Autumn leaves in Japan gradually move south, starting with Daisetsuzan in Hokkaido, which begins in mid-September.  The transition of the best time to see the autumn leaves is called the “autumn leaves front” as opposed to the “cherry blossom front” in spring.  There are three types of autumn leaves: red autumn leaves, yellow autumn leaves, and brown autumn leaves, but they are collectively called autumn leaves. Many wild grasses also turn red and are called “grass autumn leaves”. All are defense systems to protect the declining leaves.  The autumn colors of Japan are the most beautiful in the world, and many tourists come from abroad during this period. But due to the influence of the new corona, we can hardly expect it this year.  Ironically, this year’s autumn leaves are going to be more beautiful than usual.

日本の紅葉は、９月半ばから始まる北海道の大雪山を皮切りに、徐々に南下します。紅葉の見頃の移り変わりを、春の「桜前線」に対して「紅葉前線」と呼んでいます。紅葉には、赤紅葉、黄紅葉、褐紅葉の３種類がありますが、ひとまとめに単に紅葉と言っています。野草も多くが色づき、「草紅葉」と呼んでいます。どれも、衰えてきた葉を守る為の防御システムです。日本の紅葉は世界でも最も美しく、外国からもこの時期多くの観光客が押し寄せますが、今年は新型コロナの影響で、ほとんど期待できせん。皮肉なことに、今年の紅葉は例年になく美しくなりそうです。