Morning light in late May,
Green hills whisper secrets of yesterday,
Silent tracks through nature’s embrace,
Echoes of a bygone railway’s grace.
Photo Description – Usui Pass’s Former Shin’etsu Line
This photograph captures the serene view of Usui Pass in Annaka City, Gunma Prefecture. Amidst the lush greenery, the distant view of the disused Shin’etsu Line’s descending track can be seen. The silent tracks, enveloped by the vibrant forest, stand as a testament to the bygone era of the railway’s glory days.
Story Behind the Photo – Remnants of the Shin’etsu Line
Taken in the late morning of a late May day, this image depicts the former Shin’etsu Main Line in Usui Pass. The section of the Shin’etsu Line between Yokokawa and Karuizawa made its final run on September 30, 1997. This steep gradient section, with a maximum slope of 66.7‰ over 11.2 kilometers, was once a crucial route across Usui Pass. More than 25 years have passed since that final summer, and the tracks now rest quietly in the verdant landscape. This photograph was taken with a sense of nostalgia, remembering the many trains that once traversed Usui Pass.
From an Amateur Photographer’s Perspective – Capturing History in Nature
The goal of this photograph was to capture the serene and historical essence of the former Shin’etsu Line tracks amidst the lush greenery of Usui Pass. Using a wide-angle lens, I aimed to frame the distant tracks within the vibrant green hills. The challenge was to balance the exposure to bring out the rich colors of the foliage while maintaining the clarity of the tracks. This image aims to reflect the historical significance of the railway and its integration into the natural landscape, evoking a sense of tranquility and nostalgia.
Equipment and EXIF Information
- Camera: Olympus PEN-F
- Lens: M.ZUIKO DIGITAL ED 12-45mm F4.0 PRO
- Shutter Speed: 1/250 s
- Aperture: ƒ/8
- ISO: 400
Location