紅葉

• Reading: こうよう
• Romaji: kouyou
• Kanji breakdown: 紅 (kou/kurenai) — crimson, red | 葉 (you/ha) — leaf
• Pronunciation: /koː.joː/

Meaning

Autumn leaves; fall foliage; the seasonal reddening and yellowing of deciduous leaves.

A noun central to Japanese aesthetics and culture. 紅葉 describes the transformation of deciduous foliage into vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows. 紅葉狩り (autumn leaf viewing) is a traditional activity comparable in cultural weight to cherry blossom viewing (花見). Famous spots include Kyoto's Tofukuji and Nikko's shrines. Note: when reading こうよう it refers to the phenomenon; もみじ refers specifically to maple leaves.

Examples

1. 京都の寺院では紅葉が見頃を迎え、多くの観光客が訪れていた。 The autumn foliage at Kyoto's temples reached its peak, drawing many tourists.
2. 山の紅葉は里より早く始まり、色づいた木々が斜面を染め上げていた。 The colours in the mountain foliage begin earlier than in the lowlands, dyeing the slopes with vivid hues.
3. 今年の紅葉は雨が少なかったせいか、例年より鮮やかだという。 Perhaps due to the low rainfall this year, the autumn colours are said to be more vivid than usual.

Usage Guide

Context: tourism, haiku, seasonal traditions, travel writing

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

Compound of 紅 (kou/kurenai, 'crimson, red') and 葉 (you/ha, 'leaf'). The character 紅 specifically denotes deep red, capturing the most vivid aspect of autumn colour change.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical–Modern

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal