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On touring to Hakone in the Fuji Hakone Izu National Park about 80km west of Tokyo in the early morning on November 21 2004. "Classic elegance in the mist"

Ditto at Sengokuhara in Hakone on November 21 2004. "Low profile on the misty Japanese silver grass (Miscanthus sinensis) field"

At Kuruwa beach in Hayama in the evening on October 16 2004. You can see Mt. Fuji in the background beyond Sagami Bay. "Glorious eveglow"

Ditto on January 22 2005. "Glorious eveglow 2"

On the east lakeside of Lake Ashi in Hakone in the early morning on November 13 2004, against crimson autumn foliage. "Ashinoko"

Under the wind-powered electric generator at Bishamon in Miura Peininsula on November 20 2004. "Wind-powered"

Feeling like a Top Gun with countermeasure to cold weather in winter. "NAF1092 Leather Flight Helmet"

Like a pilot on the antique biplanes before WW2. "NAF1092 Leather Flight Helmet (purchased on e-bay auction), vintage goggle and USN Type G-1 Jacket (Avirex, NY, USA｡ﾋ"

Spartan Dashboard Layout for fan-to-drive, with no radio/Hi-Fi audio and no air conditioning: (from left to right) Ammeter, water temperature gauge, fuel gauge, revolution counter, oil pressure gauge, and speedmeter "Dashboard"

Weber twin carburetors on Kent 1.6-littre 4-cylinder OHV engine "Weber twin carburetors"

In the early cloudy and rainy morning at Sengokuhara in Hakone on December 12 2004. "With hood"

Under the bouquet of Camellia japonica (Tsubaki in Japanese) during a touring in the early rainy morining on Tsubaki Line in Hakone-Yagawara area on December 12 2004. "Bouquet"

Birds of a feather flock together in a formation at the hard-boiled repair shop Elite Motors in Miura Peninsula on December 11 2004. "Wolf pack"

At Mitohama Beach on the west side of Miura Peninsura on a sunny cold and dry winter day (December 26 2004). Mt. Fuji, invisible today, is beyond Sagami bay in the background. "Sunny"

Ditto at Mitohama Beach (December 26 2004). Desolate seashore in off-season in the background, which is reminiscent of Elizabeth Taylor and California beach in the movie "The Sandpiper" with the melody of "The Shadow of Your Smile" "Desolate"

Mt. Fuji under perfectly clear winter sky, viewed from the southern side, from Otome pass in Hakone-Gotenba junction in the early moring on January 30 2005. I approached this vantage point on my Birkin, ensuring the grip of the tires with half-frosted road surface of R.138. "Mt. Fuji", in which Gotenba city is located in the foreground.

Desolate Lake Ashi (Ashinoko) in off-season winter morning of January 30 2005. I met almost nobody there, actually with no hideous commercialism. "Lake Ashi"

Cautiously climbing the prefectural road No.734 to Owakudani, ensuring the grip of the tires, in the Fuji Hakone Izu National Park on February 5 2005. White small particles scattered on the road surface is KCl for anti-freeze. I must wash the car after the expedition. "Approaching Owakudani"
Arriving at Owakudani in the early morining, with gasping sulfur gas and steam on the background. There was no regular traffic congestion here in this cold off-season, when only mad dogs and strange doctor go out to. "Owakudani"

On the Kurokura River Bridge at Lake Tanzawa, which is located in the Tanzawa-Oyama Quasi National Park in the northwestern part of Kanagawa Prefecture, in the morining of March 5 2005 "Lake Tanzawa"
Ditto in medium-format print film (FSU folder rangefinder camera Moskva-5, 6x9 cm frame, f16-32, 1/250, tripod, Fuji Neopan 100 negative film scanned with Epson GT-X800 at 3200 dpi, compressed and one-level sharpened) "Lake Tanzawa - monochrome"

On one-way Kurokura-Nakagawa Line at Lake Tanzawa in the morining of March 5 2005. "Fremd bin ich eingezogen, Fremd zieh' ich wieder aus.,,,, Ich kann zu meiner Riesen, Nicht wählen mit der Zeit" "Winterreise on Lake Tanzawa"

Panorama view of Mount Fuji (at a distance of circa 17 km) and Lake Yamanaka from the Mikuni pass in the morining of March 21 2005. "Mt Fuji viewed from the east side"

A profile of my Birkin 7 on the Mikuni pass against the background of Mount Fuji in the morining of March 21 2005. "Mikuni pass"

Beautiful contrail over Mt. Fuji stretched by a commercial airliner cruising at high altitude heading to the west in the morining of March 21 2005. "Contrail"

ATC: "Japan Air five two two, maintain flight level two four thousand, turn right heading two seven zero for ,,,"
JAL: "Two four thousand, two seven zero, roger Japan Air five two two" (in deep voice)

My Birkin 7 under Someiyoshino sakura, Prunus Yedoensis, in full-bloom at the foot of Yabitsu Pass on Route 70 during Miyagase touring in the morining of April 9 2005. The sakura - Cherry blossom - is a national unofficial flower of Japan, which blooms for just a couple of days to a week in spring all over Japan. Its trantient fate takes a very prominent position in Japanese culture and mindset. "Yabitsu"

Tranquil Buddhist temple at the foot of Yabitsu Pass during Miyagase touring in the morining of April 9 2005. "Temple"

Yamazakura, Prunus jamasakura, on the bank of Bishamon creek of the Miura Peninsula in the morning of April 10 2005. The Japanese are very fond of this variety for its humbleness reflecting the spirit of traditional Bushido, which is the code of the Japanese samurai, stressing self-discipline, bravery, and simple living. "Yamazakura"

On the local touring road, prefectural Route-70, in Kanagawa on May 21 2005. "R70 - Yabitsu" - I deeply inhale oxygen that the forest exhales, in comparison with someone's argument "I tried xxxx - but didn't inhale".

I mistakenly broke the neck of the corroded side mirror during adjustment, so I scanned reasonable options at the local discount home center, culled a modest one and installed successfully on May 22 2005. "New Mirror", looking good.

At the lake side Yamanaka, which is located just beside Mt. Fuji, in the overcast summer morning of June 25 2005. "Lake Yamanaka"
With elegant swans on the surface "Swan" - Hope we the general pathologists and Sevens with minimalist's philosophy are not singing swan song. ;)

Summer fashion on the Birkin on the seashore line in June 2005. Subjectively I want to feel like Chuck Norris-type macho man, i.e., "Lonesome Cowboy in the Far East" (Ummm, not bad), however, to achieve that fantasy I firstly overcome WIMP factors in the US jargon, or worse, some people would suspect me of some Chinese villain or Woody Allen 2. "Wimpy Chuck"

"Hayama Beach" on August 20 2005, where I swim and get some sun on the weekends during summer season, not necessarily in order to suppress anti-gonadal function of the pineal gland by light stimulus through retina. A part of the white outer wall of the Japanese "Emperor's Villa" can be seen on the right edge of this panorama image. Lately, white Caucasian families are spotted not occasionally on the beach. Be careful to keep clean the beach always, my fellow Japanese!.

"Mount Fuji in late summer" on September 3 2005 from the Mikuni Pass, with Lake Yamanaka in the right edge.

"On the Kuruwa Beach before a backdrop of sunset in late summer" on September 16 2005. As summer passes by, the atmosphere becomes transparent day by day.

I run up to the Fifth Station of Mount Fuji through Route 152 on September 17 2005 with on my loyal Birkin 7. "Approaching Mt. Fuji on Route 23" in a non-threatening way, "Arrived at the Fifth Station" without leakage of engine oil or coolant water from low barometric pressure which is actually not exceptional for this type of DIY hobby car, "Looking up to the summit" in panoramic view, which is abruptly and completely overcast only a few minutes later. I am lucky for this fair weather.

In October 2005, when one year has passed since purchase, my Birkin (1993) undergoes some DIY repair, which is a pragmatic mandate from wallet and a pure and aesthetic joy for average Lotus/Birkin 7 family users. This time I tried painting of my Birkin with Holts sprays, whose plating is unsightly rusting now. "Repair painting" in Shutterfly site (Crick "View pictures", then "View as a slideshow" in the right column. If images advancing too fast, crick "Stop" and "Next"). Brushing off rust, washing and drying, masking with newspaper, spraying three steps of primary surfacer gray, silver, then clear coating. Outcome is satisfactory to me, who was in fact a 1/48-scale plastic aircraft modeler in youth, with fringe preventive effect against disuse atrophy of some of my striated muscles. Ouch!

On the Mitohama Beach of Miura Peninsula with a backdrop of Mount Fuji with the first snow cap in this season, beyond Sagami Bay under clear sky, on October 23 2005.

On October 5 2005, I go around (encircle) Mount Fuji from 10:00AM to 13:00PM. Starting point was "an abondoned restaurant in Otome-Gotenba", whose scenery is foreign to Japanese culture and somewhat allegoric. Firstly, I run up to the Fifth Station of Mount Fuji at Tarobou (south side) which is a different place from that I visited on September 17, however, the summit is invisible this time because of overcast, regrettably. Then, I tours leisurely on R.180-Fuji Skyline-R.72-R.139, admiring the gorgeous landscape of "autumn foliage", "autumn foliage-2". Gas mileage is terrific this day, 243.3 km/15.84 littre = 15.36 km/l !

"Oh ! je voudrais tant que tu te souviennes Des jours heureux ou nous etions amis " (Les feuilles mortes by Yves Montand)

Mount Fuji is observed with thin clouds but clearly on November 19 2005 as winter season approaches. Viewed from Mikuni Pass at 11:30AM on Route 730, above the water of Lake Yamanaka at noon from Route 729 (recommended), and from Oshino Village against the sun at 12:30PM on the side road of Route 138 . Same view in medium-format B/W print film (FSU folder rangefinder camera Moskva-5, 6x9 cm frame, f11, 1/250, with Y2 yellow filter, monopod, Kodak T-Max ASA 100 negative film, scanned with Epson GT-X800 at 600 dpi, resized and one-level sharpened): above the water of Lake Yamanaka at noon from Route 729, and from Oshino Village against the sun at 12:30PM on the side road of Route 138 . These route will be impassable by my Birkin shortly because of snowfall and road surface freezing (Gas mileage; 330 km/24.8 littre = 13.3 km/l)

The summit of Mount Fuji is clearly viewed from the Fifth Station at Tarobou (south side) with its white snowcaps at 10:00AM on November 26 2005, which is once again attacked after cloudy October 5 tour on my Birkin as usual. After this climb, I encircle the Mount Fuji clockwise through Route180, R.72, R.71, which is an easy-going country road longitudinally running on the west side of the Mountain, and R.21, to reach the shore of Lake Sai (Lake West), which is located to the north of Mt.Fuji (Gas mileage; 227 km/16.9 littre = 13.4 km/l)

Mount Fuji above the water of Lake Yamanaka under perfectly clear winter sky at 10:00AM on December 17 2005 from northeast side (circa 14 km distance) in medium-format B/W print film (FSU folder rangefinder camera Moskva-5, 6x9 cm frame, f16, 1/250, with Y2 yellow filter, monopod, Kodak Tri-X 400 negative film, scanned at 600dpi by Epson GT-X800 and trimmed by IrfanView with no retouching (263KB), with partially enlarged view of the route of the climb near the summit. The summit of Mount Fuji observed from Kagosaka Pass (10 km distance to the east side) on the Route 138 on December 17 2005 (digital with Coolpix).

Tatsuo Hasegawa at age just before 90 on New Year's Day (January 1 2006, shot with Minolta DiMAGE X50), who is a retired automobile and formerly aircraft engineer/designer, cannot resist his curiosity on Birkin 7 (or Lotus 7). His concept formulation of TOYOTA SPORTS 800 (aerodynamically-sophisticated light-weight sports car with supreme fuel efficiency) was about 10 years later than that of Colin Chapman's Lotus Seven, though, he seems to have felt very nostalgic with this bumpy driving experience at Hayama in the freezing winter weather, commenting "This car is similar to my Sports 800, Umm". Please remember that he is at age 90 and still loves sports driving! (Link: My Father Tatsuo Hasegawa)

On Mitohama Beach of Miura Peninsula, facing Sagami Bay, on the clear day (2006.1.8). I love this relaxing time in every Sunday morning, puffing at my pipe. Actually, on this day, my Birkin hit 20,000 km on the distance recorder.

Snowcapped Mount Fuji over the reflecting frozen surface of Lake Yamanaka, under perfectly clear sky at 10:00AM on February 11 2006. Ditto in medium-format B/W print film (FSU folder rangefinder camera Moskva-5, 6x9 cm frame, f11, 1/250, with Y2 yellow filter, monopod, Kodak Tri-X 400 negative film, scanned at 800dpi by Epson GT-X800 and resized by IrfanView with no retouching (118KB). This snow cap is almost maximal, please compare with above images on November 19 and December 17 2005. The surface was almost completely frozen on circa January 10 2006, maximum 20 cm thick, for the first time in the 22 years since 1984. My Birkin on the parking lot againt the background of snowcapped Mt. Fuji and my portrayal with a new helmet purchased from former USSR through e-bay. This type of old-fashioned but high-quality helmet was used by TU-16 crew member in the past (Reference: Braybrook R, Skrynnikov S and Yakutin L. Russian Warriors. Sukhois, MIGs and Tupolevs. Osprey Publishing, London, 1993, ISBN 1-85532-293-5), in contrast to the currently used one. Still frozen landscape of the lakeside on return road.

Transient snow fall in early spring on the crest of the Route 1 between Kowakudani and Motohakone, Hakone, on March 4 2006. Spring is near. Mountain view from the same locus and overview of Lake Ashi from Kojiri in medium-format B/W print film (FSU folder rangefinder camera Moskva-5, 6x9 cm frame, f22, 1/100, with Y2 yellow filter, monopod, Kodak Tri-X 400 negative film, scanned at 700dpi by Epson GT-X800 and resized and one-step sharpened by IrfanView).

I enjoyed looking at Prunus mume - 1 and Prunus mume - 2 in full bloom at Soga Prunus mume (Japanese plum) Garden in Odawara City on March 11 2006. Then traversed snow-lingering Mikuni Pass to Lake Yamanaka, when Mount Fuji was invisible because of dense overcast. I am looking forward to the first signs of cherry blossoms now.

In the early spring when the sakuras are in full bloom, I tour on Route 23 and 152 on the south slope of Mount Fuji on April 22 2006. The life of a cherry blossom is very short.

The summit of Mount Fuji is clearly viewed from the Fifth Station at Tarobou (south side) with its residual white snowcaps at 10:00AM on May 5 2006. Please compare with the image on October 26 2005 posted above.

To please the inspector of compulsory automobile inspection (24 months interval) in Japan, I fit the elatic gum trim to the leading edge of the front mudguards, ditto seen from the different angle. The tirm was purchased at the loca discount home center at less than 500 Yen for 50 cm, which was packing metal clasp to anchor. Let's tuck it in lightly with wooden mallet. The original idea was from the reference (Ron Champion. Build Your Own Sports Car for as little as ｡・50 and Race It, 2nd edition. Haynes Publishing, Somerset, UK, 2000, ISBN: 1-85960-636-9). BTW, my Birkin underwent 12-month-periodic inspection successfully this May at a very moderate price.

After the latest 12-month-inspection in May done at the usual repair shop, when I used the opportunity to increase the idling RPM, because the engine often stalls at halts at traffic light, they adjusted too much, i.e., after engine warms up, it over-rotates at traffic signals, circa 1,400-1,600 RPM. It's a bit noisy and obviously the engine is consuming too much fossil fuel to contribute the greenhouse effect. So I decided to micromanage with DIY, and firstly consulted the mailing list for seven owners in Japan (Seven-ML at http://www.labnet.or.jp/~arai/seven-ML/seven-ml.html), on how to adjust the idling RPM. The response was quick and exact, indicating me to turn a screw (throttle adjust screw) on the Weber carburettor (indicated by three red arrows) that is next to the whitish one. Through some trial and error process, I could adjust the RPM to 600 at engine start and circa 1,000 after warm-up, by winding the screw circa 90 degrees anti-clock-wise. These sites too may be helpful to you; Weber DCOE carburettors, ditto in pdf file, ditto in Spanish. Mechanical engineering dominates here in Seven World, aka Parallel Universe (Many-worlds interpretation, of quantum physics).

Rainy season has come to Japan. Waiting for a lull in the rain, I am touring in new green leaves at Mikuni Pass, to the ease of Mount Fuji, on June 10 2006. Mount Fuji has the last lingering snow on the cap under overcast sky (Lake Yamanaka in the right side of this picture). One more Sevenisque view of Mount Fuji with a reflecting image of me on the silver-gilted surface of the right head lump shell. Fuel consumption rate was 14.9 km/littre (168 km/ 11.3 litre) today.

As a countermeasure to long touring under the blazing hot sun in the summer, I purchased white canvas top (so-called "Bikini Top" in Japanese). Two silhouettes of my Birkin at a scenic overlook at the Lake Motosu (the parking lot of the prefectural R.71), New canvas top 1 (Lake Motosu on the left edge), New canvas top 2 (caudal view). In fact, visibility of twelve o'clock high is hidden, impairing the liberating feeling peculiar to the open two seater. It is the trade-off between fatigue from sunburn vs. fun to drive.

On a routine early Saturday morning touring along the Shonan Beach on Route 134, I nearly clash head-on (joke!) with a pleasure boat on August 26 2006. From the viewpoint of low-profile Seven, it looks like the shark launching into a savage attack on me, usind her upper hand.

There is already autumn flavor in the air at Mikuni Pass to the east of Mount Fuji on September 9 2006, feeling loneliness with coming out Japanese silver grass.

Scale model of Lotus Super 7 series II (1/24) is still available from TAMIYA, which my daughter Naoko spotted and gifted to me this summer. I began to construct this model, after a long interval after I showed a fervor for scale plastic models in youth, engrossed and hand-painted minutely with use of brush and enamel paint. I will show you some pictures: Diolama-2, Diolama-1, Near completion, In the garage, Anatomy, Behind the scenes (in production).

Cycad trail in Miura Peninsula under smiling skies on September 25 2006. Mabori Beach on the east side of Miura Peninsula (neighboring Yokohama) is famous for its avenue lined with cycad. Low angle, Over the top. I wonder if the concept originator of this road may have been humming California Dreamin' (1968) by The Mamas and The Papas, 'All the leaves are brown, and the sky is gray. Ive been for a walk on a winter's day,,'

The day after the medium-strength typhoon passes away the northern half of Honshu Island of Japan, I tour around Mount Fuji clockwise on R.139 and 138 on October 7 2006. Making sure on the weather map that the strong and dry wind is blowing from the north west side to Mt. Fuji, I hit the trail under the promising windy and clear sky with mild curl cloud, expecting the photogenic silhouette of the mountain, however, I lose the calculated bet this day. The cloud is always covering the summit when viewing from any angle during rotating around the orbit. From the North View Line of Lake Saiko at 10:30AM, and the northern shore of Lake Yamanaka at 11:30AM (Mount Fuji seen from the east-northeast side). Anyway, the ideal condition for perfect photos can be met only once or twice a season, i.e. autumn to the next early spring. Bright spot this day is Asagiri Plateau on the west skirt, to my salvation, which is a famous gliding field for hang glider. After returning Hayama Town after noon, I once again go out on Birkin to share the beauty of twilight after sunset on Kuruwa Beach on the west coast of Miura Peninsula. Izu Peninsula is seen over the pier and Sagami Bay.

Superficial security is the greatest enemy. During a casual touring in the Miura Peninsula on October 22 2006 (odometer at 26,652 km), abnormal noise abruptly happens, accompanying detonating sound and clatter. I make a stop at the roadside empty lot and examine the car, spotting the unbundled muffler at the mid junction. Watchful examination reveals a stress-induced rupture of the bracket (Red arrows). Using prepared wire, the insecure muffler is hang as an emergency measure, in order to avoid the additional fracture of the backside supporting member, and I bear the car at a slow speed to the attending auto-repair garage Elite Motors at Miura Beach, where the meister skillfully gas-welds the fracture. Fot the time being, I hope the trouble will not recur.

I once again run up to the New (not Tarobou) Fifth Station of Mount Fuji (after the previous September 17 2005 attack) through Route 23-152 (aka Mount Fuji Skyline) on September 29 2006. When I survey the Mount Fuji as usual from the Otome Pass of Hakone over Gotenba City at 8:30AM, she is totally covered with overcast and I lay out today's plan as simply encircling the Mount for second best, without even expecting viewing her silhouette at all. As I forge ahead on the southern skirt on very quiet off-season Route 23, I become totally far removed from the practical world, being attracted to the beautiful autumn colour of leaves Autumn leaves 1, Autumn leaves 2, Autumnal leaves 3. When I am advancing, the clear view of Mount Fuji abruptly appears unexpectedly, probably because I penetrate the thick cloud layer, so I steer to the summit. When I finally reach the parking lot, the sky is perfectly clear over the field of clouds, and the summit of the Mount Fuji, which is yet without snowcap and certainly not gorgeous (ha, ha, ha), is clearly visible. My Birkin is cruising over the cloud (Birkin on the fly), and I feel like a historic biplane aviator before the WW2, Woody Allen-type timid Top Gun (laugh).

Water pump is replaced at odometer 27,000 km on November 11 2006, because of increasing leak of coolant fluid lately. New part was obtained on the net at SUZUSHO (No English page available), and installed at Elite Motors as usual. The procedure is released to the public domain, using Shutterfly page, by the kindness of Meister Sakamoto. Crick [View pictures], then [View as a slide show] at the right column on the next page. The meister was using chemical gasket (Pitwork brand) additionally on the attaching paper(?) gaskets. Coolant filling after the installment of the new pump was impressive, i.e., intermittently filling the fluid from the reserve tank while reving up the engine on again, off again with roaring sound for about 10 minutes. It took about 1 hour with two mechanics (meister and his disciple). DIY is possible, if you have working space in the middle of nowhere (Blasting out coolant fluid when dismounting the old pump, detonating sound when re-filling the coolant,,)

February 11 2007 is the best and only weekend in this season for shooting the Mount Fuji. Firstly I run up the Hakone Pass from Odawara, down to the Gotenba City, then, through R246-Suganuma-Prefectural R151-Subashiri-Kagosaka Pass, reaches Lake Yamanaka, which is located to the north side of the Mount Fuji. Mount Fuji is seen crystal clear from the Nagaike Sinsui Park at the north beach of the lake. I take it easy for a while with satisfaction, murmuring "This is the life, C'est la vie!" (in not too much sarcastic sense). After shooting with digital camera, Canon rangefinder and FSU folder rangefinder camera Moskva-5 (6x9 cm frame), I spur to the next destination Mikuni Pass, where I snap pictures of my Birkin with Mount Fuji in the background (wide angle), and (zoom up). You can grasp the overall view of the Mount Fuji, Lake Yamanaka (center) and Mikuni Pass (right edge) with the reconstructed panorama view from three photos. After checking the weather forecast in the previous evening, I waked up early this morning, departed Hayama at 7:00AM, and touched down at 15:00PM, so I was driving on the tight seat for 8 hours under the winter weather. Yes, this is the long-endurance real sports for a crazy mid 50's.

Unsuccessful sortie on February 24 2007. At departure from Hayama at 7:00AM, the sky was clear and the condition appeared to be perfectly photogenic, however, when I reached Otome Pass of Hakone the summit of Mount Fuji was covered with cloud. Then, I hastened to Mikuni Pass, and I was disappointed again there with the same thick overcast. My Birkin looked somewhat modest reflecting my dismay and withered winter scenery. But, just remember, this is an average yield for weekend photographer for pleasure. God's gift is only once a season.

The odometer hit over 30,000 km on March 04 2007. As this photo shows, I noticed this fact after the meter indicates 50 km over 30,000, actually 70 km after the tank was filled and the trip mater was reset. The rim metal is focally rubbed raw and rust. In the morning the day before, I toured Hakone-Lake Ashi as usual, and parked my birkin at Motohakone, the lakeside of Ashi, in juxtaposition with a yellow Ferrari F355 by chance (3.5 L, V8, 1994-2000, ｡・0,000 for a 1995 M-registered Berlinetta to around ｡・8,000 for a 1999 S-registered example). Birkin's morphological distinctness, honesty and seasoned elegance is highly noticeable, compared with sensual refinement and sexual provocation of the dashing Ferrari.

Pursuing the "Best Before End" (Motto of Fortnum and Mason, Piccadilly, London, printed on their green tea can) cherry blossom of this season tardily, I tour in the north west region of Kanagawa Prefecture on April 14 2007. Mount Fuji is covered with cumulus cloud when viewed from Mikuni Pass at 9:20 this morining, however, I beforehand encounter Cherry blossom, Prunus yedoensis, in the mountain village to the east of Fuji Speedway, (ditto enlarged). Then I trail from the lakeside of Yamanaka to Route 413 Doshi Road, where I spot occasionally humble blossom of Rhododendron, Ericales, Rhododendron dilatatum at the idyllic farm house, (ditto enlarged) , Prunus pendula, (ditto overview), Peach, Prunus persica cv. Genpeishidare, (ditto enlarged). More Sakura stuff, please visit my Shutterfly site Sakura (crick View pictures, then View as a slide show in the left column).

I tour around Mount Fuji under spring clear sky on April 29 2007 (first time this year), enjoying the perfect boon to shoot. Starting from the Otome Pass (to the southeast of Fuji) at 8AM, I encircle the Mount clockwise to the Fifth Station of Mount Fuji at Tarobou (to the south, through prefectural Route 152) with its residual white snowcaps at 9:00AM, Asagiri Plateau (to the west side of Fuji, on Route 139) at 10AM, Bird Sanctuary Park of Saiko (to the north of Fuji) at 10:30AM, Saiko (to the north-northwest of Fuji, on the north lake side) at 10:30AM, Saiko-2 (ditto), Lake Kawaguchi (to the north-northeast of Fuji, from the north lakeside, you can see a contrail by a commercial airliner) at 11AM, Lake Kawaguchi-2 (ditto), and to Mikuni Pass (to the east-northeast of Fuji) at 1PM. This was a photoperfect day that I've had in a while.

My Birkin successfully passed the compulsory automobile inspection of Japan on May 8 2007, at 31,400 km odometer, second time since I acquired her (First pass at 13,000 km on May 21 2005). This time the meister at Elite Moters replaced cork cam-cover gasket (yellow arrow, SP: spark plug), from where oil leaks had been notices for some time past. After receiving the automobile inspection certificate and the car, I go on an afternoon excursion to Yabitsu Pass-1, Yabitsu Pass-2 on prefectural Route-70, in Kanagawa, which is full of fresh verdure of spring. Canvas top (so-called "Bikini Top" in Japanese) is re-installed to ease direct sunlight (see images dated July 2006)

Summer season has come. I tour to Yabitsu Pass on August 4 2007 for some temporary rest with forest bathing, hearing the sound of a stream. On a return route, I encounter a Lamborghini Countach LP500S(?) with a resonant baritone sound, whose vehicle height is as low as my Birkin 7, at the seaside Enoshima on R.134. On the next day, I perform self-imposed annual swimming (fitness) training at Isshiki Beach of Hayama, performing tortoise-pace crawling (For a panorama view of the beach from the other angle, see the image on August 20 2005).

My wife and I toured on the tight Birkin with white canvas top and no air conditioning (!) on an extremely hot day when the outdoor temperature hit over 35 degrees Celsius. At first we reached Otome pass in Hakone-Gotenba junction, where we confirm the satisfying overview of Mount Fuji for this season and proceed to Mikuni pass. We enjoy the sensory pleasure of Mt.Fuji in summertime, ditto in panoramic view. After returning to Hayama, I splash into the sea water at Hayama Isshiki Beach to seek coolness. You should laugh, here is an wimpy middle-aged pathologist who dreams of iron man,,,,, or on-stage alter ego Humphrey Bogart?

Since Pirelli P2000 tyres from the first owner｡ﾇs days (1994?) have become 70% worn, I replace with economic YOKOHAMA DNA ECOS tyres at the auto parts chain store AUTOBACS Yokosuka at odometer 34,000 km on September 22 2007. After returning Hayama, I happen to experience two separate incidents of over-night air leakage (no problem at night, but flattened next morning; The first time with left front and rear tires, the second time a week later with bilateral rear tyres). After examining carefully with AUTOBACS, the Meister Sakamoto of Elite Motors and nearby gas station staff, mechanical interference between tyre valve core and valve cap is revealed culprit because splaying with cleaning surfactant demonstrates air leakage from the base of the caps. Eventually, I replace caps from original decent metal ones to played-out synthetic resin(?) ones and 4 cores. So far so good, and I enjoy Lake Tanzawa tour on October 13, 2007 and Mitohama Beach promenade1 (Kamisuwa Shinto Shrine) and 2 (Mito Beach) on October 14, 2007 (shot with new Pentax Optio E40 -8 mega pixel-).

I tour around Mount Fuji on the now settled new tyres on October 20 2007. As usual, I start from the Otome Pass at 8:30AM, from where the clouds are observed hanging low at the foot of the Mount Fuji, i.e., over Gotenba City. At 9:30 I reach the 5th station of Mt. Fuji at Tarobo 1, Tarobo 2. The autumn clouds here are drifting by swiftly. I tour clockwise and pass through Asagiri plateau on the west skirt at about 10:30, and reach Lake Shojin 1, backlight Mt. Fuji over Lake Shojin 2, which is narrowest among Fuji Five Lakes, located to the northwest of Mt. Fuji, and this is the first visit by my Birkin. Autumn color of leaves is prematurely seen at Bird Sanctuary Park near Lake Sai. Mt. Fuji is seen over Lake Yamanaka at about 12:30, with first snowcap on the top and overcast on wide skirts. Mikuni Pass is already covered with Miscanthus sinensis, and dominated by autumn flavor. On the next day, I tour Miura Peninsula, and stop at Bishamon wind turbine generator system. Then, I drop by Meister Sakamoto, who is attending technologist for my Birkin and CEO (playing manager) at Elite Motors, and is currently involved in the R and D project of the emission control system for secondhand but very expensive special-purpose heavy construction vehicle, with diesel engine with turbocharger with intercooler, in order to clear the tighter emission standard of Japan that is newly enforced since this October. He is seasoned, and I always view him as an American-style lone-wolf overachiever/challenger.

Intensive maintenance and repair in winter season. After spotting the front wheel swing arms gradually showing rust once again since my repair painting in October 2005, I re-splay with Holts wheel paint color (W-4 silver) after masking with papers on December 1 2007. In the new year, on January 12 2008, I re-paint also the rusted front grill and cooling fan. Firstly, rust is scraped away from the fan and motor using metal brush, and masking paper is plugged into the gap, followed by splaying shassis black paint. The grill is separately worked up; splaying entirely with shassis black as ground coat, then brush-painting only the horizontal ribs with silver. At the end, I splay the currently worked parts with Holts gloss clear. My workmanship which is just like finishing plastic scale models is checked at the garage and on the Mitohama beach. Additionally, rusting on the front lamp base is fixed on January 19 2008. After rust was scraped with metal brush and fine sandpaper, I splay with Holts W-4 silver. As for rust inside the cubicle, I splay blindly with shassis black, then finish entirely with Holts A-4 clear. Operation setup is as usual. In late February and early March, coating with wax and polishing with Pikal (emulsified liquid chemical) is done.

Birkin in snow scape: In the morning after it was reported that the snow deposited in mountain region of Kanto area, I dare to tour the Hakone area on February 10 2008. It is fine day and there is no snow in Odawara City, the foot of Hakone Pass, so I proceed on the Route 1 to Hakone. When I pass Miyagino, snowscape begins on R.138 Leg 1, Leg 2 (Look at number 138 on the road sign), but it appears breezy still, road surface is wet but not frozen. After I pass on Sengokubara to Otome Pass, the landscape drastically changes, Leg 3, snow-broth is spread over the road surface, which prompt me to turn around (retreat) Leg 4. During this tour, I certainly keep my tense but I never feel the loss of tyre's grip. BTW, I don't confirm snow chains on other local people's cars. After this tour, I nervously wash out the antifreezing agent disseminated on the road and adhered to the bodywork. In the evening of the same day, I admire at Kuruwa Beach the crisp silhouette of Mount Fuji in its afterglow of the sunset over the Sagami Bay. On February 16 2008, I again challenge to approach Mount. Fuji, and this time I pass through Otome Pass of Hakone and Kagosaka Pass without difficulty, though the road surface is a bit wet, but with no melging snow. I dare to proceed on to Lake Yamanaka, whose north lakeside I reach at 10:30AM and I appreciate the solemn beauty of Mount Fuji for the first time at close range in this year 2008. The weather map analysis of this day shows that of a typical winter day in Japan, i.e., high pressure center is located on the Asian continent (China) and low pressure center on the north Pacific ocean, as a result wind is blowing from the west to the east. Viewed from the north side, the east foot of Mount Fuji is covered with turbulent cloud, and lake surface is partially frozen. I move a little way to the snowpacked north-west shore, and admire Mount Fuji from a slightly different angle. I head back at 11:00AM for home through dry surfaced Kagasaka Pass.

I explore Aburatubo Yacht Marina, (ditto in panoramic view with Mt. Fuji in the center) at leisure, located in the west coast of Miura Peninsula, on February 24 2008.

First pass-through Mikuni Pass to the vantage point for Mount Fuji in 2008. On March 1, I approach Mikuni Pass from the south (Fuji Speedway side) to stumble onto the "road closed" sign, where I stop and inquire the driver of a car oncoming trafic lane about the road surface condition along the way, who kindly answers "No problem, you can pass". Encouraged by this but still on full allert, I forge then come upon the crew removing icy snow with construction equipments, who gives me instruction to go. This is probably the first full-scale and final removing operation in this season, conveying the arrival of spring. Anyway, I pass through Mikuni Pass without trouble (road surface is largely dry excluding very limited frozen section, however, at least one lane is passable), and appreciated Mount Fuji whose summit is hidden by the clouds. When I call in Elite Moters on the next day, after succeeding the national compulsory automobile inspection of the construction vehicle (see description on October 20 2007), Meister Sakamoto is now being involved in his next project, to clear a large motor caravan (camper) lately imported from Germany of the tighter emission standard of Japan for diesel engine. This car seems Hymermobil-Mercedes.

On March 22, I finally come upon Best Mount Fuji in this season 2007-2008. As usual, I foresee the glorious yield of this day's tour, when getting the first visual of Mount Fuji from Otome Pass at 9:00AM. I haste to Mikuni Pass, because it is always possible that weather condition abruptly worsens over the summit and cloud arises, but, O.K. no problem, the sky continue to be clear when I arrive at Mikuni Pass at 10:00. Heavy rain the night before followed by high gale blowing off the mist and vapor guarantees the nice picture, it is my empirical proof. I feel satisfaction (less-expressive, though ;) with a perfect landscape in a long time, and my loyal birkin too appears proud. Then, I steer downhill and park the car in the parking lot of the Lake Yamanaka (north side). Under this situation, Mount Fuji appears grande dame than usual (panoramic view), still much more when accompanying relaxed swans!.

On March 29 2008, the scenic condition of Mount Fuji from Mikuni Pass is satisfactory in a row.

Cherry blossom covering Birkin 7. On April 5 and 6, I fully enjoy myself with full sakura (cherry) blossom in just arrived spring. I visit Mikuni Pass at 9:00Am as usual to see Mt. Fuji slightly clouded, where international Caucasian visitors exactly arrive on the bus, some speaking distinct German and some noticing and snap shooting my Birkin, and then I swing backward to Yugawara through Tsubaki (Camellia japonica) Line. Cherry blossom is in full blossom in association with Camellia, ditto, enlarged. In Yugawara, Peach, Amygdalus persica, is found on the road side, ditto, enlarged. Actually, it is sometimes difficult for me to differentiate between sakura (cherry blossom), ume (Prunus mume) and peach. On Route 135 to Odawara, I notice a gorgeous Sakura in full blossom and once again stop and shoot. On April 6, I get comfortable on Mitohama Beach under Sakura in transition to young leaves.

After picking up head rests on net auction, which were advertised as from TOYOTA RAV4, I installed them as add-on (extra precaution against whiplash injury) on April 12 2008, which are being hold firmly after inserting strongly between contact surfaces of back rest and external back wall of the seats.

My Birkin hits the odometer 40,000 km on July 5 2008 on the road to Daiyuzan Temple located north to Odawara City, where the multihued hydrangea, Azisai in Japanese, was in full blossom in the dense cedar forest (Photo 1, Photo 2, Photo 3). In fact, most lately since June I was feeling slow response to my accelerator push with insufficient torque output compared with the feeling in the past. So, I tried DIY replacement of the spark plugs (NGK PBP7ES, previous replacement was done at odometer 20,000 km in January 2006) of Kent engine, which promptly induced idling rpm from 1,000 to 1,600 and recovery of very smart feeling when hitting the accelerator. When examining the replaced plugs (From left to right, 1st cylinder to 4th, the 1st and 2nd plugs burn well sunny-yellow evenly, whereas the 3rd is blackened and somewhat wet and the 4th is whitish dry). On July 6, I hastened to the Elite Motors and requested Meister Sakamoto to readjust the screws of the posterior carburetor for proper air-fuel ratio.

On July 12, I toured to Mikuni Pass to view Mount Fuji in summer green hue, Photo 1, Photo 2, Photo 3. After returned to Hayama, I jumped into the sea water of His Majesty's Isshiki Beach (the horizontal white wall is of his resort villa). In fact, the replacement of the spark plugs and electrical-contact shower-splay into the plug-cable terminals contributed the improvement of fuel consumption from 11 km/l on July 5 to over 14 km/l on this day. However, I noticed the fine abnormal noise originated from the muffler on the return road, and detailed check revealed the slackening bolt and nut at the base of the muffler stay. The difficulty was when I tried to clench the bolt only from the outside, using a torque wrench, the internal nut rotates accorgingly and I could not fasten it. I ended up to dismount the passenger's seat by dismantling the bottom cushion plate, lifting from the rear end, and unclasp the four bolts (yellow arrows), which are directly screwed into the steel frame with no nuts. Finally, I could fasten the bolt from the underside tenaciously, while holding the nut (red arrow) from the inside simultaneously. It is the pleasure inherent in Seven car category to be able to accomplish with DIY through careful consideration and reasoning (and minimal cost = your labor).

Neck fracture of the ball joint of the rear lateral rod (panhard): When driving on the Seisho Bypass just south to Odawara City in the early morning on August 9 2008, abnormal noise - kan, kan, kan - abruptly disrupted cheerful mode, prompting parking at the turnout area. After stopping, engine idling sounds o.k., and underside examination finally pointed out the fractured and hang-loose lateral rod from the right rear wheel side, which was bouncing and beating the road surface. I gerry-rigged using wire, carryied on a daily basis, hoisting the rod (arrows: lateral rod). After calling Meister Sakamoto, I beared vector to the Elite Motors, where he removed the lateral rod (arrows: fractured point of the neck of the joint component). The fractured point is indicated on the parts list, and on the enlarged image. ｡｡Fractured surface indicated metal fatigue, a half-cross an old damage and the other half new - distal portion with a ball joint, and proximal portion. Before starting electric welding, the Meister carefully detached internal brass section with use of press machine, because brass would melt by heat of the weld. Then, he welded the fractured ball-joint component. Finally, the Meister reassembled the ball-joint to the body (arrows: hanging welded ball-joint), and screwed into the lateral rod (arrows: nut thread). He recommended me to search the rod parts on the net, because welded portion is not so durable as the virgin parts. On the trial run on the next day, the weld seems durable at least for a while. On the other hand, I purchased a cheap grease gun (AZ 2way 80 G901, circa 1,000 Yen) at DIY shop in Yokosuka with two nozzles (a sharp nozzle for slits, costing 500 Yen, and one for grease nibble), and a cartilage with silicon grease (green, costing 300 Yen) for lubrication of ball joints (piloballs) and other mechanical sliding surfaces. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. ｡｡

Leakage of the brake fluid from the drum brake of the rear wheel: At Friday night on August 29 2008, when I arrived at Hayama and checked Birkin after a two-week interval, I noticed a lax brake pedal easily reaching the floor without resistance, which was revealed due to decreased brake fluid level in the master cylinder container. In the next morning, the brake fluid was filled at the nearby gas station, however, watchful follow-up is needed for a while, and I must always carry a spare bottle of brake fluid when going out to drive. On the evening of September 12 when I return to Hayama from Tokyo after a two-week interval, brake fluid is being leaked again, and this time the origin is obvious as left rear wheel drum brake unit. Anyway, I confirm the yellow warning lamp for break fluid on the instrument panel is certainly working. After consulting with Elite Motors for repair, I put my Birkin into the garage at 15PM on September 22 2008. I am carefully monitoring the whole process of this surgical operation by Meister Sakamoto and his desciples for three hours, occasionally helping as an apprentice (sort of surgical resident). It is fairly resistant to detach the left rear brake drum because of anomalous friction between brake drum and linings, but he finishs somehow forcefully. In fact, the anatomy of the drum brake is very complex, however, the leaking point is revealed as wheel cylinder as being suspected due to age-related damages to the two cups, functioning by fringe pressure by fluid, and boots (Image of piston with cup). They find out the minute serial number of the parts engraved on the back of the piston cylinder, and search the compatible ones, and after a while the apprentice drives to and picks the parts up from the depot of the nearby trader. During this operation, they occasionally refer to the healthy and undismounted right-side wheel. It appears a rigid rule never to dismount both sides simultaneously when repairing the byzantine drum brakes.

Paint of the front disk brake caliper: In the morning of September 22 2008, I detach the front wheels, wash the caliper with detergent and water, then dry with a hair dryer hastily, and paint them RED. From the standpoint of glance, it appears no more than a modest facelift, but subjectively my strange love deepens,,,

On September 27 I tour encircling Mount Fuji clockwise from Gotenba, which is in fact 8th one, checking the lately repaired rear drum brake for any sign of leakage. When I return to Hayama and examine the car, I disclose the rupture of the ball-joint rod-end attached to the stabilizer of the front wheels. I experience twice within two-months interval the break of the rod end! I dismount the ruptured rod end, whose model number my friends on the Japanese mailing list for Sevens tell is most likely THK POS8 (right- or left-hand screw). As this failure does not disturb the safety of usual driving, excluding mission-critical circuit one, I apply wire as a temporary fix, while I order the replacement parts on the net. On October 4 I install the obtained parts which is just fit.

On October 4 2008, I tour to Mikuni Pass to view Mount Fuji in early autumn hue. After I look side to the Fujispeed Way (FSW) (2008 FIA Formula One World Championship on October 12, a cut-through field in the left side of this image), I reach Mikuni Pass with a view of Mount Fuji across Japanese pampas grass field (Fuel consumption: 14.5 km/l for over 250 km distance).

On October 18 I tour once again to encircle Mount Fuji clockwise from Gotenba, which is 9th one. Leaves are turning yellow already on the south foot of Mount Fuji on Prefectural Route 23. The air is a bit misty, when viewing Mt. Fuji from the west foot. I eat lunch at the lakeside of Saiko, where leaves are turning red, e.g., at the Saiko Bird Sanctuary. On return path on Route 138 on the east foot of Mt. Fuji, I notice sharp and large sounds to stop at the Auto Paradice Gotenba, on which they insist "European style racing kart".

On October 25 2008 I return to the 5th station of Mount Fuji at Tarobo on the south foot in order to appreciate yellow and red leaves. At Hakone on Route 1, the leaves still do not fully turn color, however, driving down north to Gotenba City, then climbing again north and approaching 5th station, the landscape is distinctly full of autumn leaves in the mist; photo-1, photo-2, photo-3 (panorama). In fact, on this day, I experience several engine stall on the road, e.g., during idling on the go-stop, or going down on the Hakone route, therefore I check the spark plugs after touchdown to Hayama, which show some uneven burn (anterior two vs. posterior two), but no evidence of serious failure.

On November 1 2008, full-transistor ignitor unit and coil are replaced at Elite Motors in Miura Beach with parts that are purchased through internet from Suzusho. Old parts (ignitor unit - 1, ignitor unit - 2 and coil) are carefully replaced by Meister Sakamoto with new ones (ignitor unit - 1, ignitor unit - 2 and coil), with special caution to hard-wiring, recalling the mishap of delayed delivery of Airbus A-380. Post-installation test-run finishes with no problem, i.e., no engine stall. So far, so good.

Engine stall incidents disappear to my relief, and on November 9 I replace the side mirror: The new rectangular one, the previous one (refer to the description on May 22 2005), the original one when purchased.

On November 23 2008 I tour once more again to encircle Mount Fuji clockwise from Gotenba, which is 10th one. Views from Otome Pass of Hakone (east-southeast side of Fuji, vector circa 300). from the west foot (vector 90), across Saiko (north side, contre-jour, vector 180-, noon), across Lake Kawaguchi (contre-jour, vector 180+). Leaves are turning yellow and red on the north shore of Lake Kawaguchi. Obviously, the snow starts to accumulate in the late autumn and early winter season from the south side of its mountain peak.

The sky is crystal clear and dry on November 30 2008 in Kanto area of Japan. Mount Fuji is clearly seen from Mitohama Beach of the Miura Peninsula across Sagami Bay (vector circa 300, distance 70km) - Photo-1, Photo-2.

On December 6 2008, I tour Lake Tanzawa, after checking cloudy Mt. Fuji in spite of clear sky from Otome Pass of Hakone, to immerse myself to the late autumn/early winter colours - Photo-1, Photo-2, Photo-3. After returning to Hayama, I appreciate Mt. Fuji across Sagami Bay in the sunset from Shonan Village for International Exchange. In the morning of December 7, I again observe Mt. Fuji across Sagami Bay under perfectly clear sky - Photo-4 from Shonan Village, Photo-5 and Photo-6 from Mitohama Bay.

Best picture-perfect Mt. Fuji in this early winter on December 20 2008 - View from Otome Pass, Mikuni Pass, and Lake Yamanaka - thanks to cold and high gale which blows out mist. It will be difficult in a short period for my Birkin to reach these vantage points because of icy road condition. BTW, gas price is dramatically down from about 170 Yen/littre in the peak season of this summer and early autumn to the current 105 Yen/litter.

One week after retreating from Kagosaka Pass on January 11 2009 facing road surface freezing, I successfully pass over that Pass to Lake Yamanaka on January 17. The road is dry in spite of road-side snow on the south lakeside. I encircle Lake Yamanaka clockwise from 6 o'clock to park my Birkin on the north side lot. The surface of the lake is partly frozen, and Mount Fuji is crisply enshrined under the clear winter sky. Then, I push clockwise to stop at the south-east side (4 o'clock), where I appreciate the other angle of view, ditto, panoramic overview. BTW, during this tour, I have never encountered a two-seat open sports car but mine at north to Kagosaka Pass. After returning to Hayama (Yankee Station), I carefully wash away antifreezing agent spread over the road surface from the underbelly and suspension with a hose.

On January 31 2009, I changed engine oil and filter at 44,988 km milage log after over 5,000 km distance since a preious change - Photo-1, Photo-2, Photo-3. I seem to have learned not to mess up the floor bit by bit.

The weather seems temperate this year, and I can reach Mikuni Pass with nothing to worry about on February 21. Starting from Otome Pass, the road surface is dry with slight snow remaininig on the road shoulder to Mikuni Pass: Photo-1, Panorama. When I first pass-through Mikuni Pass on March 1 last year 2008, the snow was still stacking on the road side, snowy landscape.

Oil leaks from the engine head has recurred lately, and I visit the meister Sakamoto at Elite Moters on February 22 2009, where he replaces cork cam-cover gasket. The procedure is as follows; (1) flush away oil from the engine with water from a high-pressure hose, (2) detach the head block (cam-cover) with use of hexagonal wrench, (3) coat the contact surfaces of engine cam-cover and cork gasket with fast-dry adhesive agent, (4) when the adhesive dries enough, glue together the gasket and com-cover, carefully lining up the inner brim, (5) wait for a while and tighten four screws with hexagonal wrench, when pay attention for cork gasket not to travel inward: posterior head, anterior head. Principal cause of failure is, according to my meister, during tightening the screws, the cork travels inward, which causes inadequate-sealed cam-cover.

Spring has come to Japan, and cherry blossom is in full bloom, when I tour on Birkin to Tsubaki Line (Kanagawa Prefectural Line 75 - Orange Line) on April 4 2009: Photo-1, Photo-2, Photo-3 (Photo-2 and -3 on Orange Line, bypass road), and to Mikuni Pass (Kanagawa Prefectural Line 730) on April 11: Photo-4, Photo-5. Thank you Sakura for bringing us comfort when the economy is hard hit and people are feeling agony.

My Birkin successfully passed the compulsory automobile inspection of Japan on May 15 2009, at 46,880 km odometer, third time since I acquired her (First pass at 13,000 km on May 21 2005; second pass at 31,400 km odometer on May 8 2007). This time, the device for Electronic Toll Collection System (ETC) Card is installed on my Birkin at the same period at Elite Motors (Implementation of the censor indicated by large red arrows, wiring by small arrows). The function is verified at Seisho Bypass (go and return) on May 23 2009.

Nanny's Birkin 7: On August 1 2009, I send back my mother Miyoka, aged 87 years, from our villa at Hayama to the nursing home Hanaemi at Aobadai, Yokohama, on my Birkin, in transit time of one and a half hour. She put on NAF1092 Leather Flight Helmet (purchased on e-bay auction) for safety. Oh, I forget to make her hold her familiar handbag! At first, she was amazed saying "What a terrific car!", however, she soon became accustomed to the wild touch of this British light-weight sports car, saying " I am courageous, because I was born to a samurai (bushi) family." (Evidence: Graduation certificate of primary school cleary demonstrating her descent, Ditto, graduation certificate of high school cleary demonstrating her descent, Red arrows indicate Samurai descent from Nagasaki Prefecture in Japanese). Actually, in the morning of that day, my younger brother Masao bring her out from Hanaemi, and we meet in Hayama to recreate her, where she plays her antique piano which she inherited from my grandfather (her father) Hajime Fukae, M.D. It was imported from Germany in the year when she was 5-year-old (circa 1930), which is being stamped serial #713, Wilh. Böger, Pianoforte-Fabrik, Berlin - Leipziger Straße 65 (MP3 file of Bach Wohltemperiertes Klavier, Preludio I, played by a 87-year-old female with senile dementia, almost total loss of short- and long-term memory but with preserved individuality, based on cerebrovascular arteriosclerotic cerebral atrophy associated with long-term DM, which is recorded by TASCAM DR-07 on September 21, 4 MB). At about 17:00 August 16, one day after the anniversary commemorating the end (defeat) of the WWII, we visited Yasukuni Shrine and paid respects for the spirits of our war dead, this time with my mother Miyoko, who was very pleased with this visit. In fact, Akio family is regularly visiting Yasukuni twice a year (New year and around August 15) for over 20 years, quite simply because we reside very near the shrine, maybe, and our constitution secure the freedom of religion.

Birkin Seven meets Toyota Sports 800: On September 12 2009, Mr. Hideaki Matsuura (松浦秀昭) visits my retreat in Hayama, driving his Sports 800 from Tokyo, who is a flagship member of "Sports 800 Club in Japan" and a former correspondent with my late father Tatsuo Hasegawa, an original engineer of this light-weight sports car. Images are as follows; Photo-1 in front of my house; Photo-2 Well-maintained Type 2U air-cooled, two-cylinder, 800cc engine with twin carbureter (45ps, lightly blowing-up engine sound in mp3 format); Photo-3 on the parking lot of Shonan International Village. Mr. Matsuura is a big guy, and actually could not get seated and handle my Birkin Seven, i.e., too tight for him, while he kindly let me drive his S800; Photo-4 My father Tatsuo's autograph proudly remains on the insde of the detouchable top; Photo-5 Instrument panel with slender wheel; Photo-6 Once again a ceremonial photograph in amity. In my impression, S800 runs elegantly like a motor glider, whereas Seven is more muscular and aggressive.

Circling tour around Mount Fuji under clear sky on September 20 2009 - Photo-1 At 5th Station at Tarobo, Photo-2 At the south slope, the foliage season has not yet arrived, Photo-3 Mount Fuji with no snowcap, viewed from the west slope, Photo-4 Mount Fuji viewed from the distal end of Lake Motosu, which is located to the northwest of Mount Fuji. I choose returning route on Tomei Expressway from Gotenba IC to Yokohama IC, and on Yokohama-Yokosuka Road from there to Hayama, inclusively taking about 1.5 hours at legal speed + α (Gotenba - Hayama). On September 21, engine oil is replaced DIY at mileage 49,500 km.

On October 17 2009, I tour to the 5th station of Mount Fuji at Tarobo, when the sky is cloudy and the clouds are hanging over Mount Fuji. On the return road, I notice a small monument which ususally escapes my attention, where I stop the car and investigate. It is the monument for the victims of BOAC Flight 911, which disintegrated and crashed near Mount Fuji on March 5 1966. Actually, this was the third fatal passenger airline accident in Tokyo in that worst month for the Japanese civil aviation history, which I quite remember on impact on the TV News those days. Cenotaph in English and in Japanese is erected by the Japanese volunteer and Gotenba City.

On October 17 2009, I install the mesh grille to my Birkin. I purchased aluminum mesh net for automobile (14x7 mm reticulation) at Yahoo! Auction Japan at 1,575 Yen (item) + 700 Yen (S and H). Firstly, I cut the mesh in accordance with the outer circumference of the detatched front grille, splay chassis-black for antirust, fit together using silver wire at peripheral points and place (without registration number plate yet), and this is finish image. My impression is my Birkin looks a bit chic?

On October 18 2009, the mileage indicator hit 50,000 km

On October 24 2009, I once again reach the new 5th station of Mount Fuji from Mizunotsuka this time (main route). The south slope is showing beautiful but ephemeral autumn color: Photo-1, Photo-2. As I approach from Mizunotsuka, Mount Fuji makes an appearance. After reached the parking lot of the 5th station, I walk aroung the slope for a while, where I come across the monument of Sir Rutherford Alcock, a first British diplomatic representative to Japan, who climbed Mount Fuji using the main route as a first foreigner to do so in 1860: Photo-3, Photo-4.

On October 30 2009, I reach Mount Fuji under first snow cap this year from the new 5th station at Tarobo, on Birkin with new mesh grille. Autumn leaves appear right before deforiation on the south slope on Shizuoka Prefectural Road R.152. As I circle Mt.Fuji clock-wise as usual, it is gradually overcasting on the summit: from west slope, from Lake Motosu.

On October 31 2009, I notice slight gasoline leakage, dripping from right posterior edge of the tank (mine made of steel), which prompts me to hurry on Birkin to Elite Motors, so-called Yankee Station for me (not on Tonkin Gulf), for treatment. On November 7, repair is finished, when Meister Sakamoto explains the suspected cause; when they drained gas from the tank and inspected the inside, it was revealed that two septa to level the gas during turn had been exfoliated from welded points, which might have been concussing the lateral wall of the tank from the inside intermittently and finally caused the minute leakage. To remove them through a hole for the gasoline gauge on the upper wall, the mighty younger tech twisted two stainless panels with manual instrument to run through the hole, just like laparoscopic operation, then followed by welding of the leaking point indicated by filled water in the tank. At the same time, falled-apart buoy of gasoline level gauge was re-installed, which instantly restored the gasoline-level meter on the instrument panel, actually malfunctioning since I acquired this car. By far cheaper than exchanging with new gasoline tank,,,,relieved.

On November 21 2009 under clear sky, I once again encircle Mount Fuji, probably this is the last time in this season because of snowbound traffic limitation for my Seven (Compare the degree of now coverage with the images on October 30). As usual I tour clockwise: Photo-1 View from Otome Path (at 5 degrees Celsius), Photo-2 my Birkin at 5th station at Tarobo, Photo-3 More snow-capped Mount Fuji, Photo-4 Winter apparel suit on the seat, Photo-5 From Asagiri Plateau (west side of Mount Fuji), Photo-6 From scenic point of Lake Motosu, actually northwest end, Photo-7 Back side of 1000 Japanese Yen bill, hey this picture is rendered from this vantage point! this is far-famed, Photo-8 From north side of Lake Motosu, from a bit eastern point to that of Photo-6. After returning to Hayama, I equip the side doors for cold resistance, which retain heated air in the leg room longer.

On the tour to Lake Yamanaka and Mount Fuji of January 9 2010, new Nikon digital single lens reflex camera D3000 makes a debut, coupled with old Tamron 30-70 1:3.5 manual zoom lens and old but expensive Nikon Nikkor*ED 300 mm 1:4.5 (serial# 226570). Under this cold but penetrating clear air (thermometer at Otome indicates 0 degree Celsius), I drive from Otome Pass of Hakone to Lake Yamanaka and Mikuni Pass to view snow-capped Mount Fuji. Images are shot in manual focus/manual exposure mode: From Otome Pass - full view (Tamron 35-70), enlarged view of the south slope, enlarged view of the zigzag climbing route on the north side (both with Nikon 300mm, around F8, 1/250), from Subashiri - full view from Route 138 (Tamron 35-70), from north lakeside of Lake Yamanaka - full view (Tamron 35-70), enlarged view of the opposite shore (Nikon 300mm, what a resolution! unbelievable), enlarged view of the summit 1, enlarged view of the summit 2 (both with Nikon 300mm, around F8, 1/250), ceremonial photo (using tripod and selftimer), ceremonial photo of my Birkin, from Mikuni Pass - my Birkin against a background of Mount Fuji (all images using monopod, if not-otherwise-specified). I love old Nikon Ai-mount, manual lens, and apparently do not need recent autofocus/autoexposure functions, still.

To fix up the sluggish return-response of the accelerator pedal, I inject KURE CRC 5-56 lubricant spray into the accelerator wire (red arrows) on January 10 2010.

I am satisfied with Mount Fuji on January 30 2010 under winter transparent clear sky. The road is dry on total excursion this day, and this time I test my cohort of old Nikon single-focus lenses (35 mm 1:2.8, 50 mm 1:1.4, 85 mm 1:2.0, 300 mm 1:4.5 ,,, not zoom lens!). From Otome Pass: Photo-1 with Nikon Nikkor-S 1:2.8 f=35mm, Photo-2 with Nikon Nikkor 1:2.0 f=85mm, from the eastsouth shore of Lake Yamanaka on Route 413 Photo-3 panoramic view with NIKKOR-S Auto 1:2.8 f=35mm and Canon PhotoStitch software, Photo-4 with NIKKOR-S Auto 1:2.8 f=35mm, from north lakeside Photo-5 with NIKKOR-S Auto 1:2.8 f=35mm, Photo-6 with a contrail of commercial airliner over the summit, Photo-7 ditto enlarged view of the summit with the contrail with Nikon Nikkor 85 mm 1:2.0, Photo-8 ditto with Nikon Nikkor 1:1.4 f=50 mm, Photo-9 commemorative photo using tripod and selftimer, Photo-10 Enlarged view (673 KB) of the summit with Nikon Nikkor*ED 300 mm 1:4.5 and Canon PhotoStitch software, Photo-11 ditto with smaller file size (203KB) with Nikon 300 mm, from Mikuni Pass Photo-12. After returning to Hayama, I drive to Shonan International Village and appreciate Photo-13 Mount Fuji under evening glow over Sagami Bay.

On February 6 2010 I reach Daikanyama 大観山 of Hakone through Hakone Shindo (Hakone New Expressway 箱根新道) to view Mount Fuji over Lake Ashi. The warning sign at the entrance of the Shindo is "Be careful of roadsurface freezing!", which means "Snow chain may not be necessary, but if you go ahead it is at your own risk". The landscape is certainly desolate on the uphill Photo-1, Photo-2, but tyre grip is solid. After temporarily lost my bearings and taking a short rest at Motohakone 元箱根 Photo-3, Photo-4, I arrive at Tenkakudai Viewpoint 天閣台 of Daikanyama, Photo-5, Photo-6. The summit of Mount Fuji is to my regret overcast Panaorama view. I wander about the shore of Lake Ashi Photo-7 and park at Kojiri 湖尻. I return to Hayama safely thanks to deliberate antifreezing treatment with calcium chloride by the Ministry of Transportion of Japan.

On February 7 2010, I tour on the west shore of Miura Peninsura when Mount Fuji is distinctly observed over Sagami Bay; from Tateishi Parking Lot 立石 at Akiya 秋谷, ditto panorama view, from Mitohama Beach 三戸浜 (old Ai-mount Nikon single-focus lens, manual focus/exposure). This afternoon, after visiting my mother Miyoko in Aobadai, Yokohama, and check her status, I drive my Birkin to my house in Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, through Metropolitan Expressway (parked at my residence, AF Nikkor 35-105 1:3.5-4.5, manual focus/auto exposure). Actually, this is the first time that my Birkin intrudes Tokyo Metropolitan Area (My Saab is resting in Hayama for a week by rotation).

On February 26 2010 I received a 1:18 die-cast model of Caterham Super Seven Cycle Fender by Kyosho Co., Kanagawa, Japan, from a on-line shop in Kyushu island - Photo-1, Photo-2, and Photo-3 (Compare with 1:24 plastic model by Tamiya).

On March 20 2010, I tour to Mikuni Pass, now the side screens of my Birkin being detached thanks to early spring climate. Mount Fuji is seen not so clearly because of misty air of the spring. At the south slope on return path in Koyama Town, Shizuoka, I come across quiet and full bloom of Ume (Prunus mume) on the bank in the pastoral scene as if nobody is supposed to know; Photo-1, Photo-2, Photo-3, closeup view of flower Photo-4, Photo-5, Photo-6, Photo-7 (all images shot with old manual focus/manual exposure lense Nikkor-S 35mm 1:2.8 serial # 380104 with D3000). On the next day, I check the Nikon Nikkor*ED 300 mm 1:4.5 (serial# 226570), which came back from Nikon Service Center at Ginza, Tokyo, after maintainance and cleaning (fungus!) finished (first time ever over 20-year interval), by shooting Tobi (Milvus migrans) from Mitohama Beach (manual mode, 1/2000, F8, a part cut from a larger image): Photo-8, Photo-9.

On April 3 2010, I depart Hayama at 8:30AM, actually later than usual, and take a cross-cut route throuth Yokohama-Yokosuka Expressway and Tomei Expressway to Gotenba Interchange to avoid the traffic congestion at the Shonan Bridge of Route 134, then get over Otome Pass to Hakone, which is in reverse direction to my usual route. Passing Motohakone, I downhil to Yugawara at a slow speed to fully appreciate cherry blossom (Sakura in Japanese, Prunus yedoensis); Photo-1, Photo-2, into approximately 50% blossom near the mountain top (closeup view), Photo-3, Photo-4, and at the base near Yugawara turn left heading to the Orange Line; Photo-5, Photo-6, where seen in full blossom. This trip is done business as usual in every year (cf. tour in April 4 2009. I don't notice any climate change yet here). On the next day, in return trip to Tokyo, I stop over the care house at Aobadai, Yokohama, to bring out my mother Miyoko to a short cherry-blosssom-viewing drive, with which she is very gratified and is murmuring "Top of flowers is Sakura, Top of man is Bushi (Japanese warrior)"; Photo-7, Photo-8 , Photo-9 (closeup view). Actually, Miyoko hit 88-year-old on March 4 this year, which we call Beiju-celebration (88 year old birthday). Our whole family (Akio's and Masao's) met for this on March 14 at a French restaurant in Aobadai, Yokohama. Miyoko consumed a full course just as other younger members,,, On April 10, I trace the same course as on April 3; Photo-10, on the Seisho Bypass Expressway I encounter the rainbow; Photo-11; on the downhill course from Hakone to Yugawawa, Photo-12; on the Route 138 from Yugawawa to Odawara.

On April 11, regular maintainance to change engine oil and oil filter at mileage 53,800 km.

During routine annual check at Elite Motors in May, (1) Heat insulating cover is installed over the muffler for the safety of interested pedestrian children, (2) Obstruction by packed rust in the lumen of the bypass plumbing of coolant for air release (red arrows) is unchoked, (3) Rear drum-brake with oil leakage is repaired once again with Japananese parts. After the car is released, I tour to Yabitsu Pass (actually, this is 16th!) in the afternoon of May 15 2010, though Yokohama-Yokosuka Expressway and Tomei Expressway (Hadano Exit) - Photo-1, my Birkin in good spirits; Photo-2, basking in the woods; Photo-3, verdurous background; Photo-4, relaxing babbling stream. C'est La Vie!

I did not miss probably the last chance of viewing snow-capped Mount Fuji in this season from Mikuni Pass on May 22 2010. The landscape is already announcing the biginning of summer; Photo-1, Photo-2.

On July 3 2010, I once again transport my 88-year-old mother from Hayama to the care house for aged in Yokohama on my Birkin, just like the event about one year ago - See "Nanny's Birkin 7. In Hayama, she seriously exercises Prelude No.1 in C major from The Well Tempered Clavier (Das Wohltemperierte Klavier) by J.S. Bach (MP3 file 3.4MB), with her attached Wilh. Böger (Pianoforte-Fabrik, Berlin - Leipziger Straße 65). She is actually diagnosed with Alzheimer for the last several years, and short-term memory is completely lost, however, the ability of calculation on paper (addition, subtraction, multiplication, and barely division) and piano exercises is still maintained. I will continue to follow her clinical course with personal and professional interest (I suspect of her right index finger's weakening of neuromuscular activity, not of imperfect tuning of the piano). These are her portraits before departure on Birkin and on arrival at the nursing home (she drapes rain gear because of occasional minimal rain). She was never afraid of 1.5-hour-driving on this WILD car, rather enjoying on aside of me.

On October 10 2010, seasoned battery PANASONIC 55B24R(s) with thick electrodes, which has been used since I purchased this car in October 2004, is finally replaced with cheap Pitwork-brand smaller one G-series 40B19L at Elite Motors at 3,000 Yen. Actually the night before, Friday, when I arrived at Hayama from Tokyo, the engine of my Birkin did not get started, with only clickety-clack from around the starter motor. Over-night battery charge with home charger did not work (11.7V --> 12V accomplished, though). After I tried cable connection with the battery of my Saab in vain, I started the engine of my Saab which narrowly crank Birkin's engine up! While leaving the engine running, I measure the voltage to be over 14V, which means the alternator is alive. In fact, I carefully drive my BIrkin to my Yankee Station, not to stall the engine at the stoplight midway.

Under fairly clear sky of Autumn on October 23 2010, I tour to Mount Fuji; Photo-1 From Otome Pass of Hakone, Photo-2 From Mikuni Pass to the east of Lake Yamanaka, Photo-3 ditto, Photo-4 Telephoto view of the summit with minimal fresh snow with *ED 300 mm 1:4.5, Photo-5 Lake Yamanaka from Mikuni Pass, Photo-6 Serene silence under autumn decline, Photo-7 ditto.

On November 6 2010 I go around Mount Fuji clockwise - Photo-1 Otome Pass at 9 AM, Photo-2 ditto, closeup, Photo-3 South slope near East Fuji JGSDF Base at Prefectural Route 23, Photo-4 South slope at Route 23, Photo-5 ditto closeup, Photo-6 my Birkin at 5th station at Tarobo, Photo-7 ditto panorama view, Photo-8 At Mizukatuka Part on Route 180, Photo-9 from west slope on Prefectural Route 71, Photo-10 ditto closeup, Photo-11 Passing Aokigahara ocean of trees on Route 71, Photo-12 ditto gazing-up view. When I reach Lake Kawaguchi before noon, Mount Fuji goes completely behind cloud.

On November 13, I try again view of Mount Fuji from Lake Kawaguchi. Starting from Otome path to Photo-1 Mikuni Pass, Photo-2 ditto closeup, Photo-3 encircling Lake Yamanaka, Photo-4 Autumn color on the lakeside of Yamanaka, Photo-5 ditto closeup, then through East-Fujigoko Road (Route 138 Bypass) now under charge-free experiment to OkuKawaguchi Photo-6 Panoramic view of Lake Kawaguchi in the deep northwest side, Photo-7 Resting under autumn color on the north lakeside of Kawaguchi, Photo-8 ditto in low-key, Photo-9 overcast Mount Fuji just before noon, viewed from the north lakeside of Kawaguchi, Photo-10 Crimson foliage of maple leaves on the same place.

On November 21, I try once again view of Mount Fuji from Lake Kawaguchi. Starting from Photo-1 Otome Pass, Photo-2 ditto closeup (300 mm, manual focus/manual exposure), then directly through East-Fujigoko Road (Route 138 Bypass) to OkuKawaguchi - Photo-3 On the north lakeside of Kawaguchi, Photo-4, Photo-5 (for commemoration), Photo-6, Photo-7 (closeup, 300 mm); Crimson foliage of maple leaves on the same place. While shooting, my Birkin is waiting on the roadside.

I change engine oil and oil filter on December 25 2010 at odometer 59,8XX km after 6,000 km since previous labor on April 11 (truant habits?) - Photo-1, Photo-2.

On January 8 2011 under the clear sky, I tour to Lake Yamanaka to view Mount Fuji, eventually this day turns to be the best condition in this season for shooting with penetrating winter air. Viewing begins at 9:00 from Otome Pass as usual; Photo-1, Photo-2 Sub-zero temperature indicated by road-side panel. I reach the north side of Lake Yamanaka with no difficulty on dry road surface, Photo-3, Photo-4 Overview of Mount Fuji across the unfrozen surface of the lake, Photo-5 ditto in panoramic view (Nikor-S 35 mm1:2.8, rendered with Canon Utilities PhotoStitch V.3.1), Photo-6 Telescopic view of the oppositve shore (*ED 300 mm 1:4.5), Photo-7 Telescopic view of the summint (*ED 300 mm 1:4.5), Photo-8 Panoramic view of the summint (*ED 300 mm 1:4.5, PhotoStitch). Even around Mikuni Pass no snowscape is present, Photo-9, Photo-10, when haze begins to prevail in the foot of Mount Fuji, Photo-11 Telescopic view of the summint from Mikuni Pass (*ED 300 mm 1:4.5). On this day, my cold-resistant apparel is consisting of military fatigue jacket, i.e., Photo-12 Garment of German army tank personnel with exterior shell and thick lining (Kohler Gmbh, 8415-12-153-9054), Photo-13 with Avirex G-1 lether jacket on, Photo-14 Labels, perfectly suit for my crazy winter tour on this open two-seater. Cold stress enhances my immunity, it seems. I dare to declare Climate No-Change regarding snow-coverage pattern on Mount Fuji, however I would welcome your unbiased opinion - Cf. 2010/1/9, 2009/02/21, 2008/02/16, 2007/2/11, 2006/2/11.

Odometer has hit 60,000 km on January 23 2011!
(Past history: 20,000 km in January 2006 --> 30,000 km in March 2007 --> 40,000 km in July 2008 --> 50,000 km in October 2009).
Today, I meet a soft-spoken gentleman who is emergently repairing his Lamborghini Diablo on the parking lot of the local fish market at Misaki, who says he has driven his gorgeous car over 100,000 km for the last 15 years, and in fact had been enjoying Seven (Mitsuoka-clone with Eunos engine) before he purchased this Lamborghini. He too occasionally does repair DIY on site with tapes and similar goods to mine, and in one way or another returns to his Yankee Station (service shop). Mind-set of car guy seems same, rich and poor alike (laugh). Opening hood, he kindly demonstrates me its V-12 engine.

On January 29 2011, I notice front-arm components getting rusty (Photo, Photo-2). As easy coutermeasure, after rust removal with metal brush, I splay chassis-black paint with paper masking (Photo-3, Photo-4, Photo-5). Certainly not professional-grade work, but filling my requirements for least protection.

On April 16 2011, one month after 3.11 Tohoku (East Japan) Earthquake and the associated disaster of Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant (Refer to my page entitled "Monitoring of µRoentgen Radiation In Japan"), I tour on Tsubaki Line of Yugawara (Kanagawa prefectural route 75). Cherry blossom has a bit passed a peak, however, its beauty strikes deep into my mind. Photo-1, Photo-2, Photo-3, Photo-4. Notwithstanding human tragedy, Nature gets on, tick-tack, tick-tack,,,,

In May 2011, flowers spring everywhere. My Birkin is embedded in Rhododendron (Tsutsuji in Japanese) on May 8 2011, at Shonan International Village, with a landscape. In the garden of my second house in Hayama, too, flowers are assertive: Photo-1, Photo-2, Photo-3, Photo-4, Photo-5.

On May 14 2011, just before sending the car to Elite Motors for biannual compulsory inspection by the government, I tour to Mikuni Pass to encounter the remaining last cherry blossom, Photo-1, Photo-2, Photo-3.

After my Birkin passed biannual compulsory inspection at 62,000km odometer on May 17 this week, thanks to Meister Sakamoto of Elite Motors (Actually this is fourth time since I acquired her - First pass at 13,000 km on May 21 2005; second pass at 31,400 km on May 8 2007; third pass at 46,880 km odometer on May 15 2009), I pick up her and tour to Yabitsu Pass in the season of new green leaves (probably this is 17th! May 15 2010 was the last): Photo-1, Photo-2,Photo-3.

Spring has come in full bloom and birds are singing anywhare in Japan, especially Cettia diphone (Japanese Bush Warbler, "Uguisu" in Japanese).
1. Why do birds begin singing in spring? - After long-night/short-daytime in winter is shifting to short-night/long-daytime in spring (shift in diurnal rhythm), melatonin secretion is decreased because its secretion by the pineal organ epiphysis cerebri is suppressed by light exposure, which is perceived directly by the pineal organ in birds and regulated the secretion (pineal gland is photoendocrine transducer in birds), and perceived by the retina and regulate the secretion by sympathetic nerve control over the pineal (pineal gland is neuroendocrine transducer in mammals). Decreased melatonin secretion induces increased activity of their reproductive organs, since melatonin has an inhibitory effect over reproductive organs. Corpus pineale über alles,,,,
2. How birdsongs are contributing to the survival of the fittest, or to the selfish genes? Certainly some characteristics of their song must increase the survival prospect of the selfish gene of each individual bird through successful courting and mating. I am interested in the advantageous acoustic characteristics of the birdsong, the yodel, in fact. These warbling of Cettia diphone are recorded by TASCAM DR-07 hand-held digital audiorecorder on June 5 in the second house at Hayama at 9:00AM (918KB, mp3), in Bishamon bay at 10:00AM (616KB, mp3), and on July 2 ditto at Hayama at 7:00AM (882KB, mp3, best) , edited with Audacity 1.3.13-beta (I usually am using Linux version on ubuntu and occasionally Win version because of unexpected freeze, in fact) , "Hoo-Hokkekyo". As far as I searched, there was no apparent counterpart of courting behaviour in the vicitiny, though he was singing with a full shiver. It is believed in Japan with no substantial evidence, i.e., no scientific paper published on the peer-reviewed English journal, that these songs are intimidation against intruder of their turf, however, they do not appear to stay at fixed point for a long time during singing stunt. In the recent issue of American Scientist, Piper, Mager and Walcott reviewed the social behavior of common loons in North America, including acoustic analysis of male-only territorial call, the yodel, which revealed that dominant frequency is closely correlated not with body size but with body mass. Their results suggest that loons view low-frequency yodels as more threatening, they really do pay attention to frequency, while they speculate the meaning for a small male of "honest signalling" of their body size (Walter Piper, Charles Walcott, Jay Mager. Marking Loons, Making Progress. Am Scientist, 2011:99; 220-227). Similar evidence-based scientific report on Japanese bush warbler is to be welcomed.

After a while I tour to Mikuni Pass on September 10 2011 in the late-summer heat. When I reach there, Mount Fuji is regrettably overcast, Photo-1 (Japanese silver grass is sprouting out already), however, my Birkin is exuberant, Photo-2.

I tour "Ashinoko (Lake Ashi) Skyline" for the first time on September 18 2011 (Charged 600 Yen if you enter on the Mishima side and exit at Kojiri, or 600+350 Yen if you continue to drive down to the foot Gotenba) - Photo-1, at the parking lot; Photo-2 , I dare to ascend to the scenic overlook; Photo-3, Overview of Lake Ashi; Photo-3, after advancing a bit, Mount Fuji over Gotenba City is revealed; Photo-4, ditto.

On October 29 2011 I go around Mount Fuji clockwise (business as usual-style) - Photo-1 Otome Pass at 9 AM, Photo-2 On the south slope of Route 23, Photo-3 ditto, Photo-4 Mizukatuka Park on Route 180, Photo-5 Mount Fuji viewed from that park, Photo-6 from the west slope on Prefectural Route 71, Photo-7 ditto, enlarged view with *ED 300 mm 1:4.5, Photo-8 On the Prefectural Route 71 before a backdrop of Asagiri Highland, Photo-9 From a scenic point on Route 71, viewing Lake Motusu, Photo-10
"Oh ! je voudrais tant que tu te souviennes Des jours heureux ou nous etions amis "
(Les feuilles mortes by Yves Montand) Or, do you prefer Roger Williams' elegant piano performance? (He died of pancreatic cancer in October 2011 at age 87, actually I have purchased many his reel-to-reel tapes from the United States of America via E-bay for a couple of years). Photo-11 ditto enlarged.

I meet snow-capped Mount Fuji first time this season at Otome Pass of Hakone on November 12 2011, Photo-1, Photo-2 (with *ED 300 mm 1:4.5), then visit 5th station at Tarobo, which reveals to be vain because of being total cloud-shrouded, however, autumn color is obvious there, Photo-3, Photo-4, enlarged.

On November 26 2011 I go around Mount Fuji clockwise, the second time this season - Photo-1 Mount Fuji viewed from in front of JGSDF East Fuji Base, Photo-2 from the south slope on Route 23, Photo-3 Ditto, enlarged view of the sumit (*ED 300 mm 1:4.5), Photo-4 from the west slope on Prefectural Route 71, Photo-5 Ditto, enlarged view of the sumit (*ED 300 mm 1:4.5), Photo-6 From the north shore of Saiko, Photo-7 Autumn color on the lake side of Saiko, Photo-8 Birkin 7 under the autumn leaves on the north shore of Lake Kawaguchi, Photo-9 Autumn color on the north shore of Lake Kawaguchi, Photo-10 Mount Fuji observed through autumn leaves (backlight condition when I reach Lake Kawaguchi, as usual), Photo-11 Supple daylight for late autumn

Fully snow-capped Mount Fuji is observed sharply on Sunday, December 4 2011, from the west shore of Miura Peninsula over Sagami Bay - Photo-1 from Akiya at Hayama on Route 134, Photo-2 from Mitohama Shore, Photo-3 ditto from Mitohama Shore (Nikon's on-the-cheap SLR digital camera D-3000/antique NIKKOR S*C 1:1.4, f=50mm, manual focus/manual exposure).

I approach fully snow-capped Mount Fuji under crystal clear and penetrating winter wheather on December 10 2011. Starting from Photo-1 Otome Pass of Hakone (35 mm), Photo-2 ditto with tele 300 mm, Photo-3 temperature indicator on the roadside, Photo-4 I get on the East Fujigoko Express Way through the entrance gate at Subashiri, Photo-5 At the exit of Lake Yamanaka, I stop my Birkin to the roadside because of sharp image of Mount Fuji, Photo-6 ditto with tele lens (300 mm, photostitched with two images), Photo-7 ditto with telescopic 300 mm, Photo-8 I arrive at the north shore of Lake Yamanaka, when the cloud begins to drift from the east base, Photo-9 Mount Fuji viewed from north side (35 mm lens), Photo-10 ditto (50 mm lens), Photo-11 the summit of Mount Fuji (300 mm lens, photostitched with three images), Photo-12 the panoramic view photostichted from six images, till the present time the summit is half overcast, Photo-13 Commemorative picture (Avirex G-1 leather flight jacket, made in USA, is indispensable for driving on the Seven car in this season) , then I move to Mikuni Pass Photo-14 panoramic image, Photo-15 My Birkin facing Mount Fuji. From the pattern of snow coverage over the summit of Mount Fuji for the last several years, I cannot discern the climate change here in Japan, though I hear some propagandists argue that even Tohoku (East Japan) Earthquate was caused by man-made global warming!

Engine oil and oil filter is replaced DIY as usual (Chevron 10W-40, Motorcraft) on December 23 2011 at odometer 66,072 km.

On December 24 2011 when I reach Otome Pass the summit of Mount Fuji appears over cloud: Photo-1, Photo-2 ditto enlarged. I proceed on the East Fujigoko Expressway to reach the exit of Lake Yamanaka to find that the whole Fuji is about to be overcast.

Spark plugs are replaced at odometer 66,570 km on January 15 2012: Photo-1 (3rd cylinder plug is being pulled out, 4th already new), Photo-2 (From left to right, used 4, 3, 2, 1 cylinder plug, respectively, burn mark looking good).

Lately oil leakage from cylinder head (rocker cover) has recurred from the back end (Actually, I have already replaced this gasket twice, 2007.5.8.). This time I purchased more expensive sandwich-structural-fabric gasket (circa 5,000 Japanese Yen) from the net, which is different from the previously mounted cheap thin cork-fabric one (circa 1,500 Japanese Yen). I drive to Elite Motors at Miura Shore, bringing the new gasket, where Meister Sakamoto detaches the rocker cover, ditto, opened rocker room with shaft and arms (conventional OHV Kent 1.6 littre). The cork gasket was not broken, but, seems to have lost repulsion force due to aging: Peeled-off old cork gasket, ditto, front end, ditto back end (origin of leakage). After high-pressure washing (Meister Sakamoto), the engine head appears clean and dry. Hope the new higher-grade rocker gasket will endure for longer period.

It is noticed with abnormal noise when geting stuck in a jam after exiting from Yokohama-Yokosuka Express Way on April 21 2012 that frontal two suporting struts for mufler cover are being ruptured. Probably L-shaped gooseneck point of the front lower strut was firstly ruptured (fatigue breakdown), followed by the nearest point to the tightening screw of the front upper strut broken (by vibration). I took an emergency measure with wire as usual. Wire is a gold standard for Birkin, to be always carried. It is already arranged that the defect will be treated on annual routine check at Elite Motors scheduled for next month.

On May 12 2012, I received my Birkin at Elite Motors after the voluntary regular 12-months check was finished and my Meister Sakamoto and his staff fabricated those "L"-shaped struts (muffler heat shield support tab) from sheet steel at reasonable prices. I cruise comfortably to verdurous Yabitsu Pass (business-as-usual after inspection is finished in this season every year): Photo-1, Photo-2, Photo-3.

On May 19 2012, I go around Mount Fuji clockwise (this is its 20th tour) - Photo-1 Snow was still remaining on the overcast summit at 9:00AM, as viewed from Otome Pass, Photo-2 At the fifth station at Tarobou on the south slope, ditto summit overcast, Photo-3 The atmosphere is extremely comfortable with full tender green along the whole journey, leading to humming a song and repeating deep breathing exercises, Photo-4 On the east slope of hilly grassland with field mustard, Photo-5 On the shore of Lake Saiko, I ate lunch at 11:30AM, Photo-6 On the north shore of Lake Kawaguchi, the north side of the summit is observed. What a coziness it is to drive in the ocean of foliage on open two-seater at a slow speed in late May! Actually, I departed Hayama at 7:00AM and returned there at 16:00, with only limited stops in mid-course, and I was still vigorous in spite of age 60. Sentation of freedom was so much for nature boy (By Jackie Mclean).

On September 16 2012, the odometer hit 70,000 km! (Past history: 20,000 km in January 2006 --> 30,000 km in March 2007 --> 40,000 km in July 2008 --> 50,000 km in October 2009 --> 60,000 km in January 2011) near Asagiri highland during going round Mount Fuji that was seen clearly from Otome Pass this morning. On the south slope the woodland is still lush green: Photo-1, Photo-2. It is hot, still in late summer (From this day, pictures taken with Coolpix L23 is mixed).

On October 13 2012, I go to the second around-Mount Fuji tour in this autumn (this is its 22th tour, actually). As usual I go around clockwise starting from Otome Pass of Hakone, and go to the south slope. Mount Fuji is overcast seen from Mizugatuka park (south side of Fuji), where it is at the beginning of the fall foliage. However, on the west slope, it became clear with autumn cloud form, which is changing by the minute, as is in the northwest slope.

Hakone that Prof.Dr. Erwin von Baelz loved (Wikipedia in English, for Japanese) - Vacant lot of his villa: At the beginning of November 10 tour around Mount Fuji, I came across this spot by chance. Actually I brought my Birkin to a roadside halt to shoot autumn leaves of Hakone, where a dirty memorial was noticed. I was really astonished to acknowledge that there is a vacant lot of former Prof. Dr. Erwin von Baelz here who founded the base of my alma mater, Tokyo (Imperial) University School of Medicine, after he was invited by Meiji government under modernization effort of Japan. I will bring scrubbing cloth and brush to clean this next time, I feel very sorry for our benefactor (Map of this site). [Addendum to follow on December 2: Next time I visitied this site on December 1 2012, this memorial had been cleaned considerably by someone. I additionally wiped with scrubbing cloth, using cleaning spray. The view of the gorge looking down from his villa is as this one]

On November 10 2012 (Best day!), I go to around-Mount Fuji tour third in this autumn (this is its 23th tour, actually). As usual I go around clockwise starting from Otome Pass of Hakone, and go to the south slope - just in front of the East Fuji Base of the JGSDF, ditto enlarged view (300mm tele manual lense). It appears ideal weather when ascending the slope, and at a dash reach the fifth station at Tarobo in the south slope, ditto enlarged view (300mm tele manual lense, this is the closest point to the summit in my travel route). Only a few minitues later, moving cloud is appearing from the west side. After driving on the south slope at full autumn folliage to Mizugatuka park, Mount Fuji is overcast completely seen from there (south side of Fuji). Anxiety grows on today's progress. The summit is still partly overcast after downhill to Fujinomiya on the southwest slope. However, going up north from Fujinomiya, voila!, the summit becomes crystal clearly seen. View across Fujinomiya Municipal Hitoana Primary School (west slope), I would say this is the original imagined scenery for us, Japanese. This landscape is really japanesque. I bet there is no bad boy or girl and no insidious bullying in this school. Usual beautiful view from Asagiri highland, this time elegantly snowcapped one, ditto enlarged view (300mm tele manual lense). On the north shore of Lake Motusu, autumn color is perfect. Mount Fuji is perfect seen over Lake Motosu from the scenic point just before Nakanokura Tunnel on the northwest direction from the summit. I have been visiting here more than several times, but the situations were always not suitable for shooting photos till today, the other angle, ditto enlarged view (300mm tele manual lense), ditto contrail by a commercial airliner over the summit. As described on November 21 2009, the back-side graphic of 1000 Japanese Yen bill is rendered from this vantage point! (please compare with the above "the other angle" photo). Autumn color on the north shore of Lake Motosu is really idyllic, and my Birkin too appears to take a deep breath to refresh. I opt to lunch off at the restaurant on the north shore of Lake Motosu, and my choice is local meal of Koshu area called "Houtou" full of vegetables and noodle, with a bit of venison, which is derived from battlefield meal of feudal warlord Shingen Takeda (1521-1573). After taking a quick break, I advance to eastward to Saiko Wild Bird Forest Park - the view of Mount Fuji across the park and ditto enlarged view (300mm tele manual lense) -, and reaching the north shore of Saiko (Lake Sai), ditto ceremonial photograph (car and seasoned solo driver). Final scenic point is Lake Kawaguchi as usual - autumn color and the view across Lake Kawaguchi.
Summary: It took circa 280km, started from my retreat in Hayama, Miura Peninsula, through Hokone, to south slope, then clock-wise circling, reaching Gotenba, then these days I opted Tomei Express Way to Hayama. Gas consumption was 15 km/littre in a long drive, as this time, and usually 12km/littre on rural touring. To evade traffic congestion, I depart Hayama at 7AM every time, and usually return till 13 afternoon. But, this day's sky was so clear and perfect, and landscape is so picture-perfect, I stopped again, again, once again, and shooting, changing lenses, at every scenic points, very very time consuming,,, I returned Hayama at 7PM, 12 hours on the tight seat of Seven. However, I was not tired, rather it was breezy compared with heaviness of our surgical pathology and autopsy practices. Recreation needed for pathologists!


Viewed across Lake Motosu on November 10 2012 "In Autumn 2012" (Crick to enlarge, Nikon D3000 with AF-S Nikkor 55-200mm ED)

Engine oil and filter is replaced DIY as usual (Chevron 10W-40 and Motorcraft) on January 12 2013 at odometer 71,000 km (after 5,000 km travel distance, since Dec 24 2011) - Photo-1, Photo-1. On the next day, in the dry atmosphere, I repair painted rusty front arms, suspension coil springs and roll bar. Lately rust is breaking out on the front arms and coil springs. Firstly I removed rust as much as possible with metal brush and files, wth surgical mask put on - Photo-3, Photo-4. To decrease holiday with dead inspection angle, I jacked up the front. I painted black and silver with brush (both cheap ones available at Walmart-type supermarket) - Photo-5. Along the way, I painted the rusty roll-bar - Photo-6, Photo-7. Actually, there is no difference between scale model hobby (making plastic models) and maintenance of Seven car. Looking far better than before - Photo-8.

On January 26 2013 under extremely low temperature (for Japan), I toured to Mount Fuji on Birkin to shoot. Photo-1: Viewed at 8:30 from south side (Otome Pass of Hakone), Ft. Fuji was totally overcast, however, as strong north wind had been reported on the weather forecast, I advanced taking a chance of the view from the north side. Photo-2: Temperature indicator at Otome Pass, -5 degrees Celsius, however, the road surface was dry all the way this day through Lake Yamanaka. Photo-3: On the exit of Lake Yamanaka of East Fuji express way. As I forecast, the north slope of Mt.Fuji was only partly overcast, no problem, it seems. Photo-4: Viewed from the north shore of Lake Yamanaka. From my fixed-point observation of Mt. Fuji, there is no such thing as global warming for the past decade ;) I arrived here just a few minutes before the weather condition changed (till this photo: D3000 + manual old Nikkor-S 1:2.8, 35mm). Photo-5: Ditto, combined panoramic view from three images (AF-S DX Nikkor 18-55mm VR, Software: Canon PhotoStitch). Photo-6: The air was so cold and crystal clear, the opposite shore can be clearly shot with manual old Nikkor *ED 300mm). Photo-7: Weather condition changes very rapidly, already overcast (AF-S 18-55mm). Photo-8: I put on US army jacket (Cold weather, Man's, Alpha, Knoxville, USA). The road is dry, though, it is very cold (Nikon D3000 on tripod, autofocus AF-S 18-55mm + remote shutter release).

[Addendum to January 12 2013] I oversprayed roll-bar with chassis black, after smoothing the surface with #800, #1000 and #2000 sandpaper.

On February 16 2013, I again toured to Mount Fuji on Birkin to shoot (Actually it was extremely good weather condition on February 10, a week ago, however I noticed to have forgotten to bring Nikon D-3000 at Hayama when arrived at Otome Pass in the early morning, in spite of full other equipments. I turned back then in a stupor, feeling like I could cry. Age-related deterioration??) . Photo-1: Viewed at 8:30 from south side (Otome Pass of Hakone), Ft. Fuji was totally overcast, however, as strong west wind had been reported on the weather forecast, I advanced taking a chance of the view from the north side as usua;. Photo-2: Temperature indicator at Otome Pass, -3 degrees Celsius, and the road surface was partly wet. Photo-3: On the exit of Lake Yamanaka of East Fuji express way. As I forecast, the north slope of Mt.Fuji was not bad. Photo-4: I arrived at the north shore of Lake Yamanaka at circa 9:30, where cloud condition is going up as I projected, thanks to very cold west wind (west is right side on the next picture). Photo-5: Viewed from the north shore of Lake Yamanaka. Photo-6: Ditto, combined panoramic view from three images (till this photo: D3000 + manual old Nikkor-S 1:2.8, 35mm), Software: Canon PhotoStitch). Photo-7: The air was so cold and crystal clear, the opposite shore can be clearly shot with manual old Nikkor *ED 300mm). Photo-8: I put on US army jacket (Cold weather, Man's, Alpha, Knoxville, USA) as usual. The road is partly wet but largely dry till this point. Then I dare to approach Mikuni Pass. Photo-9: I reached at Mikuni Pass anyway after a bit of inverse steering and drift driving ;) Of course at low speed, with almost no oncoming car and no street gutter. Never push the envelope too far, I know, never across a point of no return and never hesitate to U-turn. Experienced guess is needed just like educated guess at clinical medical situation. Equation is always changing. Photo-10: Mount Fuji is beautifully observed across Lake Yamanaka. Photo-11: Ditto in panoramic view. Photo-12: I have no financial relationship with Seven company, though, I think this is pretty nice shot for commertial use notwithstanding. Although I paid attention not to bring my birkin deep in the parking lot, after shooting time when I try to retreat from the lot, some hustle is needed to back to the main road (normal tyres and rear-drive, however, low-speed torque-oriented Kent engine with 5-speed manual transmission is very controllable in mission-critical circumstance, of course, thanks to statutory regular maintainance effort by Elite Motors). Always keep even restraint and stay ice-cool. Photo-13: I feel like putting on the ritz hesitantly.


Mount Fuji across Lake Yamanaka observed from half-frozen scenic parking lot of Mikuni Pass on February 16 2013 "In February 2013" (Crick to enlarge, Nikon D3000 with Nikor-S 1:2.8 35mm)

On February 16 2013 in Saturday early morning, I tour to Lake Yamanaka as usual. Photo-1: The summit of Mount Fuji was totally overcast when viewed from Otome Pass at 9:30. Photo-2: At 10:15 on the exit Lake Yamanaka of the East Fuji 5 Lake Express Way, the summit was clearly seen. I smiled a bit excitedly. Photo-3: The summit with D3000 + manual Nikkor 300mm (manual exposure). Photo-4: But, alas, when reached on the North Shore of Lake Yamanaka, clouds was drifting from east side (left on this image), although the weather forecast reported the cold north west wind! The road surface was dry this day. Photo-5: Ditto. In addition to overcast, the air itself has begun to show signs of coming spring, somewhat hazy with decreasing degree of transparency, though the temperature is still low. My Mount Fuji shooting seems to be over in this season. Photo-6: For recreation, I shoot images of white swan on the surface, with D3000 + AF-S 55-200mm ED DX. Photo-7: ditto. Photo-8: ditto. Photo-9: ditto.

On March 16 2013 in Saturday early morning, I again tour to Lake Yamanaka with no expectation of photographic quality because of coming spring with hazy atmosphere, but want to say goodbye to rigorous Winter Fuji. Photo-1: The summit of Mount Fuji is clearly seen but the base city Gotenba is overcast when viewed from Otome Pass at 9:30. Photo-2: About 30 mitutes later at the entrance of the East Fuji 5 Lake Express Way, the summit is very clearly seen with no overcast. Photo-3: On the exit Lake Yamanaka of the East Fuji 5 Lake Express Way, the summit remains clearly seen. Photo-4: The summit with D3000 + manual Nikkor 300mm (manual exposure). Photo-5: When reaching on the North Shore of Lake Yamanaka, no clouds are seen around Mount Fuji. I am till then pretty relaxed, since it seems most probably cloud-free this day in this region. In this morning I left Hayama with no side doors of my Birkin, which are quite effective to preserve warmed air by the heater within cockpit in the very cold winter season. Photo-6: Panoramic view from the North shore of Lake Yamanaka. Photo-7: The image of the opposite shore is somewhat devoid of sharpness due to spring haze. Photo-8: Portrait with no side doors (screens). Photo-9: On the uphill to the Mikuni Pass. I like this angle of view. Photo-10: ditto, enjoying with pipe smoke and relaxing. I love this very personal time, when I forget the cares of the world (battle field of the hospital environment). Photo-11: Panoramic view from the Mikuni Pass of Lake Yamanaka.


Feeling coming early spring on the Mikuni Pass with Mount Fuji under clear sky (no cloud)
March 16 2013 "In March 2013" (Crick to enlarge, Nikon D3000 with Nikor-S 1:2.8 35mm)

On April 13 2013 I tour from Lake Yamanaka through Route 413 (so-called Doushi-No-Michi) to fully enjoy myself outblooming spring flowers in the lesser known plateau villages at low cruising speed. Mount Fuji is completely overcast and cannot be viewed this morning. In the Doshi village, the late cherry blossom is still hanging elegantly over the roadside, ditto enlarged view. During shooting photos, very beautiful Caterham stops by behind me, and for a while we have a nice chat. At Karasawa on sidetracked Route 76, I meet again beautifully hanging cherry blossom (or peach?), ditto enlarged view, landscape of this farmland, the other blossom on the road side. Bearing away from Route 413 to approach Miyagase Dam, I come across elegant farm house, where I chitchat with an elder male tending the grass establishment, ditto enlarged view.

Almost heaven, West Virginia
Blue Ridge Mountains
Shenandoah River -
Life is old there
Older than the trees
Younger than the mountains
Growin' like a breeze

Country Roads, take me home
To the place I belong
West Virginia, mountain momma
Take me home, country roads

(John Denver, Country Roads)



The late cherry blossom still hanging over the roadside (April 13 2013) "In April 2013" (Crick to enlarge, Nikon D3000 with Nikor-S 1:2.8 35mm)

On April 27 2013 I go on around-Mount Fuji tour first in this year 2013 (this is the 24th tour of the same course). As usual I go around clockwise starting from Otome Pass of Hakone, and reach the fifth station at Tarobo in the south slope, Viewing from the west slope, the snow at the summit appears melting gradually. On the lake side of Saiko, I take a humble lunch. Mount Fuji is clearly shot from the north shore of Lake Kawaguchi, with no remarkable disadvantage of backlighting.


On the shore of Lake Saiko (April 27 2013) "In April 2013" (Crick to enlarge, Nikon D3000 with Nikon D3000 with AF-S 18-55mm VR)

After my Birkin passed compulsory automobile inspection (24 months interval in Japan) in early May, I tour Yabitsu Pass on June 1 2013 - Photo-1, Photo-2. At the final stage, Mount Fuji is viewed from Nanohanadai sight seeing place.

On September 21 2013, Autumn color is creeping around Mount Fuji - Photo-1 At Otome Pass, Photo-2 At Mikuni Pass, Photo-3 Ditto with Japanese silver grass (Miscanthus sinensis).

On October 13 2013, I got up early morning at 6:00 and departed Hayama at 6:50. Since this is the mid-day of three consecutive holidays, traffic-jam will be hell. Photo-1 At Otome Pass at 8:50, under clear sky, Mount Fuji is looking good. Photo-2 In front of East Fuji Exercise Area (left: US Marine, right: Japanese Ground Self Defense Force), Photo-3 At the 5th station, Tarobo (south side of Fuji), with old Nikon manual 35mm lense with manual exposure, Photo-4 The summit with manual Nikon 300mm tele lense, Photo-5 Sidehill with rusty surface, Photo-6 The summit with manual Nikon 80mm lense, Photo-7 From the west foot, the summit is totally overcast, a bit negative projection of this day's shooting setting, Photo-8 I like this primary school, named Hitoana. Every time, I stop here, Photo-9 Autumn color, quite tailored for shooter (from the west north-west side), Photo-10 Ditto in panorama, assembled from three images using Canon PhotoStitch v3.10, Photo-11 Quite serene landscape.


Mount Fuji in autum color (October 13 2013) "Autumn color In October 2013" (Crick to enlarge, Nikon D3000 with Nikor-S 1:2.8 35mm)

On November 9 2013, I tour around Mount Fuji second time in this season, this time she is snow-capped. At Hakone, I clean the momorial of a vacant lot of former Prof. Dr. Erwin von Baelz at the road side of Kiga Onsen (R.138), once again since last November (2012.11.10.) - Photo-1 Memorial, Photo-2 View from the memorial across R.138 to the opposite side of the gorge, Photo-3 Autumn color of the oposite side of the gorge. I believe that Prof. Baelz loved this same crimson foliage.

At Mikuni Pass, the summit is scarcely observed and the foot of the mountain is completely overcast, Photo-4. At this point, I do not expect good images today, however, when I reach Mizugatsuka Park at the south foot of Mount Fuji, the sky abruptly clears, Photo-5, Photo-6, Photo-7 The summit in panorama (Nikon *ED 300 mm 1:4.5, serial# 226570, manual focus/manual exposure, panorama making by Canon PhotoStitch software). From the west foot, the summit is still seen under cloudy sky, Photo-8, Photo-9 Municipal primary school Hitoana of Fujinomiya city (I love this landscape), Photo-10 Across pasture, Photo-11. From Aoki ocean of foliage to the north shore of Lake Kawaguchi, the landscape is filled with autumn colour of leaves - Photo-12 Aoki, Photo-13 North shore of Lake Kawaguchi, Photo-14 North shore of Lake Kawaguchi, Photo-15 North shore of Lake Kawaguchi, Photo-16 Deep red color of the maple leaf, Photo-17 ditto.


Snow-capped Mount Fuji (November 9 2013) "Snow-capped Mount Fuji on November 9 2013" (Crick to enlarge, Nikon D3000 with Nikor-S 1:2.8 35mm)

On November 16 2013, in early morning, I toured to Lake Yamanaka to observe almost fully snow-capped Mount Fuji from the other angle from the previous tour (Nov 9, a week earlier). White cottony summit is viewed from Otome Pass at Hakone (from southeast side) at circa 9AM. West foot is overcast and north east side is clear, it seems - Photo-1. I reach Sangoku Pass, with overview of Mount Fuji and Lake Yamanaka (from east-northeast side) - Photo-2 Panorama, Photo-3, Photo-4 Panorama of the summit (Manual old Nikon 300mm tele lense, composite image rendered with Cannon PhotoStitch software), Photo-5 Self-portrait already in winter military jacket (US Army). I move to the north shore of Lake Yamanaka (viewed from east-northeast side) - Photo-6, Photo-7 Nikon manual 35mm wide lense, Photo-8 test shot of the opposite shore with 300mm lense ,,, Somewhat hazy. Much more low temperature is needed to shoot sharp images. It is still warm,,, Photo-9 Self-portrait 2.0 relax time, forgetting duty in the hospital.


Almost fully snow-capped Mount Fuji (November 16 2013) "Almost fully snow snow-capped Mount Fuji on November 16 2013" (Crick to enlarge, Nikon D3000 with Nikor-S 1:2.8 35mm)

On December 22 2013, DIY replacement of oil filter and engine oil at odometer 77,763 km. I order regular check and compulsory automobile inspection by the Japanese government to my friend mechanics's maintenance factory (Elite Motors at Miura Shore, a small independent business by Mr. Sakamoto, who is, strangely enough, graduate of Nuclear Energy Engineering division of Tokai Univ 1976), though, I do replacement of these parts myself - Photo-1, I hastily wash away the small amount of oil run off from the floor paper sheet with cleanser - Photo-2. Not only muscular work, but also brain work is needed in order not to mess up the floor of garage,,,, hustle needed. How long can I do this with age-related deterioration in the future? BTW, I must pay attention to the instant that the odometer hit 77,777 km for ceremonial photograph.

On "New Year" January 2 2014, the odometer hits 77,777 km! - one more enlarged view.

On January 11 2014, in early morning, I toured to Lake Yamanaka to observe "New Year" Mount Fuji. Snow is remaining at Hakone before reaching Otome Pass - Photo-1 at Sengokubara, Photo-2 ditto at Sengokubara. Mount Fuji is clearly observed from Otome Pass - Photo-3, Photo-4, where temperature indicator at roadside indicated -4 degrees Celsius, which is like spring breeze compared with "Big Chill" from Arctic vortex sweeping the north American soil this new year! - Photo-5. I enter Fujigoko (Fuji five lakes) Express Way -Photo-6 under clear sky, and on the exit Mount Fuji is still not overcast - Photo-7. When reached the north shore of Lake Yamanaka, Mount Fuji is reflected on the frozen surface, which is commonly known as Diamond Fuji - Photo-8 (Nikon Coolpix L23), Photo-9 (Nikon D3000 with 35mm manual single focus lense), Opposite shore is today crystal clearly shot with Old Nikon 300mm manual lense -Photo-10. Now is the time for ceremonial photograph - Photo-11, Photo-12. Panoramic view is rendered with Canon PhotoStitch software as usual - Photo-13, Photo-14, Photo-15 (Nikon D 3000), Photo-16 (Nikon Coolpix L23). After smoking a pipe for a while, I go to Mikuni Pass, with extremely cautious driving to avoid skidding on the focally frozen surface (with normal tyres!) - Photo-17 half-frozen surface of the parking lot, I stop at the entrance, Photo-18 Mount Fuji from Mikuni Pass, Photo-19 Return-leg from Mikuni Pass - I recommend you not to copy my example. Only mad dog and crazy pathologist go out on such condition. On the return road, I say good by to Mount Fuji - Photo-20.


Diamond Fuji with her reflexion on the frozen surface (January 11 2014) "Diamond Fuji with her reflexion on the frozen surface on January 11 2014 (Crick to enlarge, Nikon Coolpix L23)

On March 8 2014, I visit Mount Fuji again. In this winter, heavy snow paralyzed Kanto-Koshinetsu area of Japan twice, and I would like to check its wake. At 9:00AM, viewed from Otome Pass of Hakone, Mount Fuji is a bit overcast in the southern slope, but, weather forecast predicted strong north wind. Probably north side is no clouds, I guess. Minus 2 degree Celsius is indicated on the roadside at Otome Pass, maybe it's comfortable compared with big chill under Arctic Vortex in the United States! I think cold stress enhances immunity. Since I driving this wild car, I have never caught cold. I reach the north shore of Lake Yamanaka at 10:00 - Photo-1, Photo-2. Turbulant air is evident on the summit (300 mm manual lense) -Photo-3. Opposite shore is shot with Nikon 300mm old manual lense. Since air is crystal clear, the characters are recognized (Gusto in alphabet - fast food chain) -Photo-4 (Nikon manual 300mm, D-3000). I relocate to Mikuni Pass - Photo-5, Photo-6. Edge of Lake Yamanaka is completely frozen - Photo-7. Self-portrait is shot with remote-control shutter in the right hand (seasoned Nikon D-3000) - Photo-8. I wear US Army's military fatigue - Photo-9, and LL Bean's thick denim pants, which I put on in this season when driving Birkin Seven. I really like to taste pipe tabacco in rock-ribbed nature environment. The summit is not particular - Photo-10 (panorama).


Snowscape (March 8 2014) "Mount Fuji viewed fron snowscape Mikuni Pass on March 8 2014 (Crick to enlarge, Nikon Coolpix L23)

On March 22 2014, I visit Mount Fuji (again, again,) once again. At 9:00 from Otome Pass, Hakone, (Coolpix L23). The condition is extremely good, it appears. The temperature is 4 degree Celsius. At 10:15 from Mikuni Pass (Coolpix L23). Snow has gone, but in spite of coming hazy spring, the air is crystal clear, still. Probably the last in this season. Pipe tabaco time. My Birkin (1993) is still healthy. Then I descend to the east coast of Lake Yamanaka Still 50% blossom on Tsubaki and panorama view photostitched from 3 images (Nikon D3000, old manual 35mm lense).


No more snowscape in Mikuni Pass (March 22 2014) "Snowscape has gone! (Crick to enlarge, Nikon Coolpix L23)

On March 29 2014, I tour downhill reconnaissance mission for blossom maturity of Sakura (Japanese cherry) from the top of Hakone (Taikanzan) to Yugawara Town through Tsubaki line (Prefectural Road 75). The air is still a bit chilly, and no blossom is observed along the Tsuabaki line. One the next Orange line just proximal to Yugawara, circa 50% blossom is seen - Photo-1, Photo-2. After advancing more down the hill, awesome Sakura appears, overhanging and almost in full bloom Photo-3, Photo-4, Photo-5.


Overhanging Sakura (March 29 2014) "Overhanging Sakura (Crick to enlarge, Nikon Coolpix L23)

On April 5 2014, I again tour downhill from Hakone (Taikanzan) to Yugawara to observe Japanese Cherry, this week in full bloom. Shot with seasoned Nikon D3000 with manual old Nikor-S 35 mm lense and tele autofocus 80-200mm, if not otherwise specified. I first meet this full bloom at this welcome display panel, indicating "3.5 km from here (1st line), Welcome (hiragana, 2nd) to Yugawara spa (Kanji character, 3rd line)" - Photo-1, Photo-2 (Coolpix L23). Downhill drive continues - Photo-3, Photo-4 (Sakura), Photo-5 (Sakura in enlarged view), Photo-6, Photo-7, Photo-8 (Sakura in enlarged view). After the end of Tsubaki line, I enter Orange line where cherry is in full blossom -Photo-9 (Coolpix L23), please compare with the image of the previous week. On the other hand, this Sakura a few miles forward was one week ago in full bloom, now gone - Photo-10 (Nikon Coolpix L23). Wabi, Sabi,,,, transience of life. After reaching the seashore, I return on Route 135 - Photo-11, viewing Sagami Bay of the Pacific Ocean at Nebukawa. Yugawara and Nebukawa is actually Orange county ;) - Photo-12. Even on the hill along the shore, Sakura is in full bloom - Photo-13 (Odawara City is seen over the sea in the left corner). At Nebukawa, I meet one more overhanding Sakura - Photo-14. This type of landscape is seen all over Japan in this short period, very short indeed - Photo-15.


Under Sakura in full bloom (April 5 2014) "Under Sakura in full bloom (Crick to enlarge)

On April 19 2014, I tour Route 413 (so-called Doushi-No-Michi) to observe the last Sakura (Japanese cherry) in this season, a bit still chilly with cloudy sky, though - Photo-1, Photo-2 This bridge is indicated "Privately-owned", Photo-3 ditto, in different angle, ("PRIVATE PROPERTY. NO TRESPASSING"), Photo-4 I visit this Sakura every year (2013, April 13, fair weather), Photo-5, Photo-6 near this place, Photo-7 Near the end of Doushi-tour (the same Sakura in the last year April 13).


April 19 2014 "Sakura on the road side (Crick to enlarge)

On May 10 2014, I received My Birkin after routine 12-month check is finished- Photo-1, Photo-2. This hard-boiled professional repair plant Elite Motors is located on the Miura Kaigan (shore) of the southeast edge of Miura Peninsula, that is facing Bousou Peninsula across Tokyo Bay. The CEO/chief mechanics/purchasing agent, in short Swiss-army-knife type boss, aka Meister Sakamoto, is highly intelligent and honest person who is actually a bachelor of atomic energy engineering! (Tokai University, 1967). Then, I tour in verdurous country road at Yabitsu, Photo-3, Photo-4, Photo-5, and eat lunch and take a nap on the roadside, Photo-6. This road is Kanagawa Prefectural road 70 - Photo 7. On the return road, the odometer hits 80,000km! (Past history: 20,000 km in January 2006 --> 30,000 km in March 2007 --> 40,000 km in July 2008 --> 50,000 km in October 2009 --> 60,000 km in January 2011 --> 70,000 km in September 2012), though instrument panel shows pretty battle-fatigue,,,


May 10 2014 "Odometer hits 80,000 km (Crick to enlarge)

On June 14 2014, I toured to Mikuni Pass which is already in early summer, where I was relaxed, although Mt. Fuji was overcast - Photo-1, without so-called Bikini top, it is too hot already. This time I brought director chair in the passenger's seat Photo-2, Photo-3 (Lake Yamanaka).

On September 20 2014, battery was replaced from Pitwork (40B19L since October 10 2010) to HITACHI/Shin-Kobe Electric Machinery (40B19L, purchsed at Amazon.co,jp at 3,675 Japanese Yen).

On September 21 2014, I toured to Mikuni Pass in autumn color, however, Mount Fuji was overcast when I reached there. At 9 viewed from Otome Pass, Hakone. Still only partly overcast - Photo-1. When I reached the north shore of Lake Yamanaka - Photo-2. Then I went to Mikuni Pass, overviewing Lake Yamanaka and Mt. Fuji where autumn color already prevails -Photo-3, Photo-4. Now, piping time - My favorite is Dunhill Royal Yacht - Photo-5.

On September 23 2014, in-vehicle ETC unit was replaced to - Mitsubishi MOBE-550 because of malfunction occasionally happening lately.

On September 27 2014, I toured around Mount Fuji in still early autumn color, which is not yet snow-capped. At 9 o'clock from south side, Otome Pass of Hakone as usual. Sky is clear, go! - Photo-1. In front of Higashi Fuji Base (Japanese Ground Self Defense Force) - Photo-2. Approaching from the south slope, leaves are partly becoming yellow - Photo-3. At the park in the south slope - Photo-4, ditto - Photo-5, ditto, close-up view with manual 80-mm Nikon lense with D-3000 (Otherwise photos are shot with easy-going Nikon compact camera Coolpix S02), - Photo-6, chestnut-colored mountain surface is similar to that of Haleakala. Reflecting iron content? From the south west slope - Photo-7. From the west slope, serene cattle breeding ranch - Photo-8. Lake Motosu, Nippon Alps in the background is not yet snow-capped, too - Photo-9. Aoki ocean of foliage in the north west slope is not yet turning red and yellow - Photo-10, only very partly color is turned - Photo-11.

On October 18 2014, I toured around Mount Fuji, second time in this season (the 29th around Mt. Fuji tour in sum) in starting autumn color. At 9 o'clock from south side, Mt. Fuji was seen totally overcast viewed from Otome Pass of Hakone. On the south slope of Mt. Fuji, autumn color is only occasionally seen - Photo-1, ditto on the Mizugatsuka Park - Photo-2. This day, Mt. Fuji was overcast almost completely, however, on the west slope, I got a glimpse of snow cap, first in this season - Photo-3, ditto, Snow-capped summit, with Nikon's old manual tele-lense (300 mm) + seasoned D3000 - Photo-4. In Aoki ocean of foliage on the northwest slope, crimson foliage is scattered, but still not in full - Photo-5, Photo-6, Photo-7.




October 18 2014 Starting crimson color in Aoki foliage ocean (Crick to enlarge)

On November 15 2014, I toured around Mount Fuji, third time in this season (the 30th around Mt. Fuji tour in sum). At around 9:00 from Otome Pass - Photo-1, Photo-2 Summit with Nikon manual 300 mm tele lense. In front of East Fuji Base of the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force at 10:00 Photo-3. Leaves are fallen already on the south slope - Photo-4. Autumn leaves remain on the south-west slope - Photo-5, Photo-6. Over Hitoana primary school (west slope), there is less snowcap on the summit on this west side, compared with preceding image from the south side - Photo-7, Photo-8 Summit shot with Nikon manual 300 mm tele lense (panorama from two separate images). Leaves are fallen completely in Aoki Ocean of Trees (west slope). Since, on the previous tour on October 18, the leaves were only partially tinged with red, probably a couple of weeks ago was the best timing to see the beautiful colored leaves here - Photo-9. Lake Sai Wild Bird Park at noon (north west slope), Mount Fuji is in backlight in this direction - Photo-10, Photo-11. Lunch time at noon on the shore of Lake Sai (north west slope) - North latitude　35.498056, east longitude 138.686389 - Photo-12. I park here every year on the north shore of Lake Kawaguchi - Photo-13, Photo-14, Photo-15, Photo-16. At 13:00, the other my favorite place on the north shore of Lake Kawaguchi - Photo-17, Photo-18, Photo-19. On the rerurn road to Hayama retreat, Mt Fuji was seen from Zushi City shore over Sagami Bay at 17:00 - Photo-20. I hastily run up to the summit of the Shonan International Village of Hayama and watch the last glow at sunset surrounding Mount Fuji at 17:20 - Photo-21. This 63-year-old a bit crazy pathologist was driving this small car on the rigid and tight sheet from 7:00 to 17:30.


November 15 2014 Full autumn color on the north shore of Lake Kawaguchi (Crick to enlarge)

On December 6 2014, again, again, once again, I toured to Lake Yamanaka to view Mount Fuji which is now fully snow-capped. The air is cool and crystal-clear. All photos are shot with seasoned Nikon D3000 with manual exposure/focus with old Nikkor*ED 300 mm 1:4.5 (serial# 226570), Nikkor-S 35 mm 1:2.8 (serial# 380104) and Nikkor 85 mm. At 9:00, whaoo, fully snow-capped Mount Fuji under crystal clear sky, observed from Otome Pass of Hakone. The thermometer on the roadside indicates -1 degree Celsius, which is like a breeze compared with Arctic Vortex over the North America, probably - Photo-1, Photo-2 (panorama with tele 300 mm lens, from two images with PhotoStitch v. 3.1.21.45), apparently like a texture of cotton. At the entrance of East Fujigoko Express Way (HIGASHI-FUJIGOKO RORD） - Photo-3, Photo-4 (Nikkor 85 mm). At the exit of Fujigoko Road at Lake Yamanaka, still with no cloud - Photo-5, Photo-6 (panorama with tele 300 mm lens), just like weaving pattern of the left aspect of the summit. Mountain lodges are seen in the center (now closed). I arrive at the north shore of Lake Yamanaka at 10:20 - Photo-7, Photo-8, cloud is approaching the summit from east side, Photo-9 (panorama with tele 300 mm lens), Photo-10, since the air is crystal clear, the opposite shore is clearly shot with 300 mm tele-lens, Photo-11, detail of the slope, climb route is seen "zzzz", Photo-12, ditto, detail of the slope, Photo-13, Milvus migrans (Tobi in Japanese) are flying over the lake surface this day, Photo-14 ditto, Milvus migrans (Tobi in Japanese), Photo-15, at 10:40, only 20 mitunes after arrival, cloud is already covering a half of the summit, Photo-16, after shooting (mission accomplished), I relax on the portable chair. In the next morning at 9:30, Mount Fuji is seen from Shonan International Village, Hayama, across Sagami Bay. White spots on the sea surface is yachts, based Hayama, Aburatsubo and Zushi Marina - Photo-17.


November 15 2014 Fully snow-capped summit of Mout Fuji viewed from the north shore of Lake Yamanaka (Crick to enlarge)

On December 6 2014, on the approaching road at Hakone to Mt. Fuji tour, I clean the momorial of a vacant lot of former Prof. Dr. Erwin von Baelz (Wikipedia in English, for Japanese) at the road side of Kiga Onsen (R.138), once again since last November (2013.11.9.) - Photo-1 Memorial on the road shoulder, Photo-2 before cleaning, covered with moss, Photo-3 after I spray glass cleaner (for car screen) and scrape with tissue paper, it is pretty cleaned. We the Japanese never forget benefactor foreign teachers during Meiji era, who educated still naive but eager-to-study our foregoers. One more example, William Smith Clark. "Boys be ambitious!" have become a nationally known motto in Japan. Actually, I have never heard of Korean or Chinese openly expressing respect and acknowledgment to the former foreign teachers during her developing stage.

On January 11 2015, as a year visit, I tour to Lake Yamanaka. There is no snow not only on the road surface but on the road side. At the north shore of Lake Yamanaka at 10AM - Photo-1, this may be called "Diamond Fuji", though strictly speaking the surface must be frozen (this is shot by Coolpix S02, others are all with D3000). The air is crystal clear, and the opposite shore can be shot clearly with 300mm tele lens. I love winter air - Photo-2. At Mikuni Pass, cloud is emerging already - Photo-3. This is my relaxation style in the nature, viewing Mount Fuji alone from the hill of Lake Yamanaka, with pipe smoking, in the cold air. US army jacket and L.L.Bean corduroy pants is enough to warm myself (Shutter with Nikon remote control in the right hand) - Photo-4. Lately I carry portable deck chair on the passenger's seat.


January 11 2015 Happy New Year from vantage point for Mount Fuji at the hill of Lake Yamanaka (Crick to enlarge)



In the evenenig of January 31 2015, Mount Fuji is observed with evening glow from the Shonan International Village at Hayama across Sagami Bay.


January 31 2015 Mount Fuji viewed from Hayama (Crick to enlarge)

In this morning of February 7 2015, Mt. Fuji is overcast, and I turn back to Hayama from Otome Pass, Hakone - Photo-1, Photo-2, Photo-3 - compared with Northeastern USA chill, absolutely no problem. After returning Hayama, I myself change engine oil and filter DIY at 82,852 km odometer, as usual at circa 5000 km intervals (previous time on December 22 2013 at 77,763 km odometer). Every time my skill is up, and this time I did not mess up the floor, including disposable paper sheet Photo-1, Photo-2, I use not only jack but also jack stand (rigid rack, left) for safety. Of course I do not thrust my head carelessly under the chassis,,,

On February 28 2015, I tour to Lake Yamana again, just before spring is coming with blur air. From Otome Pass at 9:30AM with temperature of 4 degree Celsius - Photo-1, the north shore of Lake Yamanaka at 10:30AM - Photo-2, ditto Photo-3, from Mikuni Pass at 11:00AM - Photo-4. Enlarged view of the summit of Mount Fuji from various locations - From the exit of East Fujigoko Express Way (HIGASHI-FUJIGOKO RORD）at Lake Yamanaka - Photo-5, from the north shore of Lake Yamanaka - Photo-6, and from Mikuni Pass - Photo-7 (all images with D-3000 with Nikkor*ED 300 mm 1:4.5, serial# 226570, PhotoStitch 3.1 software). Self-portrait in relaxation time on portable deck chair with pipe smoking at Mikuni Pass - Photo-8, Photo-9 (Shutter with Nikon remote control in the right hand).


February 28 2015 From vantage point for Mount Fuji at the hill of Lake Yamanaka (Crick to enlarge)

On March 14 2015, I arrive at Mizugatsuka Parking Lot on the south slope of Mount Fuji to perform test flight of a small-scale drone coptoer Hubsan x4 - Photo-1, Photo-2, Photo-3. Actually, I do exercising the flight characteristics of this model airplane every evening after returning to home. The summit is overcast in this morning. There is still snow on the roadside of the Shizuoka Prefectural Route 23, though, the road surface is almost entirely dry - Photo-4.

On March 28 2015, I again visit Mizugatsuka Parking Lot on the south slope of Mount Fuji to perform test (maiden) flight of newly acquired Syma X5C, actually a bit larger model than Hubsan x4. Viewed from Otome Pass of Hakone at 9:50, Mount Fuji is not overcast but blurred under early spring air (temperature 10 degree Celsius) - Photo-1. In front of JGSDF East Fuji Base, the sky is getting clear - Photo-2. Arrived at the vast and empty parking lot of Mizugatsuka at 10:30. The venue is perfect! - Photo-3. Today I try X5C drone copter (Left-sided white one). Red one is already fit-in Hubsan x4. Both are added adlib thin tail fin to grasp orientation from the ground - Photo-4. Only still images are uploaded here, and video file is available at You Tube (volume control is requested). This image is shot just after take-off - Photo-5. Climb further. X5C is stable and very controllable compared with smaller Hubsan - Photo-6. Video is nice shot, actually, viewing Mount Fuji from different view angle, i.e., bird's eye. On return road - Photo-7. Snow on the road shoulders has disappeared.

On April 18 2015, I first head for Mikuni Pass to fly Quadcopter X5C. At 9:40 Otome Pass in Hakone, Mt Fuji is half overcast - Photo-1, and temperature is 8 degrees Celsius - Photo-2. I reach Mikuni Pass in Lake Yamanaka at 10:30 to fly drone copter X5C - Photo-3 - Video is uploaded to You Tube (volume control is requested). My portrait after the flight - Photo-4. At 11:00 I depart to Doshi Road (national Road 413) to appreciate the spring full blossom - images are in chronological order - Photo-5, Photo-6, Photo-7, Photo-8, Photo-9, Photo-10, Photo-11, Photo-12, Photo-13, Photo-14, Photo-15, Photo-16, Photo-17, Photo-18, Photo-19, Photo-20, Photo-21, Photo-22, Photo-23, Photo-24, Photo-25, Photo-26, Photo-27, Photo-28, mountain cherry blossoms Photo-29, Photo-30, Photo-31, Photo-32. I would be humming during this drive ,,, "Almost heaven, West Virginia, Blue Ridge Mountains, Shenandoah River, Life is old there, older than the trees, Younger than the mountains, blowing like a breeze" ,,


April 18 2015 Under full blossom (Crick to enlarge)


April 18 2015 In front of a beautiful farm house (Crick to enlarge)

2015.5.6. Just before submitting Birkin to Elite Motors, I and my wife Mineko drop into Hayama Shonan International Village to appreciate azalea garden in full blossom, where I fly X5C drone quadcopter as usual - I uploaded video to YouTube Hayama Shonan International Village flight by X5C drone copter - X5Cドローン、湘南国際村を飛行.

On May 16 2015, I take a train to Nagasawa of Miura Peninsula to receive my Birkin after her passing compulsory automobile inspection (24 months interval in Japan) at 84,000km odometer, thanks to Meister Sakamoto of Elite Motors (Actually this is sixth time since I acquired her - First pass at 13,000 km on May 21 2005; second pass at 31,400 km on May 8 2007; third pass at 46,880 km odometer on May 15 2009, fourth at 62,000 km odometer on May 14 2011, and fifth in May 2013) - Photo-1, Photo-2.

On May 23, I toured to Mount Fuji for terrain investigation around the 5th Station at Tarobo by drone quadcopter Syma X5C. Firstly foot-side Gotenba City and Hakone is observed, then, rotate to the summit side which is overcast with residual snow scattering. Mountain lodge, too, can be seen. Terrain is clearly grasped by bird-eye view. I uploaded video to YouTube X5C Flight over Mt. Fuji the 5th Station Tarobo on May 23 2015. I lately carry that drone on Birkin 7 touring every time. After returning to Hayama, center console is re-covered with cheap self-adhesive artificial suede purchased at Amazon.jp (less than 1,000 Jpn Yen with free shipping) - Photo-1 edge was worn, Photo-2 trace line around detached board, Photo-3 DIY finished.

On May 30 and June 6 2015, I polish the alminium surface using drill, polishing felt spindle and abrasive compound. Please do not blame me for being person of leisure, this is recreation from daily medical (combat) mission - Photo-1 Inner half finished, Photo-2 ditto, Photo-3 Almost finished, Photo-4, Photo-5 Simple paraphernalia. Only limited surface is finished till the present time.

On June 13 and 14 2015, left-side metal wheel cover is polished in succession to previous weekend, using drill, polishing felt spindle and abrasive compound (green brick), now upper 2/3 finished - Photo-1, finished Photo-2. Paraphernalia is swapped and green nose cone and anterior wheel covers (paintwork) are polished, using electric polisher (AstroProducts, EP551, circa 10,000 Japanese Yen) with compound firstly, and then with wax - Photo-3.

On June 27 2015, I polish hood (bonnet) air outlet (ventilator) with drill and polishing felt spindle with abrasive - Photo-1, Photo-2, Photo-3.


June 27 2015 Project Polish Birkin 1993 (Crick to enlarge)

On July 4 2015, in this weekend, I begin to polish the engine hood (bonnet) from the posterior edge - Photo-1, Photo-2.

On July 11 2015, in this weekend I tried metal polish cream Blue Magic from USA (circa 1,000 Yen @amazon.jp) with Astro Products' electric polisher, EP551, after felt spindle and electric drill with abrasive compound firstly finished. Result - Photo-1. Photo-2, Photo-3. In the early morning of this day, I toured to Otome Pass of Hakone, when Mount Fuji was totally overcast, so I returned.

On July 18 2015, in this weekend, I finish the left half of the posterior bonnet (engine hood), and try cut-corner method for the front half. Firstly I finished the left half of the engine hood (right half finished in the former week) with drill, polishing felt spindle and abrasive compound, which needs a patient work - Photo-1, Photo-2. Then, I try cut-corner method on the front half of the engine hood with only metal polish cream Blue Magic from USA (circa 1,000 Yen @amazon.jp) with Astro Products' electric polisher, EP551 - Photo-3, Photo-4. Apparently no difference? Microscopic analysis reveals the difference - Two-step patient work on the posterior half - Photo-5, and one-step cut-corner method on the front half - Photo-6. Over 20-year chemical change of alminium needs grinding the surface with abrasive and felt spindle (radical operation) to recapture the sparkling luster, it seems.


July 18 2015 Project Polish Birkin 1993 (Crick to enlarge)

On July 25 2015, in this weekend, I polish the back panel and left posterior half of the bonnet. The rust (oxidization of aluminium) is fairly severe on the back panel, so I firstly detach the spare tire, polish the surface with #400 and #1000 waterproof sandpaper, then with electric polisher with metal polish cream Blue Magic from USA - Photo-1. Not perfect, but I am comfortable with result. I spray clear body paint (Soft 99) for cover - Photo-2, Photo-3. As for the left half of the posterior bonnet, I grind the surface with felt spindle with abraser, then polish with electric polisher with metal polish cream Blue Magic. I add spraying clear body paint to this block - Photo-4, Photo-5. As Photo-4 and 5 reveals, the oxidized aluminium looks whitish. Anterior half of the bonnet has not been grinded with felt spindle on drill with abrazer (only Blue Magic done).


July 25 2015 Project Polish Birkin 1993 (Crick to enlarge)

On August 1 2015, left base and lateral portion of the metal frame of the front windscreen (windshield) is ground with drill, felt spindle and abrasive, then manually polish with metal polish cream Blue Magic with rag. After masking with news paper (just like scale model making) clear body paint is sprayed - Photo-1, Photo-2.


August 1 2015 Project Polish Birkin 1993 (Crick to enlarge)

On August 11 2015, the so-called bikini top of my Birkin 7 is becoming a bit filthy, so I decided to dye it into light green. As a result, my bath room at Kohinata in Tokyo temporarily becomes a dye house - Photo-1, dye compound purchased from Amazon.jp Photo-2. However, the result was revealed not green but blue. Dyeing operation of cotton has pretty depth, it appears - 150815 Early-morning Yugawara touring - Photo-3.

On August 16 2015, polishing the bonnet continues. Firstly, right half of the remaining front section is ground with felt-spindle on drill - Photo-1, followed by the left half - Photo-2. This is not final. I would later polish with Blue Magic.

On August 30 2015, The anterior half of the bonnet is further polished with compound on drill, and Pikal (metal polish solution in Japan) - Photo-1, and on the shore of Kuruwa - Photo-2. Obviously, the lower half of the body is still untouched.

On September 5 2015, I tour to Mikuni Pass, where Mount Fuji is fully overcast - Photo-1 (left side), but there is full of Japanese silver grass (susuki in Japanese) - Photo-2, Photo-3, Photo-4.


September 5 2015 Early autumn color at Mikuni Pass (Crick to enlarge)

On September 12 2015, I tour to Mount Fuji at the 5th station Tarobou, however she is overcast, and the summit appears only instantly Photo-1, Photo-2, Photo-3.


September 12 2015 At the 5th station Tarobo of Mount Fuji (Crick to enlarge)

On September 19 2015, when I reached the parking lot of the 5th station of Mount Fuji at Tarobo, leakage of coolant fluid is noticed. Ummmmm, green fluid is leaking - Photo-1. Tank of coolant fluid is almost empty (triangle white plastic case in the center) - Photo-2. After consulting Meister Sakamoto of my car repair shop (attending mechanics) on phone, I added water in a plastic bottle which I always carry in this car to the coolant tank. I slowly down the slope to Gotenba City. I park Birkin at National Chuo Youth Frendship Center, where I add water to fill the tank full - Photo-3. National Chuo Youth Frendship Center - Photo-4, Photo-5. From Gotenba I safely returned to Hayama, including highway cruising at 100 km/h. At Hayama the coolant level is not noticeably lessened.

On September 20 2015, Coolant leakage occurred at the 5th Station of Mount Fuji at Tarobo the day before was revealed not so serious by Meister Sakamoto @Elite Motors. At the same time of this consultation, I request him to change rusty battery base to clean one, which I purchased at Yahoo auction (Japan Yahoo). Pedestal is severely rusty to brown-red in color - Photo-1, Photo-2 Right: rusty old one. left: newly acquired one (second-hand though), actually one of the two bolts and nuts of the old base is firmly fixed with rust, which is now being bitten by wrench. Meister Sakamoto technically deals with - Photo-3. Finally, the bolt and nut detached, and new base installed - Photo-4. Now, it looks clean and crisp - Photo-5. The landscape of Elite Motors on this day - Photo-6 - one Volkswagen, one BMW, and two Porsches. I love this hard-boiled Spartan atmosphere. BTW, Meister Sakamoto is a graduate of Nuclear Engineering of Tokai University 1967. I have never heard of car mechanics with nuclear engineering bachelor.

On September 23 2015, when I returned from a short trip on Birkin to Miura Peninsula, parked her to my garage, and shifted gear from backward to neutral, abruptly strange and large sound hollowed and clutch pedal became competely loosened. Yes, clutch cable is fractured, most likely. BTW, what a luck that trouble occurred after arriving at the garage of my home! In the morning of September 26, Meister Sakamoto of Elite Motors came to Hayama on car carrier to ferry her to his workshop. On September 27, on the return way to Tokyo, I stop at Elite Motors at Miura Shore to make sure the pathological diagnosis by Meister Sakamoto. Clutch cable was revealed to be torn at the proximal end - Photo-1, Photo-2. Linkages between pedal and cable is grouped in this box shown here - Photo-3 - Clutch cable is pulled with black lever (surrounded by four yellow arrows, pedal is extended with a longer lever to the down side of this view; two blue arrows indicate the axis of later mentioned pole), however the end knuckle of the clutch cable (yellow arrows in Photo-4: proximal torn point of the cable) is too tightly clenched to the pole (green arrows) - Photo-4, or fixated by rust from aging. As a result, clutch cable's buried point to the knuckle is being strained in dogleg fashion every time clutch pedaled. Stress concentrates to this point. This is his analysis, I completely agree.


September 23-27 2015 Clutch cable is fractured (Crick to enlarge)

On October 3 2015, fractured clutch cable was replaced at Elite Motors at reasonable price, and this Saturday I again tour to the 5th station of Mount Fuji to enjoy drone coptor flight on the desolate wilderness. Mount Fuji is overcast this morning at 9:00AM, viewed from Otome Pass of Hakone - Photo-1. Near the 5th station. autumn color is approaching in the landscape - Photo-2, Photo-3. I pilot Syma drone coptor X5c in the cloud over the 5th station of Mount Fuji (I uploaded video to YouTube: Syma X5c the-in-cloud flight over the 5th station of Mount Fuji at Tarobo). After returning to Hayama retreat, I polish the rust and corrosion of the internal wall (panel surrounded by red arrows) - Photo-4, with sand paper and air-pressure electric blower. Tracing-certificate metal-plate too is polished - Photo-5, indicating assembled in May 1993, at Pinetown, Natal, Republic of South Africa - Photo-6.


October 3 2015 Tracing cerftificate (Crick to enlarge)

On October 10 2015, I depart Hayama at 7:30 and return there at 15:00, after the first clock-wise round-Mount Fuji tour in this season, spending almost all the hours on my Birkin's tight, kidney-buster seat. A crazy pathologist loves it still. Nature boy! At 9:30 from Otome Pass of Hakone. Mount Fuji is slightly overcast and obscured - Photo-1. At 10:00 in front of East Fuji post of Japan Ground Self-defense Force - Photo-2. At 10:30 reached the 5th Station of Mount Fuji at Tarobo as usual (south foot) - Photo-3, Photo-4. I practice drone quadcoptor (Syma X5C) with video on the no-man's land - Photo-5 (I uploaded video to YouTube: Syma X5c flight over Mount Fuji Tarobo (5th station) in state of windlessness). At Mizugatsuka parking lot on the south foof. Actually, I try here to fly my Syma X5C again, however batteries are all out already - Photo-6, ditto with tele lens - Photo-7. On the south foot, autumn color is approaching - Photo-8. Next, at another parking lot at the south foot - Photo-9, Photo-10. View from the west foot - Photo-11, ditto Photo-12. Aoki ocean of trees on the northwest foot - Photo-13, ditto Photo-14.


October 10 2015 Autumn color on the south foot of Mount Fuji (Crick to enlarge)

On October 11 and 12 2015, I polish right and left under half of the body panel with metal polish cream Blue Magic from USA with Astro Products' electric polisher, EP551. Right body panel under the engine hood is polished - Photo-1, Photo-2. In the next morning, left side is done - Photo-3, Photo-4, Photo-5. I gradually grasp the techniques. Electric polisher should be moved at a slow pace.


October 11-12 2015 Project Polish Birkin 1993 (Crick to enlarge)

On October 31 2015 I depart Hayama at 7:50 and return there at 15:10, after the second clock-wise round-Mount Fuji tour in this season. Firstly, at Hakone, I clean the momorial of a vacant lot of the villa of former Prof. Dr. Erwin von Baelz (Wikipedia in English, for Japanese) at the road side of Kiga Onsen (R.138), once again (once a year lately: 2012.10.13, 2013.11.9, 2014 12.6). Prof. Dr. Erwin von Baelz founded the base of my alma mater, Tokyo (Imperial) University School of Medicine, after he was invited by Meiji government under modernization effort of Japan. I scrub the panel with cloth and brush to clean up moss - Photo-1 The panel of memorial after my cleaning today, Photo-2, Photo-3 Prof. Baelz loved this landscape in Japan. I continue the second tour around Mount Fuji in this season. Mount Fuji is viewed from Mizugatsuka Parking Lot on the south foot - Photo-4, Hoei volcanic vent (crater, 宝永火口, since 1707) is observed, yes, Mt. Fuji is still an active volcano, last erupting about 1707, Photo-5 The summit with manual old Nikon 300 lens with D3000. Mountain lodge is clearly seen, Photo-6 ditto in panoramic view, Photo-7 the upper outer edge of Hoei crater in enlarged view, Photo-8 panoramic view of the upper half of Hoei crater, Photo-9 panoramic view of the lower half of Hoei crater. On the south foot, autumn color is almost full - Photo-10, Photo-11, Photo-12. In the Aoki Ocean of Trees (west slope), autumn color is just beginning here - Photo-13, Photo-14. From 7:50AM to 13: 10PM on the tight seat of Brikin Seven. What a crazy old,, no, no, seasoned pathologist!


November 21 2015 Aoki Ocean of Trees (west slope of Mount Fuji) (Crick to enlarge)

On November 2015, I woke late this morning because of setting failure of alarm clock of my smart phone (Nokia 520), and departed 2 hours later than usual. This is probably the last chance to watch autumn color in this eason. As it turned out, crimson foliage was scarcely remaining at the north shore of Lake Kawaguchi. Mount Fuji is viewed from Otome Pass under clear sky on 11:00AM - Photo-1, it is warm this day, 12 degrees Celsius - Photo-2. Clockwise tour begins from the south slope, in front of the base of the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force - Photo-3. Almost completely defoliated landscape on the south foot of Mount Fuji - Photo-4. The summit is slightly snow-capped, viewed from the southwest foot of Mount Fuji, with quite autumnal cloud form - Photo-5 (Nikon Coolpix S02), Photo-6 (Nikon D3000). Aoki ocean of foliage too is completely defoliated already - Photo-7. At the shore of Saiko (Lake Sai, northwest foot), I ate late bag lunch at 13:30PM - Photo-8. At the north shore of the Lake Kawaguchi, I met the last autumn color - Photo-9, ditto at 14:00PM - Photo-10, Photo-11, at the parking of the north shore - Photo-12. Compared with the images of the last year's November 15 tour, the crimson color has already faded to yellow-tone. It was rainy on the last week's end, so I missed the best timing for lively colors this year. One week late.

I depart at 9:00 and return to Hayama at 18:00 this day. Aesthetics appears to overcome this crazy old pathologist, still.


November 21 2015 At the north shore of Lake Kawaguchi (Crick to enlarge)

On December 5 2015, I get up early in the morning and tour to Lake Yamanaka to view Mount Fuji which is now almost fully snow-capped. The air is cool and crystal-clear. All photos are shot with seasoned Nikon D3000 with manual exposure/focus with old Nikkor*ED 300 mm 1:4.5 (serial# 226570), Nikkor-S 35 mm 1:2.8 (serial# 380104), if not otherwise specified. I depart Hayama at 7:30 and reach Otome Pass in Hakone at 9:30. The thermometer on the roadside indicates 3 degrees Celsius (cf. -3 degrees on Dec 6 2014), Mount Fuji is under crystal-clear winter air - Photo-1, and summit - Photo-2. Let's go to Lake Yamanaka. At the exit of of the East Fuji Road at Lake Yamanaka - Photo-3 (Nikon Coolpix S02), summit shot with 300 mm tele lens and composite pictures from six and seven digital images rendered with Canon PhotoStitch software - Photo-4 and Photo-5. I arrive at the north shore of Lake Yamanaka at 10:30. No cloud at all - Photo-6, summit - Photo-7 (composite picture from three digital images rendered with Canon PhotoStitch software). The opposite shore is clearly shot with 300mm old Nikon manual lens, thanks to clear winter air - Photo-8. I then climb to the hill of Mikuni (Sangoku) Pass - Photo-9, panoramic view from Mikuni Pass - Photo-10 (Lake Yamanaka is seen in the right half of the image), the other image of Birkin - Photo-11, summit - Photo-12 (composite picture from three digital images rendered with Canon PhotoStitch software). Down to the shore again, and panorama view from the east shore, near the water surface level - Photo-13 (composite picture from four digital images rendered with Canon PhotoStitch software). After returned to Hayama retreat at 14:00, I go out again at 17:30 to Hayama Shonan International Village to view the afterglow of Mount Fuji across Sagami Bay. Welcome to Ukiyoe world (Japanese woodblock prints) - Photo-14.


December 5 2015 Composite panoramic picture from seven images
of the summit of Mount Fuji seen from Lake Yamanaka (Crick to enlarge)

On January 9 2016, I tour to view Mount Fuji first time this new year. At 9:45, perfectly clear sky over the summit, when viewed from Otome Pass of Hakone - Photo-1, with manual 300 lens with D3000 - Photo-2, snow is a bit scarce for this period of year. In front of the base of Japan Ground Self-Defense Force. Ummm, cloud is forming - Photo-3. When I reached Mizugatsuka Parking Lot, the summit is entirely overcast! weep - Photo-4.

On January 10 2016, engine oil and filter are changed. Lately I once a year change engine oil and filter (every 5,000 km mileage on average). This time at 88,165 km mileage. I usually put on this USAF's old flight garment (coverall) K-2B, which I acquired at e-bay a decade ago, and was mailed across the Pacific pond to Nippon, in order not to mess up the dressing and to protect my body. Military garments are very functional and protective. Self portrait with remote-control shutter - Photo-1, K-2B 1968, may be used during Vietnam war,,,, operation "Rolling Thunder" - Photo-2. Jack-up with additional support for safety. I do not want to die in a stampede wink emoticon. Of course I do not carelessly push my head under the belly of Birkin - Photo-3. As experience accumulated, I do not mess up the floor with old oil lately. I use Chevron 10W-40 and Motorcraft filter as usual - Photo-4, Photo-5.

On January 16 2016, I got up a bit late this morning at 8:00 and departed Hayama at 8:40, arriving at Mikuni Pass of Hakone at 10:40 - Photo-1. I reached Mikuni Pass near Lake Yamanaka, and practiced flying Syma X5C drone coptor. Mount Fuji was half overcast - Photo-2, Photo-3.

On February 27 2016, I got up a bit late again this morning at 7:45 and departed Hayama at 8:40, arriving at Mikuni Pass of Hakone at 10:30 - Photo-1 fully snowcapped summit of Mount Fuji viewed from Otome Pass of Hakone over Gotenba City (compare with the image on January 16!), and roadside temperature gauge indicates 3 degrees Celsius - Photo-2. At the exit of Lake Yamanaka of East Fujigoko Road, Mount Fuji is clearly seen - Photo-3, Photo-4. From the north shore of Lake Yamanaka, this morning, Mount Fuji is slightly overcast - Photo-5 (with Nikon compact camera Coolpix S02), Photo-6. Opposite shore, with Nikon AF-S 55-200 mm ED zoom, autofocus - Photo-7 (actually compared with the images with mono-focus manual 300 mm, the image is not so sharp). From Mikuni Pass where snow is remaining - Photo-8, ditto Photo-9. I pilot Drone Syma X5c on the right front wheel cover (I uploaded video to YouTube: Syma X5C flight over Mikuni Pass for view of fully snowcapped Mount Fuji).

On March 12 2016, the odomerter hits 88,888 km. I noticed this record one km later, hahaha - Photo-1. After returning to Hayama, rust was removed of the front suspension arms using rotary file - Photo-2, Photo-3.


March 12 2016 The odomerter hits 88,888 km (Crick to enlarge)

On March 19 and 20 2016, I fixed rust problem. Firstly rust was removed with rotary file from rearview mirror, then anti-rust clear primer was painted with brush - Photo-1. After rust was removed from front suspension arms using rotary file, anti-rust clear primer was painted with brush - Photo-2, then, silver is painted with brush - Photo-3.


March 12 2016 Front suspension arms painted silver again, with scouring rust away of rearview mirrors (Crick to enlarge)

On April 2 2016, while Japanese cherry is blossoming all over Nippon, under overcast weather, I tour Yugawara Town to appreciate Sakura. Downhill from Hakone, I met a welcome sign to Yagawara 湯河原町 which is a famous spa town facing Pacific ocean, Photo-2, Photo-3, Photo-4, Photo-5, Photo-6 On the so-called Orange Line, Photo-7 ditto, Photo-8 ditto, Photo-9 At Nebukawa 根府川 facing Sagami Bay (Pacific Ocean), Photo-10 Japanese tea plantation, Photo-11 ditto enlarged, Photo-12.


April 2 2016 April 2 2016 at Nebukawa (Crick to enlarge)

On April 9 2016, I tour on Birkin 7 1993 model, observing full-blown Japanese Cherry and other flowers, starting from Lake Yamanaka to Sagami on National Route 413 (so-called Doshi Michi). Mount Fuji was overcast this morning, both viewed from Otome Pass of Hakone at 9:50 and from the north shore of Lake Yamanaka at 10:40. I start on the Route 413 from the western leg, Photo-1, Photo-2, Photo-3, Photo-4, Photo-5, Photo-6, Photo-7 (middle leg), Photo-8 (middle leg), Photo-9 Beautiful and posh farm house, Photo-10 ditto, Photo-11, Photo-12, Photo-13 (last leg), Photo-14 (last leg), Photo-15 (last leg), Photo-16 (last leg), Photo-17 (last leg),

Almost heaven, West Virginia, Blue Ridge Mountains, Shenandoah River.
Life is old there, older than the trees, younger than the mountains, blowing like a breeze.
Country roads, take me home to the place I belong.
West Virginia, mountain mamma, take me home, country roads
(JOHN DENVER)


April 9 2016 April 2 2016 on National Route 413 (so-called Doshi Michi) (Crick to enlarge)

On April 23 2016, as rust is conspicuous lately on the front suspension arms and springs, I remove rust using rotary file for this purpose - Photo-1, Photo-2. After finished, anticorrosive clear varnish and silver was painted. In a couple of weeks, I will paint black on that.

On April 29 2016, I painted arms and springs black with brush - Photo-1, Photo-2. Finished.

In May, I requested change of tyres during annual regular check at Elite Motors - Photo-1 Front: Bridgestone Nextry 165/70 R13, and Photo-2 Rear: Bridgestone Sneaker 185/70 R13, both standard (economic) type,,,,

On May 28 2016, after regular check at Elite Motors completed, I tour alone to Yabitsu Pass, to reflesh myself as a nature boy - Photo-1, Photo-2 Family is enjoying barbecue, Photo-3, Photo-4, Photo-5 Serene driving, with low speed, Photo-6, Photo-7 Rock-fall prevention net is installed everywhere. Public work projects, maybe overkill?, Photo-8 ditto enlarged, Photo-9 I put on Aussie hat today. This hat not gone with the wind, hahaha. How many baseball caps I have lost during Birkin touring, BTW?, Photo-10 Aussie hat from L.L.Bean, purchased a decada ago from USA across Pacific pond (mail order).

On June 4 2016 I tour to Mikuni Pass. At 9:30 AM viewed from Otome Pass of Hakone, the summit of Mount Fuji is partially overcast with minimally remaining snow - Photo-1. When reached Mikuni Pass at 10:20, the summit is almost entirely overcast - Photo-2. There is already early summer landscape with verdure and warble of cuculiform (Cuculus poliocephalus) - Photo-3. It is relaxation time for me with pipe tobacco, which I only enjoy in NATURE and solitude (remote control shutter in the hand) - Photo-4. BTW, distance recorder of my Birkin 1993 hits 90,000 km today !!!! I inadvertently missed the just moment, so 90,086 km - Photo-5 (Past history: 20,000 km in January 2006 --> 30,000 km in March 2007 --> 40,000 km in July 2008 --> 50,000 km in October 2009 --> 60,000 km in January 2011 --> 70,000 km in September 2012 --> 80,000 km in May 2014). I want to detach metal trim ring (black), remove rust and repaint, but, I don't know how to detach. Does any body know?


June 4 2016 Odometer hits 90,000 km! (Crick to enlarge)

In the morning of June 11 2016, I tour to Lake Ashi (Ashinoko), and park my Birkin at Motohakone (the southern part of Lake Ashi) - Photo-1, Photo-2 Pirate ship for sight seeing, Photo-3 Really peaceful lakeside landscape, Photo-4 self-portrait, just relaxing.

On June 25 2016, I remove rust from meter rings of the dashboard, and do preparatory painting. Please, don't blame me as a person of leisure. This is my important recreation from nerve-straining pathology routine practice on week days, hahaha. Rust is dire with meter rings for a while. Obviously, battle fatigue from over 90,000 kilometer mileage. Firstly, I remove rust with steel wool (cotton-like appearance thin steel wire) - Photo-1, Photo-2. I rub up whole circumferences cautiously, not to tear the surface of glass and panel - Photo-3, Photo-4, Photo-5. Then, I cover inner and outer circumferences with masking tape of 0.2 cm and 0.5 cm width (for plastic model making ;) - Photo-6, Photo-7, Photo-8. Before I paint with epoxy anti-rust clear - Photo-9, I rub off remaining rust with miniature files (left). After anti-rust clear paint is dried, I will paint rings with black.


June 25 2016 Rust is removed and masking is finished (Crick to enlarge)

On July 2 2016, with continuation of last week's work, rings are painted black this weekend with thin brush - Photo-1, with simple (and cheep) equipment - Photo-2, left three meters enlarged - Photo-3, right larger meters enlarged - Photo-4. I will add second painting with a bit diluted black with thinner after a while (after current paint is dried). As addendum, roses at Hayama retreat garden - Photo-5, - Photo-6.


June 25 2016 Rust is removed and masking is finished (Crick to enlarge)

On July 16 2016, after second painting a bit thinned black with thinner with brush, I remove the masking tape in some trepidation ,,, voila! Not bad! Masking tape worked almost as I intended. As an amateur Sunday auto mechanics, job is decent and well-done - Photo-1, Photo-2. Meter ring painting is finished


July 16 2016 Meter ring painting is finished (Crick to enlarge)

Lately, black paint has been exfoliating from the hub of steering wheel, presenting seasoned but a bit ugly appearance - Photo-3, Photo-4. So, on July 17, I decided to detach steering wheel and paint the central hub. After struggling with firmly fixed bolts and nuts (from aging), I finally could detach the wheel from the axis as preceding images, and remove residual black paint as much as possible, using electric drill with rust-removal attachment - Photo-5. Actually, I could not completely remove the residual black paint - Photo-6. I procured new bolts and nuts at near-by home hardware chain store (Cainz), bringing the old one to compare the size. The correct spec. is M5 x 20 (millimeter, pitch 0.8), which later just fit. I paint heads of bolt black before assembly - Photo-7. It cost 300 Yen (for three bolts and nuts) x 2 (6 lots in total) = 600 Yen. DIY is my way to suppress running cost. My Birkin Seven is (and will be) never profitable. It's simple hobby - Photo-8. After masking with tape and paper, chasis-black paint is sprayed,,,, and Finished! Hide grip (outer circumference) must be treated later - Photo-9, Photo-10. During this effort, I try reserved Nardi wheel (second hand, made in Italy?) temporarily. Looking not bad, however, the diameter is a bit larger than that of Mountney (UK)(not suitable for sports driving, but maybe good for old gentleman), and hub is for different spec. Conversion kit would be needed, if exchange in future - Photo-11. Anyway, steering wheel hub painting is finished.


July 17 2016 Steering wheel hub painting is finished (Crick to enlarge)

On July 23 2016, I noticed the rust of the supporting section of the headlamp is becoming unbearble - Photo-1 (left side), and Photo-2 (right side). I remove the rust as much as possible using electric drill with attachment - Photo-3, - ditto, enlarged view of the attachment, Photo-4. After the treatment, right side - Photo-5, Photo-6, and lef side Photo-7. Today's mission accomplished. Not radical operation, but, palliative treatment (life-prolonging medical treatment for aged). Do I do the same thing as hobby, too, just like in the work place, i.e., hospital? - Photo-8.

On July 30 2016, Mount Fuji is viewed from Otome Pass of Hakone at 9:30, on early morning Birkin 7 tour in this morning. The snow has disappeared from the summit, now in full summer climate - Photo-1. After returning to Hayama retreat, I go sea bathing on bike to Hayama Isshiki Beach (10 minutes ride) - Photo-2 Bathing season full!, Photo-3, Photo-4 White wall of our Emperor's villa, Photo-5 White wall of our Emperor's villa from pier, Photo-6 After investigating the sea floor (biology). I am afraid the sea in this area is on the brink of the grave. No signs of fish, Photo-7 I kindly informed anglers that there is no fish sign at all, though, they did not thank me,,,,,, What a kind doctor I am!


July 30 2016 Mount Fuji in full summer climate (Crick to enlarge)

On August 27 2016, under weak rain, I tour Yabitsu Pass along Kanagawa Prefeture Road No.70 - Photo-1, Photo-2, Photo-3.

On September 3 2016, I tour in the morning to Motohakone at the edge of Ashinoko (Lake Ashi) - Photo-1, Photo-2.

On October 9 2016, under cloudy and weakly rainy sky, I polish right side of the body panel with metal polish cream Blue Magic from USA with Astro Products' electric polisher, EP551, since after a while alminium outer surface has oxidized again - Photo-1, Photo-2.


October 9 2016 Polish again (Crick to enlarge)

On October 9 2016, under perfect clear sky, I go around the Mount Fuji clockwise. This is the first tour in this season, and 34th of the same trip. After leaving Hayama at 7:40AM, I start from Otome Pass of Hakone at 9;40 - Photo-1, Photo-2 (Summit with 300 mm manual tele-lens), Photo-3 In front of the East Fuji JGSDF (Japan Ground Self-Defense Force) Camp at Takigahara, Photo-4 Panoramic image photostitched from two images, Photo-5 At the 5th station of Mount Fuji at Tarobo, Photo-6 ditto, Photo-7 On the south slope, with autumn color not yet, Photo-8 From southwest side, Photo-9 Viewed from the west slope, Photo-10 ditto, Photo-11 ditto, a bit off the track, really idyllic pastoral landscape,,,, almost heaven, West Virginia,,,,, Photo-12 Aoki ocean of foliage is not yet with autumn-color.


October 15 2016 Immersed in idyllic pastral landscape (Crick to enlarge)

On November 13 2016, under clear sky with minimal mist, I go around the snow-capped Mount Fuji clockwise. This is the second tour in this season, and 35th of the same trip. After leaving Hayama at 7:40AM, I start from Otome Pass of Hakone - Photo-1, At 9:20AM, from Otome Pass of Hakone, Photo-2 In front of the East Fuji JGSDF (Japan Ground Self-Defense Force) Camp at Takigahara, Photo-3 At Nishiusuzuka Parking Lot, Photo-4 On the south slope, autumn color is almost over, Photo-5 Viewed from the west slope, over Japanese silver grass, Miscanthus sinensis, Photo-6 The summit with panoramic view, viewed from the west slope, Photo-7 Ditto viewed from the west slope, Photo-8 Aoki ocean of foliage, autumn-color is almost over, Photo-9 Aoki ocean of foliage, peculiar root of the tree at Aoki, Photo-10 ditto, on the lake side of Saiko (Lake Sai), Photo-11 On the north shore of Lake Kawaguchi., perfect autumn color is met finally,,, Photo-12 On the north shore of Lake Kawaguchi, Mount Fuji in backlight, Photo-13 On the north shore of Lake Kawaguchi, Photo-14 On the north shore of Lake Kawaguchi, Photo-15 On the north shore of Lake Kawaguchi,


November 13 2016 On the north shore of Lake Kawaguchi, perfect autumn color is met finally,,, (Crick to enlarge)

On November 26 2016, I tour around Hakone to appreciate the last autumn color. Firstly, I stop at the momorial of a vacant lot of the villa of former Prof. Dr. Erwin von Baelz (Wikipedia in English, at the road side of Kiga Onsen (R.138), once again (once a year lately: 2012.10.13, 2014 12.6, 2015.10.31). Prof. Dr. Erwin von Baelz founded the base of my alma mater, Tokyo (Imperial) University School of Medicine, after he was invited by Meiji government under modernization effort of Japan. I scrub the panel with tissue paper and cleaner spray to get rid of green moss - Photo-1, Photo-2, Photo-3 Landscape seen from his former villa. Mount Fuji is now fully scowcapped, further thickened with the snowfall of the weekend before - Photo-4, view from Otome Pass. It was quite chilling in this morning, with roadside thermometer indicating 4 degrees Celsius - Photo-5. The images of the last autumn colors - Photo-6, Photo-7, Photo-8, Photo-9, Photo-10.

On December 10 2016, I toured to Lake Yamanaka. At 9:30, seen from Otome Pass of Hakone, Mount Fuji appears picture-perfect under clear sky (south face). - Photo-1. At the exit of Lake Yamanaka of Fujigoko Highway (Higashi-Fujigoko Road), ummmm, she began overcast - Photo-2. At 10:30 when I arrived at the north shore of Lake Yamanaka, alas, the summit of Mount Fuji (north face) is already under cloud, it was one hour too late. - Photo-3 (composite photo from three images, a bit distorted). The summit shot with old Nikkor 300mm manual tele-lens with seasoned Nikon D3000 - Photo-4, Photo-5. Opposite shore is clearly shot - Photo-6, Ducks were catching fish on the lake surface - Photo-7.


December 10 2016 North face of Mount Fuji across Lake Yamanaka (Crick to enlarge)

On December 24 2016, I toured to Lake Yamanaka, again, to hope for good winter weather condition. At 9:20 Mount Fuji is viewed from Otome Pass of Hakone across Gotenba City, under picture-perfect clear sky. Roadside temperature indicator 2 degrees Celsius which is breeze compared with Arctic blast extending over the North America - Photo-1, the summit shot with manual Nikor *ED 300mm 1:4.5 tele lens (serial# 226570, composite image from three photos) - Photo-2. At the entrance to Fujigoko express way at Subashiri of Koyama Town - Photo-3, and at the exit from Fujigoko express way at Lake Yamanaka at 10:10, where the summit is still with no cloud - Photo-4, summit shot with manual NIkor 300mm tele (composite image from three photos) - Photo-5 (panoramic view), below-the-summit shot with manual Nikkor*ED 300 mm tele lens (composite image from four photos) - Photo-6 (panoramic view), - Photo-7 (ditto, a single photo). I arrived at the parking lot at the north shore of Lake Yamanaka at 10:30 - Photo-8 (composite image from four photos with manual Nikkor 35mm wide lense), ditto shot with Nikon AF zoom lense - Photo-9 (composite image from three photos), selfie with smarphone Panasonic Eluga P-02E - Photo-10, summit shot from the north shore with 300mm tele - Photo-11, the opposite south shore with 300mm tele, the air is cool and clear - Photo-12. I reached Mikuni Pass (vantage point) at 11:00, shot with Nikon Coolpix, Lake Yamanaka is present in the right half of the image - Photo-13 (composite image from two photos). My Birkin Seven 1993 (shot with Panasonic Eluga P-02E) - Photo-14, ditto with D-3000 with 35 mm wide lens - Photo- 15, summit shot with 300mm tele - Photo-16 (composite image from three photos).


December 24 2016 North face of Mount Fuji across Lake Yamanaka (Crick to enlarge)


December 24 2016 North face of Mount Fuji across Lake Yamanaka viewed from Mikuni Pass (Crick to enlarge)

On December 31 2016 and January 1 2017 (New Year), I toured with my wife Mineko and my son Takao's young family to Gotenba, Lake Yamanaka and Izu Nagaoka in Shizuoka Prefecture on Saab and Takao's new Subaru (This story is about Mount Fuji, not about Birkin Seven, sorry). At 11:30 of December 31, Mount Fuji is observed under clear sky from the shopping mall Gotenba Premium Outlets - Photo-1. After shopping and lunch, we bear to Lake Yamanaka - Photo-2 Takao's New Car, Subaru Crossover7 at the exit of East Fujigoko Express Way (東富士五湖道路) at Lake Yamanaka. We reached the north shore of Lake Yamanaka at 13:30, causing backlight image - Photo-3. Then we went to Mikuni Pass as usual to leｔ them appreciate my favorite view - Photo-4, Photo-5 Seasoned couple with grandsons - Photo-6 Mount Fuji viewed from Mikuni Pass across Lake Yamanaka in the afternoon light with silght cloud. After we lodged in a hotel at Izu Nagaoka City (Nagaoka Izunokuni City) on Dec 31 2016, we toured to the summit of Mount Katsuragi (452 meter) on the ropeway (Katsuragi-yama Panorama Park) - Photo-7, since I am acrophobia I was fairly scared! At the summit, the weather is perfect for magnificent view - Photo-8 (Nikon D3000 with tripod and remote control ML-L3 in the right hand), Photo-9 composite panorama view from two images, Photo-10 explanatory board.


January 1 2017 South face of Mount Fuji across Suruga Bay and Numazu City located in the center of the picture, viewed from Mount Katsuragi (Crick to enlarge)

On January 7 2017, I toured to Lake Yamanaka, again and again. At 10:50 Mount Fuji is viewed from Otome Pass of Hakone across Gotenba City, under picture-perfect clear sky. Roadside temperature indicator 2 degrees Celsius - Photo-1, the summit shot with manual Nikor *ED 300mm 1:4.5 tele lens (serial# 226570, composite image from two photos) - Photo-2. At the entrance to Higashi Fujigoko express way at Subashiri of Koyama Town - Photo-3, and at the exit from Fujigoko express way at Lake Yamanaka at 11:00, where the summit is still with no cloud - Photo-4, summit shot with manual Nikor 300mm tele (composite image from three photos) - Photo-5 (panoramic view), below-the-summit shot with manual Nikkor*ED 300 mm tele lens - Photo-6. I arrived at the parking lot at the north shore of Lake Yamanaka at 11:20 - Photo-7 (composite image from five photos with manual Nikkor 35mm wide lense), the summit shot with Nikon AF zoom lense - Photo-8 (composite image from three photos). Birkin on the parking - Photo-9, ditto - black and white picture Photo-10. I reached Mikuni Pass (vantage point) at 12:10 - Photo-11, Photo-12 (composite image from four photos). At 15:00 I touched down to the flight deck of Hayama retreat after continuous 6.5 hours drive. Cold stress enhances immunity, as a result I have never caught cold/influneza in late years in spite of no vaccination.


January 7 2017 At the north shore of Lake Yamanaka (Crick to enlarge)

On January 21 2017, I toured to Lake Yamanaka, just like early morning jogging for my health (, i.e., cold stress enhances immunity). At 10:00 Mount Fuji is viewed from Otome Pass of Hakone across Gotenba City, under picture-perfect clear sky - Photo-1, obviously the snow cover of the summit is increased compared with that of January 7. Deposited snow by the cold weather of the previous two weeks was worrisome regarding the decision whether I advance to Lake Yamanaka, or retreat here - Photo-2. Roadside temperature indicator 2 degrees Celsius - Photo-3, and it is very cold this morning. Anyway, I decided to advance with courage and reached the entrance of Higashi Fujigoko Express Way at Subashiri of Koyama Town at 10:35 - Photo-4, the composite image of the summit with dense snow cover from two photos - Photo-5. At the exit from Fujigoko Express Way at Lake Yamanaka at 10:50, where the summit is still with no cloud - Photo-6. On the approach road to the north shore of Lake Yamanaka, the road surface is still perfectly dry, which brought a sigh of relief to me - Photo-7. When reached Lake Yamanaka Shinsui Park on the north shore, Mount Fuji is clearly seen with no cumbersome cloud - Photo-8, however, the summit is about to be overcast - Photo-9 (manual Nikkor*ED 300 mm tele lens), Photo-10 commemorative photo of my Birkin. The air is so cold and clear, the opposite side is extraordinarily distinctly shot with Nikon D3000 with Nikkor 300mm 1:4.5 manual lens (manual focus/manual exposure) - Photo-11. Trade sign "ガスト" (in English, Gust) can be read. Composite panoramic image from five photos with manual Nikkor 35mm wide lense - Photo-12. Only 10 minutes later on the return road entering the express way, the summit is increasingly covered with cloud, cloud,, - Photo-13.


January 21 2017 At the exit from Fujigoko Express Way at Lake Yamanaka (Crick to enlarge)

On January 28 2017, I tour to Daikanyama of Hakone to view Mount Fuji across Lake Ashi (Ashinoko) - Photo-1, Photo-2, Photo-3, Photo-4 (summit), Photo-5 (panoramic image) (Shot with Nikon D3000 with old manual Nikkor-S 35mm 1:2.8 and AF-S VR Nikkor 35-105mm). On the return road from Hakone, I stop around my current hospital (Odawara Municipal Hospital) to withdraw some of the packages a little bit a time and to store at Hayama retreat, preparing for age-forced retirement of the public-service doctor on March 31 2017. I actually am negotiating with the next ship (private laboratory that has no business relationship with the current hospital, Odawara municipality, neither Kanagawa prefecture) - Photo-6 On the front of Odawara Municipal Hospital (Left tall building is ward, and right tan building is the entrance of outpatient clinic, Photo-7 I managed to touch down to the flight deck of Hayama retreat, hahaha. In the evening, Mount Fuji is viewed from Shonan International Village at Hayama in twilight today across Sagami Bay, (Nikon D3000 with several lens) - Photo-8 Hokusai-like Fujisan, Photo-9 Today, contrails of commercial airplane are conspicuous, many of which departed from Haneda Airport with vector to west cities in Japan. Photo-10 panoramic view of the Sagami Bay.


January 28 2017 From Daikanyama of Hakone-Yugawara (Crick to enlarge)

On February 4 2017, I toured to Lake Yamanaka, once again to receive the full benefit of winter cold and clear weather. At 10:00 Mount Fuji is viewed from Otome Pass of Hakone across Gotenba City, under picture-perfect clear sky - Photo-1, roadside temperature indicator showing 2 degrees Celsius - Photo-2. Reached Higashi Fujigoko Express Way at Subashiri of Koyama Town at 10:20 - Photo-3 composite image of the summit. At the exit from Fujigoko Express Way at Lake Yamanaka at 10:35, the summit is still with no cloud - Photo-4, composite image of the summit - Photo-5. When reached Lake Yamanaka Shinsui Park on the north shore at 10:50, Mount Fuji is clearly seen with no cumbersome cloud and so-called diamond Fuji presentation, imperfect though - Photo-6 composite photo from vertical two images , Photo-7 composite photo from horozontal three images, Photo-8 with Win 10 Mobile Phone Mouse Madosma Q501-WH, 8 mega pixels camera (,,, not bad indeed), Photo-9 composite image of the summit from three images, and my selfie image Photo-10 with US Army winter coat - Photo-11 Be proud of Made In USA ! The air is so cold and clear in this morning, too, the opposite side is distinctly shot with Nikon D3000 with Nikkor 300mm 1:4.5 manual lens (manual focus/manual exposure) - Photo-12. I advance clock-wise on the shore and reach the northeastern angle - Photo-13 composite photo from vertical two images, ice is remaining on the surface. I reach Mikuni Pass at 11:30 - Photo-14 and Photo-15 with Win 10 Mobile Phone Mouse Madosma Q501-WH (,,, not bad indeed,,hahaha), Photo-16 composite photo from horozontal fourimages, Photo-17 My Birkin.

On February 25, I shuttled between Hayama and Odawara Municipal Hospital again to withdraw some of the packages a little bit a time and to store at Hayama retreat, preparing for age-forced retirement of the public-service doctor on March 31 2017. This time, new red MAGA (Make America Great Again) cap put on - Selphie with Win 10 mobile phone Photo-1, Photo-2, Photo-3 View from driver's seat on Seisho Bypass (National Route 1) at Odawara.

Two video footages of "Driving on Birkin Seven 1993" in this morning is uploaded to YouTube:
Seisho Bypass (Route 1), Speed restriction 70 km/h,
Zushi Beachside on Route 134 Driiving along resort condominiums of Zushi City, Kanagawa, Japan, whose beach is nearly equivalent to Vero Beach, Florida, hahaha.



February 25 2017 Put on MAGA cap (Crick to enlarge)

After returning to Hayama retreat, I polish the body with metal polish cream Blue Magic from USA (from USA) and Astro Products' electric polisher, EP551. Actually, after exposed with antifreezing agent on the winter road, my Birkin had lost luster for a while. This operation is the first time in this year (season) - Photo-1, Photo-2, Photo-3 Under the sun light,

On March 18 2017, when winter clear air is about to draw away which is needed to take pictures of Mount Fuji, I again tour to Mount Fuji. When viewed from Otome Pass of Hakone at at 10AM, snow cap coverage is very wide now - Photo-1, Photo-2 the summit shot with 300mm tele lens, When I park in front of Japan Ground Self-Defence Force base at Gotenba side at 10:30, UH-1 Iroquois Helicoptor is just on landing appraoch - Photo-3, Photo-4, Photo-5, Photo-6 the summit, shot with 300mm tele lens. Because the road is still deposited with snow on the south foot of Mount Fuji, I returned (U-turn) with judgement- Photo-7. After retreating from the south foot, vector is changed to Lake Yamanaka. When I reach the exit of East Fuji Toll Road at 11:30AM, the summit is still clear - Photo-8, Photo-9 the summit, shot with 300mm tele lens. I reach the north shore of Lake Yamanaka at 11:40AM - Photo-10, Photo-11 the summit, shot with 300mm tele lens, Photo-12 composite image from 3 photos, Photo-13 the opposite shore with 300mm lens, which is not so sharp compared with that of January 21 this year. The air is already becoming dull.


March 18 2017 U-turned because of snow coverage of the roadon the south slope of Mount Fuji (Crick to enlarge)

On April 10, I tour to Yugawawa for cherry-blossom viewing. Mount Fuji is overcast - Photo-1 Viewed from Daikanzan (Daikan Mountain; circa 1000 meter height) of Hakone, from where I plunge to the Yugawara coastline - Photo-2 Entrance to Yugawawa Town, Photo-3 Downhill to Yugawara (Camellia japonica line), Photo-4 Enlarged view of cherry blossom, Photo-5 Oku-Yugawara, Photo-6 ditto, Photo-7 Manazuru coastline facing Sagami Bay of the Pacific Ocean, Photo-8 same place from different angle, Photo-9 Nebukawa, Takenoue area, Photo-10 ditto, Photo-11 ditto, Photo-12 ditto.


April 10 2017 at Nebukawa Sakura (cherry) in full blossom everywhere in Nippon (Crick to enlarge)

On April 16, I tour Route 143 (doshi-michi) from Lake Yamanaka to Sagamihara-Miyagase for cherry-blossom viewing. Mount Fuji is almost clear, but a bit misty in the spring air - Photo-1 viewed from Otome Pass, Photo-2 viewed from Mikuni Pass. Cherry is in full blossom in the later half of the leg - Photo-3, Photo-4, Photo-5 Doushi Village, Nohara district 野原, and Photo-6 Doushi Village, gorgeous folk dwelling in Owata district 大渡.


April 16 2017 at Doshi village Sakura (cherry) in full blossom everywhere in Nippon (Crick to enlarge)

In the early morning of April 23 Sunday 2017, I tour Hakone-Daikanzan-Yugawara to view the last Sakura - Photo-1, Photo-2, Photo-3, Photo-4.

In the early morning of April 30 Sunday 2017, I tour to Lake Yamanaka - Photo-1 Mount Fuji viewed from Otome Pass of Hakone, Photo-2 from the exit Lake Yamanaka of East Fuji Toll Road, Photo-3 from the north shore of Lake Yamanaka, Photo-4 Prunus incisa (Fujizakura in Japanese), which is smalller and suitable for Bonsai, Photo-5 Mount Fuji viewed from Mikuni Pass, Photo-6 ditto composite from three images. After returning to Hayama retreat, I drink a glass of beer appreciating full blossom of Wisteria trellis in my garden - Photo-7. In the afternoon, exchange of engine oil was done, using manual suction pump newly purchased at Amazon Japan at 3400 Yen - Photo-8. After suction was completed, oil filter too was changed.

On May 4 2017 (2nd day of Japanese consecutive holidays) after departing Hayama at 7:40, the accelerator pedal abruptly became unresponsive on Route 134 at the intersection at 8:30 between Fujisawa and Chigasaki (in front of Nishihama High School). With the help of two Good Samaritans (gilded by hands), I parked my Birkin at the roadside - Photo-1. Opening of the linkage box (between pedal and cable) revealed the accelerator cable being severed (at the point of the red arrows: This picture is shot after emergency treatment) - Photo-2. Blue arrows indicate linkage of the accelerator pedal, and red arrows indicate cut point - Photo-3, for which I slided the cable from right to left side and tightened three screws. I restarted at 9:30 and touched down to the flight deck of Hayama retreat at 10:15 safely. On May 7, I drived my Birkin to Elite Motors for compulsory automobile inspection (once a two years for aged cars).

On May 14 2017 I go to Elite Motors at Nagasawa of Miura Peninsula to pick up my Seven after automobile safety inspection was successfully passed - Photo-1. Can you believe the background car in this picture is BAC Mono under final adjustment for Japanese regulation of car exhaust, and old familiar Datsun Fairlady is located on the left next to my Birkin, which is purchased in Texas by the Meister/CEO/chief mechanic/trader (Swiss army knife-type person) of this bottega and now under restoration for sale. At the same time, I asked Meister Sakamoto to repair the support base of awning pipe - Photo-2, Photo-3. He used steel rod of exact diameter, and grinded the edge smooth.

On May 21 2017, I tour to Yabitsu Pass - Photo-1, Photo-2, Photo-3 (selfie). On the return road in the town, it becomes too hot in early summer climate, so I install so-called "Bikini Top" in Japanese 7 fan's idiom, using awning pipe that my meister repaired a week before. The top was originally white, which I dyed with green dye in boiled water for 30 minutes in the previous year - Photo-4, Photo-5.


May 21 2017 Bikini top installed (Crick to enlarge)

During touring under light rain on July 2 2017, I noticed wiper does not work. After I returned Hayama, I disassemble the switch unit, and clean electric contact with Photo-1 polishing tool with drill , and Photo-2 reassembled again. In conclusion, my treatment did not work this time. I would consult Meister Sakamoto of Elite Motors within days/weeks.

On July 10 2017, the wiper malfunction noticed at the previous week is fixed at Elite Motors by Meister Sakamoto! Meister detected wiper malfunction originated from dropout of linkage between motor arm and pillow-ball joint, i.e., mechanical trouble - Photo-1, he firstly detach motor unit with hand-held ratchet wrench. Workability is very bad, actually - Photo-2, Pathological analysis: red arrow indicates pillow-ball joint. The linkage (arm) attached to the motor pivot is being dropped from the pillow-ball joint (green arrow). In normal condition, revolving movement of the arm attached to the motor axis is transformed to the back-and-forth motion of the wiper linkage (yellow arrows) - Photo-3, a bit different angle view of pillow-ball joint - Photo-4, Meister's treatment option was electric(al) welding between pivot of the pillow-ball and rorating arm of the motor - Photo-5. Finished! Wiper recovered ! What a professional work by seasoned auto technologist! [who is actually graduate (bachelor) of nuclear (atomic power) engineering of Tokai University 1967]

On the same day at Elite Motors, power-up version of the BAC MONO is present. Meister Sakamoto successfully has this power-up version of BAC MONO pass the Japanese regulation lately at the national facility at Tsukuba, which the dealer would sell at 40,000,000 Japanese Yen !!! The examination was required de novo separately from the preceding model (several cars are already being sold at circa 25,000,000 Japanese Yen by the dealer in the Aichi Prefecture) - Photo-6, - Photo-7.

On September 18 2017, after Typhoon 18 passed Kanto Area the night before, it is clear in this morning. Actually, Mount Fuji with no snow cap is not so impressive, though, I went fo Lake Yamanaka to meet old friend Kazuo Yabuta after over 40 years interval. Reached Otome Pass of Hakone at 10:00, Good luck for a young couple from an aged doctor - Photo-1 with Madosma Win 10 phone, ditto with Nikon D3000+AF-S 18-55mm - Photo-2. At the exit of Fujigoko Express Way at Lake Yamanaka at 10:00 - Photo-3, Photo-4, both photos with Nikon D3000+AF-S 18-55mm. I reached the north shore of Lake Yamanaka at 10:50 - Photo-5 with Masosma Win 10 phone, composite panoramic image of the summit from two images - Photo-6 with Nikon D3000+AF-S 18-55mm, and opposite shore with 55mm side of AF-S zoom 18-55mm with D3000 - Photo-7. Actually, I came here today to hold a renunion with Kazuo Yabuta who is classmate from primary school to high school at Okazaki City, Aichi Prefecture, who lately purchased second house (resort villa) in Lake Yamanaka area and Birkin Seven (1996, right red one) - Photo-8. Sorry for failed photo (smartphone). Having too a nice chat, I failed by chance.

On September 24 2017, after returning from an early morning tour to Odawara, Kazamatsuri, I polish the body panel of Birkin Seven with metal polish cream Blue Magic from USA with Astro Products' electric polisher, EP551, since after a while aluminum outer surface has oxidized again - Photo-1.


September 24 2017 Metal polish, again (Crick to enlarge)

On October 1 2017, I tour to the south slope of Mount Fuji to check the advancement of autumn color. Images are all shot with Nikon D-3000 with AF-S DX 18-55mm VR zoom this day. Mount Fuji was moderately overcast, when viewed from Otome Pass of Hakone at 9:00 - Photo-1, and from the front of the East Fuji JGSDF (Japan Ground Self-Defense Force) Camp at Takigahara - Photo-2. At the entrance to the 5th station of Mount Fuji, a new guide board was being installed - Photo-3 (red arrows: 5th station). From the 5th station, the summit is visible occasionally, which is not yet covered with snow - Photo-4, Photo-5. My Birkin's distant meter indicates 97,000 kilometers now - Photo-6, Photo-7. Autumn color not yet, certainly.

On November 12 2017, I tour around Mount Fuji clockwise (36th round trip) to appreciate autumn color. I depart Hayama retreat at 7:00 and reach Otome Pass of Hakone at 8:50 - Photo 1, Photo 2, Photo 3 with MAGA cap. The summit is still seen in front of the East Fuji JGSDF (Japan Ground Self-Defense Force) Camp at Takigahara - Photo 4. Along Shizuoka Prefectural Route 152 on the south slope of Mount Fuji, autumn color is almost gone - Photo 5, but occasionally remains - Photo 6, Alas, on the south slope, the summit is completely overcast - Photo 7, however I advance. Across Saiko (Sai Lake, west north side) the summit is seen again - Photo 8 (backlight photo). On the north shore of Lake Kawaguchi, gorgeous maple tree, which I visit every year in this season, presents deep red color as usual. Photo 9, Photo 10 selfie with remote control shutter. I put on US army jacket in cold season. I reach the parking lot on the north shore - Photo 11 Landscape of the north shore, Okukawaguchi, - Photo 12 Mount Fuji across Lake Kawaguchi (backlight photo), - Photo 13 Autumn color of the north shore, - Photo 14 ditto, - Photo 15 ditto. I return Hayama retreat at 15:30, accomplishing total 8.5 hours tour (mission).

On November 19 2017, I tour to Hakone to appreciate the autumn color. I approach to Hakone through Hakone New Road (Hakone Shindo) - Photo 1, Photo 2, Photo 3 on the exit of Hakone Shindo. After taking a short rest at the lakeside of Ashinoko (Lake Ashi) at Motohakone, I advance to Kojiri - Photo 4, Photo 5. I go down the Hakone mountain through Sengokubara and Miyagino (Route 138) - Photo 6.


November 19 2017 Autumn color in Hakone (Crick to enlarge)

On November 26 2017, I tour around Mount Fuji under perfectly clear sky (second time in this season). I depart Hayama at 7:45 and reach Otome Pass of Hakone at 9:40 - Photo 1 Overview of Mount Fuji under perfectly clear sky, and Photo 2 Selfie with USN G-1 leather jacket (Avirex, USA), which is my favorite for cold season for the last 30 years. I go through in front of the East Fuji JGSDF (Japan Ground Self-Defense Force) Camp at Takigahara at 10:30 - Photo 3, the summit shot with 300mm manual-focus tele lens and combined from two images with software - Photo 4. No car is found in the Nishiusuzuka parking lot on the south slope - Photo 5. I notice spectacular maple forest in autumn color (A. palmatum) on the south west slope in Fujinomiya City - Photo 6, and Photo 7. Hokusai may love this landscape, too (just kidding). Only here remains full autumun color around Mount Fuji today in hinsight. Mount Fuji is clearly seen also from the west slope - Photo 8, the summit with 300mm manual-focus tele lens Photo 9 (ditto combined from two images). I love this shot of Mount Fuji across Hitoana Primary School - Photo 10, I believe there is no hazing incident in this school because of this sublime backdrop. The final shot of this day from the northwest slope - Photo 11. I touch down to Hayama retreat on 15:00PM, and actually seven-hour tour invigorates this 66-year-old still active-duty pathologist again, once again. This 37th round-Mt-Fuji tour accomplished - FYI, gasoline mileage: 240km/ 15.4 liter = 15.6 km/l


November 26 2017 Autumn color in Fujinomiya, southwest slope of Mount Fuji (Crick to enlarge)



In the evenenig of December 3 2017, Mount Fuji is observed with evening glow from the Shonan International Village at Hayama across Sagami Bay - Photo 1, Photo 2. Compare with similar situation on January 15 2015.


December 3 2017 Mount Fuji viewed from Hayama (Crick to enlarge)



On December 10 2017, I tour to Lake Yamanaka to appreciate Mount Fuji. Departing Hayama retreat at 8:30, I reach Otome Pass of Hakone at 10:30 - Photo 1 under clear sky with no clouds, - Photo 2 The summit, compose photo from two images with Nikkor 300mm lens. At the entrance of Fujigoko Express Way at Lake Yamanaka at 11:00 - Photo 3, and at the exit at 11:15 - Photo 4, Photo 5 The summit, composite photo from two images. I reach the north shore of Lake Yamanaka at 11:30 - Photo 6, Photo 7, Photo 8 The summit, which is compose photo from three images. The opposite shore is shot with D3000 with Nikkor 300mm 1:4.5 manual lens (manual focus/manual exposure) - Photo 9, to evaluate the clearness of the air. Then, I run up the Mikuni Pass - Photo 10. Overview of Mount Fuji and Lake Yamanaka from Mikuni Pass - Photo 11.

On January 7 2018, I tour to Lake Yamanaka as a new year's visit to Mount Fuji. Departing Hayama retreat at 7:20, I reach Otome Pass of Hakone at 9:15 - Photo 1 under clear sky with no clouds, roadside temperature gauge indicating 0℃ (Celsius). At the entrance of Fujigoko Express Way at Lake Yamanaka at 9:50 - Photo 2, and at the exit at 10:00 - Photo 3. The summit with unexpectedly decreasing snow cap, composite photo from three horizontal images, shot with D3000 with Nikkor 300mm 1:4.5 manual lens (manual focus/manual exposure) - Photo 4, ditto from three vertical images with Nikkor 300mm - Photo 5, and close-up view of the climb route - Photo 6. I reach the north shore of Lake Yamanaka at 10:15 - Photo 7, ditto panoramic view from three images Photo 8. The opposite shore is shot with D3000 with Nikkor 300mm 1:4.5 manual lens (manual focus/manual exposure) - Photo 9, clarifying the extreme clearness of the air this day. Then, I run up the Mikuni Pass - Photo 10. Overview of Mount Fuji and Lake Yamanaka from Mikuni Pass with beautiful contrail by commercial airline jet - Photo 11.

ATC (Tokyo Control) : "All nippon niner seven one, fly heading two six zero, maintain flight level three three thousands."
ANA 971: "All nippon niner seven one, roger, vector two six zero, flight level three three thousands."
The summit, which is compose photo from three images - Photo 12. Obviously the snow cap is decreasing since December 10 (the previous visit).


January 7 2018 Mount Fuji viewed from the exit of the Fujigoko Express Way at Lake Yamanaka (Crick to enlarge)

On February 4 2018, early morning touring to Hakone-Yugawara. At Fujimi Pass, snow is remaining on the road side. Traffic is very scarce, of course,,,, - Photo 1. I wash the underside of my Birkin to remove antifreezing agent after returning Hayama retreat.
In early evening, Mount Fuji is viewed from Shonan International Village at Hayama - Photo 3, Photo 4 (with use of old Nikkor 300mm lens with manual focus/manual exposure with seasoned Nikon D3000). Hastily I descend the hill to the shore, Tateishi Park of Hayama, to view the Mount Fuji across Sagami Bay from the sea surface level - Photo 5, Photo 6.


February 4 2018 Mount Fuji viewed from the Tateishi Park of Hayama (Crick to enlarge) across Sagami Bay

It is National Foundation Day of Nippon today (February 11) !! In this evening, Mount Fuji is viewed from Tateishi Park of Hayama again with no cloud - Photo 1, which is composite image from two photos (Nikon D3000 + AF-S Nikkor 18-55 mm in manual mode using Canon PhotoStitch utility software), and Photo 2 Nikon D3000 with Nikkor*ED 300 mm 1:4.5 (serial# 226570) and tripod, in manual focus/manual exposure mode). Obscure town light is probably that of Odawara City. Compare with similar situation on January 15 2015, and on December 3 2017 from the Shonan International Village at Hayama.


February 11 2018 Mount Fuji viewed from the Tateishi Park of Hayama (Crick to enlarge) across Sagami Bay

In the early morning of February 11 2018, I tour to Otome Pass of Hakone to judge the condition of Mount Fuji, to my dismay which is overcast - Mission abort - Photo 1. The roadside temperature gauge there indicates minus 5 degree Celsius, fantastic for open two seater Seven - Photo 2.

On February 18 2018, I arrived at Otome Pass of Hakone at 9:10 (The roadside temperature gauge: minus 5 degree Celsius). The summit of the Mount Fuji was under perfectly clear sky with a contrail of the commercial air line to the west. Let's go to Lake Yamanaka - Photo 1, Photo 2 composite image of the summit from three images (Nikon D3000 + Nikkor*ED 300 mm 1:4.5, serial# 226570) in manual exposure/manual focus mode. I arrived at the north shore of Lake Yamanaka at 10:10. - Photo 3 panoramic view with composite image from three (Nikon D3000 + AFS-Nikkor18-55mm in autofocus/autoexposure mode), Photo 4 the summit in composite panoramic view from 6 images (3 horizontal x 2 rows). The opposite shore is shot for evaluation of air transparency of this day with Nikkor*ED 300 mm with tripod and manual mode Photo 5. Ceremonial photograph with remote control shutter in the right hand. Avirex leather flight jacket G-1 is after long-term use, my favorite for this season, with L.L.Bean's thick corduroy pants and MAGA cap - Photo 6.


February 18 2018 Mount Fuji, the summit in composite panoramic view from 6 images (3 horizontal x 2 rows, 927 KB) (Crick to enlarge)

On March 4 2018, the mileage exceeds 100,000 kilometer today near Shounan-oohashi ! - Photo 1 Just before 100,000 km, - Photo 2 Just after 100,000 km reached. Probably reaching 100,000 km mileage would have been beyond the scope of the assumption of the manufactural company, the meter returned to zer0, hahaha, - Photo 3 100,000 km reached at near the Shonan-oohashi over Sagami River at 10:50 March 4 2018, - Photo 4 Reborn, - Photo 5 Seasoned driver with Avirex G-8 jacket on seasoned open two-seater.


March 4 2018 Just before the mileage reaching 100,000 km (Crick to enlarge)

On March 25 2018, I arrived at Otome Pass of Hakone at 10:30 (The roadside temperature gauge: plus 10 degree Celsius). The summit of the Mount Fuji was under perfectly clear sky with gorgeous and velvety snow cover, best in this season - Photo 1. At the entrance of Fujigoko Express Way at Lake Yamanaka at 11:20 - Photo 2, and composite image of the summit from three photos - Photo 3. I reached the north shore of Lake Yamanaka at 11:40 - Photo 4, composite image of the summit from six photos - Photo 5 please compare with the equivalent one on February 18. Then climb to the Mikuni Pass as usual - Photo 6 My Birkin Seven is alive and well, after 100,000 km travel distance, Photo 7, Photo 8 It is the beginning of the spring, the temperature is about 15 degrees Celsius. No thick jacket is needed. Actually, this moss green sweater is from L.L. Bean, labeled "Made in USA" RN71941 #16004 G713, purchased probably in late 19990s with catalogue marketting in those days.


March 25 2018 Mount Fuji, the summit in composite panoramic view from 6 images (6 horizontal/ 1 row, 581 KB) (Crick to enlarge)

On April 1 2018, I tour on Birkin 7, observing Japanese Cherry (sakura), starting from Lake Yamanaka to Lake Miyagase on National Route 413 (so-called Doshi Michi). Mount Fuji was clearly seen from Mikuni Pass this morning at 10:20 - Photo 1. I start on the Route 413 from the western leg, where blossom is not yet, but in the middle leg (Nohara district) full blossom is appreciated - Photo 2. Every year, I visit this gorgeous Sakura on the garden of farm house - Photo 3, and Photo 4. In the last leg - Photo 5, and Photo 6.


March 25 2018 Sakura tour on Route 413 (Crick to enlarge)

On April 8 2018, I tour to Yugawara Tsubaki line in the morning - Photo 1 Overcast Mount Fuji over Lake Ashi (Ashinoko) viewed from Tenkakudai, Daikanzan, Photo 2 Last Sakura with fresh green leaves.

On April 29 2018, I did the 38th round-Mt-Fuji tour, viewing the summit with remarkably decreasing snow cap. I reached Otome Pass at 9:00 - Photo 1, in front of the East Fuji JGSDF (Japan Ground Self-Defense Force) Camp at Takigahara at 9:40 - Photo 2, and the Nishiusuzuka parking lot on the south slope at 10:10 - Photo 3. Retrospectively, more snow cap is remaining on the south slope - Photo 4 panorama view of the summit, composite from two images. At the Maple Home Park of Fujinomiya, there are full of tender green - Photo 5. This angle of view is the same as the shot on November 26 2017 which is full in autumn color. Viewed from the west slope near Lake Motosu, the snow cap is much scarce - Photo 6. I departed Hayama at 7:00 and returned there at 14:00. Certainly, driving on the British open two-seater in this season is almost heaven,,,


April 29 2018 At the Maple Park of Fujinomiya (Crick to enlarge)

On May 5 2018 under comfortable weather, I tour to Mikuni Pass over Lake Yamanaka. I reached Otome Pass at 10:00 - Photo 1, the air is a bit foggy, typical for spring season, not ideal for photography. Wide view from Mikuni Pass across Lake Yamanaka, which is perfectly with spring color ! -composite from three images - Photo 2, ditto with Birkin 7, Photo 3.

On May 13 2018, annual regular check has finished at Elite Motors, and I went to Nagasawa of Miura Seaside to recover her today - Photo 1.

On May 20 2018, I tour to Lake Yamanaka to meet my old friend Kazuo Yabuta (Classmate of Aichi Prefectural Okazaki High School, retired Fujitsu engineer) who lately purchased Birkin Seven 1996 through Elite Motors and second house in Lake Yamanaka area. At 9:46 from Otome Pass of Hakone, when the prospect of viewing beautiful Mt. Fuji is not good because of thick cloud - Photo 1, however, at 10:20 at the entrance to East Fujigoko Express Way, cloud appears disappearing - Photo 2. At the exit of East Fujigoko Express Way, the summit is still overcast - Photo 3. At 10:40 from the north shore of Lake Yamanaka, when the summit is still overcast - Photo 4. At Mikuni Pass, I meet Kazuo Yabuta and his wife (and his Birkin 1996) - Photo 5, memorial Birkin two-shot with cleared summit !! Photo 6. Astonishingly, Mr Maeda, who is radiology technologist and my friend at my former work Odawara Munisipal Hospital, comes across me at the remote site as this place (left-end guy) ! What an amazing coincidence!!! - Photo 7, Mr. Maeda, who is actually important informant for me in Odawara years (hospital politics,,,you know),,, hahaha - Photo 8. The summit with decreasing snow cap ( (Nikon D3000 + Nikkor*ED 300 mm 1:4.5, serial# 226570 with manual exposure/manual focus) - Photo 9. Overview of Lake Yamanaka and Mount Fuji this day - Photo 10 (composite image from three shot).


May 20 2018 At the Mikuni Pass with Kazuo Yabuta (Crick to enlarge)

On May 27 2018, I tour Yabitsu Pass on Kanagawa Prefectural Road 70 for forest bathing during the season of new green leaves - Photo 1, Photo 2, Photo 3, Photo 4, Photo 5 My favorite is Dunhill The "Royal Yacht" mixture (selfie with Panasonic ELUGA P-02E).


May 27 2018 Relaxation time at the Yabitsu Pass (Crick to enlarge)

On August 20 2018, on returning road from Fujisawa, transmission abruptly failed, i.e., shifting impossible to any gears. White inertia is remaining, I successfully stopped my Birkin to the road side. While checking the system, I noticed that gear can be shifted only into 3rd. So, I tried to take off using starter (motor), then pedal an accelerator to the floor, Great!, start accomplished. Then, I repeated 3rd-gear-start at every red-light stops, and finally reached Elite Motors at Nagasawa of Misaki. Meister Sakamot checked - Photo 1, and made an adjustment of clutch cable - Photo 2. Overhaul of the clutch was recommended this time, however, we decided that unltil exhaused parts are available, my Birkin returns to Hayama and waits there. I safely drived to Hayama.

On August 27 2018, under over 30 degrees Celsius temperature, I polish metallic surface with Pikal and finish with wax coating - Photo 1, Photo 2, Photo 3.

While waiting for the arrival of repair parts of the malfunctioned clutch, on September 17 and 23 I round trip Miura Peninsula with no support of clutch work. I find out the main problem is impossibility or extreme difficulty to change gear into 1st in a halt position, whereas it is fairly easy to gear into 1st position at slowly moving speed. So when I face the red signal forward, I slow down and shift down to 1st, then stop and wait till green light. And go. No problem. Once reaching a cruising speed, there is a sweet spot to gear into the next where it will just slip in. Actually, the problem occurs when I forget shift down to 1st before standing still. Palliative measure works till now.

On October 8 2018, I tour the 39th round-the-Mount-Fuji tour on Saab 900s under cloudy weather for reconnaissance for this season.

Still waiting for parts of Birkin's clutch, on October 21 2018, I tour the 40th round-the-Mount-Fuji tour on Saab 900s Talladega　(1996 model). I get up at 5:00 AM, confirming a good day with weather forecast, depart Kohinata of Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo at 6:00, and drive on Tomei Express Way to Gotenba Exit. I reach in front of the East Fuji JGSDF (Japan Ground Self-Defense Force) Camp at Takigahara, At 8:00 AM - Photo 1 Perfectly clear sky!, Photo 2 The crater of one of the former major eruptions is clearly seen on the left side. I arrive at the 5th station at Tarobou, south slope, at 8:30 AM - Photo 3 Saab 900s Talladega　(1996 model), three view of the Mount Fuji, Photo 4 wide angle, Photo 5 middle angle, Photo 6 the summit with Tamron tele lens (210 mm). This day I used Nikon Digital Cameras (D3000) with old Tamron Zoom 70-210 mm 58 mm diameter F4 in manual focus/manual exposure mode, old Nikkor-S 35 mm lens F2.8 in manual mode, and AF-S Nikkor DX 18-55 mm F 3.5-5.6. On the Shizuoka prefectural road on the south slope, partial autumn color is seen - Photo 7 Photo 8. From west slope at circa 9:00 AM, Japanese silver grass is shuddering in the breeze in front of the Mount Fuji, Photo 9, the summit with Tamron tele lens (210 mm), Photo 10 Texture of rock face in this angle (from west) is different from that of from-south angle, looking more rugged. Asagiri Plateau, which is located to the west of Mount Fuji. This view is from east side of plateau - Photo 11. I land on Hayama retreat at 13:00 AM (non-stop seven hour tour).


October 21 2018 Japanese silver grass shuddering in the breeze in front of the Mount Fuji (Crick to enlarge)

The cause of clutch malfunction of my Birkin was revealed by the Meister of Elite Motors Sakamoto. I went to Elite Mortors at Nagawasa, Miura Peninsula on train in the morning of October 28 to retrieve my Birkin - Photo 1 Facade of hard-boiled repair shop. As in medicine, car specialist revealed by dissection the cause of the disease. This time one of the shock-absorbing springs (damper spring) of the clutch in the Ford Kend engine had fragmented and ramped around - Photo 2 Ruptured damper spring recovered from the clutch, Photo 3 ditto with scale. This is the part intended to replace my seasoned clutch, however the size was wrong, which is now under the process of exchange with the overseas trader by the meister. One of the same kind of spring indicated by green arrows had been fragmented and scattered in the clutch! - Photo 4 This is damper spring in the normal state. Meister Sakamoto removed the fragments of the ruptured spring and cleaned. Temporarily I can use Birkin again, however, after over 100,000 kilometer mileage, I will change the clutch this time with new one.


October 21 2018 Fragment of ruptured damper spring (Crick to enlarge)

On October 29 2018, for validation of repaired clutch, I get up at 5:00 AM and depart Hayama at 6:00 to tour to Hakone. Mount Fuji is viewed clearly from Otome Pass at 8:00 this morning - Photo 1, with Nikon D3000 with 35 mm Nikkor-S manual lens, and Photo 2, the summit with 300 mm Nikkor*ED manual lens. The snowcap has retreated remarkable from that of a week earliier on October 21 - Photo 3 On October 21 (from same angle, though from East Fuji JGSDF - Japan Ground Self-Defense Force - Camp at Takigahara), Antique crater on the left side is obvious, which is obscured in this morning because of melting from continuous fine weather in the previous week.

On November 11 2018, under a bit cloudy sky, I tour the 41th round-the-Mount-Fuji tour on Birkin to view maple leaves in autumn color. I get up early morning at 5:30 and depart Hayama at 6:30. I reach Otome Pass of Hakone Pass at 8:00, with totally overcast Mount Fuji - Photo 1, ditto in front of the East Fuji JGSDF (Japan Ground Self-Defense Force) Camp at Takigahara, at 8:30 - Photo 2. I feel better at "Home of Maples" Park at Fujinomiya, where beautiful maple color is present - Photo 3, - Photo 4, though Mount Fujj is totally overcast (right middle position: compare with the same location on November 26 2017), - Photo 5. Overcast, though, the summit is minimally observed - Photo 6. I tour clockwise aroung Mount Fuji, and the leaves had already been lost at Aoki Ocean of Trees, - Photo 7, - Photo 8. I reach Saiko (Lake West) "Forest of Wild Bird" Park at 10:30, which is operated by the village, - Photo 9, - Photo 10. - Photo 11. - Photo 12, At the north shore of Lake Kawaguchi, I stop at the gorgeous maple tree as year after year, - Photo 13, - Photo 14. I reach oku-LakeKawaguchi at 11:15, - Photo 15. - Photo 16. - Photo 17. - Photo 18. - Photo 19. I escape from Lake Kawaguchi (FujiYoshida City) just after 11:30 to avoid tremendous traffic jam surging to Lake Kawaguchi, and touch down to Hayama retreat at 14:30, duration of this flight being eight hours!

During the same trip, I visit the vacant lot of the villa of the former Prof. Dr. Erwin von Baelz in Hakone once again, who founded the base of my alma mater, Tokyo (Imperial) University School of Medicine, after he was invited by Meiji government under modernization effort of Japan, - Photo 1 memorial stone, - Photo 2 landscape around the stone, - Photo 3 landscape across the valley which Dr. von Baelz loved, Map of this site.

In the early morning of November 18 2018, I noticed abnormal noise from backward, which had been continuing since the return road on November 11 (the 41th round-the-Mount-Fuji tour). I inspect to find that the bolt and nut disappeared that fix the muffler with the support. - Photo 1. I run to Elite Mortors for repair. Meister Sakamoto explains to me that the bolt has disappeared, which should have been tightening as this - Photo 2, and tighten this point with a bolt with larger diameter with double nuts - Photo 3, - Photo 4, and this repair finished.

One more trouble just mufler stay problem fixed. After departing Elite Motors, different kind of abnormal noise occurred after circa 500 meters. I bring Birkin to a halt at the road side. This time, one of the bolt that fixed muffler with engine, Kent OHV, has vanished. Actually this is the third time that this bold vanished during driving. After I fixed the problem with new bolt which I always carry on Seven, I return to Elite Motors and request Meister Sakamoto to tighten the bolt with more torque. I am using usual-sized Hex wrench (for amateurs), though, he tightened with a longer wrench - Photo 5, - Photo 6 Hexangular holed bolt, 5/16.

On November 25 2018, I again drive the 42th round-the-Mount-Fuji tour on Birkin to view the last maple leaves in autumn color. Mount Fuji was clearly seen from Otome Pass of Hakone across Gotenba City at 8:30 in the morning - Photo 1. From front of the East Fuji JGSDF (Japan Ground Self-Defense Force) Camp at Takigahara at 9:00, too, she looks great - Photo 2, - Photo 3 ditto, the summit with composite image from three shots by 200 mm Nikkor AF-S lens + D3000. At Maple Park at Fujinomiya (south-west slope), non-overcast summit can be included into this photo this day - Photo 4. The same picture was shot on November 11 (Photo 4) , though, Mt. Fuji was overcast on that day. From west slope at 10:00, the snow has melted in this side of the summit - Photo 5. I departed Hayama at 7:00 and returned there at 14:00. In the evening, I went to Shonan International Village, Hayama, to view Mount Fuji at sunset across Sagami Bay - Photo 6.

On January 13 2019, canvas top for summer season, so-called bikini-top, is stained again with Dylon multi-purpose dye (this is the second time) - Photo 1.

On January 14 2019, I tour to Lake Yamanaka for the first time in this new year to view Mount Fuji under clear sky. I depart Hayama at 7:35, and reach at 9:20 Otome Pass of Hakone, when Mount Fuji is viewed with minimal overcast - Photo 1, - Photo 2 ditto with tele lens (Nikon D3000 + AF-S 55-200 mm). At the parking lot of Otome Pass I was requested by this decent and fashionable lady to be shot with my car for memorial one (her partner is shooting beside me) - Photo 3 (Mount Fuji in the back ground does show up in this image for some reason) . I asked if you are from Taiwan or China, she replied "China". So, most likely they come from main land Red China. I was astonished with her sophistication from the country where proletalean dictatorship dominates. Young Red China's couple visit such a secluded but nice place in the early morning, where even Japanese are not so trafikky. Who guided them? (They were driving on the rented car, not bus. The driver may be intel circle,,,) I am very curious. I reached the exit of Higashi Fujigoko Express Way at Lake Yamanaka at 10:15 - Photo 4, - Photo 5 ditto, the summit of composite image from three one. I arrived at the north shore of Lake Yamanaka at 10:50 - Photo 6, - Photo 7 cloud is approaching from the east slope. This is nearly Diamond Fuji (genuine one is reflected on the frozen surface). I climb the hill to the Mikuni Pass at 11:15 - Photo 8 The summit of Mount Fuji is already overcast. In this season I put on US Army's winter field coat (Alpha Industries, Inc, Knoxville, TN, USA. Be proud of MADE IN USA). Driving on this humble open two-seater in winter is not for wimps, hahaha, - Photo 9 The summit is about to be overcast, composite image from three one. Pipe tabaco in cold NATURE! Best. My favorite is Dunhill's the "Royal Yacht". I am non-smoker on weekdays, though, I love pipe tabacco in solitude and nature - Photo 10. I touch down to Hayama retreat at 14:10.


January 14 2019 New Year's visit to Lake Yamanaka (Crick to enlarge)


January 14 2019 New Year's visit to Mikuni Pass (Crick to enlarge)


On January 27 2019, I once again tour to Lake Yamanaka for the second time in this winter to view Mount Fuji under PERFECTLY clear sky and cold temperature. I depart Hayama at 7:10, and reach at 8:50 Otome Pass of Hakone, when Mount Fuji is viewed with NO overcast - Photo 1, - Photo 2 ditto the summit of composite image from three one. with tele lens (Nikon D3000 + AF-S 55-200 mm, 246 KB). Hoei crater is distinctly observed with snowed edge (erupted in 1707) in the left half of this image. The roadside panel indicated minus 2 degrees Celsius at Hakone. I enter the Higashi Fujigoko Road (express way) at 9:30 - Photo 3, and exit at Lake Yamanaka at 9:40 - Photo 4, Photo 5 the summit of composite image from three one (1.2 MB). I arrived at the north shore of Lake Yamanaka at 9:50 Photo 6 (Moon and contrail of a commercial airline is vaguely seen in the right upper quarter of this image), Photo 7, the air is cold and crystal clear this day, Photo 8 the summit of composite image from three one (1.45 MB). Since the air is cold and crystal clear this day, the opposite shore is clearly shot with old Nikon 300 mm manual lens Photo 9. After I managed to fix the mechanical failure - rupture of accelerator cable - in DIY for about an hour (see separate paragraph), I reached Mikuni Pass - Photo 10, Photo 11. I touch down to Hayama retreat at 14:10 (seven-hour tour).




January 27 2019 Perfectly crystal-clear air at the north shore of Lake Yamanaka (Crick to enlarge)

Actually after leaving the parking lof of Lake Yamanaka, the axel pedal (gas pedal) abruptly became unresponsive, when I slowly bring to a stop at the roadside empty parking lot of DIY commercial laundry, using inertial force. My checkup easily revealed rupture of accelerator cable Photo 12, Photo 13, Photo 14 (shot at Hayama). One end of the cable with stopper is carburetor side. The cable is ruptured near the carburetor in the pretective pipe. Luckily enough, I carry the spare cable which the meister of Elite Motors gave at the previous rupture incident of the same cable after repairment, however, the diameter is a bit wider than the ruptured one, so this cable did not work well in the pretective pipe (resistant to the movement). I finally decided to connect between carburetor and pedal linkage directly, not using protective pipe - Photo 15 (red arrows indicate the wiring of the cable, and green arrow indicates the manipulation unit of the carburetor. Actually, this is the second time of rupture of axel cable, the previous one was May 4 2017. After measuring the diameter of the cable (1.5 mm), I purchased the necessary parts (cable and sleeves) at Cainz Miura Home Center on the next day Photo 16. Survival game continues,,,,

After returning to Hayama, I go at 17:00 to appreciate Mount Fuji in the sunset across Sagami Bay, firstly from Shonan International Village in Hayama Photo 17, then from Tateishi Park at Akiya Photo 18, Photo 19 (composite image from three ones).


January 27 2019 Mount Fuji in the afterglow (Crick to enlarge)

On January 27 2019, rusted rearview mirrors were replaced with new ones. This old rounded mirror was installed on May 22 2005, which has rusted - Photo 17. New one was purchased at Cainz home center with reasonable price - Photo 18. New mirrors were installed - Photo 19 right side, - Photo 20 left side, - Photo 21 overview.

On February 3 2019, the installation of the accelerator cable (repair) was finally adjusted checked at Elite Motors with Meister Sakamoto. The meister noticed me that I did not understand the correct use of guide-pipe (outer housing) (the function of Bowden cable) - Photo 1 the overall schema of Bowden cable of this Birkin's accelerator system (green: outer housing, red: inner cable, left: driver's pedal side, right: carburettor side). I overlooked this perforation just under the manipulator of the carburettor which is acting to stop the motion of outer cable housing - Photo 2. Aluminium clamp for terminal stopper, cost at 350 Japanese Yen at home center - Photo 3. I tighten the clamp with plier after making a loop - Photo 4. The axel pedal side finished with two clamps (red: screw cramp, blue: with plier) - Photo 5. The carburettor side of the cable was again terminated with double clamps - Photo 6. The Cost of DIY Birkin repair: Cable total 2 + 3 meter: 500 Yen; screw clamp: 696 Yen: Aluminum clamp for plier: 278 Yen,,, hahaha. You had better to always carry 1.5 mm stainless cable, preferably 3 meter long with pre-DIYed manipulation of one of the terminal with a cheap clamp - Photo 7 receipt of Cainz.

On February 17 2019, anticorrosive treatment of front suspension arm was done with DIY scouring the rust off and painting with brush. This is the condition before the treatment - Photo 1. Firstly scouring the rust off, using electric drill and several grinding tools - Photo 2, then I manually apply silver paint with brush, just like plastic scale-model hobby - Photo 3. Finished. I will try with black parts later - Photo 4.

On February 24 2019, I tour to the east shore of Lake Yamanaka to view Mount Fuji from different angle. It is not so cold, since spring is approaching now. I depart Hayama at 7:20 and reach Otome Pass of Hakone at 9:00 - Photo 1, and Mount Fuji is clearly seen - Photo 2. I arrive at the east shore of Lake Yamanaka at 10:00 by way of Kagosaka Pass, from where Mount Fuji is slightly overcast - Photo 3, with the summit - Photo 4 (composite image from 6 images, 5.6 MB!!). At the parking lot beside the viewing platform, I am talked to by an old gentleman who says his bicycle too is Made in UK, though parts are from Italy, and requested to take a picture of the two - Photo 5, - Photo 6. When I reach Mikuni Pass at 10:30, Mount Fuji is about to be overcast - Photo 7, and - Photo 8. This is my portrait this day - Aussie style - Photo X (hat is L.L.Bean brand, made in UK). I return to Hayama at 14:00.


February 24 2019 Mount Fuji viewed from east coast of Lake Yamanaka (composite image from 6 ones, 5.6 MB!!) (Crick to enlarge)

On the same day, after eating late lunch, I performed rust removal and black spray of back tire holder. Before the treatment, it is with ugly rust - Photo 9. Firstly I detach the posterior tire - Photo 10, and remove rust with electric drill and several grinding tools - Photo 11. Though it is difficult to completely remove rust with this method - Photo 12, I continue to spray with chassis coat black after masking with newspaper and tape - Photo 13, - Photo 14. For the meantime, this is finished - Photo 15, - Photo 16.


February 24 2019 After rust removal and black painting (Crick to enlarge)

On March 10 2019, I went to Otome Pass of Hakone, from where the Mount Fuji was seen overcast, so I returned to Hayama - Photo 1 Overcast Mount Fuji, whose snowcap is much widened compared with that of February 24, far lower than the crater of Hoei eruption (at the left edge of this image).

On March 17 2019, Naval Jelly (Rust Resolver), which is purchased at Amazon of Japan, shipped from Langhorne, PA (19047), and arrived at Tokyo in circa three weeks (free shipping!), is firstly applied to the front black suspension arm - BEFORE - Photo 1, - Photo 2, and AFTER - - Photo 3, - Photo 4, - Photo 5. Conclusion: Moderately effective, though, repetition seems to be needed.

On March 18 2019, I stop at Elite Motors to confirm the received new clutch parts (National Clutch Technology at UK, CK9081) - Photo 1, - Photo 2, and outer case - Photo 3. We will install these parts in May, when national compulsory check of the car is scheduled.

In the morning of March 24 2019, I tour to Lake Yamanaka as usual. I depart Hayama at 7:10. In the night before, it snowed over Hakone and the road surface of Route 138 is wet with lying snow at the roadside - Photo 1, and I reach the parking lot of Otome Pass at 9:10 (three degrees Celsius) - Photo 2. The Mount Fuji is sharply observed with cold weather condition for late March across Gotemba City - Photo 3, - Photo 4. The snowcap is wide as the same level of that of March 10, to far below the crater of Hoen eruption (left edge of this image). I arrive at the north shore of Lake Yamanaka at 10:15 - Photo 5, and composite image of the summit from 5 ones - Photo 6. The opposite shore is clearly shot with 300 mm tele lens because of transparent cold air - Photo 7. I reach Mikuni Pass at 10: 50 - Photo 8 range of Japan Alps mountains is snowcapped per continuum, take notice that no sign of snowfall of last night around Lake Yamanaka, - Photo 9 My Birkin.

After returning to Hayama retreat at 14:00, I again go out to view Mount Fuji from the Shonan International Village of Hayama - Photo 10, - Photo 11, and from Tateichi Beach of Akiya - Photo 12. BTW, the second challenge with Naval Jelly (Rust Resolver) was done in this afternoon.


March 24 2019 Mount Fuji across Sagami Bay (from Akiya) (Crick to enlarge)

On April 7 2019, I tour from Taikanzan 大観山 to Yugawara 湯河原 and Manazuru 真鶴 to appreciate Sakura (Japanese cherry) in full bloom. At the entrance of Yagawara - - Photo 1, - Photo 2, - Photo 3, - Photo 4, followed by - Photo 5, - Photo 6, - Photo 7 on Yugawara Orange Line. In Manazuru, full-bloom Sakura is seen in front of vast Pacific Ocean - Photo 8. I stop every year beside this old Sakura tree - Photo 9, - Photo 10, - Photo 11. Sakura is seen everywhere in Japan in this season - Photo 12, making everyone completely happy in Japan.


April 7 2019 Sakura in full bloon in Yugawara/Manazuru area (Crick to enlarge)

On April 14 2019, I tour on Doshi-Michi (Doshi Road, Route 413) to view Sakura (Japanese cherry). Departing at 7:00, I reach Mikuni Pass at 9:00, where the snow of the last week still remains - Photo 1, - Photo 2 Overview. In this early morning, it is clear sky, though, it later cloulds. Starting Doshi-Michi tour (From Lake Yamanaka to Lake Miyagase) - Photo 3 Classic landscape, - Photo 4 Gorgeous lineup of cherry at Nohara 野原. In front of beautiful farmhouse at Nakazawa - Photo 5, - Photo 6, - Photo 7, - Photo 8, At Tukiyono 月夜野 - Photo 9, - Photo 10 Mixed bloom and buds.

On April 21 2019, one week later, I tour again on Doshi-Michi (Doshi Road, Route 413) to view Spring flowers. Departing at 7:00, I reach Mikuni Pass at 9:00, where the snow of the last week disappeared. - Photo 1, - Photo 2 No snow coverage remaining (compare with the last week's image). In this morning, it remains clear sky till returning to Hayama. Starting Doshi-Michi tour (From Lake Yamanaka to Lake Miyagase) - Photo 3 Classic landscape, with Cherry blossom about to dispersing. - Photo 4 View from the same place. At Tukiyono 月夜野 - Photo 5, - Photo 6 Full bloom with no remaining buds (compare with the last week's image Photo 10). I stop in front of a beautiful and charming farmhouse at Midori-ku, Sagamihara City along prefectural Road 64 (last leg of this tour) - Photo 7. I returned to Hayama at 13:00.


April 212019 In front of the weeping cherry tree (Crick to enlarge)

On May 3 2019, in the middle of consecutive 10 holidays in Japan which celebrate the abdication of Haisei 平成 Emperor Akihito and the ascension to the throne of New Reiwa 令和　Emperor Naruhito, I tour the 43th round-the-Mount-Fuji tour. I depart Hayama at 7:10, and I go out of the main way to a side road over Hakone mountain to avoid traffic jams, and reach Otome Pass at 9:30 - Photo 1, - Photo 2 the summit with tele lens. I pass through the front of the East Fuji JGSDF (Japan Ground Self-Defense Force) Camp at Takigahara, at 10:10 - Photo 3. I arrive at the 5th station of Tarobo at 10:30 - Photo 4 Birkin in front of the summit, - Photo 5 the summit with wide lens, - Photo 6 the summit with tele lens. Sakura (Japanese cherry) still blooms along the Shizuoka Prefectural Road 180 (south slope) - Photo 7, - Photo 8. I go along the Shizuoka Prefectural Road 71 to the north on the west slope of Mount Fuji - Photo 9, - Photo 10. The snow over the summit is melting more rapidly on the west side compared with that of the south side. Just short of the T-shaped marging section of Prefectural Road 71 with National Road 139 at Narusawa 鳴沢, I get completely stuck in a ferocious jam, and stopped. I figure unprecedented traffic is concentrating to Fujiyoshida City and Lake Kawaguchi in the middle of the consecutive holidays. After a while, I abandon the original plan, and U-turn and return on the same route to Hayama - Photo 11 reverse run on Shizuoka Prefectural Road 180. I arrive at Hayama at 17:00, ending 10 hours endurance.


May 3 2019 In front of the summit of Mount Fuji at the 5th station at Tarobo (Crick to enlarge)

On May 19 2019, I go to Elite Motors at Nagasawa, Miura Seashore, to receive Birkin Seven which has finished regular check and compulsory automobile inspection by the Japanese government - Photo 1. At the same time, damaged clutch has been changed with the new one, which had been stored since this March, and front suspension arm was painted with black - Photo 2. Retrieved old clutch, with which my Birkin ran 106,000 kilometers, is checked - - Photo 3, - Photo 4 (the other side). One of the six damper springs (red and blue arrows) had been ruptured, jump to 181028 Ruptured spring.

On May 26 2019, I tour to Yabitsu Pass on Kanagawa prefectural Route-70 - Photo 1, - Photo 2, - Photo 3. On the return load, since it is too hot, I install the soft top (Bikini Top) - Photo 4.

On June 16 2019, I tour to Otome Pass of Hakone in the morning, however, when I arrive at, the summit of Mount Fuji is totally overcast, so I return to Hayama - - Photo 1. In the evening, Mount Fuji is beautifully viewed from Shonan International Village in Hayama. Edge line is sharply traced, in contrast to the overcast view in this morning. For this warm season, the air is exceptionally dry and clear, however, sky glow is not so red - Photo 2. On this day, I adjust idling RPM, which has been increased to circa 1,600 at Elite Motors this month. Since I am old, it is too high. I like calm idling, so I lowered RPM to less than 800 DIY. After my Meister Sakamoto informed me, I turn the minus screw between two Weber twin carburetors (red arrows in Photo 3 and green arrows in Photo 4) anti-clockwise to lower RPM. - Photo 3, Photo 4.


June 16 2019 Adjustment of idling RPM (Crick to enlarge)

After treatment with Naval Jelly and grinding with metal brish several times for over a month, now is the time to paint silver with brush. On September 8 2019, final silver painting of front suspension arms was done - Photo 1 Before, and - Photo 2 After. Chassis black spray had been applied on September 1 already.

Roll over bar is sprayed with black. After cleaning the rust with metal brush, Chassis Black was sprayed - - Photo 1, - Photo 2.

On September 23 2019, the mid day of three-day weekend, aluminum outer surface is polished again using Astro Products electric polisher EP551 with compound - Photo 1 Work starts, - Photo 2 work continues, - Photo 3 almost finished, and this panel was polished with polish cream Blue Magic from USA - Photo 4.


September 23 2019 Alminum polished with electric polisher (Crick to enlarge)

On October 27 2019, I drive on the 44th round-the-Mount-Fuji tour under cloudy sky. As always I encircle clock-wise from and to Gogemba. The peculiar thing on this day is I firstly experience umbrella-shaped cloud cover over the summit when driving on the northwest slope - Photo 1, - Photo 2. This cloud is called bamboo-hat cloud (笠雲) in Japan.


October 27 2019 Bamboo-hat cloud over the summit of Mt Fuji (Crick to enlarge)

On this day, autumn color of foliage is still in very early stage - Photo 3 on the south slope of Mount Fuji, - Photo 4 at Nishiusuzuka Parking (two layers of Bamboo-hat cloud cover!), - Photo 5 on the Aoki Ocean Folliage on the northwest slope. I depart Hayama at 7:10 and touch down at 14:10.

On November 17 2019, I drive on the 45th round-the-Mount-Fuji tour on mostly fine and occasionally and regionally cloudy day. As always I encircle clock-wise from and to Gogemba. I depart Hayama at 7:10 and pass through the front of the East Fuji JGSDF (Japan Ground Self-Defense Force) Camp at Takigahara, at 9:20 - Photo 1, and - Photo 2 The moon was on the summit which is partly snow-capped! I advance on the south slope of Mount Fuji at 9:45 - Photo 3 Shizuoka Prefectural Road 152, - Photo 4 at Nishiusuzuka Parking, - Photo 5 the summit viewed from Nishiusuzuka, - Photo 6 autumn leaves there. I arrive at "Home of Maple Park" at Fujinomiya, the south west slope of Mount Fuji at 10:00 - Photo 7 this is my favorite place which I visit every year in this season, - Photo 8 ditto. On the west slope of Mount Fuji at 10:30, it is cloudy - Photo 9 , - Photo 10, - Photo 11 the summit with less snow. In the Ocean of Foliage at Aoki (Aoki Jukai) at 11:00 - Photo 12 Autumn colors are revealed conspicuously, - Photo 13. I reached Forest of Wild Birds Park at Lake Saiko at 11:15 - Photo 14 gorgeous and decent park, indeed, - Photo 15 ditto, - Photo 16 posing elegant lady in traditional Japanese Kimono (clothes), - Photo 17 background. On the North Shore of Lake Kawaguchi (Oku-Kawaguchi) at 11:30, I stop here my Birkin 7 to shoot every year - Photo 18. Parking of Okukawaguchi (North shore of Lake Kawaguchi) is the last stop of this tour, reached at 11:45. - Photo 19, - Photo 20 Bikers are made in heaven in this location, - Photo 21. Then I am hurrying home to beat the traffic jams surging ahead to Lake Kawaguchi, and return Hayama at 15:10 safely on this old-fashioned 1993 Birkin Seven with no rest and no meals. Beer is waiting. Compared with harsh work environment of diagnostic pathology in Nippon, this tour is only breeze,,,,, refreshment.


November 17 2019 Posing lady in kimono costume at Forest of Wild Birds Park at Lake Saiko (Crick to enlarge)

On December 8 2019, under exceedingly clear winter sky, I tour to Lake Yamanaka to view Mount Fuji. I depart at 7:10 Hayama, and take a different course from usual, since mudslide by Typhoon 19 on October 12 blocked National Route 138 in Hakone. I go through Hayama - Seisho Bypass, Koudu - Ooi Matsuda - National Route 246 - Koyama - Shizuoka Prefectural Road 147 - to Mikuni Pass, where I arrive at at 10:00 in spite of traffic jam of Route 246 - Photo 1, - Photo 2 the summit, - Photo 3 the summite enlarged (composite image from three photos). Then I drive downhill - Photo 4 (Lake Yamanaka in the right half of this image) to the north shore of Lake Yamanaka - Photo 5, - Photo 6 the summit (composite image from three photos). When I was shooting, I was hailed by some man, who was revealed my old friend Kazuo Yabuta!, who was classfellow of Okazaki Prefectural High School in late 60s. What an amazing coincidence, even if he has a second house here in Lake Yamanaka! Re: previous meeting with Mr. Yabuta - 20170918 and 20180520.
I am blessed with fine weather this day, however, it is rather exceptional since the weather is unstable and the summit is covered with cloud often times, actually. I return to Hayama retreat at 14:10.


December 08 2019 Mount Fuji viewed from Mikuni Pass (Crick to enlarge)

On January 5 2020, I tour to Lake Yamanaka for new year's visit to Mount Fuji. I depart at 7:20 Hayama, and take a usual route of National Route 138 in Hakone, which was restored after damage by mudslide by Typhoon 19 on October 12 - Photo 1 Left side is damaged former road, and right side is hastily constructed roundabout course, - Photo 2 This mud and rock slide blocked the road. I arrive at Otome Pass of Hakone at 9:10, when Mount Fuji is exceedingly clearly viewed - Photo 3, - Photo 4 (composite panoramic view of the summit from three images) Left-side depression is Houei crater 宝永火口 (1707), - Photo 5 Roadside temperature gauge indicates 0 degree Celsius. I enter Higashi (East) Fujigoko Road at Subashiri at 9:45 - Photo 6, and go out at Lake Yamanaka IC at 10:00. - Photo 7, - Photo 8 (composite panoramic view of the summit from three images). I arrive at the north shore of Lake Yamanaka at 10:10 - Photo 9, - Photo 10 (composite panoramic view of the summit from three images). I advance clock-wise on the shore and park at the east shore - Photo 11, where snow is remaining, - Photo 12. I return to Hayama at 13:10.


January 5 2020 Mount Fuji viewed from Lake Yamanaka (Crick to enlarge)

On January 13 2020, weather condition is very good this day, too, and I am headed to Mikuni Pass (On January 5, it was not possible because of frozen road surface near Mikuni Pass). I depart Hayama at 7:30, and reach Otome Pass of Hakone through National Route 138 at 9:20, where Mount Fuji is clearly viewed across Gotenba City - Photo 1, - Photo 2 Houei crater 宝永火口 (1707) is clearly seen in the left side. I reach Mikuni Pass through National Route 246 through beside Fuji Speedway at 10:15 - Photo 3 this composite panoramic view from three images are exactly which is experienced on the scene. I put on Avirex G-1 leather jacket (USN) for winter season and "Make America Great Again" red cap - Photo 4 (Nikon D-3000 with selftimer), - Photo 5 Birkin 7 parked on the road side, - Photo 6 Panoramic view of the summit, a composite image from three ones. At this remote place, tourists from Asian nation (Indonesia?) of one macho guy and two young girls arrive on a rent-a-car with no guide, who are carefree and frolic, indeed. I help releasing the shutter of their phone for memorial photo. Then they ask me a permission to shoot with my Birkin - Photo 7, - Photo 8. Before this, one of the girls was shot holding a pose just like a fashion model against a backdrop of Mount Fuji. Certainly picture-perfect. Have a nice day and a nice trip of Japan !! I return to Hayama at 13:10.
In the evening, I view Mount Fuji in afterglow from Shonan International Village at Hayama across Sagami Bay as usual - Photo 9.


January 13 2020 Frolic Asian tourists with my Birkin 7 (Crick to enlarge)

On January 19 2020, I tour to Hakone to view its snowscape, which according to the media report had snow in the night before. At the foot of Hakene Mountains, there is no remaining snow fall - Photo 1 KanreidouMon (函嶺洞門 in Japanese), this tunnel was built in 1931 for rock-fall prevention of National Route 1. I advance on National Route 138, and after passing Miyagino, the landscape became that of snow country - Photo 2, - Photo 3. The road surface is wet, however, is not icy. The mountains are beautifully covered with snow - Photo 4, - Photo 5, - Photo 6. I turn around there at 9:30, and return to Hayama.

On February 2 2020, I again tour to Lake Yamanaka to view Mount Fuji under winter clear sky. I depart Hayama at 7:15, and reach Otome Pass of Hakone through National Route 138 at 9:10, where Mount Fuji is clearly viewed across Gotenba City - Photo 1, - Photo 2 Houei crater 宝永火口 (1707) is clearly seen in the left side. Snow is obviusly deeper, compared with that of on January 13 this year, from the week-before's snowfall. I enter East Fujigoko Road at Subashiri IC at 9:45 - Photo 3, - Photo 4 panoramic view of the summit, composite image from two, and exit at Lake Yamanaka at 10:00 - Photo 5, - Photo 6, - Photo 7 panoramic view of the summit, composite image from three, - Photo 8 Selfie-1 with smart phone (seasoned Eluga P-02E). I reach the north shore of Lake Yamanaka at 10:20 - Photo 9, - Photo 10 panoramic view of the summit, composite image from three, - Photo 11 opposite shore is clearly observed with tele-lens (AF-S Nikkor 55-200 mm ED). As I approach Mikuni Pass, road side become filled with remaining snow - Photo12, still, the road surface is largely dry. I reach Mikuni Pass at 10:45 - Photo 13, - Photo 14, - Photo 15, panoramic view of the summit, composite image from three. - Photo 16 Selfie-2 with smart phone (seasoned Eluga P-02E). I return to Hayama 14:00.


February 2 2020 Relaxation time for practicing pathologist,,, Selfie in Aussie style (Crick to enlarge)

On February 9 2020, I once again tour to Lake Yamanaka to view Mount Fuji under winter clear sky. At 9:50 reached Otome Pass of Hakone - Photo 1, - Photo 2 close up view, - Photo 3 Road side temperature gauge indicates minus one degree Celsius, indeed it is very cold this morning, - Photo 4 Snow is remaining in the parking lot. At 10:50 reached at Mikuni Pass, and the Mount Fuji is very clearly viewed across Lake Yamanaka - Photo 5 composite panoramic view of the landscape from two images, - Photo 6 composite panoramic view of the summit from two images, After touched down to Hayama retreat at 14:30, I again go to Hayama International Village on Saab 900s (1996 Talladega version) to view Mount Fuji across Sagami Bay in afterglow - Photo 7, - Photo 8, shot at 17:40. I untiringly repeat this routine in the winter season.

On February 23 2020, I once again and again tour to Mikuni Pass to view Mount Fuji across Lake Yamanaka with atmosphere of approaching spring season. This morning I set a course to go through Odawara City (Kanagawa Prefectural Road 74) to circumvent traffic jam of Route 246 (Ooi Matsuda to Miyachi, Yamakita). When I stopped at the intersection of Daiyuuzan, the car behind unexpectedly honk the horn. I instantly recognize with rearview mirror the driver is Masaru Isozaki, who is a competent medical technologist of the diagnostic pathology department of Odawara Municipal Hospital, when I was director till March 2017. His car is decent Audi with his wife on board. What an amazing coincidence ! (Later, after returning to Hayama, I phoned to Masaru for the first time in 3 years). After entering Route 246, I reach Mikuni Pass at 11:00 - Photo 1 snow is gone, - Photo 2 close up view of the summit covered with snow smoke.

On March 22 2020, the odometer of my Birkin (1993 model) hit 110,000 km on the Seisho Bypass Road (Past history: 20,000 km in January 2006 --> 30,000 km in March 2007 --> 40,000 km in July 2008 --> 50,000 km in October 2009 --> 60,000 km in January 2011 --> 70,000 km in September 2012 --> 80,000 km in May 2014 --> 90,000 km in June 2016 --> 100,000 km in March 2018) - Photo 1 Meter go around one cycle already, - Photo 2, - Photo 3 Parking lot at Kohzu service station, which has been severely hit by the typhoon of the previous autumn. On this day, I tour from Daikanzan of Hakone (summit) to base Yugawara to view Sakura, cherry blossom - - Photo 4.


March 22 2020 110,000 km ! (Crick to enlarge)

On April 5, 2020, in the middest of impending COVID-19 crisis in Japan, I tour to Yugawara, once again, to view cherry blossom (sakura). I drive down from Daikanzan of Hakone (summit) to base Yugawara - Photo 1, - Photo 2, - Photo 3 "Welcome to Yugawara Spa" billboard, - Photo 4, - Photo 5, - Photo 6 Sakura, usual type other than mountain-type wild cherry tree (山桜), is scattered on the mountain side. On the return road from Yugawara to Odawara, gorgeous cherry trees are grouped with full blooming on the hill facing vast Pacific ocean (Akazawa　赤沢 between Nebukawa and Odawara) - Photo 7, - Photo 8, and on the bus spot named "In front of Sion" - Photo 9.

On April 12 2020, I tour on Doshi-Michi (Doshi Road, Route 413) to view Sakura (Japanese cherry) as usual as every year in this season. Departing at 9:00 late this day, I reach Mikuni Pass at 11:00, where Mount Fuji is totally overcast - Photo 1. Starting Doshi-Michi tour (From Lake Yamanaka to Lake Miyagase) - Photo 2, - Photo 3 classic landscape, - Photo 4 at Nohara, - Photo 5, - Photo 6, - Photo 7 at a folk dwelling of the mountain village, Nakazawa, - Photo 8 at the final leg. I return to Hayama at 15:00.

On April 19 2020, I tour to the south slope of Mount Fuji, blessed with fine weather. I depart Hayama at 7:30, and reach Otome Pass of Hakone at 9:10 - Photo 1, - Photo 2 Crater of Hoei eruption (1707, in the middle of Edo era) is seen on the left side (east-south) of slope. - Photo 3 Hoei crater with green arrows. I advance on Shizuoka Prefectural Road 23 and 152, through in front of the East Fuji JGSDF (Japan Ground Self-Defense Force) Camp at Takigahara - Photo 4 at 9:50, to the Mizugatsuka Parking at 10:20 - Photo 5. Here, the crater of Hoei eruption is more closely observed - Photo 6 closeup view, - Photo 7 expository guide plate-1, - Photo 8 expository guide plate-2. Here, I reverse the course, and descend to Gotenba City - Photo 9 with last Sakura (cherry) in this season. I advance Route 246, and take a left turn to Mikuni Pass - Photo 10 arrived at 11:30, - Photo 11 contrail of jet of civil aviation over the summit with the last delicate snow cap in this season. I touch down to Hayama retreat at 14:30.

On May 3 2020, I tour to Otome Pass of Hakone to surveil the weather condition of Mount Fuji, where the summit is observed over the sea of cloud. The cloud-hight is exceptionally low in this morning at 9:30, coverning Gotenba City - Photo 1, - Photo 2.


May 3 2020 Mount FUji over the sea of cloud (Crick to enlarge)

On May 17 2020, as Birkin 7's regular annual check (not compulsory this year) is finished, I go to Elite Motors at Nagasawa, Miura Peninsula, to pick up the car, where is filled with historic cars as usual - Photo 1 Overview of Elite Motors which is really hard-boiled. My Birkin is located between 3rd generation Toyota Corona T40 (1964-1970, left) and 1st generation Mitsubishi Debonair (1964-1984, right), - Photo 2 with 1st generation Mitsubishi Debonair under restoration (1964-1984, on the right), whose owner is the US Navy personnel at Yokosuka Base, who intend to carry her to the main land USA after relocation, - Photo 3 3rd generation Toyota Corona T40 (1964-1970), whose owner found this antique car at junk yard and purchased at 150,000 Japanese Yen (circa 1,500 USD), then requested Elite Motors to get automobile inspection certificate. Meister Sakamoto did it. Actually my late father Tatsuo's second family car was this type, and with this my family toured frequently. The owner will drive this car without repainting. Shibui !, - Photo 4 rear view, - Photo 5 steering wheel and dashboard panel, - Photo 6 2R straight four OHV engine （1,490cc、70 horse power）.

After receiving Birkin 7, I tour to Yabitsu Pass under clear sky through Tomei Express Way (exit: Hadano) in order to bask in the woods.　Quite regrettably, Kanagawa Prefectural Road 70 is disrupted by the Typhoon 19 of the last autumn and blocked, so I returned halfway (U-turned) - Photo 7 Verdancy is really beautiful, - Photo 8 Stopped at the roadside, taking lunch, napping for a while, listening to the babbling stream nearby. Joy of social distancing, maybe.

On May 31 2020, battery is replaced from HITACHI/Shin-Kobe Electric Machinery (40B19L, since September 20 2014, purchsed at Amazon.co,jp at 3,675 Japanese Yen) to Nissan Pitwork V-series 40B19L (purchsed at Amazon.co,jp at 3,430 Japanese Yen).

On June 7 2020, Lake Ashi (Ashinoko) at 9:00 this morning during Birkin 7 tour. At Motohakone (south shore), it is really quiet with no visiting tourists because of voluntary restraint mode with COVID-19 pandemic - Photo 1, - Photo 2.

In the evening of August 2 2020, I go out to Kuruwa Beach near Hayama on Birkin 7 for the cool evening breeze before dinner, when Birkin never starts up again at 18:30. Battery is o.k. with bright head lumps, but there is no response of starter motor - Photo 1, the location is just beside Kurawa Beach and its parking - Photo 2, After ineffective hitting of the starter with wooden hammer, I give up DIY effort in 30 minutes, and call the automobile insurance company (Sony Nonlife Insurance) at 19:00 to arrange the tow truck. At 20:00, tow truck arrives with sigh of relief for me - Photo 3, Work personnel check the procedure - Photo 4, At 20:40, tow truck departs to Elite Motors (circa 20 km range) - Photo 5. I return to Hayama retreat at 21:00 on a called taxi (cost 2,000 Yen, circa 20 USD). After having a bath, drink whiskey on the rock in the garden and take supper with Italian red wine. Not so bad day, in fact. Luckily not so big trouble. [Conclusion] The problem was solved. Meister Sakamoto of Elite Motors phoned me in the afternoon of August 3 that it is revealed that the connector to the starter motor was being detached (electrical contact problem), probably from vibration. The problem was very local and simple, and easily solved.

On August 9 2020, Birkin 7's trouble was repaired at Elite Motors at Nagasawa, Miura peninsula. I visit the workshop to recover my Seven in the morning. Electric connector trouble has been revealed. Just proximal to the connector, the line was being broken where stress is centered, i.e., weak point - Photo 1 broken point at red arrows, Repaired electric connection to the starter motor with reinforcement - Photo 2, enlarged view - Photo 3 reinforced connector. Meister Sakamoto, CEO/chief mechanic/business manager of Elite Motors, actually Swiss Army knife type genius, who is a graduate of 1967 Nuclear Engineering of Tokai University (bachelor) - Photo 4. According to my wife Mineko, he looks like Dr. Emmett "Doc" L. Brown in the movie of Back To The Future. DeLorean DMC-12, which has been inbound to this workshop till lately, already returned to the client this day - Photo 5.

On August 10 2020, front suspension arms are painted silver again with brush after removing rust with Naval Jelly - Photo 1, - Photo 2, - Photo 3.




August 10 2020 Front suspencion arms are painted silver with brush (Crick to enlarge)

On September 22 2020, I drive on the 46th round-the-Mount-Fuji tour, which is the first run in this season. I depart Hayama at 8:15, and reach Otome Pass of Hakone at 10:00 - Photo 1, - Photo 2, the summit of Mount Fuji is not yet covered with snow cap. On the south slope of Mount Fuji, the trees are not yet in autumn color - Photo 3. On the road side of the same place, I observe fallen trees covered with moss and fern, NATURE is beautiful ! ! - Photo 4, - Photo 5 ditto enlarged (Shot with seasoned Nikon SLR digital D-3000 and AF-S NIKKOR 18-70 ED lens). On the latter 2/3 of this day's tour (west and north slope), the Mount Fuji becomes almost fully overcast. I touched down on Hayama at 16:30 (flight hours 8), which is fairly tough endurance challenge for 69-year-old this August. ;)


September 22 10 2020 Fallen trees covered with moss and fern (Crick to enlarge)

On October 18 2020, I drive on the 47th round-the-Mount-Fuji tour (clockwise rotation), which is the second run in this season. I depart Hayama at 7:30, and reach Otome Pass of Hakone at 9:30, where cloud cap (bamboo-hat cloud) is seen over Mount Fuji today. The last time I observe this rare phenomenon was October 27 2019 (jump to the previous record) - Photo 1, - Photo 2, - Photo 3. The summit is now snowcapped. I reach the East Fuji JGSDF (Japan Ground Self-Defense Force) Camp at Takigahara at 10:00 - Photo 4, - Photo 5, At "Home of Maple" park at Fujinomiya at 10:50, maple does not yet turn red (this is really beautiful place. jump to the record) . - Photo 6. From the west slope of Mount Fuji at 11:10 and thereafter, cloud cap is observed from the different angle - - Photo 7, - Photo 8, - Photo 9. - Photo 10. Ocean of Foliage at Aoki (Aoki Jukai) on the northwest slope, too does not yet turn red, passing on at 11:45 - Photo 11. This day, I depart hayama at 7:30 and return at 15:00, with no mechanical trouble and intact body and mental status (age 69) ,,,,


October 18 10 2020 cloud cap (bamboo-hat cloud) (Crick to enlarge)

On October 25 2020, I drive on the 48th round-the-Mount-Fuji tour (clockwise rotation), which is the third run in this season. I depart Hayama at 7:15, and reach Otome Pass of Hakone at 9:20, where Mount Fuji is clearly observed from the south side with no cloud coverage today - Photo 1, - Photo 2, - Photo 3, though snow cap is decreased since last sunday. I reach the East Fuji JGSDF (Japan Ground Self-Defense Force) Camp at Takigahara at 9:50, when the summit is still clear - Photo 4. On the south slope of Mount Fuji, the autumn color is beginning - Photo 5. Road-side natural trees are covered with moss, very beautifly - Photo 6, - Photo 7, - Photo 8. At Usugatsuka Park on the south slope, autumn color is good, however, the summit is covered with cloud, now, weep,,,, - Photo 9. At "Home of Maple" park at Fujinomiya at 10:25, maple has a bit turned red (this is really beautiful place. jump to the record) - Photo 10, - Photo 11. Then, steering my course northward on the west slope, I continue to observe the summit covered with cloud - Photo 12, with an occasional glimpse of the summit - Photo 13. Finally, at 11:45, the cloud disappears - Photo 14, enlarged view with tele lens of the summit - Photo 15. Ocean of Foliage at Aoki (Aoki Jukai) on the northwest slope, too has not yet turned red enough, passing on at 12:00 - Photo16. I depart Hayama at 7:15 and return there at 16:50 with no trouble (duration of flight - 9.5 hours).

On November 1 2020, I drive on the 49th round-the-Mount-Fuji tour (clockwise rotation), which is the fourth run in this season. I depart Hayama at 7:10, and reach Otome Pass of Hakone at 9:15, where Mount Fuji is observed from the south side slightly overcast - Photo 1. I reach the East Fuji JGSDF (Japan Ground Self-Defense Force) Camp at Takigahara at 10:00, when the summit is clearly seen - Photo 2, the summit with less snow cap, too, is clearly shot with tele lens - Photo 3 On climbing the south slipe of Mount Fuji, Hoei crater, which erupted in 1707, is closely observed - Photo 4, - Photo 5. I reach West Usugatsuka Parking Lot at 10:30. The autumn color is in full season - Photo 6, - Photo 7 self portrait, the summit is most clearly observed from here today, - Photo 8, - Photo 9 enlarged view of the summit with tele lens (very clear composite image from three shots), - Photo 10 from diferent angle in the same venue, - Photo 11 self portrait. The maple trees are in full season at Maple Home Garden in Fujinomiya at 10:50, with Mount Fuji in the background - Photo 12, - Photo 13, - Photo 14 self portrait. From the west slope of Mount Fuji, the snow cap is scant - Photo 15. Viewed from northing Route 137, Aokijukai (Aoki ocean of trees) is in full autumn color - Photo 16. I park and stroll in Wild-Bird Forest Park at Saiko (Lake Saiko) at 12:30 - Photo 17, - Photo 18, - Photo 19, this is really a nice place to visit in this season. I park and eat lunch (sandwich) on the north west shore of Lake Saiko at 13:00. - Photo 20, - Photo 21 the Mount Fuji in the background over the lake. Reaching Lake Kawaguchi, I shoot a routine photograph each year at the north shore - Photo 22, then park at the last spot in this tour on the north shore of Lake Kawaguchi on North Lake View Line at 13:30 - Photo 23, - Photo 24, - Photo 25. I return Hayama at 17:30. The duration of the today mission is over 10 hours (still alive and well at age 69).


November 1 2020 Autumn color at the north shore of Lake Kawaguchi (Crick to enlarge)

BTW, just before return to Hayama, I notice the speed meter (analog) with distance recorder and trip meter is all dead (a single gauge) at 100,000 + 13,567 kilemeter - Photo 26, - Photo 27. Actually this trouble is recent problem which I got repaired at Elite Motors once in the May. It recurred, and once again I will consult with Meister Sakamoto.

On November 8 2020, I drive to the south slope of Mount Fuji to appreciate autumn color again 5 weeks in a row, though I do not go round trip today. I depart Hayama at 7:20 and reach Otome Pass of Hakone at 9:30, when the Mount Fuji is covered with thick cloud with only the summit still seen - Photo 1. On the south slope of Mount Fuji, autumn color is in final stage - Photo 2. When reached Maple Home Garden in Fujinomiya at 10:45, the landscape is picture-perfect - Photo 3 (on a clear day, Mount Fuji is seen in the right half of this field angle, compare to the image on November 26 2017), - Photo 4, - Photo 5, - Photo 6, - Photo 7 (Self-portrait in average Joe fashion with Avirex G-1 leather jacket, L.L.Bean jeans and MAGA cap). After relaxing a while, I return home by left turn twice to enter National Route 469 - Photo 8 to return to Gotemba. I touch down Hayama at 14:45.


November 08 2020 Maple Home Garden in Fujinomiya (Crick to enlarge)

On November 15 2020, I tour the 50th round-the-Mount-Fuji tour (clockwise rotation), which is the fifth run in this season. I depart Hayama at 7:10, and reach Otome Pass of Hakone at 9:05, where Mount Fuji is covered with overcast at the level of middle mountain side - Photo 1, whereas the summit is seen a bit obscurely. It is a bit hot this day, over 10 degrees Celsius, though the sky is clear - Photo 2. I reach the East Fuji JGSDF (Japan Ground Self-Defense Force) Camp at Takigahara at 9:45, when the summit is clearly seen in spite of the cloud near side - Photo 3. I reach Mizugatsuka Parking Lot at 10:00, which is located on the south slope, when the Mount Fuji is viewed clearly and at a short distance - Photo 4. Hoei crater, which erupted in 1707, is closely observed from here - Photo 5, ditto in panoramic view - Photo 6, enlarged view with tele lens - Photo 7. The summit is clearly observed only from here this day - Photo 8 (composite image from three shots). Rounded dome of observatory is seen in the left edge of this image (crick image to enlarge). I arrive at "Home of Maple" garden in Fujinomiya at 10:40, located at the southwest slope, which is my favorite weekly-visit site in this season of this COVID-19 pandemic year - Photo 9, which is most beautifully exhibited with full-blown autumn color (, however the summit of Mount Fuji is covered with cloud, actually present in the right half of this view angle), compare with the same image shot in the last week (Novemver 8). - Photo 10 self-portrait (with Avirex G-1 leather jacket, L.L.Bean jeans and MAGA cap) - Photo 11 close-up view of maple with delicacy, - Photo 12 lovely spider is strolling. Then I go up north on Shizuoka Prefectural Road 71, but Mount Fuji is totally to partially covered with cloud from the west slope - Photo 13, - Photo 14, - Photo 15. Aoki ocean of foliage has already defoliated - Photo 16. I arrive at Wild-Bird Forest Park at Saiko (Lake Saiko) at 12:00 - Photo 17 compared with the same image on November 1 tour, the main tree has partially defoliated. I have a lunch (sandwich purchsed at convenience store in Gotemba) on the northwest shore of Lake Saiko till 12:30, from where Mount Fuji is obscurely seen - Photo 18. On the North Lakeside View Line on the return, beautiful maple trees are scattered - Photo 19, - Photo 20. Avoiding the catastrophic clogged road with cars targeting the autumn color of Lake Kawaguchi, I enter Lake Kawaguchi Entrance of East Fujigoko Road at 13:30, however, caught with intermittend traffic jams, I return to Hayama at 17:15. The duration of the today mission is over 10 hours (still alive and well at age 69).


November 15 2020 Mizugatsuka Parking Lot, viewing Hoei crater (Crick to enlarge, and crick the image again)

Since the speed meter (analog) with distance recorder and trip meter (VDO, made in Germany) is all dead (a single gauge) at 100,000 + 13,567 kilemeter on November 1 (jump to the previous record), I have entrusted the meter to Elite Motors for repair. After I receive the notification, I go to the garage in the morning of November 22 2020. After Meister Sakamoto installs the meter, I do a test run, which reveals the speed meter works but the distance meter still not. I return to the garage, and the Meister and I do autopsy - Photo 1. From the right side, rotating axis originated from drive shaft. Rotation change the direction with 90-degrees twice with two worm drives (screw and wheel), then drives the distance meter (left lower in this picture). When this unit is tested on the desk with manually rotating the root side, the meter appears working, but once installed to the real car, it does not work. Probably, one teeth of gearwheel is falling off and less accurate. The defect is so subtle, we cannot resolve the defect this day. I drive Birkin without speed and distance meter for a while.


November 22 2020 Autopsy or surgical intervention of malfunctioing speed and distance meter (Crick to enlarge)

On November 23 2020, I tour to Lake Yamanaka after a long interval. I depart Hayama at 7:30, and arrive at public lavatory of Otome Pass at 9:20, where a beutiful Ferrari is parking. We encounter by chance, and the owner of Ferrari is a nice guy with whom I talk chat. He says this car is Ferrari 308 GTB quattrovalvole (1984), and kindly showed me her engine room - Photo 1, - Photo 2, - Photo 3. I am impressed with the original design which took consideration the maintenance easiness, e.g., oil filter (white cylinder) in the left side of the red box. Obviously easy to change. V-8 engine is transverse-mounted. In this morning, average joe's Birkin 7 (1993) meets average rich's Ferrari (1984), hahaha.
I reach Otome Pass at 9:30 - Photo 4, when the summit is slightly capped by remaining snow seen from the southeast side. I enter East Fujigoko Road and exit at Lake Yamanaka at 10:15 - Photo 5, - Photo 6, the snow cap is a bit more abundant from this angle of northeast side compared with from Hakone. In ten minutes, I arrive at the north shore of Lake Yamanaka - Photo 7, - Photo 8, when the summit is still not covered with cloud. Then I go to Mikuni Pass - Photo 9 Alas, the summit is almost totally covered with cloud at 10:45, - Photo 10. I return to Hayama at 14:00.

On December 6 2020, I tour to Otome Pass of Hakone, then through Route 246 to Mikuni Pass to view Mount Fuji. I reach Otome Pass at 9:30, when the summit is seen covered with cloud cap (bamboo-hat cloud) - Photo 1, - Photo 2. When I reach Mikuni Pass at 10:30, alas, Mount Fuji is totally hiding covered with cloud - Photo 3. I return to Hayama at 13:30.

On December 20 2020, I tour to Lake Yamanaka in dropped temperature. I reach Otome Pass of Hakone at 9:30 - Photo 1, - Photo 2 roadside temperature gauge indicating minus 2 degrees Celsius. Through East Fujigoko Road, I arrive at the north shore of Lake Yamanaka at 10:30, when Mount Fuji is clearly seen - Photo 3. As the air is cold and clear, the opposite shore is clearly observed - Photo 4. Migrant swans are floating on the surface of the lake - Photo 5. Temperature is minus 2 degrees here, too - Photo 6. As usual, I go to Mikuni Pass - Photo 7, - Photo 8, - Photo 9 the summit with scant snow cap.

Re: Malfunctioned speed/distance meter - On this day (December 20), the odometer has resuscitated, and distance meter is working 175 km - Photo 10 the distance meter (odometer) advanced from 13,567 kilemeters (November 1 2020) to 13,766 kilometers (trip meter has been already reset at the gas station on arrival at Hayama retreat). I hope this recovery continues, I have to wait and see.

On December 27 2020, I again tour to Lake Yamanaka. I reach Otome Pass of Hakone at 9:20 - Photo 1, - Photo 2. The snow cap is further decreasing, and roadside temperature gauge here indicates plus 2 degrees Celsius. Then as usual through Route 246 to Mikuni Pass - Photo 3. The air is not so cold and clear this morning compared with the last weekend, and my smart phone's temperature gauge indicates plus 4 degrees Celsius here - Photo 4. - Photo 5. Obviously the snow cap of Mount Fuj is far low than that of the last year's end. BTW, coming-back distance meter is working this day, too, totaling circa nearly 400 km to (100,000 km +) 13,926 km since the resurgence of the last week - Photo 6.

On January 10 2021, I tour New Year's Visit to Mount Fuji. Before reaching Otome Pass, I pay regular visit to the memorial of the vacant lot of Prof.Dr. Erwin von Baelz for regular cleaning, which I have been performing since October 2012 (October 13 of 2012, November 9 2013, December 6 2014, October 31 2015, November 26 2016, November 11 2018). He founded the base of my alma mater, Tokyo (Imperial) University School of Medicine, after he was invited by Meiji government under modernization effort of Japan. Since 2012 when I first found this memorial, I routinely have cleaned this at the end of the year (This time at the start of the year). - Photo 1, - Photo 2 Inscription on the monument, - Photo 3 Fungi and moss are cleared with mildew cleaner (white foam), this image before washing, using natural spring hot water nearby, - Photo 4 In front of this memorial, desolate winter scene, now. The landscape is beautiful in autumn color season.

I reach Otome Pass of Hakone at 10:00 - Photo 5, - Photo 6 with tele lens. Then through usual route R.246, I arrive at Mikuni Pass at 11:00 - Photo 7 panoramic view-1, - Photo 8 panoramic view-2, - Photo 9 The summit has still scant snow cap.




January 10 2021 New year's visit to Mikuni Pass to view Mount Fuji across Lake Yamanaka (Crick to enlarge)

On the next day January 11, repair and maintenance work is done. Actually, I accidentally detached a couple of fuses under instrumental panel, and I cannot get them back to the proper place, so, I go to Elite Motors and request Meister Sakamoto (CEO/chief mechanics, Swiss army knife-type genius, who is originally nuclear engineer, graduate of Tokai University, 1967). He instantly fix it - Photo 10, - Photo 11, - Photo 12 the detached fuse, which is German specification, according to the Meister. After returning from the garage to my Hayama retreat, I paint the rusting frame under the passenger's seat - Photo 13 before treatment, - Photo 14 after painting with brush and black. Then, I polish the seats and the interior with leather and tire spray - Photo 15 before treatment, - Photo 16 after treatment, - Photo 17 spray. Finally, I repair the damaged stay (base) of the right rearview mirror, which was broken by the strong wind of the previous week, when the mirror was pulled by the entangled car cover which had transformed into parachute style - Photo 18 broken stay and mirrow, - Photo 19 enlarged view of the stay, - Photo 20 I fixed it by sandwitching the stay with facing rings from the front and back.

On January 31 2021, I tour to Lake Yamanaka to view Mount Fuji with full snow cap firstly in this season, actually later compared with average year. I depart Hayama at 7:40 and reach Otome Pass of Hakone at 9:30 and look at the full snow-capped view - Photo 1 View across Gotenba City, - Photo 2, - Photo 3. The roadside temperature gauge indicates 0 degree Celsius here. Then, advance to the entrance of East Fujigoko Road at Subashiri - Photo 4, at the exit of East Fujigoko Road at Yamanako - Photo 5. - Photo 6 Composite image from three shots, - Photo 7 The final approach route of the climb is clearly identified. I arrive at the north shore of Lake Yamanaka (Nagaike Shinsui Park) at 10:45 - Photo 8 Almost piecure-perface image across the surface of the lake, - Photo 9, - Photo 10 The summit with composite image from three shots, - Photo 11 The summit shot with tele lens, - Photo 12 Since the air is crystal clear, the opposite shore is clearly shot with tele lens. - Photo 13 Self-portrait. I arrive at Mikuni Pass at 11:10 - Photo 14, - Photo 15. I return to Hayama at 14:40.




January 31 2021 Snow-capped summit, first in this season (Crick to enlarge)

On February 7 2021, I again go to Mikuni Pass for sight seeing. I reach Otome Pass of Hakone at 9:30, where the roadside temperature gauge indicates plus 4 degrees Celsius, relatively warm compared with the preceding weeks - Photo 1, - Photo 2. I arrive at Mikuni Pass at 10:30, where the temperature is 6 degrees Celsius, and the atmosphere is of early spring, the air being not so crystal clear compared with the preceding weeks - Photo 3. Getting off the point, but it was reported the day before that the fire of the bottom weed of North Fuji Maneuvering Ground of JGSDF (Japan Ground Self-Defense Force) which was caused on the evening of February 4 by the military exercise of US Marine using 125 mm howitzer (News site). Certainly the signature is obviously observed from here - Photo 4, - Photo 5. No problem compared with wild fire of California in recent years. I return to Hayama at 14:30.

Actually, the night before when I arrive at Hayama retreat from Tokyo (work and home), I find the right rearview mirror is broken once again by the strong wind of the previous week, when the mirror was pulled by the entangled car cover which had transformed into parachute style, This time is the worse, the windshield stay is completely cracked (previous incident in early January) - Photo 6. This time welding is needed, I report to the meister of Elite Motors. On February 14, my Birkin is admitted to Elite Motors.

On February 21 2021, after the work is finished, I go to the garage (Elite Motors) to retrieve the car, - Photo 1, where a showcase model of Nissan Skyline is under preparation. The Meister Sakamoto is requested to get the inspection certification (automobile registration) on exchange of the engine to 2.5 litter turbo (original is natural aspiration 2.0 litter) - Photo 2. The owner must be spending awesome money,,, BTW, this is the new rearview mirrors. The product is made of FRP (or FRP-like?), and promoted as F1-style. The price is not so high - Photo 3, - Photo 4, - Photo 5. Rearview visibility is enhanced for traffic safely.

On February 22 2021, I routinely go to Lake Yamanaka. I depart Hayama at 7:30 and reach Otome Pass at 9:30 (9 degrees Celsius) - Photo 1, - Photo 2, then at 10:30 the entrance of East Fujigoko Road at Subashiri - Photo 3, at 10:35 the exit at Lake Yamanaka - Photo 4, - Photo 5 the summit of Mount Fuji, at 10:50 at the north shore of Lake Yamanaka (10 degrees Celsius) - Photo 6, - Photo 7. It is nice and warm in early spring, but photo is not perfect because of spring haze. At 11:15 I depart Mikuni Pass - Photo 8, and return Hayama at 14:30.

On February 28 2021, I routinely go to Lake Yamanaka again. I depart Hayama at 7:30 and reach Otome Pass at 9:10 (minus 1 degree Celsius). It is cold, but, the air is very clear this morning - Photo 1, - Photo 2 summit of Mount Fuji shot with manual 300 lens, - Photo 3 Hoei crater (1707). Then, at 9:55 the entrance of East Fujigoko Road at Subashiri - Photo 4, - Photo 5 the summit with composite image from 3 shots, at 10:05 the exit at Lake Yamanaka - Photo 6, - Photo 7, - Photo 8 the summit with composite image from 3 shots, at 10:20 at the north shore of Lake Yamanaka, where no spring haze is visually perceived - Photo 9, - Photo 10 with AF-S zoom lens, - Photo 11 ditto with manual Nikkor 35 mm lens (manual exposure), - Photo 12 the summit with AF-S lens, - Photo 13 the summit with composite image from 3 AF-S shots, - Photo 14 migratory swan near the shore, - Photo 15 since the air is clear, the opposite shore is clearly shot with AF-S lens. At 11:00 I reach Mikuni Pass - Photo 16 overview with composite image from 3 AF-S shots, - Photo 17 the summit shot with manual Nikkor 300 mm lens. I return Hayama at 13:45. This day, the traffic jam is not so severe compared with that of the week before (three-day weekend).


February 28 2021 Snow-capped Mount Fuji without spiring haze (Crick to enlarge)

On February 28 and March 7 2021, I polish aluminium body with Pikal (metal polisher) - Photo 1, - Photo 2. This tedious work is done about once a year (late winter) every year.

On March 14 2021, I routinely go to Lake Yamanaka again. I depart Hayama at 7:40 and reach Otome Pass at 9:30 (plus 9 degree Celsius). It is not cold and fairly comfortable, but, the air is very clear this morning, and I can view Mount Fuji with snow smoke over the summit - Photo 1 (Nikon D3000 with manual 35 mm Nikkor lens, manual focus/exposure), - Photo 2 the dim summit covered with snow smoke (ditto with manual 300 mm Nikkor lens, manual focus/exposure). Then, at 10:10 the entrance of East Fujigoko Road at Subashiri - Photo 3, at 10:20 the exit at Lake Yamanaka - Photo 4, - Photo 5 the summit with snow smoke (ditto with manual 300 mm Nikkor lens, manual focus/exposure). at 10:35 at the north shore of Lake Yamanaka, where no spring haze is visually perceived - Photo 6 (with manual 35 mm Nikkor lens), - Photo 7 as the air is clear, the opposite side is clearly shot (ditto with manual 300 mm Nikkor lens, manual focus/exposure), with the logo "gusto" (expressed in Japanese katakana character), - Photo 8 the summit with snow smoke (ditto with manual 85 mm Nikkor lens, manual focus/exposure). At 11:15 I reach Mikuni Pass - Photo 9 (with manual 35 mm Nikkor lens), - Photo 10 panoramic view (composite image from four, with manual 35 mm Nikkor lens). I returned Hayama at 14:30 after passing through outrageous traffic jam at Enoshima. A state of emergency for COVID-19 announced by the government is obviously losing efficacy nowadays.

After returning Hayama and eating a late lunch, I clean Birkin 7 again, this time using metal polish cream Blue Magic (USA) - Photo 1, - Photo 2. Metal polishing is still ongoing.

In the evening, I go to Shonan International Village of Hayama to view Mount Fuji in sunset glow across Sagami Bay. Sunset time is at 17:48 in this evening (seasoned Nikon D3000, largely with manual Nikkor lens, 35 mm and 85 mm) - Photo 1, - Photo 2. - Photo 3.




March 14 2021 Mount Fuji in sunset glow (Crick to enlarge)

On March 20 2021, I go to Yugawara to view early blooming of sakura (cherry). I depart Hayama at 7:30 and reach Taikanzan at 9:30, then going downhill through Tsubaki Line and Orange Line to Yagawara - Photo 1 on Tsubaki Line, - Photo 2 on Orange Line, - Photo 3 ditto, - Photo 4 ditto, - Photo 5. It is still too early to view full bloom, however, hanging sakura on Orange Line is in best days now.

On the same day, after returning to Hayama, I replace the REAR BOOT LID COVER. After long operation, the lid cover had been degrading - Photo 1 Old and fatigued one, with broken slide fastener and ruptured suture, - Photo 2 ditto. The new one is purchased from U.K. London (j-f-customs), via ebay, which is ordered on Feb 25, reached Japan Post Koishikawa Office on March 7, after failure of receiving absence note by the courier at my residence, finally I received the item on March 18 at home at Kohinata. Delivery from UK is fast, and the vendor was decent and honest (JF CUSTOMS LTD, alla almasuri, 4 SAVILE CLOSE, NEW MALDEN, Surrey, KT3 5QG, United Kingdom). They sent me the item with no installment of snap fasteners, which is very helpful to me, since the snap points are different between Caterham and Birkin, even if both are the same Series 3. Snap fasteners (buttons) are installed myself, after punching a hole precisely and using snap fastener parts and a specialized tool (available at Amazon at low cost) - Photo 3, - Photo 4 Finished, - Photo 5 Cheers! Looking good.


March 20 2021 Replaced new REAR BOOT LID COVER (Crick to enlarge)

On March 28 2021, I again go to Yugawara to view the last sakura (cherry) blossom at the peak although it is cloudy and going to rain. As the last time on March 20, I go downhill through Tsubaki Line - Photo 1 Tsubaki Line, - Photo 2 ditto, - Photo 3 Orange Line, - Photo 4 ditto, - Photo 5 along the coast facing the Pacific ocean near Nebukawa, - Photo 6 in front of Shion, Nebukawa. - Photo 7 ditto. I return to Hayama at 13:00, just before it begins to rain.

After eating lunch on the same day, I polish the posterior section of the body with Pikal (metal polisher) - Photo 1, - Photo 2.

On April 4 2021, I tour to Doushi-Michi (National Route 413) to see the last sights of sakura (cherry) blossom in this season. When I reach Mikuni Pass at 9:00, Mount Fuji is totally overcast and the summit is not seen - Photo 1. I start from Lake Yamanaka and bear for east. The first stop is Michi-no-Eki (railroad station on the road in Japanese) of Doushi - Photo 2, the next stop is located a bit east of that - Photo 3, - Photo 4. The last beautiful hanging sakura is lacated near Tsukiyono area of Doushi Village - Photo 5. I return to Hayama at 13:00.

I polish the back side of the body with Blue Magic in the late afternoon - Photo 6.

On April 11 2021, Mount Fuji tour is aborted since the summit is totally overcast - Photo 1 In front of the East Fuji JGSDF (Japan Ground Self-Defense Force) Camp at Takigahara at 9:40, - Photo 2 Mizugatsuka Parking on the south slope of Mount Fuji at 10:15, I turn around here and return to Hayama. After lunch, I detach the air filter (K&N) from Weber carbureter, which I wash immersing in the detergent and water - Photo 3, - Photo 4. This time, I measure the size of air filter component and funnels - Photo 5.

On April 18 2021, under perfectly comfortable clear sky, I make the 51th round-Mount-Fuji tour. I depart Hayma at 7:10 and reach Otome Pass of Hakone at 9:00 (8 degrees Celsius) - Photo 1, in front of the East Fuji JGSDF (Japan Ground Self-Defense Force) Camp at Takigahara at 9:30 - Photo 2, and Mizugatsuka Parking lot (south slope of Mount Fuji) at 10:00, where Hoei crater erupted in 1707 is distinctly observed - Photo 3. Then I descend the slope to the west and park at verdurous Maple Home Garden in Fujinomiya at 10:20 - Photo 4 (compare this tender green with the autumn-colored same place in November last year). I come up north on the southwest slope and come across beautiful sakura (cherry) garden just short of Route 139 - Photo 5, - Photo 6. I go northward on the west slope - Photo 7, - Photo 8, and I look Asagiri plateau into the distance. - Photo 9. I go through Fujiyoshida City, East Fujigoko Road, Route 246, Route 134, and return Hayama at 14:50.


April 18 2021 Sakura garden, still blooming (Crick to enlarge)

After lunch, I do (1) additional work on newly replaced rear boot lid cover - Photo 10, - Photo 11. Since apertures are not perfectly in conformity, the defects is remaining. So, I patch the openings with a piece of leather using bond for leather, (2) I polish dirty air funnels of Weber carburettor using Pikal - Photo 12, - Photo 13, - Photo 14, (3) During this day's drive, I noticed unresponsive switches of wipers and head lumps, and unresponsive meters of left three (ammeter, water temperature gauge, fuel gauge). So, I consult with Meister Sakamoto of Elite Motors on phone. His diagnosis is focused on one of the two connectors with battery. I check as he suggested, and find the loosened bolt of the connector. Voila, the malfunctions are all cured at once - Photo 15, - Photo 16,

On April 25 2021, after returning Hayama retreat from a light drive to Hakone before noon, I do maintenance and reformation work. Firstly, I confirm patching work for new rear boot lid cover done a week ago - Photo 1, - Photo 2 patched leather is being adhered firmly with bond. Then, I construct the newly purchased wind deflectors purchased from UK via ebay. The seller is Premier wiring Looms, xxxx, United Kingdom. I ordered the item on April 5, and received in TKO on Apr 18 (Royal Mail -> Jpn Post), item as described or more, especially I thank for "test plate" for pre-implementation training, and undrilled main body separately shipped with hinges and mounting hardware. It cost (JPY 13,462 plus air mail = JPY 15,855 in total) - Photo 3, - Photo 4. Actually I utilize the original hinges already in use. Firstly I drill the hole for mounting, using electric drill and three drill bits (very slim one to thick one step by step) - Photo 5, and apply U-letter shaped rubber trim seal for friction noise protection with body - Photo 6, - Photo 7 Joined with slight bond. Then, I assemble the deflectors using ratchet socket wrench - Photo 8, - Photo 9. Banzai (Hurrah), the work is finished - Photo 10, - Photo 11, - Photo 12. Please pay attention to rubber trim seal for friction noise protection




April 25 2021 New wind deflectors (Crick to enlarge)

On May 2 2021 (the second day of 5 consecutive holidays in Japan), I tour to Hakone. This day, it is very windy, and the surf is up. The view on the return road at Kamakura shore at 10:00 is - Photo 1 I like transparency of this newly installed wind deflectors, - Photo 2. After returning to Hayama, I change engine oil and oil filter DIY - Photo 3 Jacked up (right) with safeguard (left). Step by step in a prudent manner. Don's hurry, - Photo 4 Detaching oil filter (black tubule in the center) is a challenge for sunday car mechanic. I once a year change oil and filter. It is important not to scatter oil,,,,, A bit similar to autopsy practice, - Photo 5 I am very blessed because TOYOTA standard oil filter is compatible with this UK Ford Kent (OHV) engine.

On May 3 2021 (the middle of 5 consecutive holidays in Japan), I tour to the south slope of Mount Fuji. I depart Hayama at 7:15 and reach Otome Pass of Hakone at 9:30 - Photo 1 The snow cap is still remaining. I run through in front of JGSDF base at Takigahara at 10:15 - Photo 2, and arrive at Nishiusuzuka Parking Lot in the south slope at 11:00 - Photo 3, - Photo 4, - Photo 5.


May 3 2021 Nishiusuzuka Parking (Crick to enlarge)

Then I go downhill west to Fujinomiya, however, I face doomed traffic congestion short of the confluent point with National Road 139, where I decide to return (U-turn). Through R.469 (one more desparate traffic jam on the opposite lane originated from the entrance of Fuji Safari Park to Gotemba) - Gotemba - R.246 - Ooimatsuda - Kouzu - R.134 - Enoshima (R.467 for dodging traffic jam) - R.134, I return to Hayama at 15:00. In spite of a state of emergency for COVID-19, people are going out on car and causing severe traffic congestions. I largely manage to evade it today.

My Birkin passed national compulsory automobile safety inspection this weekend, and on May 9 2021, I go to Nagasawa in Miura Peninsula to recover the car - Photo 1 This is a hard boiled car repair shop Elite Motors. The Meister is a 1967 graduate of Nuclear Engineering of Tokai University (bachelor), who is Swiss army-knife type genius, - Photo 2 This time spark plugs are changed. I do this once a circa 30,000 km distance. After returning to Hayama, I acted the fool, i.e., I suffer the front windscreen a short crack by very mildly but a bit forcedly screw snap, then after three hours, I find this crack. I with haste remove the snap and apply very slight quick-drying glue using toothpick on the front and rear aspects - Photo 3. I am afraid that this crack extends further with shaking. Brooklands-type aeroscreens may be needed in the worst scenario. At 18.30 of this day, Mount Fuji is seen in evening glow, viewed from Hayama Shonan International Village across Sagami Bay - Photo 4.

On May 14 2021, I received Brooklands Aeroscreen Square Top from UK. I ordered the item on the net directly to the vender' site on May 10 2021, and received the item in TKO today May 14 via DHL. Cost was Total Goods GBP 76.68 + Post & Packing GBP 23.00 (circa 15,000 Japanese Yen). At first, I am afraid that there is no guarantee for following up on the tracking record as ebay, however it was groundless fear, since shortly after ordering, I received the information for tracking from DHL. The DHL site continuously indicates - Ordered on May 10, departed from DHL facility on 19:25 at Bristol UK on May 11, departed from East Midlands, UK at 22:50 May 11, departed from Leipzig facility at 13:27 May 12, reached the facility of DHL in Japan at 11:03 May 13, got through clearance from customs of Nippon at 11;07 May 13, handed over to the Japanese courier at 13:47 May 13, and received at Kohinata residence, Bunkyo, Tokyo at 11:xx May 14. What a convenient and secure world with international courier services ! It took only four days between near Bristol, UK and Tokyo, Japan - Photo 1 received package, - Photo 2 the beautiful merchandice.

I would transform my Birkin 7 (1993 model) to poorman's Bugatti type 59 as this model (urago, 1/18) in the future. - Photo 3. - Photo 4.


May 14 2021 Brooklands Aeroscreen (Crick to enlarge)

On May 23 2021, after returning from Hakone, where Mount Fuji was completely overcast in this morning - Photo 1, I try to repair the terminal of wireing to the fuse box located under the console panel. Intermittent malfunction of the left-sided three meters, winker and wiper has been temporarily fixed by pushing the terminal of the left-sided wiring to the second fuse (from the driver side), however, this trouble recurs. So I guess that the electrical contact at the terminal is the cause of this trouble - Photo 2 pale blue arrows indicates the terminal of the wire, and yellow arrow indicates screw cramp of the second fuse for this wire, - Photo 3 I reinforced the neck of the terminal (yellowish green arrows) by soldering.

On May 30 2021, viewing from Otome Pass of Hakone, Mount Fuji was completely overcast in this morning, too, as in the last week - Photo 1. On the return road, since it is too hot, I install Bikini top on the parking lot - Photo 2. It makes a difference. Malfunction of left-sided three meters, winker and wiper did not recur on this drive. After returing to Hayama, I replace rust bolts and nuts for the struts of wind deflector - Photo 3 old bolt and nut with rust, and new one - Photo 4 newly installed bolt and nut,

On June 6 2021, after returning from a short tour back and forth to Odawara, I repair the malfunction of the right rear brake lump DIY. Actually, in the last weekend, when stopping at a traffic light, a kind old gentleman in the left lane (on Matsuda Roadster, Miata) notified me that the right brake lump does not light up. Plastic covers are detached fairly easily. The troubled lump is, then, removed and electric tester reveals no trouble of the lump (electric resistance is zero) - Photo 1. The cause of trouble is obviously electric-contact defect by rust (green arrows) - My pathologic diagnosis as usual - Photo 2. After using a file to remove rust (lower bar), I spray electric-contact cleaner which I am using for maintenance of audio instruments - Photo 3. The brake lump is recovered, Cheers !!! I shot this image by pushing the break pedal with a long bar from the rear end, hahaha. - Photo 4.

In the early morning of June 13 2021, when I reach Otome Pass of Hakone, the summit of Mount Fuji is totally overcast, again. - Photo 1, so I make a U-turn. On the downhill road from Otome Pass, I notice the new national Route 731, named Hakone Kintarou Line. Kintarou is the name of a famous character of Japanese fairly tale. Let's go - Photo 2. I reach the parking lot of Mount Kintoki. The summit is there, altitude 1,212 meters, with hiking course, circa one hour one way - Photo 3, - Photo 4 Guide plate, the summit is vista point for Mount Fuji, it seems, - Photo 5 Opposite view, - Photo 6 Entrance of the hiking course. In some future, I would come again with grandchildren. I return to Hayama at 13:00.

Returning to my home at Kohinata, Tokyo, on June 14, I notice the merchandise from Stafford Vehicle Components (Logo), UK, has arrived, consisting of leather straps (two pairs) and rear view mirror (for my Birkin 7 1993 model). I ordered them on June 3 and received on June 14 with DHL delivery - Photo 1 Package, - Photo 2 Contents, - Photo 3 History of DHL (Deutche Post) tracking. I will install leather straps at leisure, to prevent bonnet detachment during driving from forgotten metal bonnet catches due to senile dementia,,,,,.

On June 20 2021, after retruning from Hakone where Mount Fuji is seen covered with full overcast - Photo 1, I install the leather straps for bonnet. Firstly, electric drill is needed to bore a hole to the aluminum body - Photo 2. The left side is completed first - Photo 3, - Photo 4 inside view (nuts), - Photo 5 connection between SVC (Stafford Vehicle Components, UK)'s strap (lower tan) and belt for pants purchased at Amazon, Japan (upper dark brown). Bolts and nuts are supplied by SVC. - Photo 6 Buffer rubber is cemented to cancel noise from friction between body and bolts, - Photo 7 right side, too, is finished, metal catch is seen in the left, - Photo 8 Completed ! (left side), - Photo 9 Completed ! (right side), metal catches are on the left and right edges of this image. I can drive at more ease. Actually, I had till recently a nightmare that bonnet is flying off over my head, caused by forgotten fastening of metal catches ,,, because of senile dementia. In the worst scenario, it may result in damage to the following car on the road. Yes, this is for foolproof, prevention is better than cure.




June 20 2021 Leather straps over bonnet installed (Crick to enlarge)

On September 20 2021, I depart Hayama at 7:30 and reach Otome Pass of Hakone at 9:00, where Mount Fuji is clearly seen - Photo 1, then go through the front of the East Fuji JGSDF (Japan Ground Self-Defense Force) Camp at Takigahara at 9:40 - Photo 2 Hoei crater, which erupted in 1707, is seen in the left shoulder. At the fifth station of Mount Fuji at Tarobo at 10:00, Hoei crater is seen, here too, in the left shoulder. - Photo 3, - Photo 4 Enlarged view of the summit, - Photo 5 ditto. On the south slope, Shizuoka Prefectural Road 180 is closed because of mud slide in August - Photo 6. So, I swing backward, and park at Mizugatsuka Parking at 10:20. Hoei crater, which erupted in 1707, is more closely observed from here - Photo 7, - Photo 8, - Photo 9.

On October 3 2021, under comfortable autumn clear sky, I make the 52th round-Mount-Fuji tour. I depart Hayma at 7:40 and reach Otome Pass of Hakone at 9:20, from where Mount Fuji is clearly seen across Gotemba City, yet with no snow cap - Photo 1. Since Shizuoka Prefectural Road 180 is closed because of mud slide since this August, I drive on National Route 469 to the west on the south slope of Mount Fuji (more peripheral circle) - Photo 2, then to the north on Sizuoka Prefectural Road 72, and reach Home of Maple Garden in Fujinomiya at 10:40 (my favorite place) - Photo 3 The summit of Mount Fuji is seen in the right upper angle of this image - Photo 4 Yellow butterfly (Colias erate) just flies in (pink arrow). Maple leaves do not yet reveal autumn color, but indeed beautifle. Then I go north on the west slope on Yamanashi Prefectural Road 71 - Photo 5 Japanese silver grass indicates autumn coming - Photo 6 The summit without snow. I returned Hayama at 13:00.

On October 24 2021, under comfortable autumn clear sky, I make the 53th round-Mount-Fuji tour through National Route 469 (second in this season). I depart Hayama at 7:15, and reach Otome Pass of Hakone at 9:10, where Mount Fuji is seen snow-capped - Photo 1, - Photo 2 summit. On Route 469 from Gotemba to Fujinomiya, which is really cozy road, the Mount Fuji is seen from the south slope - Photo 3, - Photo 4. I reach Home of Maple Garden in Fujinomiya at 10:30 - Photo 5 the summit of Mount Fuji is covered with cloud then (right middle in this image), - Photo 6 the trees are not yet in autumn color. Then I turn right heading to the north on Shizuoka-Yamanashi Prefectural Road 71, and the clouds drifted away from the summit seen from the west slope - Photo 7 silver grass present coming autumn, - Photo 8 the summit with telescopic lens. Mount Fuji over Hitoana Primary School is my favorite vista - Photo 9. Ranches for cow are scattered in this west slope - Photo 10, - Photo 11 the summit from the same location. Another ranches - Photo 12 Clouds of autumn sky is beautiful, - Photo 13 the summit seen from the same location, - Photo 14 the opposite direction from the same place, viewing Asagiri Plateau, really sensuous drive,,, I return to Hayama at 16:15, total 9 hours tour finished.


October 24 2021 Ranchs of the west slope with beautiful autumn clouds (Crick to enlarge)

On November 7 2021, I perform wild-goose formation with a recent friend Mr. Ojima, who is a farmer of large tomato plant - Photo 1. We meet at Kouzu Parking Lot of Seishou Bypass at 8:30 - Photo 2 with his Lotus Exige, Lotus family in modern and classic designs, however, essentially the same concept. Then climb up the Hakone. We stop in front of the memorial of a vacant lot of Prof. Erwin Baelz (1849−1913)' villa, who founded the base of my alma mater, Tokyo (Imperial) University School of Medicine, after he was invited by Meiji government under modernization effort of Japan - Photo 3. We reach Otome Pass at 10:00, where Mount Fuji is totally overcast, viewing across Gotemba City - Photo 4, Photo 5 at Otome Pass Parking. Then we go down to Gotemba City, turn right heading to Ooi Matsuda on Shizuoka Prefectural Road 394, and return to Seishou Bypass.

On November 14 2021, under comfortable autumn clear sky, I make the 54th round-Mount-Fuji tour clockwise from Gotemba City (third in this season). I depart Hayama at 7:20. When I park at Kouzu Parking Lot of Seisho Bypass at 8:30, somewhat strange shape of cloud is noticed - Photo 1 Multilayered cloud. I reach Otome Pass of Hakone at 9:30, where Mount Fuji is seen snow-capped, and covered with cloud, but, the summit is not covered with - Photo 2, - Photo 3, - Photo 4, and in the middle of downhill course to Gotemba, the summit is observed with more clearness - Photo 5, - Photo 6 Umbrella shape becoming clearer. In front of the East Fuji JGSDF (Japan Ground Self-Defense Force) Camp at Takigahara at 10:10 - Photo 7. I reach Mizugatsuka Parking Lot at 10:40 - Photo 8, - Photo 9 Houei Crater (1707) - 宝永火口. The maple trees are in full season at Maple Home Garden in Fujinomiya at 11:10, with Mount Fuji in the background (right upper portion) - Photo 10, - Photo 11, - Photo 12. After turning the right heading to the north, on Shizuoka Prefectural Road 72, the odometer of my Birkin hits 120,000 kilometers - Photo 13. The Odometer has already go around one time, so, 100,000+ is indicated. Past history: 20,000 km in January 2006 --> 30,000 km in March 2007 --> 40,000 km in July 2008 --> 50,000 km in October 2009 --> 60,000 km in January 2011 --> 70,000 km in September 2012 --> 80,000 km in May 2014 --> 90,000 km in June 2016 --> 100,000 km in March 2018 --> 110,000 km in March 22 2020 --> 120,000 km TODAY. At Fuji Susono area, umbrella cloud is seen, somewhat doughnut - Photo 14, - Photo 15, - Photo 16. At Forest of Wild Birds Park at Seiko at 12:30, autumn color is beautiful as usual every year - Photo 17. Driving on the north shore of Seiko, umbrella cloud is seen double doughnut - Photo 18, - Photo 19. I reach the north shore of Lake Kawaguchi (Oku Kawaguchi) at 12:50 - Photo 20, - Photo 21. There I U-turn and get out of Fujiyoshida City, from where umbrella cloud is still observed - Photo 22. On the return road coming close to Hayama, Mount Fuji was seen in the evening glow - Photo 23, - Photo 24 From Hichirigahama, Kamakura City at 16:40. Enoshima is in the center of this picture 23, - Photo 25 From Nagisabashi, Zushi City, at 17:00. I return Hayama retreat at 17:20, finishing 10 hours drive.

Getting together today's umbrella cloud pictures (bamboo-hat cloud), in chronological order - Photo 3 (Otome Pass, 9:30), - Photo 6 (Downhill Otome Pass, 9:45), - Photo 7 ( East Fuji JGSDF Camp at Takigahara, 10:10, - Photo 15 and - Photo 16 (Fuji Susono area, 11:50). - Photo 18 and - Photo 19 (North shore of Seiko, 12:30), - Photo 22 (Fujoyoshida City, 13:20. - Photo 24 (Hichirigahama, Kamakura City, 16:40).


October 24 2021 Umbrella cloud over Mount Fuji (Crick to enlarge)

On November 28 2021, I tour to Lake Yamanaka and Mikuni Pass to view Mount Fuji with snow cap, under perfectly clear sky and low temperature. This is the first photogenic opportunity in this season. I depart Hayama at 7:20, and reach Otome Pass of Hakone at 9:15 - Photo 1 picture perfect today, - Photo 2 the summit with telephoto lens. The road-side panel indicates 2 degrees Celsius. I decide to advance to Lake Yamanaka according to the plan. Then, at 9:50 the entrance of East Fujigoko Road at Subashiri - - Photo 3, - Photo 4 the summit with tele lens. At 10:10 at the exit of Lake Yamanaka - Photo 5. At 10:20 on the north shore of Lake Yamanaka - Photo 6, - Photo 7 the summit with tele lens. I reach Mikuni Pass at 10:50 - Photo 8, - Photo 9 (composite photo from three images), - Photo 10 the summit with telephoto lens (composite photo from three images), - Photo 11 my friend Birkin Seven. I return to Hayama at 14:00.

After rest, I go out to view Mount Fuji with evening glow at evening (sunset 16:30). Firstly from Hayama Shonan International Village - Photo 12 across Sagami Bay, - Photo 13 ditto, then after downhill to the seashore, at Tateishi Park at Akiya - Photo 14 Izu Peninsula is extending to the left from Mt. Fuji, - Photo 15.


Novemver 28 2021 Mount Fuji in sunset glow (Crick to enlarge)

On December 5 2021, I tour to Lake Yamanaka and Mikuni Pass again, but this time with friend Mr. Ojima, who is tomato farmer in Fujisawa, and always busy with greenhouse cultivation, but this day is a rare holiday for him. After we report at parking lot of Seisho Bypass at Kodu, we climb Hakone and reach Otome Pass at 9:20. The air is cool at 4 degrees Celsius, and Mount Fuji is totally covered with thick cloud on the Gotenba side - Photo 1, however we advance to Lake Yamanaka in Rotte formation (twin). When we arrive at the north shore of it at 10:10, the summit is narrowly observed - Photo 2. There, ceremonial photograph is taken (my Birkin 7 and his Lotus Exige), using self-timer and tripod - Photo 3 with my self-portrait - Photo 4. We arrive at Mikuni Pass at 10:40 - Photo 5, and Mount Fuji is totally covered with cloud - Photo 6, with a transient appearance - Photo 7. We are adjourned in Ooi-Matsuda. I return to Hayama at 13:45.


December 5 2021 Rotte formation with Lotus Exige (Crick to enlarge)

On December 12 2021, I tour to Lake Yamanaka and Mikuni Pass again, alone as usual. I depart Hayama at 8:00, and reach Otome Pass at 9:50. Mount Fuji is clearly seen with minimal cloud - Photo 1, - Photo 2. After that, Subashiri entrance of East Fujigoko Road at 10:20 - Photo 3; the exit of the same road at 10:40 - Photo 4 snow smoke over the summit, the north shore of Lake Yamanaka at 10:50 - Photo 5, - Photo 6, - Photo 7 snow smoke over the summit; Mikuni Pass at 11:10 - Photo 8, - Photo 9. I return to Hayama at 13:45. It is not so cold and rather comfortable this day, so, the air is not so crystal clear for this season.

On December 19 2021, I tour to Lake Yamanaka and Mikuni Pass again, almost routinely and alone as usual. I depart Hayama at 7:30, and reach Otome Pass at 9:30. Mount Fuji is absolutely clearly seen with clear summit - Photo 1 Overview across Gotemba City, - Photo 2 Roadside panel indicates 0 degree Celsius, it is very cold, - Photo 3 The summit with telephoto lens: then Subashiri entrance of East Fujigoko Road at 10:20 - Photo 4, - Photo 5 Panorama view of the summit from three images; Lake Yamanaka exit of East Fujigoko Road at 10:20 - Photo 6 Roadside stop temporarily, - Photo 7 At this moment, the summite about to be covered with cloud; the north shore of Lake Yamanaka at 10:30 - Photo 8 The summit totally covered with cloud, weep, in spite of ideal cool and clear air condition, this is not photogenic; finally Mikuni Pass at 11:00 - Photo 9 The summit is covered, just the same. I return to Hayama at 13:30.


December19 2021 Panoramic view of the snow-covered summit (Crick to enlarge)

On January 9 2022, I tour to Lake Yamanaka and Mikuni Pass again as new year's visit. I depart Hayama at 7:45, and reach Otome Pass at 10:00. Mount Fuji is absolutely clearly seen with clear summit, with road-side panel indicating 2 degrees Celsius - Photo 1, - Photo 2 The summit with telephoto lens. Then Subashiri entrance of East Fujigoko Road at 10:25 - Photo 3, - Photo 4 The summit with telephoto lens, and the north shore of Lake Yamanaka at 11:00 - Photo 5 (with old Nikon single-focus 35 mm lens), - Photo 6 Panoramic view from three images, - Photo 7 Clear view of the opposite shore with 200 mm tele lens (AF zoom), - Photo 8 My Birkin is alive and well this new year, too, - Photo 9 Composite image from three images with 200 mm tele lens (AF, zoom). I reach Mikuni Pass at 11:40 - Photo 10, - Photo 11 Birkin 7 with minimally remaining road-side snow, - Photo 12 Panoramic view of the landscape, - Photo 13 Panoramic view of the summit of Mount Fuji, with 200 mm tele lens (AF, zoom). I return to Hayama at 13:50.


January 9 2022 Panoramic view of the snow-covered Mount Fuji across Lake Yamanaka (Crick to enlarge)

On January 16 2022, I tour directly to Mikuni Pass to view Mount Fuji, again. I depart Hayama at 7:50, and reach Otome Pass of Hakone at 9:45 - Photo 1, - Photo 2 The summit with snow smoke, with telephoto lens (AF 55-200 mm). There the road-side board indicated 1 degree Celsius. This day, I directly go to Mikuni Pass through Route 246 and front of Fuji Speedway - Photo 3 Panoramic view from three images (old Nikor 35 mm lens), - Photo 4 Self-portrait with Birkin Seven , - Photo 5 The summit with telephoto lens (AF 55-200 mm). I return to Hayama at 13:50. In the evening, Mount Fuji was seen across Sagami Bay from Hayama - Photo 6 Hayama Shonan International Village at 17:20 (old Nikor 35 mm lens), - Photo 7 Tateishi Park at Akiya at 17:30 (old Nikor 35 mm lens), - Photo 7 ditto panoramic view, in which Isu Peninsula is extending to the left side.

On February 6 2022, I tour to Lake Yamanaka and Mikuni Pass again (almost routine work in this season). I depart Hayama at 7:30 and reach Otome Pass at 9:20, when the summit of Mount Fuji is covered with cloud in the Gotemba side - Photo 1, - Photo 2 Roadside indicator shows minus 4 degrees Celsius. It is very cold today. Then Lake Yamanaka Exit of East Fujigoko Road at 10:00 - Photo 3, - Photo 4, - Photo 5 Then partially appears. On the north shore of Lake Yamanaka at 10:10 - Photo 6 - Photo 7, - Photo 8 The summit is still covered with cloud, - Photo 9 The opposite shore is clearly shot with 300 mm lens because the air is cold and clear. When clock-wise driving around Laya Yamanaka I notice the water surface is frozen - Photo 10 - Photo 11. I reach Mikuni Pass at 10:40 - Photo 12, - Photo 13 The summit is less covered with cloud, but still there. I return to Hayama at 13:45 (Used lens - Photo 1, 3, 6, 7, 10, 11 with Old Nikkor single-focus 35 mm, and Photo 2, 4, 5, 8, 9, 13 with old AF 70-300 mm zoom with manual focus and auto-exposure/shutter speed, and Photo 12 with AF-S 18-70 mm).


February 6 2022 Mount Fuji viewed from Mikuni Pass across frozen Lake Yamanaka (Crick to enlarge)

Lately, lamp switch is unstable - initial push, no response, repeated push, lighting of head lamp and meter lamps. So, I fix DIY. I elevated the switch box with minus driver in a cautious manner, then metal electric contact is revealed on the front and rear aspect of the box (red arrows), which is rusting brownish - Photo 1, I use a file to remove rust, then apply wash spray for electric contact and through interspace of switch box internally, Voila, fixed, - Photo 2.


February 20 2022 Electric contact switch fixed (Crick to enlarge)

On February 27 2022, I tour to Lake Yamanaka and Mikuni Pass again (routine work). I depart Hayama at 7:30 and reach Otome Pass at 9:45 (gas station time +), when the summit of Mount Fuji is partially covered with cloud - Photo 1, the temperature is 5 degrees Celsius there. I feel the coming spring, but the air is not crystal clear compared with the previous weeks. I reach Mikuni Pass through Route 246 and Shizuoka Prefectural Road 147 with remaining snow from the previous week - Photo2 , thanks to a snow removal vehicle (public service) - Photo 3, and park at 10:50 - Photo 4. First, the summit is minimally covered with snow, but after short period, it is cleard - Photo 5, - Photo 6 composite image from 3 shots (tripod used), the landscape is as usual - Photo 7. I return Hayama at 14:00, through congested Enoshima (Used lens - Photo 5, 6 with old AF 70-300 mm zoom with manual focus and auto-exposure/shutter speed, and Photo 1, 2, 3, 4, 7 with AF-S 18-70 mm).


February 27 2022 Mikuni Pass with remaining snow (Crick to enlarge)

On March 6 2022, I tour to Lake Yamanaka and Mikuni Pass again with the same route as the week before (routine work in this season). I depart Hayama at 7:30 and reach Otome Pass at 9:40, when the summit of Mount Fuji is lightly covered with cloud - Photo 1 Tempreture at Otome is 2 degrees Celsius. I reach Mikuni Pass at 10:30 through Route 246 and Shizuoka Prefectural Road 147 with minimally remaining snow - Photo 2, - Photo 3 Birkin with national flag of Ukraine to express solidarity with Ukraine people. The summit is slightly covered with snow here too - Photo 4. - Photo 5. On the return road, I appreciate Ume (Prunus mume, Japanese apricot) at Simosoga, Odawawa City - Photo 6. - Photo 7. - Photo 8. I return to Hayama at 13:30 (Used lens - Photo 4, 5 with old AF 70-300 mm zoom with manual focus and auto-exposure/shutter speed, and others with AF-S 18-70 mm).


March 6 2022 Ume at Soga, Odawara City (Crick to enlarge)

On March 13 2022, I tour to Hakone Taikanzan, then downhill to Yugawara amid an early spring breeze. I depart Hayama at 7:30. and reach Tenkakudai, Taikanzan at 9:20. Since it is getting warmer, side screen is replaced with wind deflector (purchased from UK last year). - Photo 1, Rear boot lid cover (leather, from UK, last year) is in good condition, and I love national flags, representing the soveignty of each nation - Photo 2. I make a friend at Tenkakudai, who rides on a decent Harley Davidson which are very popular in Japan, even more than Honda, Yamaha, Kawasaki, Suzuki. We discuss on each other's machine - Photo 3. After downhill, in Yugawawa-Manazuru-Negukawa area spring has come along - Photo 4, - Photo 5. On the return road on final Enoshima-Kamakura leg, yachts are seen - Photo 6. I return to Hayama at 12:45.

On March 20 2022, after returning from Taikanzan-Yugawara-Manazuru tour (2nd time in this season), the front hood and stone guards of the rear wheels of Birkin 7 are rubbed with Blue Magic (metal polish cream from USA), after one year interval - Photo 1, - Photo 2.

On March 27 2022, although it is cloudy, I tour Taikanzan-Yugawara-Manazuru tour (3rd time in this season). After I downhill from Taikanzan on Prefectural Road 75, I meet a gorgeous weeping cherry tree on the Orange Line - Photo 1, - Photo 2. The interval for best blossom of this tree is short, and I am lucky this year. The cherry is not yet full on the Manazuru shore line facing the Pacific Ocean - Photo 3. It is windy this day, however, intrepid surfers are playing along the Shichirigahama shore on way back from - Photo 4.


March 27 2022 Weeping cherry at Yugawara (Crick to enlarge)

On April 10 2022, I tour Doushi-Michi (national road R. 413) to enjoy cherry-blossom viewing. I depart Hayama at 7:20, and reach Mikuni Pass at 9:30 - Photo 1, - Photo 2 as these images show the landscape is filled with smoke (controlled burn), however, the summit is clearly seen. - Photo 3, - Photo 4. After downhill to the lakeside, I enter Route 413. The cherry is fully bloomed along the Doshi River - Photo 5, - Photo 6. On the stone wall near Nobara suspension bridge - Photo 7, - Photo 8 this is my favorite place every year. Every spring, I stop here at Nakazawa to shoot the elegant farm house in the mountain village - Photo 9, - Photo 10. This pink weepng cherry tree is located near Oowatari water fetching device for fresh water conducted from the mountain - Photo 11, - Photo 12, - Photo 13. The last sakura in this tour is on the side road of R.413 at Aone - Photo 14. Through Lake Miyagase, I return to Hayama at 14:00.


April 10 2022 Route 413 (Doshi-michi) tour (Crick to enlarge)

On May 4 2022, I do replacement of engine oil and oil filter DIY at Hayama retreat. I do this routinely once a year in consecutive holidays in May. Health check too is done in parallel. Actually, I love to hustle as a Sunday auto mechanic. Of course final arrangement is due to Elite Motors (professional) - Photo 1 Jack-up firstly, - Photo 2 Old oil is vacuumed up through engine oil level gauge hole, - Photo 3 TOYOTA Oil Filter 90915-20001 is compatible with this UK-made Ford Kent engine. It is very convenient, - Photo 4 I feed the new engine oil finally.

My Birkin is put in the repairing yard Elite Motors at Nagasawa of Miura Peninsula for regular annual check as usual on May 5 2022, and I recover my Birkin on May 15 - Photo 1. A hoisted scrap car backward is an old Nissan Fairlady Z now under full restoration by Meister Sakamoto (graduate of atomic energy engineering of Tokai University, 1976, far left in the image), who purchased this machine in the USA and imported (his business as usual).

On May 29 2022, I go to Otome Pass and Mikuni Pass to view the last snow cap of Mount Fuji. I depart Hayama at 7:15 and reach Otome Pass of Hakone at 9:50 - Photo 1, - Photo 2, the road side panel indicates 20 degrees Celsius, and the snow cap would disappear within days. I arrive at Otome Pass through Shizuoka Prefectural Road 394 - Photo 3, - Photo 4, - Photo 5, - Photo 6 Is is 23 degrees Celsius.




May 29 2022 Last snow cap in this season (Crick to enlarge)

On June 12 2022, I go to Oyama Town to observe wet paddy rice growing. I depart Hayama at 7:30 and reach Otome Pass at 9:50, from where Mount Fuji is seen with last remaining snow cap - Photo 1. After downhill to Gotemba City, I drive to the east (return road to Hayama) on Shizuoka Prefectural Road 394 at Oyama Town, and get sidetracked to an agricultural road, where rice is growing probably one month since planting of rice seedlings, - Photo 2, - Photo 3 I love this gorgeous landscape, - Photo 4 Nowadays planting is done with agricultural machines. Beautiful, - Photo 5. I recall the hardship of the farmers in Ukraine. It is reported that the Russian army are planting mines in the wheat field when retreating.




June 12 2022 Paddy field of rice (Crick to enlarge)

On July 24 2022, after I meet seven friend Mr. Ojima (tomato farmer) in Odawara at 8:45 and together tour in Hakone, I go alone to Oyama Town to check the growth status of rice in the paddy. This is the two-shot in the parking lot of convenience store Lawson - Photo 1 Mine is left (anterior), and Mr. Ojima's newly purchased Seven is right. Though he already has Lotus Exige (expensive modern machine), he cannot resist the charm of the old Seven. After we depart at Otome Pass, I reach the usual gorgeous paddy in Oyama town (fixed-point observation site) on the return road from Otome Pass to Hayama. Rice is growing steadily - Photo 2, - Photo 3 Gorgeous landscape, sehr Japanisch, - Photo 4 Now is drying interval, it seems, paddy is not filled with water.


July 24 2022 Paddy field of rice (Crick to enlarge)

On July 31 2022, on the return road Seisho Bypass from Hakone, I notice abrupt reflection of left front fender, and hastily reduce speed and take shelter in the road-side refuge area - Photo 1, - Photo 2. It was caused by corrosion and crumbled pipe frame and hasps, so I perform emergent palliative operation with thick wire - Photo 3, - Photo 4, and safely return to Hayama base. I phone to Meister Sakamoto of Elite Motors and make a reservation for garage entry on next Saturday (August 6). My Birkin was stocked there since August 6 to August 13, when after receiving job-done call from the meister, I recover my Birkin at Nagasawa of Miura Peninsula. Meister Sakamoto had repaired corrosive crumbled pipe frame with practiced electrical welding - Photo 5, - Photo 6. Decisively, the frame reinforced.


July 31 2022 Abrupt reflection of left front fender (Crick to enlarge)

On August 21 2022, after viewing Mount Fuji under total overcast from Otome Pass of Hakone at 9:30 in the morning - Photo 1, I go to Oyama Town to check the growth status of rice in the paddy again (fixed-point observation). - Photo 2, - Photo 3 Lovely ear of rice, - Photo 4 Gorgeous landscape of Japan. I hope to congratulate on good harvest in this autumn with Ukrainian farmers.

On August 28 2022, I perform metal (aluminium) polishing of Birkin 7 with Blue Magic (metal polish cream), after a long interval - Photo 1 Manual working state, - Photo 2 Engine hood finished today.

On September 4 2022, two weeks after previous visit, I go to Oyama Town to check the growth status of rice in the paddy again (fixed-point observation). At 9:30 Mount Fuji is observed totally overcast from Otome Pass of Hakone - Photo 1. I reach the rice paddy of Oyama Town at 10;00 - Photo 2, - Photo 3, - Photo 4, - Photo 5, - Photo 6, - Photo 7. According to the decent local middle-aged couple walking the path between rice field, with whom I briefly talk chat, rice harvesting is getting near. I hope goddess of fertility smiles at Ukraine farmers, too.


September 4 2022 goddess of fertility (Crick to enlarge)

On September 11 2022, I perform the 55th round-Mount-Fuji tour. When I reach Otome Pass of Hakone at 9:10, the Mount Fuji is seen without overcast - Photo 1, and I pass through the front of the East Fuji JGSDF (Japan Ground Self-Defense Force) Camp at Takigahara, at 9:40 - Photo 2. At Mizugatsuka Parking Lot, Hoei crater, which erupted in 1707, is closely observed from here - Photo 3, - Photo 4 however the summit is about to be covered with cloud from the west side. When I drive north on the west slope, the summit is totally covered with cloud - Photo 5. The summit appears again at the entrance of East Fujigoko Road at Fujiyoshida at 11:30 - Photo 6. After going throufh Gotemba City, I go to Oyama Town again to check the growth status of rice in the paddy again (fixed-point observation). Mount Fuji is observed this noon, actually first time in this season, this location. Rice field is bountiful. Luckily typhoon has not hit this prefecture in this season - Photo 7, - Photo 8. Thanks, goddess of fertility ! - Photo 9. Rice harvesting just began. I have a talk with this seasoned (aged) farmer and learned the elementary knowledge - Photo 10. External edge of rice field is cut manually, it seems - Photo 11. This field is cut from the external margins and largely finished. According to the mentioned farmer, this area is completed in circa two-to-three hours - Photo 12, and the whole field of view (previous image with Mount Fuji) will be completed in two-to-three days. I take lunch here - Cheese burger purchased at convenience store (Family Mart) - Photo 13. I return to Hayama retreat at 15:30 (Eight-hour cruise by 71-year-old pathologist).


September 11 2022 Hero's harvest (Crick to enlarge)

On September 25 2022, after Typhoon No.14 has passed away with a moderate distance, I go to rice field of Oyama Town again to confirm the completion of rice harvest. At 9:30, Mount Fuji is totally overcast, seen from Otome Pass of Hakone - Photo 1. Rice field of Oyama Town is being almost harvested, and rice field is immersed with water again - Photo 2, - Photo 3, - Photo 4. Lycoris radiata (Higanbana in Japanese), I watch these flowers last Friday on the Gotokuji Temple - Photo 5, - Photo 6. One segment has not been harvested yet. Probably the farmers calculated the risk of Typhoon damage vs. maturation of race - Photo 7, - Photo 8

On October 2 2022, I perform the 56th round-Mount-Fuji tour under clear sky. When I reach Otome Pass of Hakone at 9:10, the Mount Fuji is seen without overcast - Photo 1, - Photo 2 first snow cap has already melted, with tele lens (zoomed 200 mm), and I pass through the front of the East Fuji JGSDF (Japan Ground Self-Defense Force) Camp at Takigahara, at 9:40 - Photo 3, - Photo 4. I reach Nishiusuzuka Parking Lot on the south slope at 10:10 - Photo 5, - Photo 6, - Photo 7 the summit is clearly seen. "Kaede no Sato" (Home of Maple) park is not yet in autumn color, at 10:30 - Photo 8. I then turn right heading to the north on Shizuoka/Yamanashi Prefectual Road 71 - Photo 9 from the west slope, - Photo 10 from the north-west slope. On the return road after passing Gotemba City, I again visit Oyama Town to observe the state of rice field - Photo 11 Mount Fuji is overcast, - Photo 12 now totally harvested and the field is dried again. I started this day's tour at 7:30 and touched down to Hayama at 15:30.

On October 9 2022, after returning from an early morning tour to Odawara, Kazamatsuri, I polish the right side body panel of Birkin Seven with metal polish cream Blue Magic from USA with Astro Products' electric polisher, EP551, since after a while aluminum outer surface has oxidized again - Photo 1, - Photo 2, - Photo 3, - Photo 4. After that, I clean with compound and wax additionally.

On October 23 2022, I tour the 57th round-Mount-Fuji tour under clear sky with Mr. Ojima's Birkin in Rotte formation. I depart Hayama at 7:20, and after joining with him at Odawara City at 8:45, we go through Gotemba City on Route 246, and reach in front of the East Fuji JGSDF (Japan Ground Self-Defense Force) Camp at Takigahara, at 10:00 - Photo 1. Mount Fuji is clearly seen at Nishiusuzuka Parking Lot - Photo 2 Tight formation, - Photo 3 The summit. There we meet an amateur but experienced space enthusiast and we talk chat with him for a while, who was observing the target galaxy preceding all night with automatic guiding system - Photo 4. Strange cloud is seen over the summit from the west slope at 11:10 - Photo 5. The landscape of grass farm is alwayt beautiful from the northwest slope - Photo 6. We reach Saiko at 12:30 and eat lunch (sandwich purchased at convenience store ) - Photo 7, - Photo 8, - Photo 9. Just berore getting away from FujiYoshida City, Mount Fuji is seen as - Photo 10, After returning Gotemba, we go to the rice field at Oyama Town, and I am reminded of rice cultivation from the professional farmer - Photo 11, I safely touched down to Hayama at 18:00, accomplishing over 10 hours drive.

In the early morning of October 24, I repair the winker lamp of right posterior side. Actually, the day before, I was informed that the right posterior winker lamp is not working, certainly it is not - Photo 1. Firstly, I check the internal side of stop lump (red) - Photo 2, which I confirmed the resistance is zero with circuit tester. I filed the contact side, followed with contact spray - Photo 3. Then I unplug the bulb of the winker (outer orange side) - Photo 4, then again I confirmed the resistance is zero with circuit tester. Actually the contact points are different from those of the stop lump - Photo 5. I rub up the electric contact point with file and spray with contact spray. They I confirm the winker lamp working - Photo 6.

On November 6 2022, I tour the 58th round-Mount-Fuji tour under clear sky, again, this time solo. I depart Hayama at 7:20, and before heading Mount Fuji, firstly I clean the momorial of a vacant lot of former Prof. Dr. Erwin von Baelz at the road side of Kiga Onsen, Hakone (R.138), two years since January 10 2021 (October 13 of 2012, November 9 2013, December 6 2014, October 31 2015, November 26 2016, November 11 2018, January 10 2021). He is one of the founding fathers of our alma mater Tokyo Imperial University's Medical Faculty in Meiji Era - Photo 1, - Photo 2 Before cleaning, covered with moss, - Photo 3 After cleaning with cloth for car, after immersed with nearby spring water, and with washing spray, - Photo 4 The view across the valley in front of this memorial, which he loved.

I reach Otome Pass at 9:00, when the summit can be seen, no problem, let's go - Photo 5, and pass through in front of the East Fuji JGSDF (Japan Ground Self-Defense Force) Camp at Takigahara, at 9:40 - Photo 6 From this direction, the summit is completely covered with cloud. Climbing up Shizuoka Prefectural Road R.152, I observe the early stage of autumn color - Photo 7 With self-portrait. I arrive at Nishiusuzuka Parking Lot at 10:00. - Photo 8, - Photo 9 With self-portrait (with tripod), - Photo 10 The summit of Mount Fuji with early snow fall. "Kaede no Sato" (Home of Maple) park in the south-west slope in Fujinoyiya City is in early autumn color, at 10:30 - Photo 11, - Photo 12 Foliage enlarged. Then I turn right heading to the north in the west slope - Photo 13, - Photo 14 Decent Hitoana Primary School. I advance between Mount Fuji and Asagiri plateau in the grazing ground - Photo 15 With self-portrait (with tripod). - Photo 16 In panoramic view. After passing through Aoki Forest Ocean - Photo 17, I reach Wild Birds Park near Saiko (west lake in English) at 12:30 - Photo 18 In full autumn color, - Photo 19 Internal structure of hermitage, - Photo 20 Mount Fuji is seen in the oppositite direction, - Photo 21 Panoramic view of the venue. Lunch is ready here on the lawn. I return to Hayama safely at 17:00. I accomplish over 9 hours ride on on this hard-boiled open two-seat sports car (UK, South Africa, 1993 model).


November 6 2022 Meadowland, almost heaven (Crick to enlarge)

On November 13 2022, after returning from a short round-trip to Hakone, I polish my Birkin with the new method, which I learned from My. Ojima lately - Photo 1 Recipe - Green-colored polishing paste, called Blue Stick (青棒 in Japanese), which was purchased at Amazon at circa 500 Japanese Yen (center in this image), is powderized using the grater for cooking (right), and dissolved and shaken with 1/2 bottle of lamp oil in the small plastic bottle (left). After immersed in waste cloth, rub the aluminium panel. The result is satisfiable - Photo 2 Right stone guard, - Photo 3 Overall picture. I will try more times and other panels.


November 13 2022 Polishing aluminium panel (Crick to enlarge)

On November 27 2022, I tour the 59th round-Mount-Fuji tour (5th in this season) under clear sky, again, this time probably the last in this season. I depart Hayama at 7:20, and reach Otome Pass at 9:00, when the summit can be clearly seen across Gotemba City with the gorgeous snow cap on the summit which I firstly observe in this season - Photo 1, - Photo 2, and pass through in front of the East Fuji JGSDF (Japan Ground Self-Defense Force) Camp at Takigahara, at 9:40 - Photo 3 The summit obstructed with cloud. I reach Mizugatsuka Parking Lot at 10:00. Hoei crater, which erupted in 1707, too, is covered with snow - Photo 4, - Photo 5. Along the downhill road to Fujinomiya City on the west slope, Shizuoka Prefectural Road 152, trees are covered with dead and falling leaves - Photo 6 Winterreise. After turn right heading to the north, I observe the west side of Mount Fuji - Photo 7, and Oosawa Kuzure (erosional valley) which began from just below the crater (for overview, refer to the previous Photo 7) - Photo 8 Composite image from 5 photos. I take a self-portrait with tripod on the meadowland - Photo 9. I return to Hayama retreat at 16:15, flight hours total 9, with a cheese burger, eat-in at a convenience store on the return road at Gotemba.


November 27 2022 Osawa Kuzure (erosion valley) (Crick to enlarge)

On December 4 2022, I polish the right side panel of my Birkin with the new method, which I tried on November 13, again (2nd operation), using electric drill this time - Photo 1 during work, - Photo 2 today's work finished.




December 4 2022 Polishing again (Crick to enlarge)

On December 11 2022, I tour to Mikuni Pass through Lake Yamanaka in the morning, the first time in this season. I depart Hayama at 7:20 and reach the Kanreidoumon (函嶺洞門 in Kanji character, rock-fall prevention, covered way) located at the foot of Hakone at 8:30 - Photo 1, where autumn-color foliage is still remaining. I arrive at Otome Pass at 9:00 (7 degrees Celsius), when the summit of Mount Fuji is covered with cloud - Photo 2. After driving on the East Fujigoko Road - Photo 3, - Photo 4, I reach the north side of Lake Yamanaka at 10:00 - Photo 5, - Photo 6 Climb route is highly visible. I reach Mikuni Pass at 10:20 - Photo 7, - Photo 8. Because of hanging clouds, the images are not photogenic this day.

On December 18 2022, after returning from a tour to and from Odawara City, I polish the dorsal and left side panels of my Birkin with the new method, which I tried on November 13 and December4, again (3rd operation), using electric drill this time - Photo 1 Posterior panel ( a dent at the right lower edge will be fixed later,,), - Photo 2 Left lateral side, - Photo 3 ditto.

On December 25 2022, I tour to Mikuni Pass through Lake Yamanaka in the morning, the second time in this season. I depart Hayama at 7:20 and reach Otome Pass at 9:20 (1 degree Celsius), when the summit of Mount Fuji is clearly seen with no cloud across Gotemba City, picture-perfect the first time in this season - Photo 1, - Photo 2. Through East Fujigoko Road - Photo 3, I reach the north shore of Lake Yamanaka at 10:10 - Photo 4. The air is cool and crystal clear, and the summit is still with minimal cloud - Photo 5 (composite image from three shots). Climb route is highly visible. I reach Mikuni Pass at 10:40 - Photo 7, - Photo 8. The summit is partially covered with cloud. I return to Hayama at 13:45.


December 25 2022 The summit of Mount Fuji viewed from the north shore of Lake Yamanaka (Crick to enlarge)

On January 8 2023, I go new year's visit to Mount Fuji. I depart 7:30 from Hayama and arrives at Otome Pass of Hakone at 9:40, when the summit is only partially covered with cloud - Photo 1, - Photo 2. When I reach Mikuni Pass at 10:30, the summit is densely covered with cloud - Photo 3 Side window shield is installed now for cold protection, - Photo 4 Across Lake Yamanaka, - Photo 5 The summit with tele zoom lens.

After returning to Hayama, I repair two dents which were made from my carelessness in the past. Dent 1 on the bonnet - Photo 1, - Photo 2 Enlarged, - Photo 3 After detaching and placing on the wood board, bonnet panel was beaten from inside with rubber hammer, not perfect but now more inconspicuous. Dent 2 on the right posterior edge - Photo 4, - Photo 5 ditto after panel beating from inside with hammer (light blue color is reflection of my Corolla Sports).

On January 22 2023, I tour to Lake Ashinoko with Mr. Ojima (a tomato farmer in large scale in Fujisawa City) in Rotte formation, and return on the same route (National Route 1) as the New Year Hakone Marathon Relay Race, which is held on January 2 and 3 every new year. When we rendezvous at 9:00 at the convenience store in Sakawa, Odawara City, he appears in the scene with a new Macho-man style on the perfectly polished-up Birkin 1996 - Photo 1. The square aeroscreen is built by him DIY. We reach Moto-Hakone's Ferry parking at 10:00 - Photo 2, - Photo 3. There is a memorial of Hakone Marathon Relay Race, which is held on the new year, which is interscholastic match between universities of Kanto metoroplitan area - Photo 4, and there are no fishing boats on the surface of the lake in this morning - Photo 5. We return on the national road No.1 from here, through Odawara, Ninomiya, Ooiso to Sagami River. I return to Hayama at 13:45.

On January 29 and February 5 2023, I go to Mikuni Pass, however, the former aborted halfway because of frozen road surface. On January 29, I reach Otome Pass of Hakone at 9:30, where it was minus 3 degrees Celsius - Photo 1 Mount Fuji was half covered with cloud, - Photo 2 ditto with 200 mm zoom lens. On the ascending slope to Mikuni Pass, the road surface is revealed to be covered with accumulated snow and was partially frozen, so I returned to Hayama. On February 5, I reach Otome Pass at 9:30, when the only summit of Mount Fuji is seen - Photo 3. I can reach Mikuni Pass at 10:30 this week, however, the summit is totally covered with cloud - Photo 4.

On February 11 2023, in the morning after heavy snowfall in the previous day and night over Honshu of Nippon, I depart Hayama at 9:00, a bit tardo than usual, to try Hakone-Yamanaka tour. Unexpectedly the uphill road of Hakone is almost dry after the night rain fall, I reach Otome Pass at 10:40, when Mount Fuji is seen almost clear. Temperature is 5 degrees Celsius and a bit warmer for winter - Photo 1 - Photo 2 with zoom tele-lens. When I go through the entrance of East Fujigoko Road at 11:10, the surface is still dry - Photo 3 - Photo 4 the summit with zoom tele-lens. I can get to the exit of the road at Lake Yamanaka at 11:20 with no hassle - Photo 5 though the snow is thick on the roadside, - Photo 6 the summit with zoom tele-lens. I reach the north shore of Lake Yamanaka at 11:30, when the tourists are very scarce - Photo 7 panoramic view, - Photo 8 picture-perfect Mount Fuji. I furthermore carry on the challenge to Mikuni Pass, when the lake surface is covered with snow - Photo 9, I climb to the Mikuni Pass partially using counter steering, and reach there finally, bingo the most artistic landscape in thie season - Photo 10 panoramic view. The white lake surface of the right side is the view of the previous image. I U-turn there and return to Hayama through Kagosaka Pass, Route 246, and Route 134, at 16;00.


February 11 2023 The summit of Mount Fuji viewed from snow-covered Mikuni Pass across Lake Yamanaka, best in this season (Crick to enlarge)

From February 19 2023, I repair the injury damage inflicted by my carelessness to the right posterior wing fairly a long time ago - Photo 1 - Photo 2 enlarged image. Firstly I apply Tamiya patty (for plastic model) - Photo 3, then after sand papering, I paint with brush Tamiya color - Photo 4. Actually, the applied color is not good match. This is the first step on the first day. On March 12, I again adjust the paint composition and apply - Photo 5.

In the morning of February 26 2023, it is cold but clear sky. I depart Hayama at 7;40 and reach Otome Pass of Hakone at 9;20, when the road-side panel indicates minus one degree Celsius and very cold, but, the Mount Fuji is crystal clearly seen across Gotemba City - Photo 1. As this picture shows, the Otome Pass is covered with snow and the road surface is partially icy (Eisbahn), so I abandon advancing to Lake Yamanaka. The traffic is very slow and cautious on the downhill to Gotemba to avoid slip accident. However there is no snowscape in Gotemba. On the return road, I stop at the idle rice field at Oyama Town - Photo 2. After I return to Hayama at 13:30, I eat lunch and prune the garden. In the evening, I try the view from Shonan International Village at Hayama at 17:40, and Bingo, it is beautiful - Photo 3 Mount Fuji across Sagami Bay (panoramic view), - Photo 4 enlarged. I stay only the weekend at Hayama, though, this day presents the best view from here.


February 11 2023 The Mount Fuji viewed from Shonan International Village at Hayama across Sagami Bay, best weekend of this season (Crick to enlarge)

Lately, I was notified by the kind driver of the refurbished Nissan Fairlady that the posterior stop/brake lumps do not turn on at the red light stop. On March 5 2023, I confirmed that trouble after returning Hayama, by pushing the brake pedal with a long bar from the rear. I firstly detach the plastic cover, remove the stop lump, and filing and spray washing the electric contacts, however not recovered. Then, I check the fuse box under the instrument panel, with tester, revealing no problems. I call the Meister of Elite Motors Mr. Sakamoto and request the solution. After he grasp the situation, he suggests to try to turn on electricity of the electric contacts in front of the brake box in front of the cockpit - Photo 1, - Photo 2. Bingo, the brake lumps are turned on. The pathology of the trouble is narrowed down. So, I uninstall the on-off switch from the brake box - Photo 3. The mechanichal engineering of the switch is straightforward, and I clean the dirty electric contact with contact spray - Photo 4 (by contacting the blue arrows, the 12 volt electricity is on and a current passing). Again I push the long bar from the rear end on the brake pedal and lumps are on - Photo 5.

The Birkin 7 emblem has been worn away - Photo 1, so I try to recoat it, the project starting from February 26. I firstly cover the surrounding with masking tape for plastic models - Photo 2, then with newspaper, - Photo 3, and air spray semi-glossy black of Tamiya - Photo 4. After drying for a week - Photo 5, on March 5, I paint the elevated line with brass gold with thin brush - Photo 6, - Photo 7. This is not satisfiable result, indeed, and I continue to make improvement.

On March 19 2023, I tour to Yugawara to check the early blooming of sakura (cherry). I depart Hayama at 7:30 and reach Daikanzan of Hakone through Hakone New Road, and go downhill to Yugawara. At my favorite spot at 10:10, a bit earlier still elegant blossom of sakura is there - Photo 1. On the return road at Mazazuru, Chinese citron (natsumikan in Japanese) is ripening - Photo 2, and I picked up some rolling on the roadside to clean the road - Photo 3.




March 19 2023 Sakura at orange road of Yagawara (Crick to enlarge)

On the next day March 20 (three-day weekend), I tour to Mikuni Pass to appreciate Mount Fuji before the temperate spring climate inducing hazy air. I depart Hayama at 8:00 and directly head for Mikuni Pass through Seisho Bypass - Kozu Interchange - National Route 246 - Oyama Town, and reach the Pass at 10:20 - Photo 1, - Photo 2, - Photo 3 the summit shot with 200 mm zoom lens, - Photo 4 composite panorama from three images, with Nikon D3000 + 18-70 mm AFs zoom, - Photo 5 automatic panorama shot with Huawei P20 Lite. I return to Hayama at 14:00.


March 20 2023 Beautiful Mt Fuji in the last phase of this season (Crick to enlarge)

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birkinowners: A list for Birkin enthusiasts at Yahoo! Groups (http://autos.groups.yahoo.com/group/birkinowners/)
Description: This list is for owners, builders and enthusiasts of the Birkin automobile. Available as a kit or as a complete rolling chassis, the Birkin is a reproduction of the Lotus Seven from the mid 1960s.

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[Current partnership ]
I registered to USA7s Forum in December 2020 at
USA7s

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2004-2024 Akio Hasegawa, MD
version 1.22 2023/3/21

Please send your comments to akio-h@fg-khn.jp