Famous since the Winter Sonata days, Nami Island is a classic date spot, and this time I brought my parents along for Nami Island autumn colors at their peak. You reach it by ferry, and yes, you get a playful “visa” at the entrance, because Nami Island declares itself the Naminara Republic.
The ferry over
Several ferries run the short crossing, and the ride over is part of the fun.
Rain started falling as we waited, so I ducked inside while the rest of the family stayed out enjoying it.
Autumn lanes
Past the entrance, ginkgo trees put on a show, and a bottle-tree installation caught my eye.
We wandered wherever our feet took us, and every turn looked like a painting in peak foliage.
Squirrels and family photos
Nami Island has many squirrels, and they are so used to people that they do not run away at all.
As dusk fell, I played photographer for my mother, and the background did all the work. The maple lane gave way to the ginkgo lane, and the red leaves were almost blindingly beautiful.
For fall foliage, Nami Island autumn colors beat every other spot on that trip, and my parents agreed. Old memories with my husband here, new ones with my parents: the island keeps delivering.
Prices, hours and details in this post are from our visit in July 2016 and may have changed, so check the latest information before you go.