Picking Mandarin oranges (mikans)

This area is a little warmer and right now, there are colored leaves in the outskirts of the Tokyo (Japan) area. This is the season for picking Mandarin oranges (or mikan in Japanese).

On November 17, 2006, Kanagawa International Association's Minami Circle had their outing trip. Earlier in the day, we visited a lantern artist's residence and gallery in Yokosuka. It was planned that we would be going to an orchard to pick Mandrin oranges after enjoying lunch.

The weather cooperated with some sunny skies and we were able to enjoy the beginning of the colored leaves in the area.



We visited an orchard in the Tukurihama-Kanko-Noen area of the Miura Peninsula by tour bus.



The trees were beautiful. There were so many delicious fruit ready to be picked.



In order to pick the fruit, clippers are needed. Using these clippers avoids tearing the delicate flesh of the mikans.





As I was leaving, I noticed that there was a schedule, which shows when the crops are ready for harvesting. The one that interested me the most was strawberries... they can be picked from January to May.



This makes me think that I'll be back to during that season because I love delicious strawberries.

more later...

Tateyama Area in the Bosco Peninsula Area of Chiba Prefecture (Japan)

Located in tip of the southern part of Chiba's Boso Peninsula is the Tateyama area. This is a very mountainous region.

This area of Japan is rich in history with many historical symbols.

There is a 50 meter Kannon which is a Goddess of Mercy. The first photo describes the height in Japanese.



This Kannon has been designated as a National Natural Monument. This photo shows the Goddess.



From the road, you can see the stone figure of Buddha at Nihon-ji Temple in the Town of Kyonan. It is carved into the mountainside.



The largest reclining Buddha in Asia is located on a mountainside.



Tateyama Castle is a very well known landmark. It was originally constructed in 1590 by a Samurai warrior whose name is Satomi Yoshiyasu. This structure was reconstructed in 1982. It is worth the visit to the top because the views are lovely.



The Boso Peninsula area is easily accessible by car and train from the Tokyo/Yokohama areas.



more later...

The Tokyo Aqua-Line - Tokyo Bay's Tunnel/Bridge

A tunnel was made under the Tokyo Bay from Kawasaki City to Kisarazu in Chiba Prefecture.

This is the map that shows the route of the Aqua-Line - Tokyo Bay Tunnel/Bridge.



Because of the distance, there is an observation area at a mid-point.



It is amazing the view of the area. This is looking back towards the Yokohama Bay Bridge from the observation area.






more later...