Matthew J. Holland

京都の自然200選(長岡京市)

光明寺の「ビャクシン」

Date of photo: 2026/04

Fantastic temple, first time ever visiting this spot, which is hard to believe considering how well-known it is. I guess it is somewhat difficult to access. We weren't actively searching for the K200 signpost, but came across it out of pure chance during a much longer walk.

ゲンジボタルの生息する小泉川

Date of photo: 2025/07

The river itself is very easy to find, but the K200 signpost is slightly more difficult. We started at 西代里山公園 (note that 西代 is read as にしんだい here). This is a popular park with the locals, and the parking lot seems to crowd up quickly. From the park, walk along route 79 until the overhead expressway crosses with the river; from this point walk along the river on the west/south side, and you can't miss it. Unfortunately no fireflies during the day.

長岡天満宮

Date of photo: 2025/07

Wonderful shrine with a rich history. Easy to find the K200 signpost. We enjoyed walking around the numerous paths in and around the shrine, and were interested to find a softshell turtle (what I would call スッポン with my limited knowledge) walking along one path near a fancy eatery. Perhaps it had just escaped from the kitchen.