Japan has been receiving attention as one of the top countries people want to visit once the coronavirus pandemic comes to an end. This segment features Daisen-Oki National Park’s Mt. Daisen, filmed in autumn 2019. Together with park rangers, our reporter explores various spots in and around the mountain such as Ogamiyama Shrine, the lush beech forest, and takes a look at people’s efforts to protect the natural landscape in the national park.
Viewers’ Voice
This segment, which featured Mt. Daisen, was well produced and just like any other site around the archipelago, the locals play a monumental role in the conservation and revival of the place. I enjoyed the breathtaking beauty of the autumn colors that envelope the mountain. It was really comforting to learn about the One Tree, One Stone Campaign started by the locals to prevent the erosion and de-vegetation of the summit due to a lot of hikers. I don’t think I have seen the use of plank boardwalks as such a preventative measure in any of the hikes around India I’ve been on before. It was also energizing to learn about the passionate shop owner who climbs to the summit with heavy loads.
From India
Mt. Daisen looks beautiful. The view from the top of the mountain was amazing too. I think the ‘One Tree, One Stone’ initiative was a great idea to restore the mountain. The boardwalk seems like a good idea too. I can’t imagine what it’s like working in the shop at the top of the mountain –I’d want to live up there if I was going to work up there –you definitely have to love the mountain to carry your stock up there 200 days a year. It’s great to climb to the summit of a Japanese mountain from the comfort of my own home. Seeing images of Dean enjoying Mt. Daisen makes me want to explore and appreciate my own local area.
From the UK
The filming throughout this section was exceptional –especially the shots of the mountain itself, and the shrines and temples that surround it. It was like a breath of fresh air to see the freedom with which our reporter Dean and his guides ascended the mountain and I thought the stone Dean collected at the start of the ascent provided a lovely narrative thread. Throughout there was some excellent camera work and creative framing interspersed with interesting facts regarding the flora and fauna of the area.
From the Netherlands
