The reality of life in snow country!

How easy are your shrine or temple visits at this time of year? I know that when I lived in Tokyo it wasn't much different to visiting at any other time of year, other than there being more of a chill in the air. Here in snow country though, it's a whole different ball game. 

It's not uncommon for many shrines and temples to look like this during January. You can see that this specific entryway has been boarded up, otherwise it would be completely inundated with snow.

One thing I've really grown grateful for out here is the resilience of the populace, and how prepared they are for these kinds of harsh conditions. You'll see the snow prep extend to many things, including structures that protect trees from buckling under the weight of snow.