Autumn is the best season to visit the Futtsu Coast, where you can enjoy the clear air and the spectacular sunset view of Mt. Fuji across Tokyo Bay. Unlike the humid and hazy summer months, visibility improves rapidly from October to November, and the magic hour gradation from madder to ultramarine is breathtakingly beautiful.
Time schedule so you don’t miss the golden hour
The golden rule is to be on standby about 45 minutes before sunset. Sunset in the Futtsu area in autumn is around 16:30 to 17:00. When the sun is high, I capture the sparkling reflections on the sea surface as backlight, and just before sunset around 4:45 p.m., I capture the golden yellow surface of the water and the ripples on the tidal flats in my composition. And the 20 minutes after sunset is the real deal. The ridgeline of Mt. Fuji on the opposite bank stands out as a jet-black silhouette, and the sky is filled with shades of purple and orange.
Best position to aim for the silhouette of Mt. Fuji by spot
- Cape Futtsu/Meiji Centennial Observation Tower: The 360-degree panorama from the top floor is spectacular. This is the only place where you can take a photo with a geometric observation tower frame shaped like a Japanese pine tree in the foreground and Mt. Fuji in the distance. On days with strong sea breezes, you need to be careful about tripod shake.
- Shinmaiko Beach: The quiet shore of the waves lapping against the shallow sandy beach is attractive. If it coincides with the low tide, the tide pools on the sandy beach will turn into mirror surfaces, making it a great place to take photos of the reflection of the sky.
- Embank near Osawa Beach: A little-known spot where the silhouette of the angler and Mt. Fuji creates a lyrical contrast. If you bring not only a wide-angle lens but also a medium telephoto lens (70-200mm), you will be able to create an impressive shot that brings Mt. Fuji into focus.
No-fail camera settings and sea breeze countermeasures
When setting up a tripod, use a tripod mat or a large plate to stabilize the tripod to prevent it from sinking into the sand. Camera settings are based on aperture priority mode (F8-F11), and ISO sensitivity is fixed at 100-200. Turn off image stabilization and use the release. In addition, the salt contained in the sea breeze tends to adhere to the lens, so it is essential to wear a lens protection filter and clean it with a blower and cleaning paper immediately after shooting.
After your fingertips get cold from taking photos, the best part of a Futtsu photo trip is to take a trip to the nearby Onuki Onsen or Futtsu’s natural hot springs, and end with a hot fried horse mackerel set meal from Kanaya.