On November 18th, the beginning of the autumn leaves season, a crisp autumn sky spread across Kyoto City. Tourist attractions throughout the city were painted red and yellow and crowded with tourists.

At Tofukuji Temple in Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto City, about 2,000 maple trees are in full bloom. Visitors strolled through the brightly colored temple grounds, slowly making their way over the Tsutenkyo Bridge over the valley, and marveling at the gradations of crimson and yellow that spread out below them. A 77-year-old man from Tokoname City, Aichi Prefecture, was fascinated by the view and said, ''The sight that spreads out like a sea of clouds is spectacular.The harmony between the autumn leaves and the buildings is also beautiful.''