Momijidani Park is one of the most famous spots in Japan for autumn foliage. Located off the coast of Hiroshima on the small island of Miyajima, the park is a must for fall fans in the Chugoku region.
The park lies at the foot of Mount Misen, a revered site in Japanese Buddhism and part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Itsukushima Shrine. Momijidani Park has been in use since the Edo Period when the original maple saplings were planted there. Tragedy nearly struck in 1945 when a powerful typhoon devastated the area. Although few of the trees were cut down, the landscape has since become a carefully manicured space to preserve its natural beauty.
Momijidani Park
Photo by: PIXTA/ kohei Ito Home to over 700 maple trees.
Momijidani Park is home to over 700 maple trees. There are several species of maple trees with iroha maples being the most dominant at over 500 trees. Mono maples number about 100 and first change to a yellowy-orange before turning vibrant red. Urihada maples are relatively small and with leaves which become yellow in the autumn.
Momijidani Bridge is at the eastern end of the park. Although the vermillion walkway is beautiful in any season, it’s a wonderful compliment to the surrounding maples come November when the leaves begin to change. Feel the power of Mijajima’s maples overhead as they canopy your walk across the gorge. But, be sure to look at Momijidani Bridge from either side at a distance and take in the brilliant bridge, the reds and yellows and the gorge beneath. The contrasting colors make for a breathtaking scene.
Miyajima Ropeway
Past Momijidani Bridge on the east end of the island, you can take a ride on the Miyajima Ropeway. Make your way up Mount Misen via several ropeway cars. At Kayatani station, you’ll have incredible views of the autumn foliage, the island’s landscape and Honshu in the distance.
Momiji Manju
Photo by: PIXTA/ yusuke-k A tasty souvenir.
One of Hiroshima’s most popular omiyage (souvenirs) is momiji manju, a Japanese sweet shaped like a maple leaf and filled with red bean paste. Created at the beginning of the 20th century by a local sweets chef, momiji manju were first sold at a local ryokan (traditional Japanese inn) on the island to honor its reputation as a famed destination in fall. Pick some up and enjoy them under some maples in Momijidani Park.
