![]() A deep awareness of seasonality is a defining part of Japanese culture, a marker of elegance and sophistication that runs across many spheres of life. Autumn is also called “shun no shokuzai” which can be literally translated to “season of food”. Japan is no different from other countries with certain dishes and ingredients strongly associated with fall. People also enjoy autumn dishes in Japan. Also, it's fun to visit many food vendors which sell local speciality food, crafts, charms, and other regional items in such festivals. You might be able to see some Shinto rituals held at various shrines. Many autumn festivals are held throughout the country to give thanks for the harvest. Just as in spring when the cherry blossoms bloom, this season is also when the largest number of tourists visit Kyoto. November is the best season of the year for viewing the vibrant crimson autumn leaves in Kyoto. Old temples and shrines are good places to visit during autumn leaves viewing season. Kyoto and Nara, which were Japan's ancient capitals, the colorful leaves match their historical architectures and attract many visitors. The mix of colors, between yellow and red in the middle of mountains or along rivers and lakes offers some particularly nice spots. In Hokkaido, the Daisetesuzan National Park is the first place to have autumn colors every year. Spectacular scenery and colors can be seen throughout the island from mid September to November. Being the northern-most island, Hokkaido welcomes the first autumn leaves in Japan every year. Hokkaido and Tohoku are the most popular for autumn leaves viewing. Almost surreal is the sight of the trees during evening illuminations, which are held at selected gardens and temples. ![]() Among the highlights are the autumn colors in the temples gardens of Kyoto where they beautifully complement with the buildings' elegant architecture. In the second phase of the autumn leaf season, the colors descend into cities, where they can be viewed in parks and gardens. Hiking is the most rewarding way to see the colorful leaves in the mountains, but many spots can also be conveniently reached by train, bus or ropeway. During the early phase of the season, the colors are mostly found in the mountains where entire slopes turn orange, yellow and red, and provide some of the most amazing seasonal sceneries. The trees in the most northern parts of Japan and at the highest altitude are generally the first to turn orange and red. Their beauty has been expressed in poems and songs throughout Japanese history. ![]() Beginning in the Edo Period (1603-1868), momiji-gari spread to the general population, and as transportation networks grew with the modern age, people began traveling great distances to take in the colored leaves. Momiji-gari has a long history, having been enjoyed by noble families in the Heian Period (794-1185). When the trees start changing the color, people in Japan start planning the momiji-gari. The difference between afternoon and evening temperature arises and the trees change color from green to red and yellow. As summer fades to autumn, the trees prepare for the winter months.
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