Holiday Ideas in October: Momeji leaves turning red, Japan

Autumn in the mountains surrounding Kyoto marks the season for momiji (Japanese maple) viewing. It's a time when the surrounding mountains burst into vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows.

Kiyomizu Dera, KyotoAutumn colours, KyotoShrine priests, Kyoto

October marks the start of Japan's most vibrantly coloured and spectacular season. Throughout the country the leaves of the Japanese maple tree, known as momeji, turn various hues of red, orange and finally gold, creating scenes of astounding beauty. The ancient city of Kyoto is particularly renowned for the momeji which can be seen covering much of the mountainous area to the east of the city. Temperatures in October are relatively mild, around 20°C (68°F).

Further information relating to Momeji leaves turning red, Japan

Kyoto

Kyoto is the Japan of the imagination: a city of grand palaces, ornate shrines and exquisite gardens, mercifully spared from the bombing of World War II that razed other Japanese cities.

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