Fukushima Travel – The Giant Ginkgo of Former Kuimaru Elementary School

In the quiet mountain village of Showa Village in Fukushima, the beloved giant ginkgo tree at the Former Kuimaru Elementary School has reached its autumn peak, transforming the entire wooden schoolhouse into a glowing golden masterpiece.

Photographed on November 12, 2025, this scene captures one of the most nostalgic and visually stunning moments of fall in rural Japan.

A Golden Canopy Embracing a Wooden Schoolhouse

The massive ginkgo tree stands directly beside the historic wooden school building, its brilliantly colored leaves cascading over the roof and grounds. When the tree reaches full color, it creates a breathtaking contrast—vibrant gold against the time-worn wooden exterior—making it one of the most iconic autumn sights in Fukushima.

Step Inside: A Journey Back in Time

Visitors are welcome to enter the old wooden schoolhouse, where the charm of a bygone era lingers in every classroom. The polished wooden floors, chalkboards, and nostalgic details recreate the warmth of rural Japanese school life.

But the true magic begins when you look out the classroom windows:

The entire view is filled with the golden glow of the ginkgo leaves, as if the classroom itself is wrapped in autumn light. It’s easy to imagine that children who once studied here many decades ago enjoyed the same brilliant scenery.

A Hidden Gem in Rural Fukushima

Showa Village is known for its traditional charm and slow-paced lifestyle, and the Former Kumemaru Elementary School is a cultural treasure within this serene landscape. The golden ginkgo tree draws photographers and nature lovers every year, yet the site remains peaceful and uncrowded—a perfect escape into the nostalgic heart of Tohoku.

Visit with Deep Japan Tours

Access to Showa Village can be challenging without a car, but Deep Japan Tours offers guided transportation and tailored itineraries, ensuring travelers can experience this golden autumn wonder at its very best. Combine your visit with nearby scenic villages and fall landscapes for a complete immersion in Fukushima’s rural beauty.

If you are traveling through Tohoku in autumn, the giant ginkgo tree of the Former Kuimaru Elementary School is a truly unforgettable spot—where history, nostalgia, and seasonal beauty come together in an extraordinary golden scene.

https://showakanko.or.jp/see/kuimarusho/