Misty Lake at Dawn

Each moment as the sun comes up has a different feeling to it. Here a mystery was being unveiled, as the trees and their reflections appeared by the swamp-like lake. The original photo was practically black and white because of the mist, but with Lightroom, I could bring out the details and colour. Cheating? Maybe, but it makes for a much more interesting photo.

Dawn Breaks 2

The beauty of Dawn. Taken on Lake Inawashiro in the early hours of the moring, froma beach just outside the place we were staying.

It was a glorious sight that showed me again the great power a silent event can have- one that nature produces every day, but few can take the time to appreciate. So delicate, soft and enticing, yet speaking of such an awesome, cosmic power, one that can lighjt up whole worlds with a rich energy needed for trillions of life-forms. With all the practicality an incredible beautythat just makes your whole being stiulled with awe. In a word- WOW!

A Special Time

In appreciation of the island's beauty, many monks made it there home. Here a mother and daughter rest in the shade of a temple garden, contemplating life's mysteries or deciding where to go for lunch- or even both- I'll leave it up to you!

Matsushima Sunset

A glorious sunset ended the day in style.

Matsushima Bridge

The tranquil beauty of a Matsushima bridge. This is one of the most beautiful places I have ever visited, I even went back a second day for more. The lush greenery and lapping ocean blend together so nicely and the fresh seafood is incredible.

Matsushima Trio

I was even lucky enough to find some models in the evening there!

The Boat to Matsushima

A trip to the nearby island of Matsushima took me into the refreshing seas. Here a seagull chases us, in hopes of food treats.

Tanabata Matsuri Decorations

Lanterns and origamio decorated whole swarths of the city, like a fantasy-land come to life.

What's That, Grandpa?

The wonder of Tanabata festival, which I went all the way to Sendai for. Tohoku festivals are an amazing sight.

Toshogu Shrine Pagoda

The whole place exudes the mystery of a long-forgotten world, something you feel more in the quiet nearby temples that few people go to.

Toshogu Shrine Detail

The level of detail is incredible, which is why it's so famous.

Toshogu Shrine Visitors

That's not to say some of the other tourists aren't just as attractive.

Toshogu Shrine

The holiday also took me to Nikko, where I went with Glen. The gorgeous Toshogu shrine was incredibly photogenic!

Toyland

Here is a picture from Tobu World Square, which I recently visited with my mate Glen. Getting into the spirit of the place, you enter not only a toyland, but a very Japanese view of the world, open to other cultures and sights. Perhaps a bit stereotypical a view of the various places, but retaining their aesthetic charm nonetheless. It's kind of nice to see them as merely places to see, rather than real places with problems as we tend to get told they are through the news services. There's no terrorism, wars, or grinding poverty in toyland, though there is an attenpt to portray something of the latter in the New York exhibit.