One of Kumamoto City's best - and most unexpected - spots for fall foliage is the plaza in front of the prefectural office. Lined with rows of golden-leafed gingko trees, the vibrant colors draw families and photographers alike during the day. On most nights throughout the month of November, the leaves are illuminated late into the evening as well. With few crowds and free parking, it feels like an autumn escape in the middle of the city.
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Autumn Illumination in Kumamoto
One of the city's best-kept foliage secrets

By Mandy Bartok
Community writer

The plaza at Kumamoto's prefectural office is illuminated during the month of November

Gingko leaves litter the ground there

A gingko tree on the plaza looks ethereal in the evening light

The trees are an impressive sight during the day as well ...

... but a recent rainstorm caused many of the leaves to fall.

The best time for viewing the gingkos would be in the third and fourth weeks of November
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