Frozen Crater Lake

I was surprised Okama lake on Mt Zao was still frozen at this time of year.

Temple Garden

法来寺 -  Nothing beats a temple garden for tranquility.

Kannon-Sama Hanami

Night Blossom

Kajo Park

Night time cherry blossom viewing.

Finally French

I'd been wanting to try the food here for a long time, finally I got to go, and was not disappointed.  Actually it was so good I was close to tears!

Officially Spring

We had a beautiful Spring Equinox gathering, even though the weather outside was far from cheery, wind whistling snow all around!

Hijiori Onsen

Took a retreat trip to an old hot spring town.  Just what the doctor ordered.  Hot baths, yoga, silence.

Sport for the Spirit

Nothing makes me happier than riding through pristine white forests of powder.  This was a particularly inspiring spot!

Foggy Forest

Night Time Snow Walking - 3

Temple Style

Night Time Snow Walking - 2

Kannon Sama Snow Style

Night Walking Snow Time - 1

Digging out the car

Night Blizzard Gate

Lovely Lunch

Back in the land of Bento

Light in the Gloom

Home Turf

Birds-eye-View

Mountain in Gradation

Hot Spring Back Streets

Persimmon in Onsen Town

Guardian at the Top

Nice day for a Cycle

Traditional Shops

Have never been in these, sure everything is out of my price range, but I love that they are there, keeping up some of the beauty of traditional Japan.

Salt Pickles

Stored in wooden barrels and allowed to mature.  The smell was, special.

Sun Shine Haguro Shrine

All in the Details

Love the colour combinations and little details that older kimono have.  So much care taken at every stage.

Waiting

Work

Open

Light and Dark

Dark Fun

Kids playing with bubbles..

Summer Curtain