Japanese vermilion Bridge & Blossoms

Practically speaking, vermillion (red-orange) paint used on Japanese bridges, torii gates, shrines, temples, etc. provides a preservative function against the elements. Culturally speaking, vermillion serves as a talisman against evil spirits. I surmise the color is used in this sense to protect the structure from destruction due to earthquakes, floods, mountain slides, fires, and engineering defects. Regardless, I am a huge fan of vermillion bridges that often stand in stark contrast to green mountainscapes, flowing blue rivers, or in this shot where the vermillion bridge is analogous to the dark pink cherry blossoms.

Image dimensions: 5685 x 3794 pixels