On April 25^th, we visited Shimyo-in Temple again and the rhododendrons were in full bloom.

The spectacular rhododendron is an alpine plant and blooms only for a very short period of time. It is said to be a delicate plant that may not produce buds in some years, depending on slight changes in temperature, humidity, and sunlight. We were very fortunate to be able to see the best blooms.

Once you pass through the Sanmon gate, it is a sacred place and photography is prohibited.

Today, we were allowed to enter the sacred mountain where the rock that Kobo Daishi Kukai sat was located for one day only. We climbed a very narrow path up a steep, cliff-like rock. Moreover, the road was muddy from the rain the day before.

All five of us climbed the mountain without incident, prayed Dainichi Nyorai at the top, and were able to descend the mountain.

We had already visited Shimyo-in Temple on April 10th, before the flowers bloomed, and prayed that we would be able to dedicate the work “Cosmic Dragon” to Yasaka Shrine.

Today, April 25^th, we once again listened to the sound of the first dripping from the Iwaya, the first drop of the Kamogawa River in Shimyo-in. And then, we reported that our prayer had been fulfilled and expressed our gratitude.

The first drop of water from Shimyo-in Temple flows underground and becomes the spring water of Yasaka Shrine, making us realize once again that it is connected to the sacred water.