What is Momijigari (Autumn Leaf Viewing)? Meaning, Origins, and How to Enjoy It
Why is autumn leaf viewing called 'Momijigari' (literally 'maple hunting'), even though we don't eat them?
What is the meaning and origin of this term?
What is it called in English?
In this article, I will explain the meaning of Momijigari and how to enjoy it in various situations.
The Meaning of Momijigari
Momijigari means going out into the fields and mountains to enjoy the autumn leaves. It is read as
momijigari.
Please note that it is not originally read as koyogari. While 'koyo' is a valid reading for 'autumn leaves' on its own, when 'gari' (hunting) is added to the end, it becomes
momijigari.
It is a term that has existed for a long time, appearing even in tanka poetry from the Kamakura period.
Even though it is called 'hunting,' you don't actually go around snapping branches off.
The key point is going out into the fields and mountains.
What is it called in English?
In Europe, due to the types of trees and the climate, there are few autumn leaves that turn bright red (the image is more of them turning brown and withering), so there isn't really a custom of going out specifically to see autumn leaves.
Therefore, there is no fixed phrase for it, and people simply say things like 'maple viewing' to mean 'going to see [something].'
So, there is no fixed phrase, and people simply say things like ' maple viewing' to mean 'going to see [something].'
For the [something] part, there are also expressions like ' fall colors' or ' autumn leaves.'
Why is it called 'hunting'? The origin of the word
As for why it is called hunting, it is because 'venturing into the fields and mountains to search for the blessings of the season' was broadly called hunting.
This includes things like clam digging, mushroom hunting, and firefly hunting.
In the Heian period, there was also the term ' sakura-gari (cherry blossom hunting)' (in the Utsuho Monogatari).
At that time, there were no Somei Yoshino cherry trees, only wild mountain cherry trees. When venturing into the fields and mountains to search for things in nature, it was ' hunting.'
In the case of cherry blossoms, when people began to admire trees cultivated in human settlements, the term changed to ' hanami (flower viewing).'
In other words, Momijigari can be said to be an event where one enjoys nature just as it is.
Let's take a look at how to enjoy Momijigari in different situations!
Enjoying autumn leaves that shine in the beauty of a valley
Among plants that turn color in autumn, maples prefer places that are not too dry.
The area along a valley is the perfect environment.
The coloring also improves at angles with good sunlight.
The sight of branches spreading wide over a gently flowing mountain stream is one of the typical beauties of autumn leaves.
Since many famous spots have well-maintained walking paths, you might be able to discover your own unique composition.
Touching the Japanese spirit of autumn leaves at temples, shrines, and gardens
The autumn leaves in a garden are also beautiful.
The sight of maple trees coloring in harmony with their surroundings in a space that is meticulously cared for evokes a sense of Japanese aesthetic beauty.
During the autumn leaf season, some gardens hold special viewings or have nighttime illuminations, so those are great times to visit.
Visiting first thing in the morning to experience the crisp air is also wonderful.
Relax in a hot spring near a famous autumn leaf viewing spot
Hot springs and autumn leaves... what a luxury.
An open-air bath would surely provide the best time.
In a season when the air turns chilly, a warm hot spring is sure to soothe your daily stress.
Since there are many holidays during this time, it would be fun to start planning your trip now.
For the active type, go autumn leaf viewing while hiking
If you are lucky with the timing, the autumn leaves you see in the mountains can be a breathtaking sight you will never forget.
While maples and ginkgo trees are typical for autumn colors in lowlands, high mountains feature Japanese rowan (red), Erman's birch (yellow), and Japanese lacquer trees (red). Another characteristic is that the season arrives earlier.
Autumn leaf picnic in the park
Local parks are the best for casual outings, as you can aim for the best timing and choose a day with good weather.
There are often ginkgo-lined streets as well.
City parks are also attractive because they can be reached by public transportation. We also recommend getting takeout lunch from a nearby cafe or bakery.
It might also be nice to visit one of the 17 national parks across the country.
They are spacious and feature well-maintained seasonal flowers.
Let's enjoy the autumn plants along with the autumn leaves.