In Yokote City, Akita Prefecture, the phrase "Are you going to the vineyard?" is commonly heard during autumn. There are many vineyards where children can enjoy grape picking, while adults savor a drink with imonoko-jiru (potato stew) and pickles. Additionally, Yokote is also famous as a production area for wine grapes, being one of the main regions for major wine manufacturers. During the day, enjoy the vineyards, and at night, relax with some wine to fully experience autumn. How about indulging in such an autumn experience? This year, make sure to visit Yokote.

This is a photo taken when I went to Kokoen Garden in Himeji to see the autumn leaves. The vibrant colors of the foliage and the waterfall, which stands out in the tranquility, beautifully represent Japan's fall, creating a breathtaking scene! At the same time, I could also feel the joy and depth of photography.

Jogakura Bridge in Aomori City, Aomori Prefecture.

Tove Jansson Akebono Children's Forest Park in Hannou City, Saitama Prefecture A forest park that Tove Jansson, the author of Moomin, cherished. The sight of people spending time under the golden trees embodies the "free and quiet moments" she loved. May this gentle peace be quietly passed on to the future.

My hometown, Yokote City in Akita Prefecture, may seem like a place with nothing much, but when life feels stagnant, don't you find yourself gazing absentmindedly at the rice stalks and the sky?

The Golden Tunnel in Nagoya The row of ginkgo trees along Sakuradoori in Naka Ward, Nagoya City, shines in golden hues during autumn, delighting the eyes of passersby. In the background, skyscrapers like the Nagoya Lucent Tower in Ushijimacho, Nishi Ward, create a beautiful contrast between nature and the city, symbolizing autumn in Nagoya. I was moved by the richness of nature right in the heart of the city and pointed my camera.

This photo was taken at the historical site "Odoi mound" of Kitano Tenmangu in Kamigyō-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture. The vibrant red and yellow trees illuminated beautifully, along with the carpet of fallen leaves at my feet, adorn the autumn nights of Kyoto splendidly. Captivated by the beauty of the illuminated tunnel of autumn leaves and the carpet of fallen leaves, I pressed the shutter to capture the enchanting deepening of autumn and its tranquil presence.

This is a photograph of the moss-covered thatched roof of Horyuin Temple, located in Sakyo Ward, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture. As autumn deepens, the surrounding foliage turns vibrant colors, creating a stunning contrast with the green moss. Combined with the stone-paved path, it presents a breathtaking view that evokes a sense of tranquility and the spirit of wabi-sabi. I was captivated by the heaviness of the moss-covered thatched roof and the vivid autumn leaves enveloping it. I strongly felt the desire to capture this quiet moment where the passage of time and the beauty of nature coexist.

Nisshoin Temple in the colorful autumn, a single golden leaf. Located in Sagano, Kyoto, Nisshoin Temple is known as a famous spot for autumn foliage and is a Tendai sect temple. The maple trees lining both sides of the stone steps leading to the temple are breathtaking. It enshrines Shaka Nyorai and Amitabha Buddha. Focusing on the vibrant yellow leaves in the foreground, I wanted to capture the stone steps of red leaves leading deeper into the temple, expressing the tranquility of this historic temple and the fleeting beauty of deepening autumn.

The Brick Bridge Carrying the Autumn of the Ancient Capital This brick arch bridge is the Suirokaku Aqueduct, located within the grounds of Nanzenji Temple in Sakyo Ward, Kyoto City. It was constructed as part of the Biwako Sosui to channel water from Lake Biwa into Kyoto City, and water still flows through it today. It is one of the iconic landscapes of Nanzenji, where retro architecture blends with rich nature. I was captivated by the contrast between the retro Suirokaku, which retains the charm of the Meiji era, and the vividly colored autumn leaves. I wanted to capture the weight of history and the passage of the seasons in a single shot, so I pressed the shutter.

Kyoto Daikaku-ji is the headquarters of the Shingon sect located in Saga, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture. The important cultural property, Ōsawa Pond, is said to have been a place where Heian aristocrats enjoyed boating, and its beautiful nature continues to captivate many people. I was captivated by the beauty of the autumn leaves reflected on the surface of Ōsawa Pond. I strongly desired to capture the fantastical scenery created by its vibrant colors.

In the late autumn at Gionji Temple, nestled deep in Arashiyama, Kyoto, the roofs are covered with vibrant red fallen leaves, contrasting with the fiery hues of the remaining autumn foliage. The juxtaposition of these colors against the still lush green leaves captures a moment of "silent passion" as the seasons change. The contrast of red and green beautifully conveys the weight of time and the transience of nature.

Autumn in Nikko The World Heritage Site, Nikkō Tōshō-gū Shrine. Just off the main path, vibrant autumn quietly thrived.

"Autumn Beyond the Bridge" In December 2024, while visiting Arashiyama in Kyoto, I caught sight of a water scene from Togetsukyo Bridge. The water cascading down the height resembled a small waterfall, and beyond the clear stream lay mountains dyed in autumn colors and quiet rows of houses. While many people on Togetsukyo Bridge were gazing at the expansive views of the mountains and river, I found myself drawn to this tranquil water scene that unfolded when I turned back. Despite being right next to the bustling activity, it felt as if a different time was flowing there, offering a sense of calm that seemed somewhat detached from the world. The scenery was so pleasant that I couldn't help but take pictures and record a short video. What stays in my heart during my travels are not just the famous grand views, but perhaps these quiet scenes encountered when casually looking back. Location: Togetsukyo Bridge, Arashiyama, Kyoto

Guided by the Autumn Leaves In December 2024, while visiting Tenryuji in Kyoto, I stumbled upon this scenery as I walked through the temple grounds. Scattered across the stone steps were fallen leaves, with maple trees, a torii gate, and the shrine deep in the background ahead. At that moment, I felt that the scene before me was dreamlike, so I paused to take this photo. At the time of taking the photo, I didn't pay much attention to the name of this place, but later I learned that it was the Reiki Shrine within Tenryuji. Looking at this photo again, it seemed as if the autumn leaves on the stone steps gradually led my gaze deeper toward the torii gate, so I named it 'Guided by the Autumn Leaves.' This unexpectedly encountered scene also became an unforgettable moment during this trip. Location: Reiki Shrine, Tenryuji, Kyoto City

Minami-Izu Town Photo Contest 2026 is now accepting entries! "Visit again, Minami-Izu!!" We invite submissions capturing moments that made you feel like you want to visit again, such as memorable landscapes, experiences, and interactions. There are no restrictions on genres, whether it's nature, the sea, gourmet food, culture, or connecting with people. Please express the charm of Minami-Izu Town through your photographs. ◇ Application Period: Monday, June 1, 2026 – Sunday, January 31, 2027 ◇ Eligible Works: Works taken between Sunday, February 1, 2026 – Sunday, January 31, 2027 ◇ Prizes - Excellence Award - 1 winner… Prize money of 70,000 yen Additional prize: Accommodation voucher worth 10,000 yen for a member facility of the local tourism association - Minami-Izu Town Mayor's Award - 1 winner… Prize money of 30,000 yen Additional prize: Accommodation voucher worth 10,000 yen for a member facility of the local tourism association - Minami-Izu Town Chamber of Commerce President's Award - 1 winner… Prize money of 30,000 yen Additional prize: Accommodation voucher worth 10,000 yen for a member facility of the local tourism association - Minami-Izu Town Tourism Association President's Award - 1 winner… Prize money of 30,000 yen Additional prize: Accommodation voucher worth 10,000 yen for a member facility of the local tourism association - Honorable Mentions - 10 winners… Local specialty products worth 5,000 yen 【Notes】 ※ Works taken in other cities and towns (e.g., Ryugong Grotto, Cape Tsumeki's daffodils) are not eligible, so please understand in advance. ※ The number of prize winners may change depending on the judging criteria. ※ For more details on applications, please refer to the "Application Guidelines." ※ During the application period, please proceed from the "New Registration" button displayed (after the second time, it will be "Login"). ※ If your photos contain credits such as text or names, please remove them before submitting. Apply here → https://minamiizuphoto.mitte-x.istsw.jp/index.html?cn=226...

While waiting for my child’s extracurricular activities, I took a walk with my beloved dog and encountered the sky. The sunset was so vibrant that I couldn't help but stop and take a photo. It was an unforgettable autumn scene I came across during an ordinary day walking with my dog. Although it was still a warm day, I felt the change of seasons in this sky.

The fallen leaves gently protect the lives of the next season. And it made me feel as if they were nurturing the earth softly. (Location: Yokote City, Akita Prefecture)

Dakigaeri Gorge near Lake Tazawa in Akita. This is a famous spot for autumn leaves in Akita, where the beautifully lit streams create a stunning scene. Nearby, you can find the base of Gekidan Warabi-za, a theater company that continues to perform 600 shows a year based on Tohoku's folk songs and history. This theater depicts the strength of people and the beauty of life, harmonizing gently with the tranquil landscape. How about visiting Akita this autumn?

The straight road in the city center is adorned with ginkgo trees. Tokyo is one of the regions in Japan with particularly abundant ginkgo trees, and their presence transforms the urban landscape into vibrant autumn hues. The yellow leaves, tinged with the light of dusk, seem to ease the hustle and bustle of the city just a little. (Location: Shinjuku, Tokyo)

Tohoku is known for its beautiful autumn foliage, but I also enjoy the time spent idly gazing at the autumn rice ears. From rice harvesting in September to October, autumn festivals, and the first snowfall in November, why not visit Tohoku this season?

Location: Former Ikeda Family Gardens, Daisen City, Akita Prefecture The Former Ikeda Family Gardens in Daisen City, Akita Prefecture. This was the residence of the prominent landowner Ikeda family, and the Western-style building within the gardens is designated as an Important Cultural Property. The wet red colors quietly stand out, subtly adding to the history of this place. Nearby, you can also find the nationally designated historic site, Hotta-no-saku Ruins (remains of an ancient castle). Why not come to Akita this autumn and trace its history?

This is Kokia at Hitachi Seaside Park. In autumn, the red Kokia spreads across the hills, moving those who see it.

It has become cold. Lake Kawaguchi continues to experience autumn rain. In between, we can also see such a beautiful sunrise.

Yamanashi Prefecture – Fuefukigawa Fruit Park. I visited with my daughter to enjoy the Shine Muscat parfait. The wind was gently flowing.

The torii gate serves as a barrier between the human world and the realm of the gods. "The autumn leaves in the back seem like a different world"—I suddenly felt that presence. Location: Nezu Museum, Tokyo Metropolis

Announcement from Taiyo-no-Oka Engaru Park Cosmos Garden The cosmos season has arrived. Currently, about 70% of the cosmos garden is filled with a mixture of pink, red, and white native varieties, while yellow cosmos are in full bloom and flowering is progressing day by day. On Sunday, September 6th, the "Taiyo-no-Oka Cosmos Festa" will be held. This event features dance teams from within and outside the town in the "Cosmos Dance Festa," stage shows, and inflatable attractions, allowing families to enjoy while appreciating the cosmos. Come and see the beautifully blooming cosmos under the Okhotsk Blue sky! Address: Maru-O, Engaru Town, Monbetsu District, Hokkaido Phone Number: 0158-42-0488 Opening Hours: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM Admission Fee: <Individual> Adults (high school students and above) 600 yen, Children (elementary and junior high school students) 300 yen <Group> *For groups of 10 or more Adults (high school students and above) 500 yen, Children (elementary and junior high school students) 200 yen Parking: 300 spaces (free)

This is a scene from Nasumachi, Tochigi Prefecture. A mother and daughter walk hand in hand along a path surrounded by colorful trees. Leaves are scattered at their feet, and vibrant flowers line both sides of the road. There's nothing particularly special about it, but the time spent walking together will become precious memories when looked back on someday. This captures a day in autumn.

Under the golden ginkgo tree, my daughter spread her arms wide. The grounds of Iouin in Okegawa City, Saitama Prefecture, evoke a sense of history, surrounded by ginkgo leaves covering the ground. The beauty of autumn, cherished by the Japanese for generations, intertwines with the innocent figure of a child living in the present. It is a scene of autumn in Japan that I want to cherish forever.

Location: Former Ikeda Family Gardens, Daisen City, Akita Prefecture The Former Ikeda Family Gardens in Daisen City, Akita Prefecture, were the residence of the area's major landowner, the Ikeda family. The Western-style building within the gardens is designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan. The wet reds and greens quietly stand out, adding a gentle touch to the history of this place. Nearby, you can also find the nationally designated historic site, Hotta-no-Saku Ruins (remains of an ancient castle). This autumn, why not come to Akita and trace its history?