Kobe Prefecture

Visitors flock to Japan in spring to see the cherry blossoms, but the leaves changing color in fall are just as impressive. Called koyo in Japanese, it is as much an opportunity to head outdoors and live in the moment as any cherry blossom, but with less drinking. Fall colors are a great reminder of the impermanence of the seasons. Appreciation of the beauty of the changing seasons has been characteristic of Japanese culture since ancient times. There’s even a mention in the novel “The Tale of the Genji” — one of the world’s first novels, written during the Heian Period (794 to 1185). Starting in mid-September, the “koyo front” slowly moves its bands of color. It begins in Hokkaido, moves to central Japan, and ends in the South. In Kobe, the leaves start to change at the beginning of November. Families head outdoors to enjoy spectacular views of changing leaves accompanied by the comfortably mild weather. Whereas some people celebrate fall leaves much like they do the cherry blossoms of the spring — by spreading out a picnic blanket under the trees — it’s more common to celebrate koyo by taking a short hike or walking through the mountains.…