The Autumn equinox heralds the arrival of Fall in the northern hemisphere, a season of crisp weather that transforms foliage from green to a vibrant orange, leading to perhaps one of the most beautiful synchronized show of colors in nature. Where I grew up, seasons like these didn't really exist; it was either hot and humid summers or a mildly warm winter. And hence, when I first encountered these autumnal colors (in the hilly Appalachians), I could not help but stare in wonder at it.

Since then, I look forward to fall every year. Despite the fact that it heralds the upcoming dreary winter (in the Pacific Northwest), I try to make the most of the short time when nature puts out her best colors. One such place where I seek these colors out are the Japanese Gardens in the PNW. The combination of the beautiful aesthetics, along with a microclimate that mirrors Japan, these gardens are a visual spectacle in autumn. This composition reflects the contorted trunk of a dwarf Japanese maple tree that attracts thousands to the Portland Japanese Gardens

Portland
OR USA