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The Splendours of Momiji

In Japan, maple trees are known as kaede (楓-"frog's hands"), as well as momiji (紅葉), which means both "become crimson leaves" and...
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In Japan, maple trees are known as kaede (楓-"frog's hands"), as well as momiji (紅葉), which means both "become crimson leaves" and "baby's hands". Momiji is commonly used as the term for autumn foliage in general in Japanese, but it is also used as a term for maple trees.

The activity of searching for the most striking shades of leaf is known as Momijigari (red leaf hunting) It has been popular in Japan for centuries and is now a major draw for tourists.

The tradition of momijigari has been popular since the Heian period (794-1195) and it has had a profound influence on Japanese culture. For Buddhists, it’s a moment which is important both spiritually and symbolically as it reminds us that life is ephemeral.

The maple leaf symbolizes fall in Japanese culture and its use is widespread. Momijigari features heavily In eighth-century Manyoshu poetry as well as the classical Heian Period novel ‘The Tale of the Genji’. It’s typical to find screens, dishes, kimonos, and other fabrics bearing the symbol of the maple leaf.

Maple-shaped cakes are typical during the fall and the leaves themselves are often eaten as tempura: a delicious, deep-fried, sweet snack. There are various variations of maple leaf tempura throughout the country and they are often accompanied by a cup of Japanese tea.
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