West Hotaka and Okuhotaka Peaks Viewed from Kamikochi ― Late Autumn

Late autumn in Kamikochi. In the valley’s quietude before the mountain closes, the ridgeline from Nishihotaka to Okuhotaka rises, beginning to don its snowy mantle. The forest has shed its leaves, clear air envelops the mountains, and light, tinged with pale purple, sinks as the season wanes. Amidst the vast nature where human presence has vanished, Hotaka solemnly begins its preparations to welcome winter.

Sleeping Snow Streams ― Late Autumn in Okuhotaka

Snow piled deep in the valley of Okuhotaka reflects the soft light of late autumn. The contrast of colors woven by the forest, now bare of leaves, and the snow-covered slopes embodies the very passage of time in the mountains as autumn turns to winter. In Kamikochi, just before the mountain closes for the season, few people remain; only the mountains breathe quietly. (Horseman 4×5)

Beyond the withered trees ― Late autumn in Hotaka

Late autumn in Kamikochi, the peaks of Hotaka shrouded in pale purple air. Beyond the withered larch forest, snow-capped mountains quietly speak of the changing seasons. In the forest where signs of life fade, only the white peaks stand tall and proud, heralding winter’s prelude. (Horseman 4×5)

Late Autumn in the Nishihotaka Range ― The Silent Mountain Slopes

Late autumn in Kamikochi, a season of stillness as the mountain closes. Above the forest stripped bare of leaves, the Nishihotaka Range glows white. A quietness that hints at winter’s approach drifts through the cold air. As the sun dips lower, the mountainsides turn a pale purple, quietly announcing the season’s end. (Horseman 4×5)