Up to this point, I thought the momiji was interesting and kind of cool, but I was not overly excited about it. But Kayo-san had showed me her pictures from Tofukuji and recommened that I go. I am really glad that I did. It was by far the best momiji I have seen this season, and now I am excited about next year exploring for more momiji. We were also very lucky with the weather as there was no rain for 3-4 days straight.
In this photo it looks as if the building is on fire, but it is only the harmless colorful leaves.
Tonight I met up with one of my UCLA friends, Kayo-san. She came down from Tokyo for a couple of days to see the momiji. I took the train to nearby Arashiyama to meet her and see the light of the momiji. (The previous weekend I had ridden my bike almost all the way to Arashiyama.)
Here are some photos from the light-up. With the low light the photos only came out so-so. It will be time for a new camera soon. Mine is around 5 years old, and I am sure the newer cameras must do better in lower light situations.