We went for a stroll through the gardens at Heian Jingu (Shrine) yesterday. These gardens are known for their spectacular cherry blossoms in the spring. We thought it would be interesting to see them at a different time of year. It turned out that they’re sort of between seasons right now. There aren’t many flowers blooming other than water lillies, and few leaves are just starting to change color. It’s a beautiful place any time, though, and it was a pleasure that there were only a few other people around.
Yes, I really need to post hi-res versions of these photos, but I’m feeling lazy (in part because I stuffed myself with ramen today). This mantis landed on the path near us when we stopped at a little refreshment stand to drink iced green tea:
I carefully relocated it to a nearby bush when a group of schoolboys approached, much to the amusement of the two women at the refreshment stand.
