Enjoying the Autumn Leaves in Japan

Japan has four seasons, and there are some traditional things you can enjoy depending on the season. From September to November, the leaves on the mountains turn yellow and red, and this is called “kouyou” in Japanese, and the number of people enjoying the beautiful autumn leaves increases in autumn.

Autumn leaves are a little late this year

It is generally said that the leaves begin to change color when the minimum temperature starts to drop below 8 degrees Celsius. In recent years, due to abnormal weather conditions, the temperature in October has been higher than normal. This year is no different, and the best time to see the autumn leaves is expected to be later. This year, however, there is a possibility that the season will advance rapidly due to the influence of cold air, so the autumn leaves season may be short.
This year, it is best to check the autumn leaves frequently and make a plan so as not to miss the chance to enjoy the autumn colors.

Three recommended autumn leaves

Autumn leaves at Naeba Dora Gondola

the best time：Mid-October – November

Prefecture goes up and down repeatedly over a beautiful stream. It is the longest gondola in Japan at about 5.5km each way, and you can enjoy the autumn colors for about 25 minutes. Along the way, there is a mysterious emerald green lake called Nii Lake and a steep drop-off point where you can experience the thrill of jumping into the world of autumn leaves.

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Ikaho Onsen

the best time：Late October – Early November

Ikaho Onsen in Gunma Prefecture is known as a famous hot spring. From the end of October to the middle of November, it is usually lit up with lights, which is so powerful that the leaves look like they are burning red.
From the ropeway leading from the hot spring resort to the top of Kaminoyama Park, you can see the mountains in the distance changing color.

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Meiji Jingu Gaien Icho Namiki

the best time：Mid-November – early December

Unlike the above two spots, this one is located in the center of Tokyo. The famous avenue of 146 ginkgo trees runs from Aoyama Street to Meiji Jingu Gaien, and is a beautiful golden tunnel in autumn. The view is urban and stylish due to its location in Aoyama. If you don’t have time to go far, you should definitely visit this place!

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Autumn leaves are beautiful

There is actually a difference between the leaves that turn red. There are two types of leaves that turn red: “Momiji” and “Kaede”. Actually, they are both in the same genus. In general, the leaves with deeper cuts are called “Momiji” and those with little cuts are called “Kaede”. A yellow leaves divided into two is ginkgo “Ichou”.
When you go to see the autumn leaves, enjoy the differences in the leaves too!