<p>An earth-boring scarab beetle, likely an oosenchikogane (Geotrupes auratus auratus), soaks in the autumn sunshine</p>

An earth-boring scarab beetle, likely an oosenchikogane (Geotrupes auratus auratus), soaks in the autumn sunshine (Photo: Tristan Scholze)

Nature of Ebino Kogen Campground

Autumn pines, mosses, grasses, and a beetle

Tristan Scholze Mar 16, 2014 - 1 min read

<p>An earth-boring scarab beetle, likely an oosenchikogane (Geotrupes auratus auratus), soaks in the autumn sunshine</p>

<p>This cute ball of bright green appears to have two kinds of moss, with the majority probably Scott’s fork-moss (Dicranum scottianum)</p>

<p>Susuki is a widespread, culturally significant, and quite beautiful autumn grass (Miscanthus sinensis)</p>

<p>Kirishima Japanese red pines, or akamatsu, provide elegant shelter here; look close at their trunks and you'll notice the distinctive red bark</p>

<p>A variety of mosses can be found here</p>

<p>This curly emerald patch on a branch appears to be dusky fork-moss (Dicranum fuscescens)</p>

<p>Miyama Kirishima, a kind of azalea, or tsutsuji (Rhododendron kiusianum), thrives on this volcanic plateau; the bushes cover the park in brilliant pink during May and June</p>

<p>Another view of the earth-boring scarab beetle from above</p>

This excellent campground in Kirishima-Kinkowan National Park spreads over hills sheltered by Japanese red pine, or akamatsu. The forest floor is covered in grasses, most notably the spectacular autumn susuki. On this day in mid-October, I also found a few charming species of moss and a colorful beetle. Near the campground are the Ebino Eco Museum Center, the Ikemeguri Nature Trail through forests and around volcanic lakes, and a hike across a sulfurous landscape, beautiful fields, and up to the peak of Mt. Karakuni.

Tristan Scholze

Tristan Scholze @tristan.scholze

I'm also known as Faer Out. I love learning about people and nature. I've traveled around the world and throughout Japan, and I hope to continue seeing and experiencing the wonder of this planet as long as I live.Based in Japan for nearly two decades, I'm a Japan Travel expert for Fukuoka and Sag...