VIDEO| Don’t miss Lake Kawaguchiko’s fantastic fall foliage festival, illuminations

We have now entered one of Japan’s most beautiful seasons – fall. All around us the green forests, mountains and landscape transform into fiery crimson and orange hues throughout the month of November.

If you still haven’t made a daytrip to check out the vivid colors, heading to the Fuji Five Lakes in Yamanashi Pref. might be a great option you and your entire group will enjoy.

Fuji Kawaguchiko Town is only about a two-hour drive from most U.S. military bases in the Kanto Plain. This year its annual Momiji Matsuri, an autumn foliage festival, is back on until Nov. 23.

Momiji Kairo, or autumn foliage promenade, along with around 400-500 maple trees along Lake Kawaguchiko all in autumn colors are illuminated from 4:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. every night during the period allowing for great night views of Mt. Fuji and the colors of the season. Enjoy dozens of food and game booths selling local produce and other products as you enjoy the gorgeous, illuminated fall foliage.

Closeby, Fuji Sengen Jinja is one of the most majestic Shinto shrines in the area. The large Torii gate and traditional shrine buildings surrounded by gigantic cedar and gingko trees will overwhelm you. If you’re lucky, you will come across children in kimono dress with their parents visiting the shrine for their Shichigosan or 7-5-3 celebration.

Fuji-Kawaguchiko Momiji Matsuri (autumn foliage festival)
Period: Until Nov. 23, 9 a.m. – 7 p.m. (the Momiji Corridor is lit up until 10 p.m.)
Location: Around Nashikawa River, Lake Kawaguchi, Fuji Kawaguchiko Town, Yamanashi Pref.
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