During a few days off in October, we spent a little time up in Chichibu in western Saitama. Located on a plateau and surrounded by mountains, it has a real feeling of isolation despite being relatively close to Tokyo. Having lived in Japan for a long time now, it’s rare that I get the feeling I did when I first moved here, but this place really struck a chord with me: lots of genuinely old buildings, rickety wooden temples, and an atmosphere that’s both nostalgic and otherworldly.
Normally when I put together blogs like this I write captions for each photo, but I’m not going to here. I feel the atmosphere of the place is better conveyed by just looking at the pictures and imagining the vibe.
IKIMASHO! 
Interesting train with the huge windows… and is that a support for Ukraine flag? (Seventh picture up)
Dear Justin, You got me at your admission for not feeling that amazing ‘thing’ since you were first in Japan. I am so glad this opportunity arose on this trip. The photos DO speak for themselves. Thank you.
Judith (the Bangor connection – remember)
Paul, yes that says ‘Peace in Ukraine’, well spotted. It’s actually in a few other pictures now that you mention it, the one wth the motorbike too. Unusual to see such onwardly vocal political banners in Japan.
Thank you so much for saying hello, Judith!