Rikugien Gardens Autumn Illuminations

Tue 9th Dec 2008

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I recently visited 六義園 Rikugien Gardens to see the illuminated leaves. It was a calm and beautiful evening. I almost forgot I was surrounded by busy roads and high-rise buildings.

The name "Rikugien" refers to a system for dividing Chinese poetry into six categories. This system also influenced the division of Japanese Waka poetry. The number six is usually read "roku", but in this case it is pronounced "riku" in keeping with the Chinese pronunciation.

It was busier than usual but there was still plenty of space to get some good shots.

Most of my photos were blurred, but I eventually learnt the right settings to use.

There's usually a load of activity here (below) with the carp and turtles, but the water was very still.

I wish I had more time and a tripod to get some better shots. Next time!

I plan to visit the park at each season. So far I've been in Summer and Autumn, so next up is Winter and Spring!

Comments (imported from the previous Wordpress site)

kwech said on Tue 2008/12/09 12:35 JST:

Great photos, Chris!

Are leaves still turning color in Tokyo?

Chris said on Tue 2008/12/09 14:40 JST:

Thanks :) They're just about finishing here in Tokyo.

Paul Papadimitriou said on Tue 2008/12/09 15:17 JST:

Wow, fantastic pictures.

Jason said on Tue 2008/12/09 23:10 JST:

I like the lead shot best.

Why not able view properties on your Flickr account? That way people can check them and suggest settings and also learn from the settings you use as well?

Chris said on Wed 2008/12/10 07:59 JST:

Thanks

@Jason: Good point, I never really paid much attention to it as I was just pointing and clicking before. Now I'm trying to learn so in future I'll work out how to show the properties. Cheers :)

Alfie Goodrich said on Fri 2008/12/12 23:32 JST:

You got some nice shots here man. The first one is a cracker. Spent a lovely few hours if in Rikugien the other week.

Chris said on Sat 2008/12/13 08:42 JST:

Thanks Alfie! Rikugien is such a lovely area. Btw I read about your photography lessons. I may take you up on that once I've found a job here and you've inspired me to do a few photography projects rather than shoot everything in sight.

Alfie Goodrich said on Sat 2008/12/13 11:19 JST:

Good man. Going out with a plan is a much better way of shooting.