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After a period of near-incessant rain in June and July, followed by a month and a half of tarmac-melting summer temperatures under heavy clouds, the Japanese autumn comes as a blessing of cool, refreshing air and clear blue skies.
But, the lower temperatures are not the only reason the Japanese love the autumn—there is also plenty of excellent seasonal foods to be had, exciting festivals and, last but certainly not least, breath-taking natural scenery as the verdant green of summer turns into the fiery reds and yellows of autumn.
As the leaves change color, the Japanese venture en masse to parks and scenic spots to admire the spectacle. Particularly loved is the momiji, the Japanese maple, whose canopies turn into cascades of deep crimson during autumn. It is for this reason that the tradition of admiring the autumn leaves is known as momiji gari, literally “maple leaf hunting.”
The tradition is said to have begun in the Heian era (794–1185) as a pastime for the higher classes. Even today, many people are drawn to historically significant areas like Kyoto or Nikko, where the autumn colors can be enjoyed against the tranquil beauty of ancient shrines, temples and other traditional settings.
If you are in Japan during this season, have your camera ready! |
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