I visited the zelkova tree-lined avenue in front of Fuchu Station a little earlier than the peak autumn foliage season. The leaves had just begun to turn a faint reddish-yellow, but it was a truly captivating sight. These zelkova trees in front of Fuchu Station have a very deep history. Starting with Minamoto no Yoriyoshi in 1062, Tokugawa Ieyasu replanted zelkova saplings, and several from that early Edo period still remain today. They were designated a National Natural Monument in 1924 (the only zelkova tree-lined avenue designated as such in Japan). There aren't many spots in the city where you can enjoy such dynamic and beautiful autumn foliage, so if you're ever near Fuchu, be sure to take a stroll along the zelkova tree-lined avenue!
Zelkova Tree-Lined Street
