Spring in Kyoto begins

A path leads the way to a Buddhist temple in Kyoto. As winter’s grip loosens the colors of life begin to bloom again lifting one’s spirits.

The smell of burnt incense is a reminder of being in a spiritual structure

A lone candle sits in a dark pot among the burned sticks of incense laying in the ash at a Buddhist temple in Kyoto. The smell of spirituality fills the prayer hall among the dark walls in meditation.

Railway line from Kyoto Station through Higashiyama leads towards Lake Biwa

A railway line from Kyoto station through the hills of Higashiyama leads towards the Lake Biwa area. The afternoon sunset brings spring color hues.

Spring Silhouette of Kyoto

During a brisk cold spring afternoon in Kyoto a tree fans out into the sky gathering warmth for its coming blossoms.

Afternoon cruise leaving Shodoshima Island via Ferry

The fresh ocean breeze revitalizes the spirit while passing islands pass like ducks on a pond. The Shodoshima Island ferry carries automobiles and passengers to and from Shikoku Island. Standing on the upper deck alone, one may feel as he or she is on a ghost ship.

After a long day is finished, Umeda Osaka

A noisy intersection in Umeda Osaka is winding down late at night as people head home after a long day at the office.  From the noise of the railway bridge above to the yellow hue of the street lights casting shadows of the people waiting to cross is played out 6 days a week.

Faded colors of age Shodoshima Island

Shodoshima Island has much character to be discovered.  Just walking about near the port of Kusakabehonmachi area one can see very old restaurants and structures such as this billboard that has been faded by time.  How long ago was this sign erected and do these plaques even have relevance today.  This is another area of Japan that seems to be stuck in time and it's wonderful.

Cherry Blossoms in full bloom in Nakameguro , Tokyo Japan

Nakameguro is a quiet residential district of Meguro, Tokyo. Popular for its unique boutique cafes and stores it becomes an active vibrant location particularly along the Meguro River during the blooming of Cherry Blossoms in mid-spring. Cafes offer outdoor seating and wine for a relaxed dining atmosphere that is very nice during sunset hours.