Fallen Camellia

I found this fallen camellia flower in the woods of Enryakuji Temple. This flower lying on the ground always makes me think of death.

Pagoda in the mountain

This is a pagoda of Enryakuji Temple which comprises uncountable historic monuments in Mount Hiei.

Nature and Temple

Enryakuji Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage site and said to be one of the most important temples in Japan. Although most Kyoto temples are in/around the city Enryakuji is located just around the top of Mount Hiei.

The roofs

This picture shows the roofs of a pagoda of Jingoji Temple, which is a large temple complex in the mountains in northern Kyoto.

On the mountain path

I met this Jizo/Ksitigarbha [one of Buddhist deities] on the mountain path to Jingoji Temple. I felt the statue was watching over the safety of travellers.

Collaboration

I was pleased to find this collaboration between the umbrella and the lantern which could create a delicate atmosphere at Gion Festival.

Impressive red

Umbrellas play very important roles in creating a traditional atmosphere at festivals as well as lanterns.

Fantastic lights

This picture shows festival lanterns decorating floats at Gion Festival in Kyoto. They are simple but fantastic.

City of the festival

Gion Festival [Gionmatsuri] is one of the most important festivals in Kyoto as well as Aoi Festival and Jidai Festival. It is held on 17th July when some main roads in the city are closed for the procession of 33 festival floats. During three days prior to 17th July, those floats are displayed on the roads with many lanterns.

Quiet time

Kyoto generally cannot be an exception to major Japanese cities which are filled with excessive traffic and noise. But we can occasionally experience a serene time in some places.