Conducting Niigata Photo Tours allow Japan Dreamscapes (JDS) to give back to the community in which we live and work. Niigata has so many off the beaten path locations, that as we formulated a summer Niigata Photo Tour during a small break between the busy spring season with Cherry Blossom Photo Tours, the bustling autumn with Mt. Fuji Photo Excursions, and, of course, winter for Hokkaido and Birding Photo Tours. Many people feel as if Niigata can simply be overlooked as a summertime destination for Japan Photo Tours, but that couldn’t be more wrong!
One of the gems that Niigata hosts is Murakami. Our veteran photo workshop leader has put together a perfectly paced summer photo tour focused on students, especially those looking to brush up some of their photo skills. The one day photo adventure includes a beach excursion and several photo ops with the craggy rocks that circle the beaches as well as the first day’s main attraction, Sasagawa-nagare, a beach famous for its beauty and crystal clear waters.
The second day, however, has a varied itinerary depending on weather conditions and the availability of certain locations around the town of Murakami. The following is a list of some of the destinations that could be on that second day of the Murakami Photography Workshop.
Kannon-ji
A small temple nestled among buildings in Murakami City. The temple is very non-assuming, yet the grounds surrounding it make for a spectacular photo op. The amount of nature and the temple are in perfect balance. Architecturally focused photography is a must while visiting this temple.
Senami-Haguro Shrine
A stone’s throw away is Senami-Haguro Shrine. If the wind is blowing, as you approach, you may hear the telltale ringing of the ‘furin’ or chimes hanging near the shrine entrance. The shrine is known locally for its ornate woodwork that is represented in the building facade as well as the ceremonial bells and tightly-wound, colorful ropes that adorn the various entrances into the temple. Strolling around the temple, you will be taken aback by the spartan beauty that is the Senami-Haguro Shrine Shrine. Your Photo Tour Leader will make sure you are getting as many different perspectives integrated into your photos as possible.
Shopping District
With all the adventuring in Murakami, we will enjoy our afternoon meal while strolling down the main avenue in Murakami to recharge ourselves for the afternoon of photographing the world of samurai. While dining, your photo workshop guide will give you some tips and share what will be ahead in the afternoon to make sure that you can enjoy the best perspectives for capturing the best images that Murakami can provide.
Murakami Castle Ruins
Few castles have such a fraught history as Murakami Castle. Know as the 舞鶴 Maizuru-jo or Dancing Crane Castle when it was constructed. The castle was originally rose from fortifications for samurai on the hill where the castle ruins now remain. Murakami Yorikatsu converted what was once called the Honjo Castle into the style contemporary to the last 16th century with stone ramparts. Some of these ramparts are still available to be seen as you tour the National Historic Site with your photo workshop leader. Watch towers and a donjon were all part of the completed design, but due to the castle’s owner changing several times over the next 100 years, the castle’s maintenance began to slip. Ultimately, Imperial Forces raised the castle leaving what remains now for you to enjoy with your colleagues as you explore the castle ruins.
The Old Residence of the Fujii Family
Visiting the estate of the Fujii Family in Murakami is like opening a time capsule from a bygone age. Again, you will find the location integrated into modern scenery close to Murakami’s downtown. The Fujii family was a family of doctors, but they had a history of samurai in their lineage. One room in their grand estate is dedicated to preserving and showing the armor and decorations the family would have displayed for anyone visiting their home, and you as well may enjoy the view. Make sure that you tour the garden as well. The residence has a garden with flowers matching the season as well as traditional Japanese garden elements. Your photos will be a glimpse of a traditional Japanese residence.
Former Takaoka Residence
The final piece of historical architectural exploration is the Takaoka Residence. Another glimpse of traditional architecture awaits as you can explore the former samurai residence. The spartan living conditions preserved for visitors reflect the dogged determination of the samurai and the appreciation of the pastoral beauty that surrounds their home. When the samurai would lay down their swords, they would pick up the plowshare and tend to their garden. You can enjoy the vaulted ceilings of the residence as well as the information supplied by the local guide who will be answering all your questions.