Autumn in Japan is really something special. As the summer heat fades, cooler days arrive, and the whole country turns into a beautiful mix of red, orange, and yellow.
A favourite autumn activity here is “koyo” viewing, where people head to parks, mountains, and historic spots to enjoy the vibrant autumn leaves. It’s a lot like “hanami” in spring, but instead of cherry blossoms, everyone’s admiring the colourful leaves. It’s the perfect time for relaxing walks and outdoor hangouts.
But there’s more to Japanese autumn than just the leaves. The season is also packed with local festivals that bring the streets alive with traditional music, dancing, and mouth-watering food, all set against the stunning autumn scenery.
As the weather cools down, it’s also a great time to soak in a hot spring, or onsen. Many onsen resorts are tucked away in scenic spots, so you can relax in a warm bath while taking in the autumn colours. It’s a peaceful way to enjoy the season.
What’s more, autumn is harvest time in Japan, which means there’s plenty of fresh, seasonal food to enjoy. From sweet persimmons and chestnuts to rich sweet potatoes and mushrooms, the flavours of autumn are everywhere. Many rural areas even have harvest festivals where you can taste these local treats and try your hand at traditional activities like rice harvesting.
With so much to see and do, autumn in Japan is a season full of experiences you won’t want to miss. So, in this blog post, we’ve listed the 20 best places in Japan to visit in autumn!
Kanto Region
The Kanto region, which includes Tokyo and nearby prefectures, is a great place to catch autumn colours from mid-October to early December. Tokyo’s parks and gardens, like Rikugien, start showing their autumn colours in late November, while mountainous areas like Nikko begin as early as mid-October. This gives you plenty of time to explore both the city and the nature around Tokyo.
1. Nikko, Tochigi Prefecture
Nikko is a top spot for autumn, offering more than just beautiful fall leaves. The vibrant colours around Toshogu Shrine create a stunning backdrop for exploring the area’s historical sites. The Irohazaka Winding Road and Lake Chuzenji offer amazing views, perfect for a scenic drive or a peaceful boat ride.
Autumn in Nikko also brings local festivals like the Nikko Toshogu Shrine Autumn Grand Festival, where you can see traditional horseback archery and processions in period costumes. If you’re a foodie, don’t miss trying yuba (tofu skin) dishes at popular spots like Meiji no Yakata.
- Entrance Fee: Toshogu Shrine – ¥1,300
- Operating Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (April to October), 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM (November to March)
2. Mt. Takao, Tokyo
Mount Takao, just an hour from central Tokyo, is a favourite for autumn leaves, but there’s so much more to enjoy. As you hike up or take the cable car, you’ll be surrounded by vibrant colours, with the cool autumn air making it a pleasant journey.
If you visit in late November, you can also enjoy the Mount Takao Autumn Leaves Festival, featuring taiko drum performances and food stalls offering seasonal treats like roasted chestnuts.
- Entrance Fee: Free (Cable Car – ¥490 one way)
- Operating Hours: Open 24/7; Cable Car 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
3. Rikugien Garden, Tokyo
Rikugien Garden in Tokyo is a peaceful escape right in the city, and it’s especially beautiful in autumn. The garden’s well-kept grounds are transformed by red and orange leaves, making it a perfect spot for a relaxing stroll.
During peak season, the garden hosts evening light-up events that highlight the beauty of the autumn foliage, creating a magical experience. While you’re there, enjoy some seasonal sweets and green tea at the Rikugien Teahouse—a lovely way to soak in the calm beauty of the season.
- Entrance Fee: ¥300
- Operating Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Light-up event until 9:00 PM during peak season)
Kansai Region
In the Kansai region, which includes Kyoto, Nara, and Osaka, autumn usually peaks from mid-November to early December. Kyoto, with its many temples and gardens, is a top spot for autumn colours. The leaves start turning in mid-November, creating a beautiful contrast with the city’s historic buildings. Nara, with its parks and free-roaming deer, also offers stunning autumn views, especially around its temples.
4. Arashiyama, Kyoto
Arashiyama in Kyoto is a must-see in autumn, known for its beautiful foliage and rich cultural experiences. The mountains in the area turn vibrant red and orange, making the view from Togetsukyo Bridge really special.
Arashiyama also hosts the annual Momiji Festival, where you can watch traditional boat processions on the river. After exploring, treat yourself to a meal at Saga Tofu Ine, where you can enjoy yudofu (tofu hot pot) while taking in the autumn scenery.
- Entrance Fee: Free (Tenryu-ji Temple – ¥500)
- Operating Hours: Open 24/7; Tenryu-ji Temple 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
5. Eikando Temple, Kyoto
Eikando Temple is one of Kyoto’s best spots for autumn leaves. The temple grounds are covered in deep red maple trees that look amazing against the wooden buildings. The temple is also famous for its evening light-up events, where the autumn leaves are beautifully illuminated, creating a magical atmosphere. Eikando Temple offers a peaceful and culturally rich experience, making it a must-visit during Kyoto’s autumn.
- Entrance Fee: ¥600 (Light-up event ¥1,000)
- Operating Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Light-up event until 9:00 PM)
6. Nara Park, Nara Prefecture
Nara Park’s ancient temples are surrounded by colourful trees in autumn, and the sight of deer wandering through the scenery adds to its charm. During autumn, the park hosts the Shika no Tsunokiri (Deer Antler Cutting Ceremony), a unique event where deer antlers are trimmed in a traditional ritual.
- Entrance Fee: Free
- Operating Hours: Open 24/7
Chubu Region
The Chubu region, known for its mountains and stunning natural landscapes, experiences autumn from late October to early December. The higher elevations around the Fuji Five Lakes and the Japanese Alps start showing their colours earlier, often in late October. Places like Hakone and Kamikochi are especially beautiful during this time, offering a mix of hiking adventures and relaxing hot spring experiences.
7. Fuji Five Lakes, Yamanashi Prefecture
The Fuji Five Lakes area is one of Japan’s most iconic spots for autumn, combining natural beauty with local culture and delicious seasonal food. The sight of Mount Fuji framed by vibrant autumn leaves, especially around Lake Kawaguchi, is unforgettable.
The area also hosts the Fujikawaguchiko Autumn Leaves Festival, where you can enjoy local food, crafts, and cultural performances. Be sure to try houtou, a hearty noodle dish unique to the region, at Houtou Fudou, a well-known restaurant near Lake Kawaguchi.
- Entrance Fee: Free
- Operating Hours: Open 24/7
8. Hakone, Kanagawa Prefecture
Hakone is a popular getaway from Tokyo, especially in autumn when the area around Lake Ashi and Hakone Shrine bursts into vibrant reds and oranges. It’s perfect for a relaxing boat ride or a visit to the historic shrine.
Autumn is also an ideal time to enjoy Hakone’s famous hot springs, many of which offer outdoor baths with views of the autumn leaves. A top spot is Hakone Yuryo, where you can enjoy a private onsen experience.
While you’re there, warm up with the famous black eggs cooked in the hot springs at Owakudani and enjoy a meal featuring seasonal ingredients at Gora Kadan, a luxurious ryokan.
- Entrance Fee: Free (Hakone Shrine – ¥500 for Treasure Hall)
- Operating Hours: Open 24/7; Hakone Shrine 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM
9. Korankei, Aichi Prefecture
Korankei Valley is one of the most famous spots for autumn leaves in the Chubu region, known for both its natural beauty and vibrant local culture. Thousands of maple trees create a breathtaking display in November, especially when viewed from the Taigetsukyo Bridge.
During the Korankei Maple Festival, the area comes alive with food stalls, performances, and evening light-up events. You can enjoy gohei mochi, a regional specialty of skewered rice cakes coated with a miso sauce and grilled over an open flame, providing a warm, hearty snack perfect for the cooler weather.
- Entrance Fee: Free
- Operating Hours: Open 24/7
10. Kamikochi, Nagano Prefecture
Kamikochi, located in the Northern Japan Alps, is a hiker’s dream, offering breathtaking mountain scenery and crisp autumn air. The autumn colours here are particularly vibrant, making the trails around Kappa Bridge and Myojin Pond especially popular during this season.
- Entrance Fee: Free
- Operating Hours: Open 24/7
Chugoku Region
In the Chugoku region, which includes Hiroshima and the surrounding areas, autumn colours are at their best from early to late November. Miyajima Island is a highlight during this season, with its iconic torii gate and vibrant maple trees creating a picture-perfect autumn scene. For a more peaceful experience away from the crowds, lesser-known spots like Taishakukyo Gorge also offer stunning autumn landscapes.
11. Miyajima Island, Hiroshima Prefecture
Miyajima Island is one of Japan’s most beautiful autumn destinations, famous for its floating torii gate and lovely maple trees.
Momijidani Park is the place to be in autumn, with hundreds of maple trees turning brilliant shades of red. The island also hosts the Miyajima Momiji Festival in November, where you can enjoy traditional performances and taste local delicacies like grilled oysters and anago (conger eel) at Kakiya, a popular seafood restaurant.
- Entrance Fee: Free (Miyajima Ropeway – ¥1,800 round trip)
- Operating Hours: Open 24/7; Ropeway 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
12. Taishakukyo Gorge, Hiroshima Prefecture
Taishakukyo Gorge is a hidden gem in Hiroshima Prefecture that offers stunning autumn scenery without the crowds.
The gorge is surrounded by dense forests that turn vibrant red and orange in the fall, making it a perfect spot for a peaceful hike or scenic drive. The area also hosts the Taishakukyo Maple Festival.
- Entrance Fee: Free
- Operating Hours: Open 24/7
Shikoku Region
Shikoku’s autumn season runs from mid-November to early December. The Iya Valley is particularly stunning during this time, with its deep gorges and vine bridges surrounded by colourful leaves. The remote and rugged terrain of Shikoku makes autumn here feel more peaceful and untouched, making it a perfect escape.
13. Iya Valley, Tokushima Prefecture
Iya Valley is one of Japan’s hidden treasures, offering a rugged landscape that becomes even more breathtaking in autumn. The valley’s vine bridges, deep gorges, and thatched-roof houses are surrounded by vibrant autumn leaves, creating a serene and picturesque atmosphere.
- Entrance Fee: Free
- Operating Hours: Open 24/7
Kyushu Region
Kyushu, located in the southern part of Japan, experiences autumn a bit later, with the best colours typically appearing from late October to mid-November. The milder climate in Kyushu also makes it perfect for exploring outdoor activities and relaxing in hot springs.
14. Kirishima, Kagoshima Prefecture
The Kirishima mountain range in Kagoshima Prefecture is a fantastic autumn destination, offering vibrant foliage set against dramatic volcanic scenery.
The area is famous for its hot springs, where you can relax while taking in the colourful autumn views.
The season also brings local festivals like the Kirishima Jingu Autumn Festival, featuring traditional music and dance performances.
- Entrance Fee: Free
- Operating Hours: Open 24/7
Hokkaido Region
As the northernmost part of Japan, Hokkaido experiences autumn earlier than the rest of the country, with peak viewing times from late September to early October.
Daisetsuzan National Park is one of the first places in Japan to see the leaves change, making it a must-visit for those eager to catch the earliest signs of autumn. The cool, crisp air and vast, untouched landscapes make Hokkaido a perfect destination for nature lovers in the fall.
15. Daisetsuzan National Park
Daisetsuzan National Park is one of the first places in Japan to experience autumn colours, thanks to Hokkaido’s cooler climate. The park’s vast landscapes are blanketed in shades of red and gold, making it a paradise for nature lovers.
There are numerous hiking trails offering stunning views, and the crisp autumn air is perfect for outdoor activities.
After a day of exploring, you can relax in one of the park’s hot springs, like Sounkyo Onsen, while soaking in the beauty of the surroundings.
- Entrance Fee: Free
- Operating Hours: Open 24/7
16. Shiretoko National Park
Shiretoko National Park, located on the eastern tip of Hokkaido, is one of Japan’s most remote and untouched natural areas, making it a stunning place to experience autumn in its raw beauty.
As one of the country’s last true wilderness areas and a UNESCO World Heritage site, Shiretoko offers a unique opportunity to see Japan’s autumn colours in a rugged, pristine environment. The forests here turn vivid shades of red, orange, and yellow, contrasting beautifully with the deep blue of the Sea of Okhotsk and the dramatic coastal cliffs.
Autumn in Shiretoko isn’t just about the scenery—it’s also a time when wildlife is particularly active. The park is known for its population of brown bears, and during this season, they’re often seen foraging before winter sets in.
The Shiretoko Autumn Fest, held in nearby Utoro, celebrates the season with local seafood delicacies like fresh salmon and sea urchin, which are at their peak in autumn.
After a day of exploring the park’s many hiking trails, including the popular Shiretoko Five Lakes Trail, you can unwind in one of the local hot springs, such as Utoro Onsen, where you can soak in an outdoor bath with stunning views of the autumn landscape.
- Entrance Fee: Free
- Operating Hours: Open 24/7
Tohoku Region
The Tohoku region, located in northeastern Japan, offers some of the country’s most stunning autumn landscapes, with the best time to visit being from early October to early November.
Oirase Gorge and Lake Towada in Aomori Prefecture are standout spots, where the colourful leaves reflect in the clear waters, creating a magical scene. The mountainous terrain of Tohoku also means that the autumn colours here are rich and varied, making it a prime destination for autumn enthusiasts.
17. Oirase Gorge, Aomori Prefecture
Oirase Gorge is one of the most beautiful places to see autumn leaves in Tohoku, with its winding river and lush forests creating a breathtaking setting.
The autumn colours here are some of the richest in Japan, and the gorge is lined with easy walking paths that allow you to fully immerse yourself in the scenery.
- Entrance Fee: Free
- Operating Hours: Open 24/7
18. Yamadera (Risshaku-ji), Yamagata Prefecture
Yamadera, or Risshaku-ji, is a historic temple perched on a mountainside in Yamagata Prefecture. In autumn, the climb up the temple’s stone steps is rewarded with stunning views of the surrounding valley, ablaze with colour.
The peaceful atmosphere of the temple, combined with the beauty of the autumn leaves, makes it a perfect place for reflection and relaxation.
- Entrance Fee: ¥300
- Operating Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
19. Lake Towada, Aomori Prefecture
Lake Towada, located in Towada-Hachimantai National Park, is surrounded by dense forests that burst into colour in autumn. The calm waters of the lake reflect the vibrant leaves, creating a picture-perfect scene that’s ideal for a boat ride or a peaceful walk along the shore.
During the Towada Autumn Leaves Festival, you can enjoy traditional music, food stalls, and even a nighttime illumination of the leaves. Don’t miss the chance to try grilled river fish and Aomori apples at the Oirase Keiryu Hotel’s restaurant, which offers stunning views of the autumn landscape.
- Entrance Fee: Free
- Operating Hours: Open 24/7
20. Hachimantai, Iwate and Akita Prefectures
Hachimantai is a volcanic plateau that offers some of the most stunning autumn views in Tohoku. The area’s hot springs and hiking trails become especially popular in the fall, as the landscape is covered in vibrant foliage.
The drive along the Aspite Line is one of the best ways to take in the scenery, with each turn revealing a new and beautiful vista. Hachimantai also hosts the Hachimantai Autumn Festival.
Hachimantai is a perfect destination for those looking to experience Tohoku’s autumn in all its glory.
- Entrance Fee: Free
- Operating Hours: Open 24/7
Find Your Way Through Japan’s Gorgeous Autumn Landscapes
Japan in autumn is a breathtaking experience, offering a mix of vibrant colours, cultural sites, and peaceful nature.
This list is just a starting point—there’s so much more to see and do. No matter where you choose to go, the beauty of autumn in Japan will leave you with memories to cherish for a lifetime.
Looking for an autumn itinerary crafted just for you? Flip Japan Guide Travel Planner has got you covered! If you prefer to travel in a group with other adventurers, reserve your spot in our Autumn 2024 Group Trip for the best bang for your buck!
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