The State of the Maple

You might as well add another quirk to the below list - obsession with seasonal festivals and the pursuit of perfection. When the cherry blossoms came out this year, and the prime viewing times were marred by rain or wind, I howled in disappointment. I tried to attend every fireworks display during Hanabi season in summer and just ended up exhausted, feverish and anxious.

So when whispers of "Momijigari" (autumn leaves viewing) started way back in October, my ears pricked up and I left no stone unturned seeking all the best places to see them in and around Tokyo. Witnessing the incredible display in Nikko was not enough. I wanted more. I needed more.

I set out on all the picture-perfect days to see magical displays of scarlet (don't try telling me the yellow trees signify autumn as well - I simply won't listen), but one thing became annoyingly clear...

...the Maples have not conformed to the Japanese ideal of always being on time. Hrmph. They call themselves Japanese Maples! I think not. They are TWO weeks tardy according to the japanese almanac. Not. good. enough.

So to assuage my feelings of betrayal, I have charted, in photos, the Maple's progress throughout Tokyo, showcasing various parks, temples and shrines. Stay tuned for the next instalment of...

The State of the Maple.