Tokyo, Japan

Sensō-ji is Tokyo's oldest Buddhist temple, completed in 645 AD, and dedicated to Kannon, the goddess of mercy. I was particularly attracted to a display of chrysanthemums, with many unique and striking varieties, such as the two shown here with their strong contrasts of color and form. In Japan chrysanthemums are held in high regard as symbols of both the nation and the royal family and have been cultivated since the 8th century, resulting in many varieties.