I can’t seem to stay away from Saitama Prefecture. After visiting Gyoda, my next destination was Kazo City, located about 60 kilometers north of Tokyo. So, what’s there to see?
As the saying goes, a picture is worth a thousand words. Take a look at the top photo: this is a vast water hyacinth field. Kazo City sits along the Tone River, the second-longest river in Japan, and is home to many aquatic plants. The water hyacinth is a striking example. Though it’s an invasive species that can block waterways in Japan, it’s often cultivated for its beautiful flowers. This particular field is carefully maintained by local residents, and I was deeply impressed by the countless light purple blossoms. It was a truly rewarding sight.
After enjoying the colorful scenery, I stopped by a bank of the Tone River to photograph Tobu trains. Take a look at the top photo. It’s a close-up shot of the lead car (Unit 24436) of the EMU Tobu 20400 series. Notice anything unusual? If so, you’re a true trainspotter. There are two faint outlines of former passenger doors on the car’s side. As I’ve written before, part of the 20400 series once operated in central Tokyo as the EMU 20000 series, with ten doors per car (five doors on per side). After refurbishment, the number of doors was reduced to six per car (three per side). As a train enthusiast, I like in choosing unique details like this as my subjects.
