Saturday, October 05, 2013

30 Things You Should Know and/or Will Love about Japan Series: # 17

#17 Fall Foliage Report



In Japan, nature rules.  

All forms of design - cuisine, food, textiles, and decor are influenced by nature. In Japan, people take time to appreciate nature around them - from Moon Viewing, to viewing the Fall foliage to picnicking under the cherry blossoms every spring.


Fortunately, October/November is one of the best times to visit Japan.  The leaves are changing and the air is getting cool.  My favorite leaves this time of year are the ginko:

Photo Credit: artolog via Compfight cc

and the Japanese maple:


The only drawback to spending time under the leaves (or any other tourist attraction), is that often there are A LOT of other people also enjoying the fresh air and beautiful scenery with you.

One thing we have never seen before (which doesn't mean that this doesn't exist) are forecasts for Spring blooms and Fall foliage.  People know exactly when to travel, hike or plan a picnic with their co-workers.  It is serious business.

Here's a link to the Japan 2013 Fall Foliage Map and a website on the best places to enjoy the leaves.  We will definitely be going to Hiroshima, Miyajima, Kyoto and Arashiyama, which will be great places to see the leaves.  We are also thinking about going to Koyosan.  We have never been there before and the foliage forecast says it will be at the peak during your visit.

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