The changing of the autumn leaves is possibly more anticipated than cherry blossom season...

We were both a little early and a little late to see the height of the spectacle however both my visits to Miyotaki Temple (of course famous for its autumn display) were very peaceful. The temple gardens wind their way up the side of a mountain, shaded entirely with Japanese maples that give the place a red glow as the sun shines through.

In my opinion this is by far my most 'Japanese' experience to date as it is has managed to retain the old style culture, complete with real monks sweeping the paths and ramshackle tea-room. It is nice to finally see somewhere that has resisted the modernization that has so ruined many other places.