Our neighbour Mr T. had been asking us to come along to the hiking club for a while, but a few things got in our way. Finally on this day I was able to get along, although Ritsuko was not. This was good thing because it meant I had to use Japanese as much as possible, because no one else who came on this particular day spoke much English (although it's not always the case).
It was a good chance to connect with people in the community and enjoy the beautiful autumn colours in the mountains near Nagaokakyo (a gallery on this hike will be coming later).
If you're wanting to come along on one of these hikes all you have to do is to meet at the start point, I've geotagged it to this photo (click on view map). On Tuesday mornings at 10:00 (for a 3 hour hike) or Friday afternoons at 14:00 (for a 2 hour hike). The start point is very close to Hankyu Nagaoka Tenjin Station. The hikes are free. Good hiking shoes/boots recommend, dress suitably according to season. Bring: jacket, water/drink bottle, snacks (with enough to share), hiking pole. Note the mountain trails can be quite steep and rugged in places.
I can't guarantee I can always be there due to church, home, and work responsibilities. However if you want to know if will be there on a particular date you're welcome to send me a PM.