Quiet corners of the Tanzawa Quasi National Park. The lure of the mountains has been strong in 2020. Following a quiet spell during the national emergency in late spring, the major hiking paths have been busy. But it’s the minor paths, deeper in the mountains that have been calling me. I’ve spent a long time researching the way of life for mountain people of old, and the location of old communities, mines and trade routes in Tanzawa – the remnants of which still to be found. Such as ancient masonry that once reinforced the paths to carry pack horses loaded with freshly cut planks of wood from long-gone sawmills deep in the hills, or charcoal from the numerous charcoal burners. Also to be found are the ‘yamagami’ shrines to the mountain god that protect travelers at the highest points of these passes – before traffic was diverted along newer, stronger routes. It was generally believed that the mountain god was an ugly old woman, who was easily upset. There are stories of women wearing old rags to visit the shrine – in order to keep the god from becoming jealous of their beauty.
Nikon F3 / ai-s 50mm f1.2 / Ektar 100
Satoyama Seasons 