Japan Black and White Photography Kumano Kodo Nakahechi Shrine

Black white high contrast photo of two stone Jizō statues that were historically important markers along the difficult Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route, offering reassurance to weary travelers. The act of dressing these statues can also symbolize protection for the spirits of those who have died, especially those who couldn’t complete their pilgrimage.

I love the strong backlighting of this image how it silhouette’s the shrine and how the trees, leaves and grass frame the classic Japanese style wooden architecture of the shrine. It’s just an added bonus that the stone cloth wrappings have a flower patten on them.