We are SO excited that a  photo we took on our most recent visit to Japan was chosen by the folks at Frommers to serve as back cover art for their newest Japan guide book.  We originally submit the photo for a contest they were running.  It caught the eye of one of the editors and they approached us about using our image.  We are honored to be recognized in this way.  Who knew I would one day be able to walk into my local bookstore and see my photo and name in print!

The photo was taken at Zojoji Temple near Tokyo Tower.  The statue is a  of Jizo, protector of children and expectant mothers.  Jizo statues are often placed by grieving parents in order to protect their dead child or as a thank you for saving a child from a serious illness.  Often they are clothed with a red bib and hat and commonly have small toys placed with them.

On the day we visited most of the statues had a pinwheel.  The wind was gusty and would spin the pinwheels for a few moments and then die off.  We spent a good half hour snapping away until we had a few shots we thought we really liked.  A special thanks to our friend Mayumi for sharing this unique place with us.

Here is a link to our Japan Gallery which includes the cover image.