Kyoto, Japan

Snow flakes dart across the sky as we climb 100 steps to Kiyomizu-dera, “Pure Water Monastery.” Constructed in 778, this Buddhist temple takes its name from a cascading waterfall in the nearby foothills of Mt. Otowa. Our wishes were granted again and again throughout the day as we experienced traditional food, Sakura (cherry blossoms), and the glorious warm light dancing across the golden palace of Kinkaku-ji. A stately Great Blue Heron stands at attention nearby and reminds of us of our connection to the Pacific Northwest.Read more