Spring may be famous for cherry blossom, but many Japanese people would argue that autumn is just as beautiful.

The season is known for momijigari, or "autumn leaf hunting", when people travel to admire the changing colours of the landscape. Brilliant red maples (momiji) and golden ginkgo (ichō) trees transform temple gardens, mountain valleys and city streets, while autumn colour forecasts are followed almost as closely as the sakura forecast in spring.

For many people, it's also one of the best times to visit an onsen. Sitting in an outdoor bath surrounded by fiery red maples or golden ginkgo leaves has become one of the classic images of Japanese bathing.

Like cherry blossom, autumn leaves are a reminder that the seasons are always changing. Rather than trying to hold on to them, Japanese culture encourages people to appreciate them while they last. Bathing outdoors during momijigari brings those two traditions together: hot water, crisp autumn air and some of the most spectacular scenery of the year.

Every season has its own bathing traditions.

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