The Japanese term “momijigari” will help us get into the autumn mood more easily

Sure, autumn has its downsides – the days are gradually getting shorter and sunny afternoons after the office are becoming rarer – but it also has a lot of upside.

There’s a reason so many people love fall. New series and movies, the return of the latte, the countdown to Christmas, there’s a lot to enjoy this season.

As tempting as it may be to curl up on the couch as the temperature drops, getting outside in nature is the best way to truly appreciate fall in all its magic.

The Japanese term “momjigari” it’s a great way to enjoy all the beauty this season has to offer.

What is momijigari?

Momijigari is a combination of the words momiji – meaning “red leaves” or “maple tree” – and gari – meaning “hunting”.

The term refers to a long-standing Japanese tradition in which people travel to specific hills, valleys and forests to get a taste of the country’s autumn leaves and appreciate the changing seasons.

There’s even a special annual fall foliage forecast that shows where the most colorful spots will be that year, so people can plan their search.

Where does momijigari come from?

There are many theories about the origin of momijigari, with some suggesting that it dates back to the period 710-794 CE, a time when many waka (a type of poem in Japanese classical literature) were created about autumn foliage.

At that time – and throughout the period 794-1185 CE – the tradition was enjoyed by the aristocracy.

In fact, it wasn’t until the 18th century that people from all walks of life in Japan adopted the tradition and traveled to certain areas of the country to see the autumn leaves.

What can you do in Greece?

In Greece you can enjoy such walks in addition to the nearby parks and groves of Athens, in Parnitha, Parnassos, Ymittos. Outside the capital, you can visit the Foloi Forest, the only native broadleaf oak forest in the Balkans. A forest full of myths and traditions, it is a protected area of ​​the NATURA 2000 Network. It is located at an altitude of 688 m on Mount Foloi in Ilia and occupies an area of ​​33,000 acres.

The Rhodope Forest, with an area of ​​5,892 acres, is located at the northernmost end of the Greek part of the Rhodope mountain range, essentially forming part of the Fraktos Forest. This particular forest has been recognized as virgin in 1979 and since 1980 it has been declared a “Preservable Natural Monument”. It is under special protection due to its great phytogeographical, ecological and historical value. Looking at pictures from there you think they are actually paintings.

One of the cleanest rivers in Europe, the Voidomatis, runs in the Vikos – Aou National Park. It includes many virgin and protected forests with many varieties of trees and plants. In Stenis Forest in Evia you will see plane trees, chestnuts, oaks, firs and dozens of other plants and trees in an area of ​​500 hectares. A nearby and truly fairytale destination that you can explore at any time. Ideal in autumn and spring when nature rages with colors and sounds.

Further north, Scra Lake in Kilkis Forest, a lush green forest, waterfalls and a small blue lake. The lake and waterfalls take their name from the village of Skra, located to the north. Don’t miss to walk the paths and be the protagonist of your own exploration in the forest.

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