Autumn Leaves Herald the Diverse Beauty of Kyushu’s Maple Colors

By MOOK Editorial Team
 
The autumn foliage front in Japan slowly moves southward from the northernmost Hokkaido to Kyushu, typically arriving in Kyushu around late October to early December. The leaves in mountainous areas turn earlier, while the plains see peak colors from mid to late November. In Kyushu, you can enjoy a variety of autumn scenery all at once — the magnificent sight of vast mountainsides blanketed in crimson maple leaves is truly breathtaking, the towering ginkgo trees against the backdrop of Kumamoto Castle are spectacularly dazzling, and the Japanese karesansui (dry landscape) gardens accented with falling red leaves evoke a sense of tranquility and joy. Autumn is the perfect time to witness these moving scenes.

Walking along the approach toward Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine and turning right into the path just before the shrine, you’ll arrive at this hidden gem. Built in Bun-ei 10 (1273) by the monk Tetsugyu Enshin, who came from the Sugawara family, Komyo-ji Temple houses Kyushu’s only karesansui garden. The rear garden’s “Ichidai no Niwa” (One Drop Sea Garden) uses white sand to represent the ocean and moss as the land, while the front garden features 15 stones arranged to form the character “light” (光), known as the Buddha Light Stone Garden. In autumn, this place becomes a popular spot for maple viewing. The Japanese-style garden, adorned with vivid reds and yellows, takes on a serene atmosphere as fallen leaves on the white sand create ripples along the patterns.

Yabakei is a renowned maple leaf viewing destination. Among them, Hisashimotoji, located beside Prefectural Route 28 in Shimoyabakei, transforms into a maple leaf tunnel when the branches turn bright red in autumn. It’s dazzling under the sunlight during the day and takes on a mysterious air when lit up at night. Both atmospheres are equally enchanting.

Located in Takachiho Gorge, about 5 km from Amano Iwato Shrine, is the 37-meter-high Chogaku-ji no Taki waterfall. Because access to this area is limited, it remains relatively unknown. However, the waterfall’s force is truly impressive. In autumn, the surrounding maple leaves turn brilliant shades of red, creating a stunning contrast with the cascading water. The area is also known as the “Waterfall of Longevity.” Whether in the lush greenery of summer or the crimson-filled valleys of autumn, Takachiho Gorge is a breathtaking sight to behold year-round. (Photo provided by Moleskine Editorial Team)

Like Takachiho in Miyazaki, Kirishima is steeped in the mythological legend of the “Descent of the Heavenly Grandson,” symbolizing its status as a sacred place rich in history and culture. After paying your respects at the main hall, it’s recommended to take some extra time to stroll through the woods surrounding the shrine. Walk along the Kameishi Slope, a path once trodden by Sakamoto Ryoma and his wife Oryo. The ancient, tree-lined path and the gentle sound of a bubbling stream add a nostalgic charm to Kirishima Shrine, making the experience even more captivating.