Today we decided to head out to a popular spot for taking in the vibrant colors of fall before it turns into the grays of winter. Korankei Gorge is about an hour away by bus from Okazaki in the town of Asuke. With Japanese maple trees in abundance, the area comes to life in shades of red, yellow, and orange. At night the gorge is lit up and the mountain literally glows with color. Coming from a place with a pretty mild climate, seeing the leaves change is quite a site.
From far out it looks kind of underwhelming, but this place delivers the goods once you cross the river.
So much color everywhere you look. On a clear day like today, the sunlight fully saturates the leaves.
Even looking up, various hues mix in with blue sky.
Some close-ups of the leaves verify their authenticity.
Today marks the official viewing season’s second to last day. The popular viewing spots still gather crowds, including tour groups.
Heading down the river bank towards the shop plaza, we find a chestnut vendor. So it’s time for a small snack.
With snack time over, we head up the mountain to a temple.
Around back, torii gates lead us up a mountain path.
The views start opening up over the temple, and misplaced palm trees make an appearance.
Ojizousama statues enjoy their time under the fall leaves.
Further into the forest, the contrast between the light of the leaves and dimness of the forest really shows.
Finally we reach the top. We also realize that there is an “easier” path up the front side of the mountain instead of the temple side. Several ladies in high heels made it up using the gentler path.
After hiking back down we head back across the river to explore and wait for nightfall.
At night the mountain side takes on a new appearance.
Korankei Gorge is definitely one of the best places to see the beauty of fall. Next year, I will make the trip again if I get a chance .