There are many ginkgo trees across Tokyo, from busy roadsides to quiet parks. During the fall, the yellow ginkgo leaves become one of the most iconic sights in the city.
Ginkgo trees have unique fan-shaped leaves. In the summer, the leaves are green like other trees, so people often don’t pay much attention to them. In the fall, however, they turn a bright yellow. The tree has a tall, straight trunk and can grow to a very large size.
When I saw the ginkgo trees, I felt impressed and happy. It was beautiful to walk on the yellow “carpet” of fallen leaves. Seeing the colors also made me feel calm and helped me appreciate the change of the seasons.
Ginkgo trees originally come from China, and they are popular in many East Asian cities, such as Tokyo and Seoul. In Tokyo, they are planted along streets, in parks, and at shrines.
Ginkgo trees survive through photosynthesis, using sunlight and water just like other plants. They can live in a wide range of weather conditions, from hot summers to cold winters. Their thick bark helps protect them from diseases and insects. Their deep roots help them stay strong even during strong winds.
