page of Uda city: "Nestled near the summit of Mt. Torimi (735 meters), this natural park on a plateau is centered around Magatama Pond. The park boasts monuments and poems commemorating the sacred site of Emperor Jinmu. In spring, it transforms into a renowned azalea haven, where mountain cherry blossoms bloom in breathtaking splendor. As autumn arrives, the park’s leaves display an exceptional display of colors. From the viewing platform, hikers can marvel at the Yamato Basin and the majestic mountains of Uda below. The serene and sacred atmosphere of the park offers a truly captivating view, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts."
November 27, 2025 at 1:46 PM
hugokyoto.bsky.social
Illuminated Maple Magic at Suikei-en Garden. #keihannamemorialpark #けいはんな記念公園 #kyotojapan #autumn #autumnphotography #autumnleaves #もみじ #紅葉 #japanesegarden #日本の庭園 #kyototrip #japantrip #japantravel #弁天池 #水景園 #精華町
November 26, 2025 at 8:09 AM
hugokyoto.bsky.social
Strolling around the Togakushi shrine area in Nagano Prefecture.

#shinto #nagano #autumn #autumn🍁 #japantrip #japantravel #autumnleaves #もみじ #紅葉
Strolling around the Togakushi shrine area in Nagano Prefecture. Strolling around the Togakushi shrine area in Nagano Prefecture, I was captivated by the serene beauty of the surroundings. The main road is lined with charming hotels, and the vibrant autumn colours create a picturesque setting.
November 25, 2025 at 8:10 AM
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Crimson autumn leaves adorn Shūon-an Ikkyū-ji.

#kyotojapan #ikkyuji #酬恩庵 #autumnleaves #もみじ #紅葉 #japanesegarden #日本の庭園 #kyototrip #zen #禅 #japantrip #japantravel
November 25, 2025 at 5:45 AM
hugokyoto.bsky.social
Autumn's Mirror: Lake Tateshina, Chino, Nagano Prefecture. (蓼科湖の秋色)

Canon EOS 5D Mark IV
November 5, 2025

#japan_photo_now #japantrip #japantravel #matsumoto #nagano #lakeview #autumn #autumn🍁 #ビーナスライン #venusline
In early November, I embarked on a road trip through Nagano Prefecture. As I drove along the Venus Line, I stumbled upon Lake Tateshina (蓼科湖). The lake’s backdrop was the stunning slopes of Mount Tateshina, and the vibrant autumn colours of red and yellow reflected beautifully on the water’s surface.
November 23, 2025 at 7:44 AM
hugokyoto.bsky.social
Bandokoro Falls (番所大滝) in Matsumoto, Nagano.
iPhone 15 Pro Max
November 6, 2025
#bandokorofalls #番所大滝 #waterfalls #waterfallphotography #chasingwaterfalls #waterfall #matsumoto #nagano #japantrip #japantravel #autumn #autumn🍁
November 23, 2025 at 5:48 AM
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Sunset at Utsukushigahara Highland in Nagano Prefecture.

As I waited for the full moon to rise, an incredible sunset unfolded before my eyes at an elevation of 2,000 meters.

#panoramas #observationdeck #美ヶ原高原 #nagano #japantrip #japantravel #autumn #autumn🍁 #sunset #sunsetview #SunsetMagic
November 21, 2025 at 1:11 PM
hugokyoto.bsky.social
A Moon Not Quite Whole, Rising Beyond the Alps.

While walking down the Nawate Shopping Street, we saw a full Moon, well, almost full at 99%, with a backdrop of the Japanese Alps. #japantrip #japantravel #matsumoto #naganoprefecture #満月 #まんげつ #fullmoon #松本市 #長野県
November 20, 2025 at 6:51 AM
hugokyoto.bsky.social
Autumn Colours at Matsumoto City Alps Park, Japan.

Canon EOS 5D Mark IV
November 5, 2025

#japan_photo_now #japantrip #japantravel #matsumoto #nagano #seaofclouds #unkai #雲海 #mountains #snow #autumn #autumn🍁
November 19, 2025 at 8:05 AM
hugokyoto.bsky.social
Utsukushigahara Highland: A Scenic Drive Above Matsumoto. #panorama_photo #panoramas #observationdeck #美ヶ原高原 #venusline #ビーナスライン #nagano #japantrip #japantravel #autumn #autumn🍁
November 18, 2025 at 9:40 AM
hugokyoto.bsky.social
The Thundering Heart of Norikura: Bandokoro Waterfall in Nagano. #bandokorofalls #番所大滝 #waterfalls #waterfallphotography #chasingwaterfalls #waterfall #matsumoto #nagano #japantrip #japantravel #autumn #autumn🍁
An incredible experience, accompanied by a thunderous roar of water. The first picture is a 2-second exposure, while the second one is a 30-second exposure using a neutral density filter. The Great Bandokoro Waterfall (番所大滝) is located in the Norikura Highlands, a 15-minute downhill hike from the parking lot. The hike involves descending a metal staircase with some steep sections, making the return more challenging. This impressive and powerful waterfall, with a 40-meter drop and a massive volume of water, is among the most remarkable in Norikura. A nice viewing platform is available for visitors to enjoy the breathtaking scenery. Situated at the foot of Mt. Norikura, at the lower part of the Norikura Plateau, the waterfall is also known as “Norikura Mitaki,” along with Sanbon Falls and Zengoro Falls.
November 18, 2025 at 7:17 AM
hugokyoto.bsky.social
“Autumn Breath, Wooden Halls: The Soul of Shōnen-ji" in Nagano.

#称念寺 #浄土真宗 #mossgarden #japan_photo_now #japantrip #japantravel #nagano #autumn #autumn🍁 #maple #mapple #苔庭
Shōnenji (称念寺), a modest yet quietly atmospheric Jōdo-shū temple nestled in Nagano Prefecture, exudes a serene ambience. Its simple wooden halls, peaceful cemetery, and the feeling of stepping into a small, rural sanctuary untouched by modern noise create an inviting atmosphere. Often adorned with vibrant seasonal colours, particularly warm reds and golds in autumn, the grounds encourage leisurely walks and quiet reflection. The main hall, a testament to Edo-period temple architecture, features gently weathered timber and a calm interior centred around Amida Nyorai. While not a grand or renowned temple, Shōnenji’s charm lies in its understated beauty and the palpable sense of local devotion that permeates the precincts. It serves as a soothing respite for travellers seeking a tranquil escape from the bustling pace of Nagano.
November 17, 2025 at 9:18 AM
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Autumn Colours at Matsumoto City Alps Park, Japan.

Majestic trees adorned with golden autumn leaves stand against a backdrop of mountains shrouded in a sea of clouds.

#japan_photo_now #japantrip #japantravel #matsumoto #nagano #seaofclouds #unkai #雲海 #mountains #snow #autumn #autumn🍁
November 15, 2025 at 2:48 AM
hugokyoto.bsky.social
Autumn's Mirror: Lake Tateshina, Chino, Nagano Prefecture. (蓼科湖の秋色)
#japan_photo_now #japantrip #japantravel #matsumoto #nagano #lakeview #autumn #autumn🍁 #ビーナスライン #venusline
In the beginning of November, I went to Nagano Prefecture. I drove along the Venus Line and stumbled upon Lake Tateshina (蓼科湖). The slopes of Mount Tateshina are the backdrop of the lake. Stunning red and yellow autumn colors reflected on the water.
November 14, 2025 at 8:15 AM
hugokyoto.bsky.social
An Ocean of Mist, Peaks of Granite! Matsumoto with the snow-capped Hida Mountains in the background. Picture taken from Matsumoto City Alps Park (松本市アルプス公園)

#japan_photo_now #japantrip #japantravel #matsumoto #nagano #seaofclouds #unkai #雲海 #mountains #snow
An Ocean of Mist, Peaks of Granite! Matsumoto with the snow-capped Hida Mountains in the background. Picture taken from Matsumoto City Alps Park (松本市アルプス公園)
November 13, 2025 at 7:12 AM
hugokyoto.bsky.social
Lake Kagami, Togakushi Mountain Range in Nagano, Japan.
#鏡池 #nagano #bestofjapan #lakekagami#autumn #lake
November 9, 2025 at 2:19 AM
hugokyoto.bsky.social
Hot soba and mountain vegetables tempura in Matsumoto. #tempura #soba #matsumoto #japanesefood #delicious #bestofjapan
November 4, 2025 at 11:24 AM
hugokyoto.bsky.social
31. Chikurin-ji: Thirty-First Temple of the Sacred Shikoku Pilgrimage in Kōchi, Japan. #kobodaishi #弘法大師 #pilgrimage #お遍路 #kochiprefecture #高知県 #shikokupilgrimage #四国遍路 #japan #発心の道場 #shikoku #四国 #chikurinji #竹林寺 #第31番札所 #第三十一番札所竹林寺
Chikurin-ji, the 31st temple of the Shikoku Pilgrimage, is a historically significant and serene site on Mount Godaisan in Kōchi. Founded in the 8th century by the priest Ganjin, it was established as a formal monastery for Buddhist study, giving it a distinct scholarly atmosphere. The temple's main hall is a National Treasure, housing a statue of the healing Buddha, Yakushi Nyorai. A unique and lesser-known feature is its dedicated hall for the Five Great Wisdom Kings (Godai Myōō), highlighting its esoteric practices. The temple's beautiful grounds, famous for autumn colours, blend seamlessly with the adjacent botanical garden, creating a harmonious experience of sacred history and natural beauty.
November 3, 2025 at 8:15 AM
hugokyoto.bsky.social
30. Zenraku-ji: Thirtieth Temple of the Sacred Shikoku Pilgrimage in Kōchi, Japan. #kobodaishi #弘法大師 #pilgrimage #お遍路 #kochiprefecture #高知県 #shikokupilgrimage #四国遍路 #japan #発心の道場 #shikoku #四国 #zenrakuji #善楽寺 #第30番札所
Zenrakuji (Temple of Good Pleasure), the 30th temple on the Shikoku Pilgrimage, is a welcoming temple in a Kochi neighbourhood. Founded by Kōbō Daishi to pacify a local dragon deity, its atmosphere is warm and communal. The temple is notable for its rare and gently sculpted Senjū Kannon (Thousand-Armed Kannon), believed to grant wishes, and its charming collection of red-bibbed Jizō statues, which protect local children.
November 2, 2025 at 10:04 AM