I was born and raised in Saigon, a land that has only two seasons rainy and sunny all year round, so I have never felt any obvious difference between the seasons, the humid heat of the summer, the flesh-slicing cold of winter, the pleasant coolness of autumn, as well as the warmth of spring until I set foot in Japan when I was 22 years old. It was around the middle of October, the fall in Japan. The temperature difference between the hot season in Saigon and cold season of the autumn in Japan took me 2 days to get used to the new environment. The first impression that I can never forget is that the scenery is so beautiful and impressed, the rows of yellow, red, and orange leaves blend together like paintings that I have seen somewhere in Vietnam. But that picture now in front of me was real, making me feel like I was dreaming. Sometimes the cool breeze blew, making me suddenly startle to continue watching the poetic and romantic autumn scenery. I felt so peaceful right now and became captivated by that scene, and could only say, “I surely come back to Japan in autumn again!”
After spending all four seasons in Japan, I realized that I still like autumn the most. I think this is the most pleasant season of the year. The dry leaves begin to fall. The gently falling leaves made my soul flutter. I really love the feeling of walking under the falling leaves; the sound of rustling every time I step on the fallen leaves is so interesting.
In this season, the trees begin turning vivid hues of red, orange, and yellow. It's this combination of cool weather and beautiful sights that make autumn a great season for traveling to Japan. The temperature is not too hot like summer, not too cold like winter, but has a stable temperature that is very suitable for outdoor activities and picnics. That’s why in Japan, when autumn comes, there are more festivals and events held than other seasons such as Momijigari translated to “Red leaves hunting”, Otsukimi festival translated to “Moon viewing festivals”, Zuiki Festival in Kyoto, Nihonmatsu Festival in Fukishima. Most other regions and cities have their own noteworthy festivals, such as the Autumn Festival in Toshogun Shrine, Gifu and the Ohara Festival in Kagoshima. These festivals provide a glimpse into Japan's rich history and long-lasting traditions. Besides, for me, experiencing the first autumn period in Japan is the best experience in my life. I will never forget the indescribable chilling feeling during that time. How about you? If you have a chance, please try to visit Japan in autumn, and I can assure you that autumn Japan will not disappoint you.
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