Spring at Biwako Canal in Kyoto

Pale pink sakura and sweet scented yellow flowers

Cathy Cawood Mar 01, 2014 - 1 min read

<p>The canal winds around hills on the edge of Yamashina</p>

<p>Blossom laden branches meet yellow canola flowers</p>

<p>O-jizo shrine under a cherry tree</p>

<p>The canola blossom grows taller than the fence</p>

<p>Small cherry tree surrounded by canola blossom</p>

<p>A woman in kimono photographs the cherry blossom</p>

<p>Searching for the perfect blossom<br />
 </p>

<p>This red bridge over the canal leads to Honkokuji Temple</p>

<p>A place to rest under a big cherry tree</p>

<p>In some places the branches almost touch the water</p>

<p>Cherry trees and bamboo covered hillside</p>

A canal that begins near Miidera Temple in Otsu, carries water from Lake Biwa, through a tunnel then along the edge of Yamashina as far as Keage. Many cherry trees are planted along its length, and in Spring it is a popular place for O-hanami parties. One particular bridge draws many sightseers and photographers because yellow canola blossom is planted on both sides of the canal every year, and it makes a stunning combination with the cherry blossom.

Cathy Cawood @cathy.cawood

I came to Japan in 2003 to teach English. I lived in Shiga prefecture for 1 year, and it still holds a special place in my heart. I lived in Kyoto for 9 years, then moved to Machida, Tokyo in 2014 after meeting my Japanese partner. I love to take photos, and my Japan in Pictures Facebook page ha...