One of the prettiest times of the year at Matsumoto Castle is finally here: at the end of October the trees start to paint the castle garden in the colors of autumn! So if you’re eager for some perfect photos at the castle, now is a great time.

As of yesterday (Oct. 24), some of the trees were already red and yellow, but many of them are still just showing the first hints of color, so I’m betting the castle park is going to grow more and more beautiful over the next several days.

As a little bonus, there is also a special Japanese doll display in the castle garden until November 5th. Every year, the large display depicts a historical/cultural scene from Matsumoto Castle’s past.