Experiences – Life – Inspiration 🇨🇭🇯🇵

As the air turns crisp and the mountains begin to glow in gold and crimson, I find myself once again chasing Japan’s autumn colors — this time, from above.

This is my third fall in Japan, and the anticipation has become almost ritual. Every year, I start calculating when and where the leaves will turn, not just in terms of timing but geography. Unlike back in Europe, autumn in Japan unfolds gradually — from the northern peaks of Hokkaido down to the southern valleys of Kyushu — each region painting its own palette of red and yellow at its own pace.

With droning becoming my favorite way to experience the seasons, I’ve added a whole new dimension to this annual tradition. It’s no longer just about visiting maple valleys on foot — it’s about finding those breathtaking spots where I can send my drone soaring through waves of color, capturing Japan’s foliage from the air.

Last year, I wasn’t yet confident enough to fly far over remote areas, and my drone at the time didn’t have the range or stability for the kind of shots I envisioned. But this year is different. I’ve mastered the DJI Avata 2 FPV drone — agile, stable, and exhilarating to fly — and recently equipped it with the DJI Osmo 360 camera. The combination lets me film Japan’s fall landscapes in a completely immersive way.

As the season progresses, I’ll be keeping an eye on this foliage forecast to decide where and when to drive next. The beauty of Japan’s autumn never repeats itself — each year feels new, each mountain a fresh canvas of red and gold waiting to be discovered.