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What is momijigari? Explaining its meaning and origin
Like cherry blossom viewing, viewing autumn leaves is a seasonal tradition in Japan, but do you know why viewing autumn leaves is called "momijigari" in the first place?
From here, we will explain the meaning and origin of momijigari.
The meaning of autumn leaf viewing
Momijigari means enjoying the autumn leaves.
When you hear the word "hunting," you probably imagine catching animals or picking fruit. However, autumn leaf hunting does not involve picking or gathering autumn leaves.
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It is pronounced "momijigari." Autumn leaves can also be pronounced "kouyou," but when writing "momijigari," it is not pronounced "kouyougari."
History and origins of autumn leaf viewing
"Why is it called momijigari, even though people don't actually hunt for autumn leaves?" There are several theories on the answer, but its roots can be traced back to the Heian period.
At that time, the Heian aristocrats did not think walking was a good idea, so they used oxcarts when going out. However, many of the places where autumn leaves could be seen were in mountainous areas, and the roads were not maintained like they are today, so it was difficult to enjoy the autumn leaves from an oxcart.
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So people thought that there would be no problem with walking if they went for hunting, such as falconry, which was enjoyed by the nobility, and as a way to go and view the autumn leaves without compromising dignity, going out to view the autumn leaves came to be called "momijigari."
Autumn leaf viewing became a custom among aristocrats during the Heian period, and it seems to have spread among common people during the Edo period.
There are other theories about the origin of the word momijigari, such as the following:
- The search for autumn leaves was likened to hunting, where you chase prey.
- The act of appreciating and feeling the seasonal blessings of nature is broadly likened to hunting (shellfish gathering, mushroom gathering, firefly gathering, etc.)
- They hunted and collected trees and branches, and actually held the leaves in their hands to admire them.
The desire to appreciate beautiful things seems to have remained unchanged from the Heian period to the present day.
How to enjoy autumn leaves
There are many ways to enjoy autumn leaves.
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For active people, outdoor activities such as mountain climbing, hiking, and camping are perfect. The weather during the autumn foliage season is pleasant, so you can enjoy the autumn leaves while being active.
You may feel sweaty during the day, but the temperature fluctuates and it can get chilly in the evenings and at night, so don't forget to bring a jacket or scarf to put on.
Another autumn-only travel style is to enjoy the collaboration between historic shrines and temples and the autumn leaves, or to visit hot springs in the mountains and other sightseeing spots.
Not only can you walk around the area, but you can also enjoy the autumn leaves from a car, train, or boat, or view the entire mountain from a ropeway or airplane. Enjoy the scenery, created by nature, where no two colors are the same, in a way that suits your taste.
In addition to going on a trip, it's also nice to have a takeout picnic lunch at a cafe or a nearby park where you can enjoy the autumn leaves.
As you can see, there are many different ways to enjoy viewing the autumn leaves, so enjoy heading out to a spot that suits your purpose.
Autumn leaves have fascinated Japanese people since the Heian period. There are many autumn foliage spots across the country where you can see breathtaking views.
Enjoy autumn to the fullest by viewing the autumn leaves in a way that suits your travel style.
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The contents published are accurate at the time of publication and are subject to change.
