Japan Seasons

One of Kyoto’s five geisha districts - Pontocho 👘

One of the three rare torii gates in Kyoto ⛩️
Torii are a familiar sight at shrines, but this one is different - a mihashira torii, an exceptionally rare three-pillar design found in only a few places across Japan ☝️

On August 16, the Obon Festival culminates in Gozan Okuribi, a breathtaking tradition where massive bonfires are lit on Kyoto’s mountains to send off ancestral spirits.

Kyo-Karakami is a handcrafted paper introduced from Tang China and cherished by Japanese aristocrats for writing and decoration. Over time, it became widely used in traditional architecture, especially for fusuma sliding doors and interior design.
Today, Kyo-Karakami is still made using centuries-old woodblocks, natural pigments, and hand-printing techniques passed down through generations.

Blue sea, green mountains - Japanese summer at its best! ☀️🌊

Traditional Miyama village in Kyoto Prefecture during a colorful summer 🌻🌻

Yesterday in Kyoto, the Ato-Matsuri Yamahoko procession and the Hanagasa Parade were held. As part of the Gion Festival, they brought traditional floats, music, and colorful performances to the streets of the Old capital. It was a unique chance to see Kyoto’s culture and history come to life.

Hydrangea season in Japan! 💜

Ryoanji Temple’s rock garden in sakura season 🌸

Heian-jingu Shrine and its beautiful garden 🌿🪷

Green season at Himeji Castle 🍀