For those fortunate enough to be in the right spot at the right time on July 30, Mount Fuji rewarded them with a rare view: "Diamond Fuji," with the sun setting on its peak.
This photo was taken from the Hojo coast in southern Chiba Prefecture, about 110 kilometers from Japan's highest peak.
With Sagami Bay spread out before it, the 3,776-meter mountain looked magestic against the backdrop of an orange sky.
Diamond Fuji is a sight to be savored.
This glorious “Diamond Fuji,” as seen from the Hojo coast in Tateyama, Chiba Prefecture, on July 30 (Tei Shimizu)
Central government to lead volcanic disaster readiness
May 17, 2013The land of the rising sun is also a land of volcanoes, many of which are active and could pose a threat to the nation. In anticipation of potential "large-scale volcanic disasters," an expert panel of the Cabinet Office on May 16 recommended the central government take the lead in working out special readiness measures.
PHOTO: Snow monkey babies popular with visitors to wilderness area
May 12, 2013FUTTSU, Chiba Prefecture--Springtime in all its newness and splendor has arrived in Takagoyama Prefectural Natural Park along with the season's arrival of baby Japanese snow monkeys.
PHOTO: Munch-makeover for traditional doll proves a hit
May 09, 2013NISHI-AIZU, Fukushima Prefecture--Customers have been screaming for traditional Okiagari-Koboshi (getting-up little priest) dolls that have been given an expressionistic twist. Featuring the iconic figure from Edvard Munch's painting "The Scream," the items are so popular that production can’t keep up with demand.
PHOTO: Rainbow brightens sky as terraces open along Kamogawa river
May 02, 2013KYOTO--Mother Nature was at her best for the opening day of the “noryo yuka” season on May 1. Patrons enjoying the cool breezes along the Kamogawa river were treated to a large multicolored rainbow arcing across the horizon after a light springtime shower.
Mt. Fuji to go on World Heritage list, but Kamakura rejected
May 01, 2013Majestic Mount Fuji, the iconic peak that has inspired artists over the centuries, is set to gain UNESCO World Heritage status in June following a recommendation from a key advisory panel.
