Cold strong wind buffeted our faces. I carefully scrutinized the bus schedule plastered on the pole by the bus stop, counting down the minutes where I can feel warmth once again. In the distance, I saw the bright lights of a green bus, a clear indication that refuge from the chilly cold win was finally in sight.
The bus travelled quick cutting the crisp cold air in high speed. Behind us, the silhouette of Mount Fuji grew smaller until it disappeared into the night. Within 15 minutes, we stepped off the bus, and were instantly enthralled to the smell of grilled squid in the air and the sound of wood crackling in the fire. We found ourselves surrounded by humble Japanese stalls selling snacks, ceramics and handicrafts. Feeling peckish, we ordered some roasted sweet potatoes and sat by a huge bonfire to warm ourselves. With one hand tucked in my jacket, and a scarf twirled 2 layers around my neck, I savoured every morsel of the piping hot potatoes sending wisps of steam into the cold thin air with every bite.
Turning a corner, we came face to face with a sight that I would never forget for as long as I lived. Jaws dropped, we found ourselves looking at an alley filled with maple trees illuminated in a glow of orange and pink light. We have travelled more than 15 hours for this piece of paradise, the famous “Momiji Corridor” of Fujikawaguchiko. There are times where one has such high expectations and anticipation of a place that it can swiftly turn into disappointment when faced with the reality. For me, this was one of those rare times where I was completely overwhelmed with emotions. The maple trees were dressed in full autumn colours and were about to put on the most unforgettable light show just for the both us.
It was an unforgettably romantic stroll as we were surrounded by the multi-coloured autumn foliage. Above us, around us and underneath us were all different shades of red, brown, orange and yellow maple tree leaves. Here, you slipped into the awe of mother nature and forgot about the passing of time.
The world seemed to have halted to a still. This was truly a day I would never forget in this life.
