Last week we went to Izu-Kogen for a retreat. It is on the Izu Peninsula about two hours south of Tokyo.

It borders the Pacific Ocean on the east and is known for its hot springs and the scenic coastline- both of which we enjoyed.



We stayed at the Obirin Club - a conference facility that is owned by the Obirin University here in Tokyo.

The university shares the same founder as Obirin University in Ohio.
It is known for being a Christian college.


We were able to enjoy this view of the Sagami Bay each morning- this one we particularly enjoyed.

Utilizing the chairlift we were able to venture to the top of the dormant volcano, Mt Omoro, from there we could enjoy the bay on one side and Mt. Fuji on the other. What a treat, just by turning your head!

This is one of the breakfasts we were served. Each meal was not only pleasing to the eye, but also to the palate. There was always a fish dish, rice, and sliced cucumbers. Depending on the meal, there were variants of the same food. Truly enjoyable!!


Our room not only had the western style bed, but also a tatami room where you could sleep on futons if you wished. We chose to use it for relaxing and enjoying tea.

One of the things we enjoy about Japan is the sculpting of the trees.

On the lower level, there was an onsen (hot water bath) where we could look out and enjoy the view of this garden.

We enjoyed the time away for relaxing and reflecting.

The larger parks here in Japan have acres of cosmos growing in the fall. This is at our local park, Koganei Koen.
Experiencing the beauty of the cosmos is a big attraction for school groups and family outings on the week-ends.


These blossoms on this tree had such a heady fragrance. It was like walking through a mixture of honey and oranges. Martin and I sat on a park bench close by and enjoyed the warm afternoon and the beauty of God's creation.
This is the tree that had the blossoms. The picture doesn't capture how full of blooms it was.
I don't remember the trees last year; maybe the blooms were all gone by the time we discovered this section of the park.

Chrysanthemums have a very special place in Japan's culture. The Emperor adopted it as his official seal in the 1800's. It is on the Japanese passport and at the Shinto shrines.
They are grown sometimes with just one "stalk"; and I say that because they are almost as tall as I am. (Those may be the exhibition variety with a flower nearly 8 inches.)
These are close to our apartment complex entrance.

These are some images of what I will remember about autumn in Japan.