It is a hot summer, isn’t it? With either extreme heat or torrential rain, it feels as though Japan is no longer in the temperate zone but has entered a subtropical climate.
Perhaps because of these drastic changes in weather, mountain accidents—especially cases involving elderly hikers getting lost or stranded—are being reported more frequently. Mountains are wonderful places: leaving the world below behind, filling your lungs with clear air, passing through forests, and climbing upward into the sunlight toward the peaks in the sky. Even recalling it now, that escape from the dust and clutter of everyday life into an extraordinary world feels like a paradise beyond compare.
For those who love the mountains, the many reports of accidents are deeply saddening. Mountains are joyful places, yet against the power of nature, human strength is very small indeed. I hope people will enjoy climbing while carefully judging their own ability and physical condition.
There are still many mountains I would like to climb, but the decline of strength and spirit is hard to resist. I suppose demanding climbs are no longer possible for me. In particular, weakness in the legs grows year by year. So, while looking back on mountains of the past, I have uploaded a few scenes from those cherished memories. I hope they may offer some visual refreshment for the eyes during this hot summer.
Looking toward Maehotaka?
Karasawa
Kitaone Ridge
Morgenrot
Hotaka at Dusk
Karasawa Campsite
Byobu Rock Wall
At Konashidaira
Maehotaka from Dakesawa
Kappa Bridge
At Kamonji Hut
Kamikochi
Mount Yari
Yarisawa