Enjoying Mountains in Japan with Four Seasons | Focus #105

When you think of mountains, don't you imagine the refreshing greenery of summer? In Japan, August 11 is celebrated as 'Mountain Day' to honor the rich nature and allure of the mountains. However, mountains reveal beautiful scenes unique to each season.

In this magazine, we introduce ways to enjoy mountains in each of the four seasons, accompanied by beautiful photographs. Enjoy the different expressions of the mountains and their charm throughout the year.

Spring is all about cherry blossoms.
While the well-maintained cherry blossoms at tourist spots are lovely, the wild mountain cherry blossoms are equally captivating.

It's also the time when animals that have survived the winter become active. The song of the bush warbler is a quintessential herald of spring, isn't it? When you hear it during a hike, you might want to point your camera at it.

As the famous haiku by Masaoka Shiki goes, 'Summer mountains, everywhere a famous spot.' The allure of summer mountains seems to encompass the entire mountain.
Climbing under the sun, amidst lush greenery, is surely invigorating.
Incidentally, the reason Mountain Day is on August 11 is said to be because it can easily be combined with the Obon holidays.

Autumn is all about the fall foliage.
Going to the mountains to enjoy the changing leaves might be a good idea.
The period when you can climb with beautiful scenery and mild temperatures might be limited to autumn.
Even without climbing, just observing the gradually changing mountains can be inspiring.

While snow-covered mountains may have a certain scenic appeal, climbing them in winter is dangerous and should be reserved for those with adequate equipment.
Winter mountains might seem dull and cold at first glance, but even the bare, leafless mountains have a unique charm that can move the heart.
This charm is largely related to the context of enduring a brief period of patience as the beauty of autumn fades and the anticipation of spring's arrival grows.

How was it?
No matter how attractive summer mountains are, if they remained the same all year round, their value would diminish. It's a way to enjoy mountains that is only possible in Japan, with its four seasons.
Since ancient times, the natural changes brought by the seasons have been cherished and passed down. Surely, this mindset is inherited by us in modern times as well.

Currently, the contest 'Mountain Mystery' and the hashtag campaign #山歩 are ongoing. Please take and post wonderful mountain photos.

We look forward to your submissions!