SHIOBARA, Japan -- In travel, timing can be everything. A successful trip is often determined by the weather or the cultural calendar. In the hot spring town of Shiobara, in Japan's Tochigi prefecture, the season is the key.
Shiobara beckons with hot springs, forest bathing and leaf viewing

Shiobara, located about 160 kilometers north of Tokyo in Tochigi prefecture, is popular for its fiery fall foliage, plentiful hot springs and network of hiking trails. (All photos by Stephen Mansfield)
SHIOBARA, Japan -- In travel, timing can be everything. A successful trip is often determined by the weather or the cultural calendar. In the hot spring town of Shiobara, in Japan's Tochigi prefecture, the season is the key.