Autumn Leaves (Koyo) and Ginkgo (Icho)
In ancient times in Japan, autumn coloring was associated with the yellowing of the leaves of the Japanese maple tree "Momiji". In reality, no Momiji trees exist (they are actually "Kaede" trees), but over time, the term "Momiji" began referring to the changing red and yellow coloring of the leaves.
| Peak viewing season |
Mid-November to early December |
|---|---|
| Flower meaning |
"Self-restriction", "cherished memory" |
*The best time to see the flowers may vary depending on the weather conditions.
Ginkgo trees are known to have extremely long lives. Written in Chinese characters, the ginkgo tree also has another name "Kosonju", which means that it will not bear fruit until the grandchildren's generation.
It is said that the ginkgo tree was first brought to Japan during the Heian period (794-1192). Today, because of their beautiful yellow-tinged leaves, they can be seen in a great number of places as roadside trees, especially in their prime viewing season of autumn.
| Peak viewing season |
Late October to mid-November |
|---|---|
| Flower meaning |
"Long life", "stately" |
*The best time to see the flowers may vary depending on the weather conditions.
Flower Walk spots
Autumn Leaves of Nagatoro
In the daytime in the vicinity of Iwadatami rock formation, the contrast between the "Chichibu Red Wall" cliff and the autumn leave colors covering the mountains is a delight. The bright autumn leaves reflecting off the water surface provide a stunningly beautiful picture of nature itself.
When night falls, Tsukinoishi Momiji Park and Hodosan Shrine light up for better viewing. At night the autumn leaves take on an almost dreamlike quality.
| TEL |
0494-66-0307 (Nagatoro Tourist Information Center) |
|---|
Chichibu Musepark
Sky Road stretches approximately 3 km through Chichibu Musepark. On both sides are about 500 ginkgo trees colored in bright yellow.
You can walk through a tunnel of yellow leaves and have a picturesque view of the city of Chichibu from the observatory.
Why not take an enjoyable nature walk this autumn?
| Address |
2518 Nagaru, Oganomachi, Chichibu-gun, Saitama |
|---|---|
| Access |
from Seibu-Chichibu Station, take the "Gururin-go" Musepark loop bus. Takes about 25 minutes. |
| TEL |
0494-25-1315 (Chichibu Musepark Administration Office) |