In Japan, people have a deep connection with the country’s plentiful water resources, creating a natural culture where water is not only used wisely, but also in some very unique ways.

Left: Icicles are a masterpiece of nature. In the Chichibu Mountains in Saitama Prefecture, they can grow almost 10 meters long. (Photo: Kataoka Iwao / Aflo)
Right: Ukiyoe woodblock print by Katsushika Hokusai, entitled Shokoku Takimeguri Shimotsuke Kurokami-yama Kirifuri no Taki (“Kirifuri Falls on Mount Kurokami in Shimotsuke”), from the artist’s A Tour of Waterfalls in Various Provinces series. His bold treatment of the rocks and water is remarkably expressive. (Property of the Shimane Art Museum)