Kyoto

Autumn along Biwako Canal

Enjoy the colorful leaves as you walk the canal path

Cathy Cawood Nov 29, 2014 - 1 min read

<p>A thick mossy branch against a glorious background of red maple leaves</p>

<p>Maple trees border the canal where it emerges from the mountains between Lake Biwa and Kyoto</p>

<p>Orange maple leaves against a green background</p>

<p>Sadly some of the maple trees on this bank have died, and there are gaps in the color</p>

<p>A persimmon tree laden with fruit</p>

<p>The canal path near Yamashina Station</p>

<p>Two red maples flank the gates of beautiful Japanese garden, Itto-en, which is definitely worth visiting if you have time</p>

<p>There are often old men fishing here during summer, always accompanied by cats hoping for a snack</p>

<p>The canal passes through a tunnel into a pond with a large and splendid maple tree</p>

<p>The leaves are just beginning to turn in this photo</p>

<p>Yellow gingko leaves over the path</p>

<p>This bridge to Honkoku Temple crosses the canal</p>

<p>View across Yamashina with JR Line in the foreground  </p>

<p>Warm color reflected on the surface of the canal  </p>

<p>The setting sun appears to be tangled in the branches of this maple tree  </p>

The same canal in Yamashina that has stunning scenes of sakura and yellow canola blossom blooming together in spring is also a great place to enjoy autumn scenery. The orange of the cherry trees and the varied reds of maples create a rich tapestry of warm color that is reflected on the canal surface. My favorite spots are the red bridge that leads to Honkoku-ji and the area just before the canal emerges from the tunnel through the mountains between Lake Biwa and Yamashina. In that place the steep banks are planted with large maples that turn brilliant scarlet.

Cathy Cawood @cathy.cawood

I came to Japan in 2003 to teach English. I lived in Shiga prefecture for 1 year, and it still holds a special place in my heart. I lived in Kyoto for 9 years, then moved to Machida, Tokyo in 2014 after meeting my Japanese partner. I love to take photos, and my Japan in Pictures Facebook page ha...