{"id":57311,"date":"2025-12-08T10:27:42","date_gmt":"2025-12-08T07:27:42","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blog.turkishairlines.com\/the-magic-of-autumn-a-journey-through-the-far-east-and-the-ten-cities-where-the-season-is-at-its-best\/"},"modified":"2025-12-15T14:48:37","modified_gmt":"2025-12-15T11:48:37","slug":"autumn-in-the-far-east","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/blog.turkishairlines.com\/en\/autumn-in-the-far-east\/","title":{"rendered":"The magic of autumn: A journey through the 10 Far East cities"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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1. Kyoto, Japan<\/b><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\"Autumn
Autumn in Kyoto<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

In Japan, autumn transforms into a national festival known as \u201ckoyo,\u201d the season of falling leaves. Its center is Kyoto, where historic temples, peaceful Zen gardens, and lush bamboo forests create a fairy-tale scene under the season\u2019s bright colors. Walking through the \u201corange torii\u201d gates of Fushimi Inari Shrine becomes a memorable experience when surrounded by the autumn hues. Beyond the festival, biking through the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove or watching the colorful trees from the wooden terrace of Kiyomizu-dera Temple helps you feel the season\u2019s calm and serenity deep in your bones.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

To capture the spirit of the city:<\/strong> The film \u201cMemoirs of a Geisha\u201d beautifully showcases Kyoto\u2019s traditional teahouses, narrow streets, and cultural elegance in the historic Gion district. It serves as a wonderful guide for anyone looking to understand the city\u2019s mystical and refined character.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Must-try flavors before you go:<\/strong> You can join a traditional tea ceremony to taste Kyoto\u2019s famous matcha or explore the flavor through matcha ice cream and matcha desserts. Another local treat is yatsuhashi, a delicate pastry filled with sweet red bean paste, which also makes a lovely gift to bring back home. And of course, Kyoto\u2019s long-standing sushi tradition should not be overlooked.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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2. Seoul, South Korea<\/b><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\"Autumn
Autumn in Seoul<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Seoul is a city where modern architecture seamlessly blends with traditional structures, and in autumn, it amazes visitors with its stunning scenery. City parks, historic palaces, and university campuses are all enchanted by golden ginkgo leaves and bright red maple trees. The garden of Gyeongbokgung Palace, with its paths lined with colorful leaves, showcases the elegance of traditional Korean architecture at its best. Walking trails in Namsan Park and the lush fields of Seoul Forest are among the most popular spots during this season. These quiet, leafy areas in the city\u2019s heart, away from traffic noise, provide a peaceful environment for both locals and visitors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

To capture the spirit of the city<\/strong>: The romantic comedy \u201cMy Sassy Girl\u201d showcases a younger and more playful side of Seoul. If you want to see the city\u2019s layered and complex character through a lighthearted story, this film is a perfect choice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Must-try flavors before you go:<\/strong> Try kimchi in its many varieties, one of the most popular foods in Korean cuisine. Traditional dishes such as kimchi jjigae (a kimchi stew), or sundubu jjigae, (a soft tofu stew), are ideal for the colder days of the season.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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3. Beijing, China<\/b><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\"Autumn
Autumn on the Great Wall of China<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Autumn in Beijing is known as the season when the city\u2019s historical and natural beauty is at its most stunning. During this time, the city takes on its most dramatic silhouette, and the Great Wall of China, in particular, offers an entirely different visual experience. Stretching across mountains covered with trees turning red and gold, this monumental structure is a must-see, especially for photographers and nature lovers. In the city, Fragrant Hills and Yuanmingyuan parks are ideal spots to enjoy the vibrant fall colors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

To capture the spirit of the city:<\/strong> The film \u201cBeijing Bicycle\u201d portrays the vibrant streets of Beijing, the contrasts between its old and new faces, and the rhythm of daily life in an intimate narrative. It offers a different perspective by bringing forward the human stories that unfold within this vast city.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Must-try flavors before you go:<\/strong> Peking duck, the dish most closely associated with Beijing, is an absolute essential for its crispy skin and tender meat. Served with scallions, cucumber, and a sweet sauce, this iconic dish is one of the most distinctive flavors in Chinese cuisine.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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4. Taipei, Taiwan<\/b><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\"Autumn
Autumn in Taipei<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Taipei, the capital of Taiwan, stands out in autumn with its mild climate and lush greenery. The mountainous areas surrounding the city offer perfect opportunities to watch the dance of autumn colors. Yangmingshan National Park is an ideal escape for anyone wanting to get away from city noise and reconnect with nature. A hike here refreshes the spirit while giving you the chance to capture stunning photographs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

To capture the spirit of the city<\/strong>: The film \u201cA Brighter Summer Day\u201d sheds light on the complex history of Taipei by observing the youth culture and the streets of the city in the 1960s.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Must-try flavors before you go:<\/strong> Bubble tea (pearl milk tea), sold in Taipei\u2019s famous night markets, has gained worldwide popularity in recent years. Another must-try is xiaolongbao, special steamed dumplings known for their rich broth, a signature flavor you must try on your Taipei trip.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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5. Chiang Mai, Thailand<\/b><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\"Autumn
Autumn in Chiang Mai<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

If you want to experience autumn in a tropical climate, consider visiting Chiang Mai in northern Thailand. During the autumn months, the monsoon rains decrease, the air becomes cooler and less humid, and the city enters its most pleasant season for exploring. Nature hikes, mountain biking tours, and the waterfalls at Doi Inthanon National Park offer a completely different experience in the refreshing autumn air. If you visit in November, the Yi Peng Lantern Festival, where thousands of lanterns light up the night sky, displays an unforgettable visual spectacle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

To capture the spirit of the city<\/strong>: The documentary \u201cThe Elephant King\u201d reveals the mystical nature of Chiang Mai, its traditions, and its deep connection with elephants.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Must-try flavors before you go: <\/strong>One of the region\u2019s signature dishes is khao soi, a curry noodle soup. With its combination of crispy and soft noodles, it has a rich and satisfying flavor that will become one of your most delicious memories from Chiang Mai.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Widen your world.<\/div>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n
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