The autumnal colours in Japan couldn’t be redder, and although this may sound corny – it’s true. That’s why you should take note of the tips by Iberia Joven, find out the best days and places to see, and enjoy the incredible autumnal landscapes in Tokyo and surrounding areas.
The show is naturally free of charge and everyone can see it. It’s made up of maple and ginkgo leaves that turn into very photogenic shades of red and gold. This is all thanks to the autumn sun, and you can see it throughout the season from October. There are few other places in the world where the autumn is so magical, as it is in Japan. This is how the Japanese landscape changes from place to place, giving way to a period in which many locals enjoy an activity known as “Momijigari”, which is a search for autumn leaves, and similar to the very famous “hanami” activity in spring, or to admire the cherry trees in bloom.
The autumn invites you to stroll round the Japanese gardens, temples and mountains, to enjoy the fresh air and the light with your friends that those very special months have to offer. Do you live or study in Tokyo , and you want to organise an activity, but you’re wondering what to do and where to go? These are some of the most recommended places for going on a trip among the autumnal landscapes.
The Tokyo Imperial Palace. Such an amazing place is located in the very heart of the capital, and you must visit the surrounding areas. Now, to visit the palace, remember that you have to book in advance on its website. That way, you can spend the most pleasant day by walking around and taking pictures of the gold leaves on the gingkoes. In fact, before you start your visit, there’s a trick for getting one of the best photos of the place: put yourself in front of the nice Nijubashi bridge.
Near the Imperial Palace, you’ll find the Marunouchi building, which is an enormous shopping centre, offering plenty of restaurants and cheap places for a bite to eat. Lastly, the Imperial Palace is found in the range of Ginza, which is a modern shopping district, and another reason for choosing this destination in Tokyo for your plans with friends.
Do you fancy going to see the forests in autumn outside Tokyo? At two and a half hours away from the capital by train (on the JR Hokuriku Shinkansen line), you’ll find the city of Kanazawa, which is home to the private garden of Kenroku-en, and is open every day of the year. What’s special about it? That’s very simple: they say that it is one of the three nicest gardens in the whole of Japan. If you happen to visit Kenroku-en in November, you’ll be able to enjoy the magnificent landscape of the “Yukitsuris”, which are con-shaped structures made with tightened ropes, in order to protect the branches of pine trees, so that they don’t break due to the weight of the snow. They’re a real spectacle! What’s more, the surroundings of the Kanazawa Castle Park next to the Kenroku-en Garden are spectacular. Lastly, you’ll find it hard to return from your trip, or weekend in Kanazawa, without taking back some souvenirs for your family and friends.
We hope that these two tips for exploring Japan will inspire you, and help to make the most of your study trip. Besides this, remember that you’re in luck: Iberia Joven resumes discounted flights to Tokyo from 18th October.
Photo | Moyan Brenn
