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Coming from a place that has eternal summer, the four distinct seasons in Japan are always an excuse for me to get out for a day and bask in the beauty of nature. Autumn arrived with its rich colors this year and without fail Kyushu University organized an autumn leaves viewing trip to Mount Raizan and to Shiraito waterfalls in the beautiful Ito area. Though it was my second time here, it never ceases to amaze me. The waterfalls also provided us with an excellent photo op and if you are looking for a spot to unwind and relax after a long week of hard work, now you know where to go.
 
Our next stop was at the Buddhist temple on Mount Raizan known as Raizan Sennyoji Daihioin Temple. The monks were extremely kind and provided us with a prayer service and the whole effect was ethereal. The huge wooden Buddha with his tranquil smile and thousand hands and the added effect of the chatting and drums made it a very mystical experience. The foliage on the 400-year-old giant maple (which is a Municipal Designated Natural Monument) was spectacular. Now I know why autumn leaves viewing are so popular here, it is breathtakingly beautiful. We understood the history of the place and also enjoyed its beauty.
 
The cheery blossoms have flown away and the autumn leaves are coming to pass. What’s next? Hopefully it snows this year during winter. And if all things go right, looking forward to my next visit to Mount Raizan again next year.
 
 By Iswarya (Civil Engineering)