Sanjunoto Pagoda

There's always something exceedingly extraordinary about sakura. Maybe it's its unique blooming stage, maybe it could be its high photogenic capabilities (pink trees aren't that common to think about otherwise). Or maybe it could be it's spiritual importance, and you don't have to be a local or a shintoist to agree with that last one. As an American christian even I could feel that there's something truly special beyond comprehension about these natural beauties in Japan.

This shot was at the famous Kiyomizu-dera temple, (wonder how many people are gonna notice when I don't put it in the name). I was told the grounds were free to roam about, and strictly speaking they were. But the area with the elevated deck that everyone else shoots requires additional paid admission. This was at the end of a long day of traveling and the sky wasn't in my favor so I didn't bother.

Knowing I had to walk away with something I turned my attention back towards the entrance of the temple. There was a leading line shot through the torrii gate (this temple was at the top of a hill), there was a dragon statue, which I'll talk about more in a later photo. But then there was this tree which was one of only a few in full bloom, lined up really well with the pagoda and temple behind it. So after getting through the small crowd of other photographers who also saw this composition, I got my own.

My one goal in the processing phase was to differentiate the cherry blossoms from the sky (which I'm still not proud of). It was an easier then I originally anticipated, all it took was a slight vibrancy enhancer. Nothin else really needed to be changed on this image.

Still not my best experience in Kyoto.

Done