Visit Wakayama

Negoroji Temple is known for a number of important cultural properties including Daito, the largest wooden pagoda in Japan and designated National Treasure, Daidenpodo hall and Daishido hall. The temple is also famous for the botanical beauty in every season, including cherry blossoms in spring and lotus flowers in early summer. Foliage season typically peaks from mid-November to early December, when the whole scene turns shades of gold and orange in brilliant contrast to the vermillion Daito pagoda and the Main Hall. A popular walking spot within the grounds is the Japanese garden in Momijidani (maple valley), which produces stunning color at this time of year. The views from the bridge are second to none. As the mountains behind the temple turn a shade of red and yellow too, the whole temple appears to be in the grip of an autumn foliage wave.

Tamagawa-kyo Gorge is known for its unique beauty, created by waterfalls large and small such as Mitsu Falls and Niyu Falls, as well as strange rocks such as Kame-ishi (Turtle Rock) and Sarutobi-ishi (Flying Monkey Rock). The gorge is on the Nyu River, which flows down from one of the Three Mountains of Koya (Koya Sanzan), Mt. Mani, and is designated as a Prefectural Place of Scenic Beauty. Amazing views are to be found in all seasons, whether it is the cherry blossoms, the bright green foliage of spring, the fireflies of summer or the snowscapes of winter. Typically from early to mid-November, the maples, ivy and lacquer trees begin to color and in this season, the whole valley turns shades of red and gold. On a refreshing hike immersed in natural negative ions, take in the palette of bizarre rocks, waterfalls and vivid foliage, also reflected in the river’s surface. Route 371, which follows the river, is dotted with hot springs, giving you an opportunity to soak in a steaming tub as you gaze into the distance.

From late October to mid-November every year, the gardens of temples, shrines and inns of that sanctuary in the sky, Koyasan, are immersed in autumnal hues. The changing leaves across the area bathe the historic structures and streets of the town in color. One of the most spectacular places to view the leaves is the Danjo Garan Sacred Temple Complex, one of two such complexes in Koyasan. Against the backdrop of the vermillion Konpon Daito pagoda, the maple leaves form layer upon layer of stunning color. The foliage can also be enjoyed at the Main Gate and gardens of Kongobuji Temple, the head temple of Koyasan Shingon Buddhism. The view from the Banryutei Rock Garden in particular is a sight for sore eyes. The Jabara-michi (Dragon’s Belly Path) leading from Kongobuji Temple to the Danjo Garan Sacred Temple Complex forms a tunnel of autumn foliage and during this period, it is illuminated at night – an experience not to be missed.

This giant tree of around 400 years of age towers over the grounds of Hosen-ji Temple. Also known as the Senbon Ichou (“thousand gingko”) due to the way its branches extend in all directions, the tree is designated as a Natural Monument by Tanabe City. During the autumn foliage season from late November to early December, this 22-meter high, 6-meter round giant gingko attracts worshippers for its vivid golden display. The fallen leaves cover the ground in a yellow carpet that makes a mystical, dream-like sight. Due to its location on the Nakahechi route of the Kumano Trail, it is also a popular stop for pilgrims to view the foliage. The towering golden tree can also be viewed from afar, due to the absence of tall structures and rural aspect of the surrounding area.  

This large gingko tree estimated at 400 years of age grows on the grounds of Kosenji Temple, set atop a small hill against a mountainous backdrop. This monster is 30 meters tall with a circumference of 6 meters, but it is the distinctive knobs that grow from its thick branches which set this tree apart. Folklore has it that during the Edo period (late 18th century), a doctor named Kusaka Shunsai stopped the tree from being logged after the spirit of the gingko came to him in a dream. The village then enjoyed bumper crops and knobs resembling mothers’ bosoms grew on the tree. As more and more worshippers came to make prayers to the tree for safe childbirth, it came to be called “Kosenji Temple’s Child-Giving Gingko Tree”. Come the autumn, the coverage of golden leaves across the branches and on the ground beneath inspires a sense of blessing. Make this spiritual power spot your next foliage destination.