A visit to Japan has virtually at all times been synonymous with iconic sights of sakura or cherry blossoms; in spite of everything, hanami or cherry blossom viewing is a should for vacationers visiting in April. Nevertheless… there’s one thing to be mentioned about autumn in Japan, particularly with its spectacular fall foliage!
First issues first, be aware of the interval from mid-September or October till December as a result of it’s famously often known as koyo season — it’s the time when the climate is cooler and vibrant autumn foliage begins to disclose itself. From the deep crimson Japanese maple leaves to the distinctive kusamomiji or crimson autumn grass, there are tons of lovely spots which you can try.
Simply take be aware that almost all of those locations (particularly temples) might be full of folks, however don’t let that truth cease you from taking the journey. In addition to, come nighttime, a number of the places will usually illuminate the autumn timber for a wide ranging foliage view.
As of 2023, beneath is the foliage forecast map for Japan:
Supply: Japan Meteorological Company
Autumn in Japan: Prime Spots
» North of Tokyo
Daisetsuzan Nationwide Park
Photograph by: Shutterstock
Daisetsuzan Nationwide Park, situated in Hokkaido, is an enormous expanse of pristine wilderness that stands because the nation’s largest nationwide park at 2,267.64 sq. kilometers. Identified for its dramatic landscapes, it options rugged mountain ranges, serene plateaus, and vibrant alpine forests, showcasing Japan’s unspoiled magnificence that’s nice for sightseeing — if not climbing!
In autumn, Daisetsuzan transforms right into a mesmerizing tapestry of fiery reds, sensible oranges, and golden yellows. To not point out, it’s a hotspot for leaf-peepers and nature fanatics, because the koyo, or autumn colours, begin to seem earlier right here than anyplace else in Japan.
TIP: Don’t overlook to drop by the Mikuni Move (seen within the picture above).
- Tackle:Â Sounkyo, Kamikawa, Kamikawa District
Hitachi Facet Park
Photograph by: Shutterstock
This spot is an emblem of autumn in Japan, notably within the autumn months! Miharashi Hill specifically turns into a surreal dream throughout this season, with its undulating panorama swathed within the deep reds of Kochia crops (often in full bloom in October).
This crimson blanket creates a stark but mesmerizing distinction to the park’s azure skies, inviting images fanatics and nature lovers alike. Past this, the park unravels additional magnificence by its myriad gardens teeming with vibrant tulips and calming hues of lavender. Whereas Hitachi Seaside Park is famend for its huge fields of Child Blue Eyes, many guests are pleasantly shocked to find that the park gives an array of different floral spectacles, every including a singular contact to its breathtaking panorama.
- Tackle:Â 605-4 Mawatari Onuma, Hitachinaka
Irohazaka Route
Photograph by: Shutterstock
This scenic winding path is really the embodiment of nature’s grandeur, notably through the autumn months! With every flip and twist, the street reveals panoramic vistas of cascading hills drenched in a spectrum of fiery reds, radiant oranges, and golden yellows.
Acknowledged by many as essentially the most thrilling street to traverse in autumn, it doesn’t simply provide a journey from one level to a different however a voyage by nature’s beautiful autumnal show. It helps to notice that the downslope (1st Irohazaka), which has 28 curves, features a cease to see two waterfalls; whereas the upslope (2nd Irohazaka), which has 20 curves, has the Akechidaira Plateau on the prime that may give you spectacular views of the valley.
TIP: Throughout autumn, the inflow of tourists can lengthen a typical 20-minute drive by Irohazaka Route to three to 4 hours! For a smoother expertise, take into account reserving a tour on a weekday.
- Tackle:Â Hosoomachi, Nikko, 321-1445
Towada Lake
Photograph by: Shutterstock
Nestled within the serene confines of Aomori prefecture lies Towada Lake, the grandest crater lake in mainland Japan which is a superb place to go to for autumn in Japan.
As autumn units in, the lake transforms right into a canvas painted with sensible hues of crimson, gold, and orange. Right here, you may embark on a scenic cruise, letting the mild waves information you alongside shores adorned with beech and maple timber. However for many who are adventurous at coronary heart, tread the paths alongside the Oirase Stream, the place the colourful fall colours play backdrop to the stream’s fierce rapids and cascading waterfalls, making a mesmerizing mix of tranquility and uncooked nature.
- Tackle:Â 034-0301 Aomori-ken, Towada-shi
Naruko Gorge
Photograph by: Shutterstock
Reaching its vibrant peak from mid-October to early November, this iconic gorge comes alive as hues of gold, amber, and crimson drape its slopes.
Nevertheless, because of the affect of the 2011 earthquake, the whole gorge strolling path isn’t accessible. Nonetheless, guests can seize the gorge’s essence from the remainder home, providing iconic views of the bridge and surrounding magnificence — plus, a partial part of the path stays open for exploration. When you’ve soaked within the vistas, unwind in close by areas like Naruko Onsen, Higashi-Naruko, or Onikobe, every boasting distinctive onsen sizzling springs.
- Tackle:Â Narukoonsen, ĹŚsaki, Miyagi 989-6100
» In & Round Tokyo
Hamarikyu Gardens
Photograph by: Shutterstock
Hamarikyu Backyard, a tranquil oasis amidst Tokyo’s bustling cityscape, gives a fascinating autumnal retreat for almost anybody!
Because the season progresses, the backyard’s foliage dons a palette of vibrant reds, oranges, and gold, making it a super vacation spot for these in search of nature’s resplendent show within the coronary heart of the metropolis. However the magic doesn’t finish at sundown. As night descends, the timber are bathed in a tender, ethereal glow, as illuminations forged their gentle upon the leaves, reworking the backyard right into a luminous dreamscape. This mix of pure magnificence and clever lighting creates an ambiance of serene class, making Hamarikyu Backyard a must-visit throughout Tokyo’s autumn nights.
- Nearest Metro: Hama-Rikyū (Hama-rikyu Backyard) Station
- Tackle: Â 1-1 Hamarikyuteien, Chuo Metropolis, Tokyo
Kajika Bridge
Photograph by: Shutterstock
Kajika Bridge, gracefully arching over the waters of Ikaho Onsen, turns into a magical pathway throughout autumn in Japan. As you stroll throughout, let the colourful canvas of russet and amber leaves envelop you within the season’s embrace.
And naturally, the encircling onsen city, with its wealthy historical past, gives not simply scenic magnificence but in addition participating actions. Enjoyment of fruit-picking, savoring the recent flavors of the season, or embark on a climbing path, permitting nature to information your journey. For these in search of a hen’s-eye view of Gunma’s fall splendor, the Ikaho ropeway awaits, whisking you to vantage factors the place the whole valley is painted in wealthy hues.
- Tackle:Â 590 Ikahomachi Ikaho, Shibukawa, Gunma
Lake Kawaguchi of Fuji 5 Lakes
Photograph by: Shutterstock
As essentially the most famend of the Fuji 5 Lakes, it gives gorgeous panoramic views the place the snow-capped peak of Mt. Fuji enhances the fiery hues of fall foliage. The annual Autumn Leaf Pageant is a spectacle to not be missed; because the solar units, the timber are illuminated, enhancing the colourful reds, oranges, and yellows.
A spotlight of the area is the Maple Hall – a picturesque path lined with brilliantly-colored maple timber that appear to set the place ablaze with their splendor. For these in search of that picture-perfect shot, you may attain this visible deal with by hopping onto the Kawaguchiko Sightseeing Bus (Crimson line) and alight on the Itchiku Kubota Artwork Museum bus cease.
The prime time to expertise this vibrant show is between early to mid-November. To keep away from the crowds, take into account an early morning go to and even higher, an in a single day keep, making certain each serene morning views and a glimpse of Mt. Fuji in its full glory.
Meiji Jingu Gaien
Nestled a stone’s throw away from Meiji Shrine, Meiji Jingu Gaien, or the Outer Backyard, stands as a testomony to nature’s grandeur within the coronary heart of Tokyo. The avenue, adorned with towering ginkgo timber, transforms right into a golden hall throughout autumn, making it a prime contender for the most effective fall foliage spots in Japan.
Now, one of many issues it is best to NOT miss out on whereas there’s the annual Jingu Gaien Ginkgo Pageant. Celebrated since 1997, guests not solely get to immerse themselves within the mesmerizing hues of the leaves but in addition revel within the vibrant environment delivered to life by road performers and an array of meals cubicles. (Normally occurs from mid November to early December).
- Nearest Metro:Â Sendagaya Station
- Tackle: 1-1 Kasumigaokamachi, Shinjuku Metropolis, Tokyo, Tokyo
Mount Nasu
Photograph by: Shutterstock
Mount Nasu, sometimes called Mount Chausu, stands majestically as one of many area’s distinguished energetic volcanoes. To start out off your autumn in Japan expertise on an amazing be aware, embark on a memorable journey on the Nasu Ropeway, main you as much as the mountain’s Ninth Station – a major level on the climbing path.
For these contemplating a guided expertise, there’s a tour that not solely gives transportation to Mt. Nasu but in addition treats contributors to a buffet lunch and an entrancing go to to the famend Ashikaga Flower Park — and this park dazzles guests with its beautiful night time illuminations and vibrant flower reveals!
Rikugien Backyard
Photograph by: Shutterstock
To really respect Rikugien’s magnificence, allocate an unhurried afternoon autumn in Japan to meander by its scenic trails, punctuating your journey with tranquil moments at its conventional teahouses.
Highlights embrace the serene ambiance close to the Tsutsuji no Chaya teahouse stream, the picturesque allure across the Togetsukyo Bridge, and the panoramic vistas from the Fujishirotoge viewpoint. The backyard’s autumnal splendor often reaches its greatest from late November to early December, so take be aware!
- Nearest Metro:Â Komagome Station
- Tackle:Â 6 Chome-16-3 Honkomagome, Bunkyo Metropolis, Tokyo
Shinjuku Gyoen
The park boasts 3 signature gardens, every providing a singular autumn in Japan expertise,
The Japanese Backyard dazzles with its fiery crimson maple cover, portray a serene image paying homage to conventional landscapes. In distinction, the British Backyard is a sea of golden splendor, because of its ginkgo timber that shimmer within the gentle. However autumn isn’t nearly fiery hues; the French Backyard surprises with late-blooming roses, including a contact of romance to the autumn palette.
To really seize the essence of Shinjuku Gyoen, traversing by all three gardens is a should. So plan your go to between mid-October and mid-December to bask within the backyard’s full autumnal glory!
- Nearest Metro:Â Shinjuku-sanchome Station
- Tackle: 1-1 Kasumigaokamachi, Shinjuku Metropolis, Tokyo, Tokyo
Ueno Park
Autumn in Japan’s Ueno isn’t just a visible deal with; it’s an expertise. In addition to marveling on the fall foliage, guests can discover the a number of museums housed inside the park, together with the Tokyo Nationwide Museum and the Ueno Royal Museum.
The park’s serene Shinobazu Pond additionally gives paddle boating amidst the lotus crops, and the Ueno Zoo gives a pleasant encounter with numerous wildlife. Because the solar units, take into account having fun with a leisurely boat experience or just sitting by the water, taking within the reflection of the colourful leaves.
- Nearest Metro:Â Yushima Station
- Tackle: Uenokoen, Taito Metropolis, Tokyo
» South of Tokyo
Eikando Zenrinji Temple
Photograph by: Shutterstock
This serene temple, with its lovely pond backyard and timeless structure, mirrors the essence of Japan’s conventional magnificence towards the colourful backdrop of autumn leaves. However the magic doesn’t finish with sundown.
As night descends, the temple grounds are illuminated, casting the timber, pond, and constructions in an ethereal glow, turning the panorama right into a dreamy world straight out of a portray. This nightly illumination is an expertise in itself, because the shimmering reflections and shadows create a mystical ambiance.
- Tackle:Â 15 Chome-778 Honmachi, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto
Houkyou-in Temple
Houkyo-In, a hidden gem within the cultural coronary heart of Kyoto, gives a serene escape, particularly through the autumn months.
Because the extra well-liked spots in Kyoto buzz with vacationers, Houkyo-In stays a tranquil oasis, the place the altering leaves will be admired in relative solitude. The temple grounds come alive with a burst of reds, oranges, and yellows, every leaf narrating its personal story of time.
- Tackle:Â Saga-shakado-monzen-minamichuin-cho 9 Kyoto Ukyo-ku, Kyoto
Korankei Valley
Photograph by: Shutterstock
With the serene Tomoe River reflecting the colourful cover, maple timber numbering within the 1000’s, flank the riverbanks and mountainsides, making a charming backdrop to this picturesque gorge.
Guests also can bask in a myriad of actions right here! Embark on a tranquil boat experience alongside the Tomoe River, immersing your self within the surrounding magnificence. Wander alongside well-trodden paths, crossing the enduring crimson Taigetsukyo Bridge, which gives top-of-the-line panoramic views of the valley. And as night approaches, the illuminations forged a magical glow on the timber, creating an ethereal environment.
- Tackle:Â Iimori Asukecho, Toyota, Aichi
Minoo Park & Falls
Photograph by: Shutterstock
Tucked away from the bustling cityscape of Osaka, Minoo Park gives a serene escape and is refreshingly uncrowded.
An autumn go to reveals a canvas of vibrant hues, with crimson and gold leaves making a mesmerizing backdrop. To not point out, the centerpiece of this pure haven is the Minoo Falls, cascading gracefully and complementing the season’s magnificence. As you wander the park’s trails, don’t miss out on the distinctive culinary delight it gives: the momiji tempura. These battered and deep-fried maple leaves present a crunchy style of autumn, making your go to to Minoo Park a deal with for each the eyes and palate!
- Tackle:Â 1-18 Minookoen, Minoh, OsakaÂ
Nara Park
Photograph by: Shutterstock
As autumn descends, this well-known park is drenched in a riot of reds, oranges, and yellows, providing a picturesque backdrop to the a whole lot of docile deer that roam freely. These iconic residents, revered and guarded, are at all times longing for a biscuit and would possibly even bow in gratitude!
Amidst this autumnal splendor, the majestic Todai-ji Temple stands tall, offering a serene setting that contrasts with the playful deers. For a postcard-perfect shot, place your self throughout the shimmering Daibutsu-Ike Pond, capturing the temple, fall foliage, and maybe a deer or two in a single body.
Sagano Romantic Prepare
Photograph by: Shutterstock
Embark on a picturesque 25-minute journey across the Arashiyama district aboard the Sagano Romantic Prepare for the most effective autumn in Japan expertise!
As you traverse landscapes awash in vibrant autumn hues, it’s clear why this route is a favourite, notably amongst romantics. Expertise the district’s full splendor by reserving a tour now. In addition to, past the practice experience, you may get pleasure from ample time to wander the enduring Togetsu Bridge and the mesmerizing Arashiyama bamboo forest. You’ll be able to even delight within the included Hozugawakudari River Boat Experience, stretching from Kameoka to Arashiyama.
- Tackle:Â Close to JR Saga-Arashiyama Station
Tofukuji Temple
Photograph by: Shutterstock
Established within the early Heian interval, this temple has lengthy been a revered place of worship and reflection. With sprawling grounds and iconic constructions, it showcases the most effective of Japanese temple structure.
Anyhow, autumn in Japan at Tofukuji Temple is nothing in need of magical. Guests are drawn to the Tsutenkyo Bridge for panoramic views over a valley of maples, whereas the Zen-inspired gardens present tranquil spots for reflection.
- Tackle:Â 15 Chome-778 Honmachi, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto
» BONUS: Costume Up in a Kimono throughout Autumn in Japan
Elevate your autumn trip and images by draping your self in a standard yukata or kimono! Rental outlets throughout Japan additionally cater to males and even the youthful ones — so sure, you may simply maintain a photograph shoot together with your family members.
For the most effective expertise, try the vary of rental outlets everywhere in the nation by way of Klook: [click]. I guarantee you, your Instagram feed is about to turn out to be the envy of all!
• • •
Total
As the colourful hues of autumn in Japan paint the panorama, every of those 20 spots absolutely gives a singular tapestry of reds, oranges, and gold!
So whether or not you’re a photographer, traveler, or just somebody who appreciates nature’s artistry, these places promise unforgettable recollections. Go seize your digicam, a heat drink, and let the serene great thing about Japan’s autumn foliage captivate your coronary heart!