I had a couple of vacation days to burn before the end of the year, so I took one today. And that worked out well, since the weather was absolutely perfect and thanks to climate change, “fall colors” has almost come to mean winter colors in Japan. It’s December 2 and we’re still at peak color now in most parts of town, which would have been unheard of not many years ago.
You’ve seen these places before, but I just thought I’d share a few pics. I’ve probably taken more photographs at Honen-in than anywhere else in the world, and while it’s slightly past koyo peak there, Honen-in is never less than perfect. It’s my iibasshou if any place ever was, probably the most sublime place I’ve ever visited. The rest of these are from around Shinnyo-do, a regular autumn leaf spot for me because despite being spectacular and quite vast, it’s puzzlingly (and thankfully) under-touristed. And around the corner the tiny Eishoin, a perfect little postage stamp of a temple closed to the public most of the year but open (irregularly) for a couple of weeks when the leaves are singing.
Yann
December 5, 2024 at 1:43 amAlways a little jealous when I see those posts, but also appreciative. Especially beautiful and magical Kyoto… The most beautiful city in the world as far as I’m concerned. Thanks!
Guardian Enzo
December 5, 2024 at 6:51 amThanks as always. Desperately need a new phone, the camera is weaksauce on my old 7-plus.
Nadavu
December 9, 2024 at 7:25 pmI was supposed to be in Japan this week, but alas, my flight got cancelled due to war and whatnot. The koyo looks amazing, I hope I’ll get to see it next year.
So many questions about that no cosplay sign. Has it really gotten that bad? Why is it in Chinese and English, specifically, but not Japanese? And why is the Chinese significantly longer than the English? I’m getting “lost in translation” flashbacks. Personally I’m fine with outlawing cosplay altogether; I always felt cosplayers are less about the actual content and more about working out some deep-seated personal issues. And I don’t like how they take over cons and make me feel old and plain. Am I bad person for feeling this way? Anyways. Thanks for the beautiful pics.