Japan, Honshu Island, Kyoto. In November, when the autumn foliage is at its peak, numerous momiji festivals are held throughout the country. One of the most famous is held at Kyoto's Arashiyama District. Elaborately designed boats are set afloat on the nearby Oi River, upon which costumed musicians play the koto and shakuhachi (bamboo flute), and traditional dances are performed.