Japanese silver grass gleams in the late afternoon sun on the scenic Hiraodai plateau, which straddles the cities of Kitakyushu, Yukuhashi and other municipalities in southwest Japan's Fukuoka Prefecture, on Sept. 22, 2021. The spot has attracted drivers and motorcyclists eager to see the grass swaying in the breeze during the best viewing season in autumn. The clusters of silver grass are spread out over the karst tableland dotted with limestone rocks that look like herds of sheep. According to the local nature observation center, the silver grass spikelets began to open about two weeks earlier this year compared to normal years. After the spikelets open, the seeds become enveloped in silky hairs. People will likely be able to see the silver grass until late October, depending on the weather.

       (Japanese original by Takashi Kamiiriki, Kyushu Photo Department)

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