[Busy street leading to Kiyomizu temple, Kyoto]
It was a Monday and there were less people then ten days before, when the crowds jammed the view. At that time I evaded the noise and jostling in Kiyomizu's "secret garden," Jojuin, this time I walked the normal course.
[Shop sign near Kiyomizu temple, Kyoto]
Even after walking here many times, there are still new details to be noted, such as this shop sign of a shop selling dolls.
[The vermilion gate of Kiyomizu temple, Kyoto]
It was the first time to come here in the fullness of autumn. There was a slight drizzle, but it soon cleared.
[Jizo statue in Kiyomizu temple, Kyoto]
Another new detail was this aloof Jizo statue, standing up the stairs, just inside the gate.
[Kiyomizu temple, Kyoto]
The mist softens the contours of the surrounding mountains.
[Pupils taking each other's picture on the veranda of Kiyomizu temple]
As usual, the platform of the temple is a popular place for snapshots.
[Incense burner in Kiyomizu temple]
As is wafting incense onto any malfunctioning body parts.
[Autumn colors in Kiyomizu temple]
But then the view! The fall colors are like an embroidery on the hillside, a perfect painting in countless hues and variations.
[Autumn colors in Kiyomizu temple, Kyoto]
The branches of the trees hang like flaming torches around the temple.
[The Main Hall of Kiyomizu temple, Kyoto, in autumn]
The classical view of the temple on stilts, now resting on the soft arms of autumn.
[Tasting the spring water of Kiyomizu temple]
Another popular pastime, tasting the pure spring water that gives its name to the temple.
[Autumn leaves, Kiyomizu temple]
But today I prefer the taste of autumn, which could not be purer on this day with its intense but at the same time subdued colors.