An unusually warm autumn resulted in a later-than-normal foliage season. The following photos were all taken in mid-December.
Ginkgo trees are the standard throughout Tokyo. Their bright-yellow leaves dominate the city.
However, the fiery-red leaves of the maple trees stand out in the crowd.
A field of Bonsai trees creates this juxtaposition with the Tokyo skyline.
The Imperial Palace in the heart of Tokyo brings all the colors of autumn together for a spectacular show.
Tokyo is also known for lights at Christmas time.
Displays range from the traditional…
…to modern…
… or very modern.
Lights can be very simple and elegant…
… or put on a show to music.
This Baccarat chandelier is 5 x 3 meters (16 ½ x 10’) – making it one of the largest chandeliers in the world.
This German-style Christmas market, complete with bier and glühwein, features the world’s-largest ‘Christmas pyramid’ imported from Dresden (it’s 14 meters, or 46 feet tall).
This hotel captures the holiday spirit in a very simple, can’t-miss, fashion.
One important note: Christmas is NOT a national holiday in Japan. It’s a regular work day. Offices are open, mail is delivered, etc.
But the western influence is unmistakable. The light displays and decorations clearly draw attention, and big crowds.
Yes, Christmas trees for the home can be found. Prices range from 12,000 – 35,000 Yen ($100 – $300 USD).
And yes, Santa is here as well.
But one of the biggest surprises about Christmas in Japan centers on KFC (Kentucky Fried Chicken for us old-timers).
Some 40 years ago, Americans living in Japan went in search of a turkey substitute at Christmas and landed at KFC.
The clever marketing folks at KFC capitalized the idea with the slogan Kurisumasu ni wa kentakkii! (Kentucky for Christmas!).
Many Japanese people now think that Americans eat KFC at Christmas.
Additionally, they also think Americans polish-off their KFC with Strawberry cake (prices here range from 2,700 – 4,700 Yen, or $22 – $39 USD).
Convenience stores are well stocked (note: the previous KFC and cake photos were all taken on Christmas day).
Kayla and Nana arrived in time to celebrate here in Tokyo. Merry Christmas to all. ts
Ukrainian Tom 