This fall’s Japan enchantment was certainly one that provided my group with natural enchantment. As a Tour Leader, I often bark directions, explanations, giving meeting times, and imparting details to get the job done. However, I still have the opportunity to step back and recognize the sublime moments in life, even at work. Haiku and photos should more than capture those moments, so here goes: a fall tour of Japan …
Day 1 Tokyo
The Tangerine Dawn
Pricked by the Tokyo needle
Color promise
Day 2 Nikko
The clouds settle and rest
As dying flames lick rockface
Autumn Zen Landscapes
Day 3 Nikko
Majestic kegon
Her silk water hair
Queen Hyrdro of Nikko
Day 4 Karuizawa
Reflective maples
Tears of tears draw the pond
Soon to fade
Day 5 Karuizawa
Wet old clock
Witness the course of history
Record the death of nature
Day 6 Nagano
The old man
Patterns of life with scars on the calm face
We have felt your pain
Day 7 Kanazawa
Beady eyed heron
Fixed focus in pouring rain
Mealtime swims near
Day 8 Kanazawa
Lacquered lacquered woos
Gold-wrapped simplicity
Nature has its own
Day 9 Kyoto
Incoming beauty
An autumn bird in flight
The Maiko has a court
Day 10 Kyoto
The mountain beckons
Rays of spirituality
Zen in the morning
Day 11 Kyoto
Rain meets old bamboo
Sepia kaleidoscope
A trick of nature
Day 12 Hakone
She teases piercing eyes
Her leaf veil dripping blood red
Mt Fuji on fire
Day 13 Hakone
Sculpture meets nature
Spiritual awakening
Saturate the mind