π Japan's Famous Maple-Viewing Spots: A Fairytale in Autumn (1)π
Japan's long and narrow archipelago begins to turn autumnal in late September, starting with Hokkaido, where the leaves first blush red π΄. As the cold air moves southward, maples in other regions don red, creating a "momiji front" that mirrors the springtime cherry blossom front. The vibrant foliage lasts until early December, when the leaves finally fall. People chase this front like hunters, and the Japanese call this annual event "momiji-gari" (maple hunting). πΏ 1οΈβ£ Shiretoko Pass π Early to Mid-October Shiretoko Pass is located on the Shiretoko Peninsula, known as one of Japan's last frontiers and a World Natural Heritage site. It's one of the eight scenic spots of Shiretoko and one of the earliest places in Japan to enjoy autumn leaves. π³ The peninsula offers stunning views of Hokkaido's famous landscapes. The vast, calm waters reflect the fiery red of the maples, which contrast beautifully with the snow-capped peaks of the Shiretoko Mountains. π 2οΈβ£ Oirase Stream | Nature's Flowing Masterpiece πΏπ¨ π Late October to early November β¨ Why It's Magic 20km of waterfalls threading through primeval beech forests π¦ October's palette: Crimson maples βοΈ golden ginkgo βοΈ emerald moss = living watercolor ποΈ π³ Hiking trails where every turn reveals new cascades (Choshi Otaki is iconic!) ποΈ π Pro Tips Start at Towada-ko Lake β walk downstream (easier!) πΆβοΈ Dawn visits = mist + sunlight piercing through leaves βοΈπ π³ #TohokuTravel #AutumnInJapan#Japan πΏ #AutumnLeaves π #ShiretokoPeninsula π
