Autumn in Japan rivals spring for its fame, not just for the pink cherry blossoms but also for the stunning display of vibrant red, orange, and gold leaves that adorn the landscape. Catching this spectacle, however, can be a bit of a challenge. After all, Japan’s climate isn’t uniform across the board.

To assist you in plotting out your autumn adventure in Japan, we’ve compiled this handy guide. It’ll give you the lowdown on when to visit and where to head during this breathtaking time of year.

Autumn in Japan: Koyo in Hokkaido

When it comes to experiencing the magic of autumn in Japan, timing is key. Generally, the spectacle kicks off in the northernmost regions and gradually unfurls its colourful tapestry southward. So, if you’re eyeing Hokkaido, be prepared for an early show, with the foliage starting to don its autumnal hues as early as mid-September, reaching its crescendo by early to mid-October.

Daisetsuzan 大雪山

Hokkaido’s autumn symphony wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Daisetsuzan. This chain of 2,000-metre mountains proudly claims the title of being the harbinger of autumn for the entire country. Mount Asahidake, the highest peak at 2,291 metres, starts donning its colourful coat as early as September’s dawn. With such diversity on offer, we recommend exploring various locations within the park to soak in the changing palette to the fullest.

Best time to visit: Early to late September 

Sapporo 札幌

As you journey through Hokkaido, don’t miss out on Sapporo, draped in the fiery foliage of red and yellow ginkgo trees. Hokkaido University and Nakajima Park are prime spots for leaf-peeping, while Sapporo’s bustling beer gardens and breweries offer a perfect setting to sip and savour the season.

Best time to visit: Mid-October to end of October 

Sounkyo 層雲峡

Within the enchanting Daisetsuzan lies Sounkyo, a 24-kilometre-long gorge, often regarded as the portal to Daisetsuzan. The interplay of trees and hills here creates a scene straight out of a pop-up book, beckoning visitors into its embrace.

Best time to visit: Early to mid-October 

Jozankei Onsen 定山渓温泉

We also recommend traveling a bit outside of Sapporo to Jozankei Onsen, a 140-year-old hot spring resort surrounded by mountains. The area is accessed by the “Kappa Liner” from Sapporo Station and takes about an hour. Taking in the colorful scenery is even better when warming up in a natural hot spring. It’s best to visit Jozankei in early-mid October.

Best time ot visit: Early to mid October 

Shiretoko Five Lakes 知床五湖

For a truly awe-inspiring spectacle, make your way to Shiretoko National Park. The five lakes encircling the Shiretoko Mountain Range offer a picturesque backdrop for the park’s virgin forests, reflecting the kaleidoscope of autumn colours.

Best time to visit: Late September to mid-October

Noboribetsu 登別温泉地獄谷

Noboribetsu beckons with its own brand of enchantment, centred around the Jigokudani, a remnant of a volcanic explosion. The hot spring waters of Noboribetsu Onsen, sourced from the Jigokudani, provide a soothing backdrop to the autumn foliage. Late September to mid-October is prime time for a visit.

Best time to visit: Late September to mid-October

Shinsen Marsh 神仙沼

The Shinsen Marsh offers a breathtaking panorama of the Niseko Mountains. Steeped in Japanese folklore, it’s believed to be the dwelling place of gods and forest hermits. While it’s a destination worth visiting year-round, autumn casts an especially spellbinding spell, with red spruce trees framing the landscape. A stroll along the boardwalk, tracing the water’s edge, is an experience to cherish. Late September to early October is the ideal window to explore Shinsen Marsh and immerse yourself in its splendour.

Onuma Quasi-National Park 大沼国定公園

Onuma Quasi-National Park stands as one of Hokkaido’s most picturesque gems. Lake Onuma, with its 126 islands dotting its surface, adds a captivating dimension to the landscape. As autumn casts its spell, the park transforms into a canvas of fiery red hues, typically igniting from mid to late October. It’s a sight to behold, offering visitors a mesmerising spectacle of nature’s artistry at its finest.

Autumn in Japan: Koyo in Tohoku

The Tohoku region emerges as the next canvas for autumn in Japan, boasting natural beauty that’s simply breathtaking. It’s no wonder that many of the prime spots here line the shores of serene lakes and wind through rugged mountain trails.

Hakkoda Mountains 八甲田山系

Venture to the Hakkoda Mountains in Aomori prefecture, renowned for their pristine beech forests ablaze in fiery reds throughout October. For an aerial view, hop aboard the gondola soaring just above the verdant treeline.

Best time to visit: October

Lake Towada 十和田湖

Make a beeline for Lake Towada, Japan’s largest caldera lake, offering a reflective surface that mirrors the kaleidoscope of autumnal hues. Cross its tranquil waters by boat for a panoramic vista that’s simply mesmerising. And don’t miss the enchanting Oirase Stream, flowing from Lake Towada, where a variety of trees mingle, each adorned in their own autumnal splendour.

Best time to visit: Late October to early November

Shirakami Mountains 白神山地

Set your sights on the Shirakami Mountains, home to one of the world’s largest untouched beech forests, now a designated World Natural Heritage site. A stroll through these ancient woods promises an awe-inspiring experience.

Best time to visit: October

Hachimantai 八幡平

Discover the Hachimantai plateau, nestled on the border of Iwate and Akita Prefectures, where hot springs abound and autumn leaves cascade endlessly. Ascend the “Hachimantai Aspite Line” to the summit of Mt. Hachimantai for an unforgettable vista.

Best time to visit: Late September to mid-October

Chuson-ji Temple 中尊寺

Step into history at Chuson-ji Temple, founded in 850 AD by the esteemed high priest Jikaku Daishi Ennin. Amidst its golden halls, framed by the glory of the Fujiwara clan, immerse yourself in the golden, orange, and red hues of falling leaves.

Best time to visit: Mid-October to early November

Naruko Gorge 鳴子峡

Experience the majestic beauty of Naruko Gorge, where sheer cliffs plunge 100 metres deep, adorned with a tapestry of yellow and gold leaves during the peak autumn months.

Best time to visit: Mid-October to early November

Zao Onsen 蔵王温泉

While Zao Onsen is renowned as a winter ski resort and hot spring haven, its autumnal beauty is equally captivating. Take a dip in its famed waters while admiring the changing leaves, but remember, the high acidity of the water adds to its unique allure.

Best time to visit: Late September to early October

Goshikinuma 五色沼

Goshikinuma boasts several lakes, each with its own distinct surface colour. In autumn, capturing the vibrant hues of each lake makes for a delightful photo adventure.

Best time to visit: October

Urabandai Autumn Leaves Ropeway 裏磐梯

For a bird’s-eye view of the changing leaves, hop aboard the Urabandai Autumn Leaves Ropeway, offering sweeping vistas of Mt. Bandai and Lake Inawashiro.

Best time to visit: October

Mt. Adatara 安達太良山

Mount Adatara, one of Japan’s renowned peaks, provides a serene escape amidst beech, maple, and rowan trees, offering a canvas of clear blue skies against the fiery foliage.

Best time to visit: Late September to late October

Hirosaki Castle 弘前城

Hirosaki Castle, famed for its cherry blossoms in spring, transforms into a spectacle of autumnal beauty. Relax in the expansive courtyard, framed by the fiery hues against the castle’s pristine white façade, or take a leisurely boat ride along the moat for a unique perspective.

Best time to visit: Early to mid-November

Autumn in Japan: Koyo in Kanto

Nikko 日光市

Nikko is an absolute must-visit, especially during autumn in Japan. The town is peppered with UNESCO World Heritage sites, and among them, Toshogu Shrine steals the show. For a hidden gem, head to the Kanmangafuchi Abyss, a riverside trail adorned with 70 Jizo statues. With the trees canopying the path, it’s an enchanting spot for capturing memorable pictures.

Best time to visit: Early to mid-November

Kamakura 鎌倉

Kamakura, once Japan’s second capital from 1192 to 1333, transforms into a golden haven during the autumn months. With its plethora of gardens, temples, and encircling mountains, Kamakura offers an exquisite setting to witness the changing leaves.

Best time to visit: Mid-November to mid-December

Hakone 箱根町

Hakone is famed across Japan for its hot spring havens. Nestled near the base of Mt. Fuji, this picturesque town serves as an idyllic backdrop for your autumn photoshoot, especially with the iconic mountain as a backdrop.

Best time to visit: Mid-to-late November

Nasu 那須町

Nasu beckons hikers with its breathtaking landscapes. Wander through the forests, where the changing colours against the Nasu Mountains provide a spectacular backdrop. After a day of exploration, unwind in one of the area’s many hot springs.

Best time to visit: Early-to-mid October

Kinugawa Onsen 鬼怒川温泉

Kinugawa Onsen stands out as a premier hot spring destination in Kanto. With inns, hotels, and baths lining both sides of the Kinugawa River, the town exudes tranquillity. For the best leaf-peeping, head to the Kinu Tateiwa Suspension Bridge.

Best time to visit: Late October to mid-November

Fukuroda Falls 袋田の滝

Fukuroda Falls, one of Japan’s three renowned waterfalls, dazzles visitors year-round, but it’s especially captivating in autumn. As leaves cascade around you, the 120-metre-high waterfall creates an unforgettable experience.

Best time to visit: Late October to mid-November

Shiomi Suspension Bridge 塩見橋

Discover the Shiomi Suspension Bridge within Hananuki Valley, offering a stunning view of the Shiomi Falls. Traverse the bridge and find yourself enveloped in a multicoloured canopy of reds, oranges, and golds.

Best time to visit: Mid-to-late November

Oze National Park 尾瀬

Oze National Park, listed among Japan’s 100 most scenic spots, transforms into a sea of orange in autumn. From grasslands to foliage, the entire park bursts into vibrant hues.

Best time to visit: Mid-September to mid-October

Sarugakyo Onsen 猿ヶ京温泉

Sarugakyo Onsen, famed for its colourless spring water, offers a mesmerising display of maple and ginkgo trees ablaze in yellow and red. Nestled amidst mountains and overlooking Lake Akaya, it’s a sight to behold.

Best time to visit: Mid-October to early November

Minakami Onsen 水上温泉

Minakami Onsen, easily accessible from Tokyo Station via the Joetsu Line, promises a perfect autumn getaway. Soak in the baths while admiring the nearby Mt. Tanigawa’s foliage.

Best time to visit: Early October to early November

Shima Onsen 四万温泉

Shima Onsen, known as a “spiritual spring,” boasts enchanting leaf-viewing spots like Momotaro Falls and Tsukimi Bridge. Rent a canoe to witness the autumn foliage from a unique perspective on Lake Shima and Oku-Shiman Lake.

Best time to visit: Mid-October to mid-November

Ikaho Onsen 伊香保町

Ikaho Onsen, steeped in 2,000 years of history, exudes charm against the backdrop of the Haruna mountain range. In autumn, its Taisho-style architecture is beautifully complemented by the changing leaves.

Best time to visit: Late October to early November

Fukiwari Falls 吹割瀑

Fukiwari Falls, with its 30-metre-wide cascade, offers a picturesque setting to experience the autumn season amidst falling leaves.

Best time to visit: Late October to early November

Chichibu 秩父市

Chichibu, just an hour and a half from Saitama, boasts captivating rapids and vibrant colours. Don’t miss the energetic Nagatoro Autumn Leaves Festival and Okochichibu Otaki Autumn Leaves Festival for an authentic autumn experience.

Best time to visit: Late October to mid-November

Tokyo 東京

Tokyo, a must on any Japan itinerary, showcases its autumnal beauty at the Meiji Shrine Outer Garden. Stroll down the Ginkgo avenue, ablaze in golden yellows, for a serene escape from the city bustle.

Best time to visit: Late November to early December

Okutama 奥多摩町

Okutama, Tokyo’s earliest spot to witness autumn leaves, is best explored around Lake Okutama. Traverse the floating bridge for a unique perspective on the changing foliage.

Best time to visit: Early November to early December

Mt. Takao 高尾山

Mt. Takao, just an hour from central Tokyo, is renowned for its multicoloured maples in autumn. Arrive early to beat the crowds and soak in the splendour of nature.

Best time to visit: Mid-November to early December

Yoro Valley 県立養老渓谷奥清澄自然公園

Yoro Valley, a paradise for hikers year-round, is especially enchanting in autumn. With its waterfalls and vibrant foliage, it’s a popular spot for leaf-hunting and tourism alike, so plan your visit early.

Best time to visit: Late November to early December

Autumn in Japan: Koyo in Chubu and Hokuriku

Korankei 香嵐渓

The most renowned spot to admire autumn foliage in Chubu is Korankei. Legend has it that Monsho Sanei of Koshaku-ji Temple planted a maple tree here in 1634. Today, you can witness 4,000 maple trees ablaze in beautiful red hues.

Best time to visit: Mid-to-late November

Hakuba 白馬村

Hakuba is famed for its kaleidoscope of colours during autumn in Japan. As temperatures shift, the mountains showcase a gradient from green at their base to yellows and golds in the middle, culminating in snow-capped peaks. This overlap creates incredible photo opportunities that are simply unmissable.

Best time to visit: October

Yatsugatake 八ヶ岳連峰

Yatsugatake, ranked among Japan’s 100 most famous mountains, boasts the brilliantly red Higashizawa Bridge nestled amidst golden and red leaves. Capturing this scene is sure to make for an awesome souvenir.

Best time to visit: Late October to early November

Karuizawa 軽井沢

Karuizawa, known as a summer retreat bustling with cafes and restaurants, also shines as a prime autumn leaf destination. As the leaves change, they cast a beautiful reflection on the surface of Kumoba Pond.

Best time to visit: Mid-October to early November

Lake Yamanaka 山中湖

Lake Yamanaka offers a fantastic vista of autumn leaves against the backdrop of Mt. Fuji. As one of the Fuji Five Lakes, its shores are adorned with red maple trees during the autumn months.

Best time to visit: Mid-October to mid-November

Lake Kawaguchiko 河口湖

For the ultimate autumn leaf experience, head to Lake Kawaguchiko, the most famous and best spot in Japan. Serving as a prime reflective surface, it mirrors not only the stunning leaves but also the majestic Mt. Fuji in the background. Visit early in the day and hope for clear weather for an unforgettable experience.

Best time to visit: Mid-to-late November

Naeba Dragondola ドラゴンドラ

For a breathtaking panoramic view, hop on the Naeba Dragondola, Japan’s longest super-gondola spanning 5,481 metres. It offers vistas of golden larch trees and connects the Naeba and Tashiro Plateaus.

Best time to visit: Early October to early November

Sunmata Gorge 寸又峡

For the adventurous souls, a visit to Sunmata Gorge promises the beauty of autumn foliage along with the thrill of crossing a daring suspension bridge.

Best time to visit: Early November to early December

Gero Onsen 下呂温泉

Gero Onsen, steeped in a rich 1,000-year history, offers a serene retreat to watch the leaves change. Renowned as the best hot spring resort in the Hida region and one of Japan’s three most famous hot springs, it promises relaxation amidst autumn splendour.

Best time to visit: Mid-to-late November

Yoro Falls 養老の滝

Yoro Park, centred around the magnificent Yoro Falls, provides a picturesque promenade complemented by autumn leaves, offering serene views.

Best time to visit: Late November to early December

Kuzuryu Lake 九頭竜湖

Kuzuryu Lake, an artificial marvel, boasts the Hakagase Bridge spanning 270 metres across its waters, offering a striking contrast against the autumn leaves.

Best time to visit: Late October to early November

Kenrokuen Garden 兼六園

Kenrokuen Garden in Ishikawa, one of Japan’s three famous gardens, transforms into a vibrant tapestry of yellow, orange, and gold leaves during autumn, enhancing its manicured beauty.

Best time to visit: Mid-to-late November

Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route 立山黒部アルペンルート

The Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route offers a breathtaking journey amidst majestic 3,000-metre-class mountains and stunning autumn foliage via trolley buses, cable cars, and ropeways.

Best time to visit: Mid-September to mid-October

Yahiko 新潟県

Yahiko Park, famed for its vermilion bridge, tunnel, and waterfall, offers spectacular views of autumn foliage amidst its maple-draped surroundings.

Best time to visit: Late October to mid-November

Lake Okutadami 奥只見湖

In Niigata, Lake Okutadami reigns as the most famous autumn leaf viewing spot. Enjoy a boat tour for the best views of maple, beech, and rowan trees adorning its shores.

Best time to visit: Mid-October to early November

Autumn in Japan: Koyo in Kansai

Kyoto 京都

Kyoto holds global renown as an ancient capital, attracting Japanese and international visitors alike for its stunning autumn scenery. While Fushimi Inari Shrine and Kiyomizu-dera are popular choices for leaf-viewing, they tend to get crowded, so it’s best to go early!

Best time to visit: Mid-November to early December

Koto Sanzan 湖東三山

The Koto Sanzan, comprising Saimyoji, Kongorin, and Baekje Temples east of Lake Biwa, are renowned for offering some of the best autumn leaf views in Kansai.

Best time to visit: Mid-to-late November

Keisoku-ji Temple 鶏足寺

Founded by a monk in the Nara period, Keisoku-ji Temple is a favourite spot for witnessing red leaves during autumn. The highlight is the cobblestone path, flanked by maple trees, leading up to the temple.

Best time to visit: Mid-to-late November

Makino Metasequoia マキノ町のメタセコイア並木

On the way to Makino Plateau, you’ll encounter about 500 metasequoia trees. These towering giants transform the road into a golden tunnel during autumn in Japan.

Best time to visit: Late November to early December

Nara Park 奈良公園

Nara Park makes for a perfect day-trip from Kyoto during the season. Famous for its bowing deer, the park transforms into a canvas of gold, yellow, and orange leaves in autumn.

Best time to visit: Late October to early December

Mt. Koya 高野山

Mt. Koya, the head temple of the Shingon sect of Buddhism, is adorned with maple and ginkgo trees turning bright red and yellow during autumn.

Best time to visit: Late October to early November

Midosuji Avenue 御堂筋

Midosuji, Osaka’s main street, is flanked by yellow ginkgo trees during autumn. Known for its luxury outlets, this avenue offers an awesome shopping spree amidst the autumn foliage.

Best time to visit: Late November to early December

Minoh Falls 箕面大滝

Minoh Falls is renowned as the best spot to admire autumn leaves in Osaka. The 33-metre waterfall’s gleaming mist provides a perfect contrast to the vibrant red maple trees surrounding the area.

Best time to visit: Mid-November to early December

Arima Onsen 有馬温泉

Arima Onsen, one of Japan’s three most famous hot springs, offers an exceptional setting to relax and enjoy the autumn leaves. The red maples adorning Zuihoji Park and lining Arima Ropeway are a sight to behold.

Best time to visit: November

Takeda Castle 竹田城跡

Takeda Castle, dubbed the “Japanese Machu Picchu,” is a popular destination for leaf-viewing, especially during the morning when wreaths of clouds envelop the castle. Rise early to witness the clouds drifting overhead, accompanied by the stunning red maple leaves.

Best time to visit: November

Autumn in Japan: Koyo in Chugoku and Shikoku

Mt. Daisen 大山

Mt. Daisen is revered as one of the top 100 mountains in Japan. During autumn in Japan, a stunning gradient of yellow, orange, and crimson leaves adorns its slopes, reaching up to the snowy ridge.

Best time to visit: Late October to early November

Kankakei Gorge 寒霞渓

Kankakei boasts a picturesque valley adorned with peculiar, wind-eroded rocks. The ropeway offers a breathtaking view of the changing leaves below, with occasional stone formations peering through the tree-line.

Best time to visit: November

Iya Onsen ホテル祖谷温泉露天風呂

Iya Onsen, nestled amidst mountains and foliage, offers a serene escape. This charming spot is an ideal retreat for a relaxing soak away from the crowds, amidst a valley painted in the hues of autumn.

Best time to visit: Mid-october to mid-November

Okutsu Gorge 奥津渓

Okutsu Gorge in Okayama stretches for 3 kilometres, offering a refreshing haven to enjoy autumn leaves, thanks to the Yoshii River that carved its path.

Best time to visit: Late October to mid-November

Adachi Art Museum 足立美術館

The Adachi Art Museum boasts a vast Japanese garden adorned with numerous azalea trees. In autumn, these trees transform the already beautiful garden into a masterpiece of vibrant hues.

Best time to visit: Mid-November to early December

Chomon Gorge 長門峡

Chomon Gorge welcomes you the moment you step off the JR Yamaguchi line at Chomonkyo Station. Surrounded by maple, selkova, and hazenoki leaves, the 14km gorge offers a spectacular canvas for leaf-viewing.

Best time to visit: Late October to mid-November

Miyajima 宮島

Miyajima ranks among Japan’s top three scenic spots, alongside Amanohashidate and Matsushima. Itsukushima Shrine, designated as a national treasure, becomes a visual delight in autumn. The vermilion torii gate complements the crimson maple leaves perfectly, creating a scene that’s truly unmissable.

Best time to visit: Mid-to-late November

Autumn in Japan: Koyo in Kyushu

Yabakei Gorge 耶馬渓

Yabakei is a renowned gorge celebrated as the premier spot to witness autumn in Japan in Kyushu. The uniquely shaped stone peaks offer a stunning backdrop to the shifting colours of the season.

Best time to visit: Late October to mid-November

Akizuki Castle Ruins 秋月城跡

The Akizuki Castle Ruins and its accompanying Kuromon Gate provide a beautiful setting to watch the falling leaves. The mossy rocks and weathered wooden structures evoke a sense of stepping back in time.

Best time to visit: Late November to early December

Fuki-ji Temple 富貴寺

Fuki-ji Temple, reportedly founded in 718, stands as the oldest wooden building in Kyushu. This national treasure of Japan is best appreciated when adorned with autumn leaves.

Best time to visit: Late November to early December

Kikuchi Valley 菊池渓谷

Kikuchi Valley within Aso Kuju National Park offers a haven for autumn leaf enthusiasts and birdwatchers alike. The stream winding through the valley creates a picturesque contrast in autumn, accompanied by the melodic chirping of birds from the surrounding forest.

Best time to visit: Early-to-mid November

Takachiho Gorge 高千穂峡

Takachiho Gorge, a natural monument of stunning beauty, was carved by the erosion of lava from the nearby Aso mountain range. Enveloped by thick forests and tranquil waters, it provides an idyllic setting to admire the changing colours of autumn.

Best time to visit: November

Sogi Falls 曽木の滝

Sogi Falls, dubbed the “Niagara of the East,” is among the Heisei 100 Views of Japan. The cascading white waters stand in stark contrast to the vibrant fir and ginkgo trees lining the water’s edge.

Best time to visit: Late October to late November

Kirishima Onsen 霧島温泉

Kirishima Onsen, nestled within the Kirishima mountain range with its 23 volcanoes, is a breathtaking hot spring city. Amidst ample nature, soaking in one of the many baths offers relaxation, while the frequent appearance of red maple leaves adds an unforgettable charm to this steamy city.

Best time to visit: Mid-to-late November

Final Words on Embracing the Splendour of Autumn in Japan

As the crisp air of autumn descends upon Japan, it unveils a tapestry of vibrant hues that paint the landscapes in a breathtaking array of colours. From the majestic mountains of Hokkaido to the serene valleys of Kyushu, each region offers a unique canvas for nature’s annual spectacle.

Whether you find yourself wandering through the historic streets of Kyoto, marvelling at the fiery leaves adorning ancient temples, or venturing into the secluded gorges and valleys hidden amidst the countryside, the beauty of autumn in Japan is an experience to be cherished.

So, as you plan your autumn adventure, let the whispers of the wind guide you through forests ablaze with reds, oranges, and golds, and may your journey be filled with moments of awe and wonder as you immerse yourself in the splendour of Japan’s autumnal glory.