A couple days ago, my husband and I visited the temple called Koumyouji. In the temple, there is a grave, which belongs to my husband's mother's(my mother-in-law)ancestors. We visited there to report his mother's death.

This temple was built in 1198, so it has a very peaceful and historic atmosphere. I saw lots of Japanese maple trees at the entrance. I definitely want to go back there in the fall to see the leaves changing color! It must be breathtaking.

It was very quiet, and I saw only few visitors. I think maple leaves in the fall is the best but I quite enjoyed seeing vibrant green leaves in early summer.

I came across two charming jizou statues. Jizou is know for protecting children in Japan. So, I prayed for my grandson.

We went down a slope to reach the ancestor's grave. On the way, we saw a sign said, "Watch out! Wild boars in this area!!" When our black lab was a puppy, she once chased a wild boar. It reminded us of a funny memory.

After praying and reporting his mother's death in front of the gravestone, we spotted six more jizou statues. These jizou looked more serious than the previous ones. Since it wasn't a typical season for visiting graveyards, we saw only few visitors, so it was very calm and quiet.

On the way, we saw hydrangeas in bloom.

The temple was surrounded by nature, so the air was very clean and refreshing. We left feeling relaxed and renewed. Next time we visit, I’m sure we’ll be greeted by the stunning colors of autumn leaves.

(4918)