As trees around the world prepare for autumn, their leaves stop producing chlorophyll, the substance that makes the leaves green. The leaves change to vibrant oranges, reds and yellows. And we humans just love to see those vibrant colors each fall.

Swipe through to learn where in the world you can see the best fall displays.

Kyoto, Nikko and Shirakawa, Japan

Japan is famous for its springtime display of cherry blossoms, but autumn in many places throughout the country is equally spectacular. Kyoto’s shrines and temples are beautiful against the changing leaves, as are Nikko’s. In Shirakawa, you’ll see the traditional gassho-style houses set amongst the colorful beauty.

Photography: Pinterest/Tomono Masahiko

Wicklow Mountains, Ireland

Located south of Dublin, this stunning area is popular year round for hiking and fishing. Visitors find glacial valleys, serene lakes, and historical sites. In fall, the area lights up with the colors of fall, with the Wicklow Mountains National Park offering particularly good viewing.

Val d'Orcia, Italy

An area within Italy’s famous Tuscany region, Val d’Orcia features picture-perfect rolling hills, vineyards and trees that turn vibrant shades of red and orange in autumn. Consider staying in the towns of Pienza or San Quirico d'Orcia, both of which make excellent launching points for your tour of autumn in Tuscany.

Photography: Pinterest/Italia poza szlakiem

Lake Bled, Slovenia

Near Slovenia’s border with Austria, this picturesque Alpine lake reflects the autumn colors of the surrounding forests. October is the best time of year to see the colorful leaves, and don’t miss the famous island in the middle of the lake that is home to the oft-photographed Church of the Assumption of Mary.

New England

New England ranks among the best leaf-viewing spots around the world. In particular, areas of Massachusetts, Vermont and New Hampshire are renowned for their charming towns and scenic drives. Mid-September to late October offer the best displays, typically.

Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, Cape Town, South Africa

These last two are for folks who like to plan ahead, because they’re in the Southern Hemisphere, and fall displays won’t show up until at least March. Kirstenbosch is among the most spectacular botanical gardens in the world, and it really puts on a show in autumn. Look for weeping boer bean and forest combretum, trees with brilliant coloration.

Photography: Pinterest/Dreamstime

Blue Mountains, New South Wales, Australia

Within Australia’s stunning Blue Mountains, don’t miss the Botanic Garden Mount Tomah and the beautiful gardens in the town of Mount Wilson. Near Mount Wilson are the Breenhold Gardens, also a must-see in autumn.

Photography: Pinterest/Mia's Travel Memoirs