Fudonanaeno Falls, Nara, Japan

Our final hike into the Japanese wilderness was a surreal experience. Completely alone, just Coco and I, it was the first time since arriving in Japan that we found ourselves immersed in such peaceful solitude. The pristine Yoshino River, with its stunning turquoise water, was so captivating that I couldn’t tear my eyes away. By this point, Coco was exhausted from packing so much into our days, so while he rested and soaked in the silence and serenity of the flowing river, I ventured upstream with my camera, reaching the base of the waterfall. Seizing the opportunity to create a once-in-a-lifetime memory, I decided to get my kit off and take a dip in the icy water. I only made it to my hips before I had to get out—my toes were numb within 20 seconds of entering the water.