What is it all about ?
Most people would be surprised to hear that as much as the sakura blossom festival (cherry tree blossom) is waited and admired in Japan just as much everyone gets excited for the Autumn Foliage, when the leaves on the trees start to change color making it look just as magical as it does during Sakura festival. The nature looking like straight from a fantasy art piece as the different colors take over the trees and group. This beautiful display comes at different times in different parts of Japan, it starts from Hokkaido (which is the most norther island of Japan) and it starts to spread down to most parts of Japan. The most cherished of the trees that start to change color is the Japanese maple tree which is a cousin to the maple trees in Northern parts of the world. The biggest difference it has to its Norther cousin is that the leaves of the tree could be mistaken as cannabis leaves, because of their long and skinny look. These Japanese Maple trees are also used as bonzai trees because they respond well to techniques that encourage leaf reduction and ramification.
So when and where can I see it ?
While there is no official start to the changing of the leaves (mother nature answers to no one), it is usually somewhere around August-September. If you are planning to come and experience the trees in all their glory you can choose from several different locations throughout Japan, but none more better I think than Kyoto in November. It could be because Kyoto was the old capitol and so much history is there, or because there is too much hustle and bustle in Tokyo to actually take a breather sometimes, but if you only have once chance to see them, Kyoto is it. From walking down, the street, to the temples and shrines surrounded by them, the color is eye numbing. Sunburst yellow to brilliant red litter the sky and ground, painting Japan even more beautifully. There is a plethora of places to go and see while in Kyoto and the people of Kyoto will be more than happy to tell you theirs if you ask. If you are too shy then I suggest Kiyomizu-dera, day or night. In the day, you can get an eye full, but at night with all the lights, it's a sight to be seen as well!
In Tokyo you can take in all the splendor as well, and I suggest making a picnic out of it with your friends, family, or loved one. As most people in Japan do in the spring, with a hanami party (cherry blossom viewing) you could enjoy the autumn chill under the trees at your local park or if you don’t have somewhere local try Yoyogi park. Most parts of Japan will get to enjoy the Autumn foliage check the link below to find out some of our favorite places to admire this display of colors.
The Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Kyoto in the Fall Season
Top 8 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Japan During Autumn
Best Places in Japan to View Autumn Foliage (Koyo)
The season is full of time to enjoy and reflect on what an awesome summer you had, while sipping on something warm and watching the passing of time through the color chart that the maple tree has provided for you.
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