Beyond the Blossoms

Published in Deccan Herald 18th October 2026

Cherry blossoms may receive more attention worldwide than any other season in Japan. Yet ask many Japanese travellers which season they would choose instead, and autumn often comes out on top. From mid-September to early December, Japan experiences ‘koyo’ or ‘momiji’, the slow, enchanting transformation of autumn leaves. While cherry blossoms last only a few weeks, autumn colours gradually sweep across the country, painting it in an ever-changing palette. Each destination reveals its own unique colours, offering a different face of Japan through the same season.
The colours begin in Hokkaido and gradually move southward. Japanese maple leaves turn brilliant red, ginkgo trees deep gold, and Japanese beech trees earthy orange. Against traditional temple architecture or reflected in still waters, the scenery looks almost made for the camera. Better still, the crowds are noticeably smaller, allowing travellers to pause, wander and enjoy nature at a more relaxed pace.
In Kyoto, autumn colours meet Japan’s historical heritage in spectacular fashion. Temples such as Kiyomizu-dera and Tofuku-ji become living paintings in red and gold. Tokyo offers its own version in parks such as Shinjuku Gyoen and Rikugien, while the Japanese Alps, Nikko and Hakone bring a more mountainous, peaceful perspective to the season. Modern city life continues alongside nature quietly putting on its annual show.
Autumn is also linked to the Japanese idea of ‘mono no aware’, an awareness of life’s impermanence and the gentle sadness of beautiful moments passing. Just as ‘hanami’ celebrates cherry blossoms at their briefest, ‘momiji matsuri’, or autumn foliage festivals, celebrate leaves precisely because they are about to fall. Some temples and parks are illuminated after dark, giving the colours an entirely new, magical character.
For those who have experienced Japan during peak cherry blossom season, or simply want to avoid the crowds, autumn offers an equally captivating experience. The same appreciation for fleeting beauty returns in a new palette of red, orange, gold and amber. Wherever you look, a new colour, a new story and a new memory of Japan awaits.
 

   Kōyō Calling 

 Recently, I attended a meeting with a minister from New South Wales, Australia, along with representatives from some of India's major tour companies. During our discussion on tourism, he asked us a simple question: which international destination is seeing extraordinary interest from Indian travellers today? The answer around the table was unanimous: Japan. And I completely understand why. 

Japan seems to appeal to every kind of traveller, irrespective of age. There is the food and pop culture, of course, but also centuries-old traditions, remarkable innovation, beautiful landscapes and a philosophy of life that is uniquely Japanese. It is a country that can feel futuristic and deeply traditional within the same afternoon. 

But what stays with me most are the people. Travel, I believe, allows us to briefly experience what it might be like to actually live somewhere. It gives us a connection with people that no book, film or Instagram reel quite can. I remember stopping to ask a lady in Japan for directions. Instead of simply pointing the way, she began walking with me and continued until she was absolutely certain I knew where I was going. A small gesture, perhaps, but one I still remember. 

My previous visit to Japan was in winter. It was cold, but absolutely fantastic. For years, we Indians associated Japan primarily with the famous cherry blossoms of spring. Today, Japan has become a year-round destination, and autumn may just be one of its most spectacular seasons. 

From late September, autumn begins its journey across Japan, moving gradually from the cooler north towards the south. As temperatures fall, the chlorophyll in the leaves breaks down, allowing other pigments to reveal themselves. The greens slowly surrender to brilliant yellows, burnt oranges, deep crimson and russet brown. 

The Japanese call the autumn leaves kōyō, while momijigari literally means "hunting for autumn leaves". But it is about much more than photographing pretty trees. There is something deeply Japanese about pausing to appreciate a fleeting moment of beauty. It ties in with the Japanese awareness of impermanence, the idea that something perhaps becomes even more precious because it will not last forever. 

Imagine Kyoto's temples framed by fiery maples, mountain roads carpeted in gold, traditional gardens glowing in the afternoon light, and crisp, comfortable days made for walking. Cherry blossoms may have introduced the world to Japan's seasonal beauty, but autumn reveals another Japan altogether: quieter, richer, intensely colourful and, for me, one of the most beautiful times to experience this extraordinary country. 

Your Front-Row Seat to Nature's Grandest Colour Show... 

Let's Go to Japan! 

Veena World Women's Special 

A New Shade of Joy, A New Reason to Celebrate! 

Japan usually brings cherry blossoms to mind, but autumn in Japan is something else! As autumn arrives, green trees turn red, orange, yellow and gold. On Veena World's Women's Special Japan tour, savour these autumn colours while experiencing glittering Tokyo, panoramic Mount Fuji, Kyoto's historic temples, Arashiyama's bamboo groves and Japan's speedy bullet train. Alongside this riot of colours come photos, shopping, chit-chats and new experiences with your girlfriends. Plus, a Tour Manager looks after your comfort throughout, so you can enjoy every colour of Japan wholeheartedly. 

So what are you waiting for? This is the perfect time to experience autumn-hued Japan with your girlfriends. Chalo, Bag Bharo, Nikal Pado! 

 Veena World Tour Manager 

Japan's autumn is a magical tale of colours that change daily. But understanding the stories, traditions and culture behind this festival of colours makes the journey more meaningful. From Tokyo's modern lifestyle to Kyoto's ancient temples, from Mount Fuji's picturesque views to the tranquil surroundings of Nara and Nikko, I'm with you to enrich every experience. The best viewpoints, the right time to visit, striking photo stops, local cuisine, Japanese traditions and precise planning make your journey comfortable and memorable. In Japan, autumn isn't just seen; it's experienced. And I make every colour, moment and memory of it special. So come witness Japan's festival of colours with me, with Veena World! Chalo, Bag Bharo, Nikal Pado! 

 A Real Makeover! 

When autumn begins in Japan, nature slowly starts decorating its stage. Green leaves turn yellow, then glow orange, red and copper. Mountains, roads, gardens, temple grounds and lakeshores fill with such colours that we simply keep gazing. In Japanese, this changing of leaf colours is called 'Koyo'. Japan, famous for pink cherry blossoms, looks entirely different in autumn: calm, unhurried and extraordinarily beautiful. In Kyoto especially, old temples, stone pathways and red-orange trees together bring a Japanese painting to life. At Kiyomizu-dera, Tofuku-ji and Arashiyama's Bamboo Forest, nature and architecture blend beautifully. Every changing shade reflects the season's new mood, effortlessly lending each moment of the journey a magic that stays deep in your heart forever. 

Seasonal change holds special significance in Japanese culture. The concept of 'Mono no Aware' reminds us that beauty is fleeting; nothing beautiful lasts forever, so every moment should be experienced wholeheartedly. 'Momijigari' is the tradition of stepping out to enjoy autumn colours. These colours tell a distinct story in every city, garden and walk. Be it leaves glistening in sunlight or their reflections in still waters, autumn paints a new scene every moment and captivates the heart. So in Japan, autumn isn't just a season to watch, but one to experience by wandering, feeling and living fully. 

The season shapes the food culture too. Sweet potatoes, chestnuts, seasonal sweets, matcha treats and steaming ramen taste extra special in the cool air. Sitting quietly on temple steps, watching colourful landscapes from a train window, savouring fall with hot tea in hand, or strolling down a quiet street... these little moments become big memories. Every turn holds a new colour, view and memory. Japan's autumn is nature's ever-changing painting, one you'd want to see again and again. 

 Hokkaido 

Hokkaido, Japan's northernmost island, is considered the first to welcome autumn. From mid-September, leaves across its mountains, volcanic areas and national parks turn red, orange and gold. Daisetsuzan National Park, in particular, is known as the gateway to Japan's autumn, since the country's first autumn hues appear here. With clean air, a cool climate and scenic views, Hokkaido is a global favourite for experiencing 'Koyo', i.e. autumn foliage. 

Kyoto 

In November, Kyoto's autumn reaches its peak. Maple and ginkgo trees around over 1,600 Buddhist temples, Zen gardens and hundreds of Shinto shrines glow red, orange and gold. Arashiyama's scenic valleys and the "Momiji" night illuminations at Kiyomizu-dera, Eikando and Tofukuji are this season's special experiences. With roads shaded by red maples, traditional bridges and historic temples, Kyoto is the most popular destination for autumn photography. 

Mount Fuji 

Mount Fuji is Japan's highest mountain. From October to November, autumn hues unfold in the Fuji Five Lakes area. The famous Momiji Corridor on Lake Kawaguchiko's shores is adorned with red, orange and golden maples, while snow-capped Fuji in the backdrop creates a stunning sight. Fuji's reflection in the lakes, panoramic ropeway views and relaxing onsens make this one of Japan's most attractive autumn regions for nature lovers, photographers and travellers. 

Tokyo 

In autumn, Tokyo wears a different colour. From mid-November, its ginkgo and maple trees turn gold, red and orange. Meiji Jingu Gaien's grand avenue, lined with about 146 ginkgo trees along nearly 300 metres, is among Tokyo's most famous autumn photo spots. 

Ueno Park, Rikugien Garden, Koishikawa Korakuen and Showa Memorial Park also offer a stunning riot of colours. The unique blend of modern city life and seasonal colours makes Tokyo's autumn special. 

Nikko and Nara 

Nikko and Nara are famous for autumn. In October, Nikko's Lake Chuzenji and the 97-metre Kegon Waterfall glow red, orange and yellow. It is also home to Toshogu Shrine, part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Nara, Japan's ancient capital, is adorned with colourful trees in November. Nara Park, famous for over 1,000 freely roaming deer, looks enchanting in autumn. Todaiji Temple, home to one of the world's largest bronze Buddhas, and the ancient Kasuga Taisha Shrine look even lovelier amid colourful trees. 

Hakone – Onsen 

Easily reached from Tokyo, Hakone is among Japan's most popular destinations. From late October to November, its mountains bloom red, orange and gold. Glimpsing Mount Fuji from a Lake Ashi cruise is the region's highlight. The Hakone Ropeway offers panoramic views of the sulphur valley and colourful trees. But Hakone's true identity is its famous onsen. Relaxing in hot springs amid autumn hues is an unforgettable taste of the Japanese way of life. 

 In the Land of Ikigai... with Veena World! 

A Japan journey can differ for everyone. So, keeping your varied needs in mind, Veena World offers Customised Holidays, Corporate & MICE Tours, Group Tours and Seniors' Special. 

Customised Tours – Every traveller wants to see Japan differently. Some want to shop on Tokyo's bustling streets, some want to experience Japanese culture in Kyoto's temples, others want relaxed time around scenic Mount Fuji. That's where Veena World's Customised Holidays fit perfectly. Our 'Best of Japan' Customised Holiday covers 4 cities in 9 days. You can plan destinations, stay duration and experiences to suit your preferences, prioritising your own choices over a group's fixed schedule. 

MICE Tours – If you're travelling abroad for business and also want to experience the country's culture, modernity and highlights, MICE tours are a distinct option. Veena World's MICE team helps you plan corporate meetings, incentive travel, conferences and exhibitions. In tech-rich Japan, corporate travel can be paired with Tokyo's modernity, Osaka's food culture or Kyoto's heritage. A trip that began for work can bring you home with memories of Japan. 

Group Tours – Visiting Japan for the first time? It's natural to be curious about the language, trains and different culture. Veena World's Group Tours give you planning, a fixed itinerary and an experienced Tour Manager, so you can focus on enjoying new experiences. Choose from the 7-day 'Best of Japan with Nagoya', 8-day 'Best of Japan', 9-day 'Wonders of Japan', and 10-day 'Marvels of Japan' and 'Japan Explorer'. For an in-depth experience, there's the 13-day 'Essence of Japan' too. These tours cover attractions from Tokyo's Shibuya Crossing, Asakusa and Tokyo Skytree to Oshino Hakkai and Lake Ashi near Mount Fuji. The Shinkansen bullet train ride is another striking highlight. 

Seniors' Special – Many seniors dream of seeing Japan too, and in travel, the zest to see and experience new things matters more than age! Veena World's 7-day Seniors' Special Japan tour lets seniors experience Japan with a group. Excellent planning, a Tour Manager's company and a planned itinerary help them enjoy Japanese culture wholeheartedly. 

So choose the option that suits you and take your first step towards memories of Japan. 

 Whoa! I Never Knew This! 

1. In Japan, the tradition of viewing autumn leaves is known as "Momijigari". It means "hunting for colourful leaves". 

1. Just like cherry blossoms, nationwide forecasts are published for autumn colours too. 

1. Japan has hundreds of maple varieties, which create different shades across the country. 

1. Japan is home to over 20 native maple species. 

1. Kyoto has over 1,600 Buddhist temples and 400+ Shinto shrines. 

1. Golden ginkgo leaves are a signature of Japan's autumn. 

1. Nikko is one of Japan's most popular autumn destinations, with a beautiful blend of mountains, waterfalls and temples. 

1. The Five Lakes region near Mount Fuji is photographers' favourite autumn spot, with stunning scenes in October–November. 

1. Hokkaido is where you experience Japan's first autumn season. 

1. Autumn in Japan is also called "the season of appetite", because seasonal food is abundant during this time. 

 Cinematic Japan! 

Japan's beauty has always drawn filmmakers from across the world, and its autumn has a cinematic charm of its own. Red-orange maples, golden ginkgos, misty mountains, serene temples and colourful pathways... from October to December, Japan feels like a ready-made film set. 

This enchanting face of Japan's autumn appears in many films too. 'Lost in Translation' pairs Tokyo's neon lights and bustling streets with serene glimpses of Kyoto's temples and gardens, adding visual depth to the story. In 'Memoirs of a Geisha', Kyoto's Gion district, with its traditional architecture, tea houses, narrow lanes and nature, gives the film a special Japanese aesthetic, made even more enchanting in autumn's red-orange hues. Japanese films like 'Sweet Bean' offer another beautiful glimpse. This quiet, gentle story around a tiny Tokyo shop teaches us to notice nature's small changes. Blooming flowers, falling autumn leaves and life changing with the seasons... watching it, we are left spellbound. 

In Japanese storytelling, nature isn't a mere backdrop; it's a character in the story itself. That's why Japan's autumn often feels like a film set, where every day has its own story. Want to experience this cinematic Japan? Come, let's go to Japan! 

 At Least Once in My Life... I Want To! 

1. Enjoy autumn among maples with Nara's deer. 

1. Capture maple reflections in a lake. 

1. Relax in an onsen, soaking in the colourful view. 

1. Stroll quietly under Kyoto's red maples. 

1. Walk through Arashiyama's bamboo grove, feeling nature's stillness. 

1. Watch colourful countryside from the Shinkansen. 

1. Taste Japan's special autumn cuisine. 

1. See Nikko's colour-changing mountain forests. 

1. Capture Mount Fuji and autumn colours in one frame. 

1. See night illuminations at Kyoto's temples. 

1. Join a traditional Japanese tea ceremony. 

Strip Advt content  

Discover Japan with Veena World. Exciting tours handpicked for every kind of traveller. 

Chalo, Bag Bharo, Nikal Pado! with Veena World 

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