In autumn, people living in Kyoto may be envied because they have so many top-notch spots for autumn leaf viewing right in their backyard.  It is true but to be rewarded by gorgeous colors they endure hot summers and cold winters. 

Speaking from my experience, temperatures they experience in Kyoto can be pretty severe.  In summer it is often brutally humid as well.  Many days are painfully cold in winter.  All this can be explained by the geography of the city that sits in a basin surrounded by mountains.

In today's painting is the huge two-storied main gate (San-mon) to the Nanzen-ji, regarded as the most important Zen Buddhism temple in Japan.  It is built just by the eastern mountain ridge.  I'm thinking what a view can be had from the top of this massive structure...


Autumn Leaves, Kyoto, Japan III

A larger image of this painting is available on request.

Media: Original watercolor
Image Size: 11.5 x 8.25 in. (on 12 x 9 in. paper)
Mat/Frame: No
Purchase: Please send me an email for more information.


Click to see another painting of autumn leaves at Nanzen-ji temple.