One of the loveliest temple complexes we've been to, called Chūson-ji, housed incredibly historic structures, including a hall covered in gilt called Konjiki-do. The gold was such a subdued hue that is radiated warmth without being gaudy. There was beautiful mother-of-pearl inlay in the columns and wood work, and some of the most sublime collection of carved statues dating from the 12th and 13th centuries. Though this hall is currently housed in a concrete building for protection and is forbidden to be photographed, it remains one of those strong visual memories that I wanted to explain as a part of this place.
Something unexpected was this maple that, for some reason, seeming to think it was fall with its reds, oranges, and yellows all in one branch. I captured it with the peak of a temple hall in the backdrop to give it a sense of place, and though the complex was filled with grand structures, I couldn't quite seem to capture them in a way that seemed "special." So this photo represents my main memory of this great day in a beautiful place.
@wind_of_the_sothern_sea and @darrenboyj
-- you should have seen Michael using his "tripod yoga legs" to get this composition so perfect!