As summer fades and the air starts to cool, Japan turns into a wonderland of bright, beautiful colours. The leaves on the trees change to stunning shades of red, orange, and yellow, making the landscape look like a painting.
This 14-day Japan autumn itinerary is your go-to guide for exploring the country’s amazing beauty and rich culture during this colourful season. Imagine walking through peaceful temples surrounded by fiery red and orange leaves or strolling through gardens where every step reveals a new burst of colour. You’ll get to taste delicious seasonal foods like pumpkin dishes and sweet chestnuts, all while experiencing the warm hospitality that Japan is known for.
On this trip, you’ll start in the lively streets of Tokyo, where modern life meets ancient traditions. Then, you’ll head to the calm and beautiful gardens and temples of Kyoto, the cultural heart of Japan. You’ll also explore the mountains of Nikko, where old shrines blend perfectly with the natural beauty of autumn. In Kanazawa and the traditional village of Shirakawago, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time. And, of course, you’ll have the chance to see Mount Fuji, framed by the brilliant autumn colours, and relax in the hot springs of Hakone.
So, with your camera in hand and a spirit of adventure, get ready to experience Japan in one of its most beautiful seasons. This trip is sure to create memories that you’ll cherish forever!
Day 1-3: Tokyo – Discover the Capital in Autumn
Day 1: Arrival in Tokyo
After landing at either Narita or Haneda Airport, you’ll make your way to central Tokyo. If you arrive at Narita, the Narita Express will take you to the city centre in about 60-90 minutes for ¥3,070, or free if you have a Japan Rail Pass. From Haneda, the Keikyu Line or Tokyo Monorail will get you to central Tokyo in around 15 minutes, costing about ¥300-¥500. You can also exchange your Japan Rail Pass voucher at the airport if you haven’t already.
Once you’ve checked into your hotel and had a moment to rest, it’s time to start exploring. Begin your Tokyo adventure in Shibuya, one of the city’s most iconic districts. Head straight to Shibuya Crossing, known as the busiest intersection in the world. Watching the wave of people crossing from all directions is an unforgettable experience. Just a short walk away, you’ll find the Hachiko Statue, a popular meeting spot and a symbol of loyalty in Japan.
As evening sets in, dive into Tokyo’s food scene by visiting a local izakaya. These Japanese pubs are casual spots where you can try a variety of small dishes like yakitori (grilled chicken skewers), sashimi, and tempura. A meal with drinks will typically cost around ¥3,000-¥5,000 per person. If you’re unsure what to order, ask for “omakase,” and let the chef choose their best dishes for you.
By the end of your first day, you’ll have had a taste of Tokyo’s vibrant energy, setting the stage for the adventures to come over the next two weeks.
Day 2: Exploring Tokyo’s Autumn Highlights
Start your day at Rikugien Garden in Bunkyo, a beautiful Japanese garden, especially pretty in autumn. The garden opens at 9:00 AM with an entry fee of ¥300. If you visit in late November, don’t miss the evening light-up event where the garden glows until 9:00 PM.
Next, head to Meiji Shrine in Shibuya, surrounded by a peaceful forest that looks amazing in autumn. Entry is free, and the shrine is open from sunrise to sunset. A short walk will bring you to Yoyogi Park, where you can enjoy the autumn colours.
In the afternoon, visit Ueno Park in Taito, a large public park with plenty of spots to admire the autumn leaves. While the park itself is free, you might want to visit the Tokyo National Museum (¥1,000, open 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM) to learn more about Japanese art and history. End your day with a walk through Ameya-Yokocho, a lively market street where you can try different street foods for about ¥500-¥1,000 per item.
Day 3: Day Trip to Nikko
Get up early and take a train from Asakusa Station in Tokyo to Nikko on the Tobu-Nikko Line. The trip takes about two hours, and the Tobu Nikko Pass (¥4,520 for two days) covers your round trip and bus rides in the area.
Start your day at Toshogu Shrine, a beautiful and historic site with amazing carvings. The entry fee is ¥1,300, and it’s open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (4:00 PM from November to March). After exploring the shrine, take a bus to Lake Chuzenji and Kegon Falls. The autumn leaves around Lake Chuzenji are stunning, and Kegon Falls is one of Japan’s top three waterfalls. The observation deck at Kegon Falls costs ¥550, and you can also take a short boat cruise on the lake for about ¥1,250 per person.
Return to Tokyo in the evening, where you can relax and enjoy dinner at one of the city’s many restaurants.
Day 4-5: Kanazawa – Traditional Beauty and Culture
Day 4: Travel to Kanazawa
Take the Hokuriku Shinkansen from Tokyo to Kanazawa, a 2.5-hour trip costing about ¥14,000 one way. After checking into your hotel, visit Kenrokuen Garden, one of Japan’s three great gardens. The garden is especially beautiful in autumn and opens at 7:00 AM, with an entry fee of ¥320.
Next, visit Kanazawa Castle, a historic site near the garden. While the park around the castle is free, going inside costs ¥310, and it’s open from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
In the evening, explore the Higashi Chaya District, known for its traditional teahouses and charming streets. This area is perfect for experiencing the beauty of old Japan, and it offers many great places to eat, with dinner costing around ¥3,000-¥5,000 per person.
Day 5: Day Trip to Shirakawago and Takayama
Take a 1.5-hour bus ride from Kanazawa to Shirakawago, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its thatched-roof houses. The village is free to explore, but some individual houses, like the Wada House, charge a small entry fee of about ¥300.
After exploring Shirakawago, continue your journey to Takayama, a town known for its well-preserved Edo-period buildings and traditional atmosphere. The Sanmachi Suji district is a must-visit, with its historic buildings and sake breweries. Don’t miss the Takayama Jinya, an old government building from the Edo period (¥440 entry, open from 8:45 AM to 5:00 PM, closing at 4:30 PM from November to March).
Return to Kanazawa by bus in the evening, where you can unwind and reflect on the day’s experiences.
Day 6-9: Kyoto – The Cultural Heart of Japan
Day 6: Travel to Kyoto
Take the Limited Express Thunderbird from Kanazawa to Kyoto, a 2-hour journey costing around ¥6,380.
After checking into your hotel, head to Kiyomizu-dera Temple, one of Kyoto’s most famous landmarks. The temple is open from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM (6:30 PM on weekends), with an entry fee of ¥400. The views from the temple’s wooden stage are stunning, especially in autumn.
Afterward, stroll through the Higashiyama District, where you can wander down narrow lanes lined with traditional shops and tea houses. For dinner, there are many options in this area, with meals costing around ¥2,500-¥4,000 per person.
Day 7: Arashiyama and Fushimi Inari Shrine
In the morning, take the JR Sagano Line from Kyoto Station to Saga-Arashiyama Station (¥240, 15 minutes). Start your day at Togetsukyo Bridge, a picturesque spot especially beautiful in autumn. Then, visit Tenryu-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site with stunning gardens that are a treat to explore in autumn (¥500 entry, open from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM). A short walk from the temple is the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, a serene path lined with towering bamboo.
In the afternoon, take the Keihan Main Line to Fushimi Inari Shrine (¥310, 30 minutes), one of Japan’s most famous sites. The shrine is known for its thousands of red torii gates that create a path up Mount Inari. Open 24/7, this shrine is free to enter and offers a unique and beautiful experience.
Day 8: Day Trip to Nara
Travel from Kyoto Station to Nara using the JR Nara Line (¥710, about 50 minutes). Start your visit at Nara Park, where friendly deer roam freely, adding to the park’s charm. Next, visit Todai-ji Temple, home to the Great Buddha statue (¥600 entry, open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM). The size and history of Todai-ji make it a must-see.
Afterward, explore Kasuga Taisha Shrine, known for its hundreds of bronze and stone lanterns (¥500 entry, open from 6:30 AM to 5:30 PM). For lunch, head to the Naramachi district, where you’ll find a variety of dining options, with meals costing around ¥1,500-¥2,500 per person.
Before returning to Kyoto, take some time to visit Isuien Garden, a lovely garden offering a peaceful escape from the city (¥900 entry, open from 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM).
Day 9: Day Trip to Osaka and Kobe
Take the JR Special Rapid Service from Kyoto Station to Osaka Station (¥560, 30 minutes). Begin your day at Osaka Castle, an impressive structure surrounded by a beautiful park (¥600 entry, open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM). Afterward, head to Dotonbori, a lively area known for its bright lights and street food. Try local favourites like takoyaki (octopus balls) and okonomiyaki (savoury pancakes), which cost around ¥500-¥1,000 per item.
In the afternoon, continue to Kobe via the JR Kobe Line to Sannomiya Station (¥410, 20 minutes). From there, take a short trip to Mount Rokko, where you can enjoy the vibrant autumn foliage.
Ride the Rokko Cable Car (¥600 one way) up the mountain, where you’ll find several viewpoints offering breathtaking panoramas of Kobe city framed by the brilliant reds and oranges of autumn. You can also take a stroll through the Rokko Alpine Botanical Garden, which is especially beautiful during the autumn season.
After soaking in the autumn scenery, return to Kyoto in the evening to relax and enjoy your last night in the city.
Day 10-11: Kawaguchiko – Views of Mount Fuji
Day 10: Travel to Kawaguchiko
Leave Kyoto and take the Tokaido Shinkansen to Mishima Station (¥11,000, about 2 hours), then transfer to a bus to Kawaguchiko Station (¥2,250, about 1.5 hours). Spend the afternoon exploring the peaceful Lake Kawaguchi. Renting a boat is a great way to enjoy the lake’s calm waters, with prices around ¥1,500 per hour.
For dinner, try houtou, a hearty local noodle dish served in a rich miso broth, at one of the area’s traditional restaurants. Expect to pay around ¥1,500-¥2,500 per person for a satisfying meal.
Day 11: Exploring the Fuji Five Lakes
Start your day with a visit to Chureito Pagoda, a famous spot offering spectacular views of Mount Fuji, especially when framed by autumn leaves. Take a short train ride from Kawaguchiko Station to Shimoyoshida Station (¥300, 10 minutes), followed by a brief hike to the pagoda.
Later, head to Oshino Hakkai, a beautiful village known for its eight clear ponds, via a 25-minute bus ride from Kawaguchiko Station (¥430 one way). Stroll around the village and sample local snacks, which cost between ¥300-¥700 each.
In the afternoon, visit the Itchiku Kubota Art Museum, dedicated to the intricate art of kimono dyeing. The museum is set in lovely gardens that look stunning with autumn colours (¥1,300 entry, open from 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM).
End your day with a relaxing soak in Fujiyama Onsen near Kawaguchiko Station (¥1,500, open from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM), where you can unwind in the warm waters while enjoying views of Mount Fuji.
Day 12-13: Hakone – Hot Springs and Volcanic Landscapes
Day 12: Travel to Hakone
From Kawaguchiko, take a bus or train to Hakone, a journey that takes around 2 hours and costs about ¥2,500. Check into your ryokan, where you can enjoy traditional Japanese hospitality and relax in the onsen (hot springs).
In the afternoon, visit Hakone Shrine, a beautiful lakeside shrine surrounded by ancient cedar trees. The shrine is open from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM, and there is no entry fee.
Next, take a cruise on Lake Ashi, a scenic lake known for its views of Mount Fuji and its peaceful waters (¥1,000 one-way).
In the evening, return to your ryokan for a kaiseki dinner, a multi-course meal that showcases the best of Japanese cuisine. This dining experience usually costs around ¥8,000-¥15,000 per person, but it’s a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds.
Day 13: Exploring Hakone
Start your day with a ride on the Hakone Ropeway to Owakudani, a volcanic valley known for its sulphurous hot springs and great views (¥2,600 round trip). While in Owakudani, be sure to try the famous kuro-tamago, eggs boiled in the hot springs that turn black from the sulphur. These eggs are said to add seven years to your life! A pack of five eggs costs ¥500.
Afterward, visit the Hakone Open-Air Museum, an impressive outdoor gallery featuring works by famous artists set against the backdrop of Hakone’s natural beauty (¥1,600 entry, open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM). In the afternoon, relax in one more onsen at Hakone Yuryo, where you can book a private onsen for about ¥4,000 per hour.
Return to your ryokan in the evening for a final night of relaxation before your journey back to Tokyo.
Day 14: Travel Back to Tokyo
On your final day in Japan, it’s time to head back to Tokyo for a last taste of the city before your journey home. From Hakone, take the Odakyu Romance Car or the Shinkansen to Tokyo Station. The trip takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, with the Romancecar costing about ¥2,400 and the Shinkansen around ¥4,000.
Once back in Tokyo, if you have some time before your flight, consider exploring any parts of the city you might have missed earlier in your trip.
Option 1: Shopping and Dining in Shibuya and Shinjuku
If you’re in the mood for some last-minute shopping or want to enjoy Tokyo’s vibrant urban life one more time, head to Shibuya or Shinjuku. In Shibuya, you can visit the famous Shibuya 109 for trendy fashion or explore the variety of shops and restaurants around Shibuya Crossing. For lunch, try a sushi restaurant like Uobei Sushi, where you can enjoy a delicious meal for around ¥1,000-¥2,000 per person.
In Shinjuku, explore the department stores such as Isetan and Takashimaya for everything from fashion to Japanese souvenirs. If time allows, visit the observation deck at the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, which offers panoramic views of the city (free entry, open from 9:30 AM to 11:00 PM).
Option 2: Relaxing in Odaiba
If you prefer a more relaxed day, head to Odaiba, a futuristic entertainment hub on Tokyo Bay. Here, you can visit the teamLab Borderless digital art museum (¥3,200, open from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM), or simply stroll along the waterfront and enjoy views of the Rainbow Bridge and Tokyo Tower.
For lunch, there are plenty of dining options at the Decks Tokyo Beach or Aqua City shopping complexes, where you can find everything from traditional Japanese food to international cuisine.
Option 3: Cultural Immersion in Asakusa and Ueno
For a final cultural experience, revisit Asakusa to explore the area around Senso-ji Temple, Tokyo’s oldest temple. You can pick up some souvenirs at the Nakamise Shopping Street, where traditional crafts and snacks are sold.
Afterward, head to Ueno to relax in Ueno Park or visit one of its museums, such as the Tokyo National Museum, if you haven’t already. The park is also home to Ueno Zoo, Japan’s oldest zoo, which is a fun visit if you have time.
Unforgettable Memories with This Japan Autumn Itinerary
This detailed Japan autumn itinerary offers a perfect mix of city excitement, cultural discovery, and natural beauty, making it an ideal guide for anyone wanting to experience Japan at its most stunning time of year.
From the vibrant autumn leaves in Tokyo and Kyoto to the peaceful landscapes of Kawaguchiko and Hakone, this journey promises to create memories that will last a lifetime. As you explore historic temples, soak in hot springs, and enjoy delicious seasonal dishes, you’ll see why Japan is a top destination for autumn travellers.
So, set out on this adventure and let Japan’s autumn wonders captivate you!
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