The Oyada Maple Valley in Mino City is considered one of the best locations in Gifu to appreciate the beautiful autumn leaves. The viewing of Autumn leaves in Japan is called momijigari (紅葉狩り), and is an annual event in which thousands of people visit locations all over Japan seeking out the best spots to see the spectacular colours. This time of the year almost rivals the famous cherry blossom season in spring and is very beautiful.
Oyada Shrine is surrounded by around 3,000 Japanese maple trees (yama momiji) that set the valley around the shrine ablaze in Autumn with brilliant colours. The area is filled with vermillion reds, apricot oranges and golden yellows of the season. Some of the trees are more than 1000 years old. The contrast between the colourful leaves and the traditional carvings of the shrine is magnificent and make this place a sight not to be missed during the fall season in Japan.
There is also a festival vibe to the area during the season with many local food vendors selling all types of festival food and local Gohei-mochi.
The Oyada Maple Valley was designated a National Natural Monument of Japan in 1930.
The Autumn colours are usually at their best in mid to late November.
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| Oyada Maple Valley in Mino |
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| The Starting Point at the Entrance to the Shrine |
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| Stone Lantern at Oyada Shrine |
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| The Main Shrine Entrance |
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| Komainu at Oyada Shrine |
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| Autumn Leaves at Oyada Shrine |
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| Food Vendors at Oyada Shrine |
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| More Food Vendors at Oyada Shrine |
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| The Steep path to the Main Shrine at the Top |
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| Autumn Leaves around one of the smaller Shrines |
Access:
The valley is tucked away in a rural part of Mino City with parking available for cars. Parking is 300 yen. Public Transportation is also available with buses from Mino Station. Take the Gifu Bus on the Takami Line (高美線) to Oyada Jinja Mae bus stop (大矢田神社前) which is a 30 minute bus ride.
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