With its blend of urban life and natural beauty, Kanto is one of the best places in Japan to experience the vibrant colours of fall.
Many people flock to well-known spots like Nikko, Mount Takao, or Rikugien Garden to enjoy the fiery reds and oranges that blanket the the country during the autumn months. But with popularity comes crowds, and you might prefer to seek out the quieter, lesser-known gems where you can fully see the beauty of autumn without the hustle and bustle.
Lucky for you, the Kanto area is sprinkled with such hidden treasures. If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path autumn day trip, this guide is for you.
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Ryujin Suspension Bridge (龍神大吊橋)
In Ibaraki Prefecture, you’ll find the Ryujin Suspension Bridge, a lesser-known spot that offers a bit of thrill with your autumn views. The bridge stretches across the Ryujin Gorge (pictured above), hanging 100 metres above the river, and provides stunning panoramic views of the surrounding forest as it bursts into autumn colours. The best time to visit is from late October to early November.
You can reach Ryujin Gorge by taking a train to Hitachi-Ota Station, followed by a bus ride to the bridge. There’s a small admission fee of around 320 yen to cross the bridge. If you’re feeling adventurous, bungee jumping is also available, though it’ll set you back a bit more – but imagine the rush of leaping into a sea of autumn leaves!
Hanazono Gorge (花貫渓谷)
Not too far away, still in Ibaraki, is Hanazono Gorge, another spot where you can enjoy the season’s beauty in peace. The highlight here is the suspension bridge that crosses the gorge, offering fantastic views of the foliage and the clear, flowing river below. The area is less crowded, making it a perfect retreat for those who want to savour the colours of autumn without distractions.
The best time to visit is usually late November. Hanazono Gorge is accessible by train to Isohara Station, and from there, it’s a short bus ride. It’s free to explore, which makes it even more appealing for a laid-back day out.
Want to discover other uncrowded autumn spots in Japan? Check out our list of lesser-known autumn spots in the Tokai area:
Watarase Keikoku Railway (わたらせ渓谷鐵道)
For a truly unique autumn experience, hop on the Watarase Keikoku Railway in Gunma Prefecture. This quaint local train line runs through the Watarase Gorge, providing passengers with an stunning journey through autumn landscapes. The train’s slow pace allows you to fully appreciate the changing colours as it winds through the mountains, crosses rivers, and passes through small villages.
One of the highlights of this journey is the option to ride in open-air trolley carriages. The railway is easily accessible from Kiryu Station, and for a full day of exploration, you can purchase a one-day pass for 1,850 yen, with an additional 510 yen boarding pass required, totaling 2,360 yen.
This pass lets you hop on and off at various stations along the line. The open-air trolley requires an extra 520 yen ticket, which is well worth it for the unmatched views and atmosphere.
Akigawa Valley (秋川渓谷)
Moving closer to the Tokyo metropolitan area, Akigawa Valley in western Tokyo offers a perfect blend of accessibility and natural beauty. Despite being relatively close to the city, this valley feels worlds away from the urban hustle, with its clear rivers, lush forests, and striking autumn colours.
The Akigawa Valley Nature Trail is a popular route that takes you through the heart of the valley, past waterfalls and across charming wooden bridges. The best time to visit is from late November to early December.
Akigawa Valley is accessible from Musashi-Itsukaichi Station, about an hour from central Tokyo, followed by a short bus ride. There’s no entrance fee, making it an ideal spot for a budget-friendly autumn outing.
Lake Sagami (相模湖)
For a more leisurely autumn day, consider a visit to Lake Sagami in Kanagawa Prefecture. This man-made lake is surrounded by hills and forests that come alive with colour in the fall.
You can rent a boat and drift across the calm waters, taking in the reflections of the autumn leaves, or simply enjoy a picnic on the shore. The best time to visit is late November.
Lake Sagami is easily accessible from Sagamiko Station, about an hour from Tokyo. Boat rentals are available at the lake, typically costing around 1,500 yen per hour.
Yoro Keikoku (養老渓谷)
Lastly, we recommend heading to Yoro Keikoku in Chiba Prefecture, a spot that is somewhat off the beaten path but absolutely worth the visit. This gorge is known for its beautiful waterfalls and clear streams, all framed by dense forests that turn stunning shades of red and gold in the autumn.
The best time to visit is from late November to early December. To get to Yoro Keikoku, take the train to Yoro Keikoku Station, and from there, it’s a short walk to the gorge. There’s no entrance fee, making it a fantastic spot for a day trip filled with nature and fresh air.
Uncrowded Kanto Autumn Spots FAQs
What is the best time to see autumn leaves in the Kanto region?
The best time varies by altitude and location. In mountainous areas like Gunma and Ibaraki, peak colours often arrive from late October to mid-November. For spots closer to Tokyo and in Chiba, the season peaks later, typically from late November to early December.
Which of these uncrowded spots is easiest to access from central Tokyo?
Akigawa Valley is the most accessible, located within the Tokyo metropolitan area and reachable in about 75 minutes by train from Shinjuku. Lake Sagami in Kanagawa is also very convenient, at about 60 minutes from Shinjuku Station.
Are there any good hiking spots for autumn leaves on this list?
Yes! Akigawa Valley and Yoro Keikoku are both excellent choices for autumn hiking. They offer well-maintained nature trails that take you along rivers, past waterfalls, and through beautifully coloured forests. Hanazono Gorge also offers peaceful walking paths. And if you’re looking to hike this season, be sure to also read this:
Can I visit these autumn spots on a budget?
Absolutely. Hanazono Gorge, Akigawa Valley, Lake Sagami, and Yoro Keikoku are all free to enter. You would only need to pay for transportation and any extras like boat rentals. This makes them perfect for a budget-friendly autumn day trip from Tokyo.
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Kanto’s Hidden Fall Foliage Spots Await You
These six lesser-known autumn foliage spots in the Kanto area each offer something unique, from thrilling suspension bridges and peaceful temples to scenic train rides and serene lakes. They’re perfect for those of us who prefer to take the road less travelled, soaking in the beauty of autumn in a more intimate and tranquil setting.
So, next time you’re planning an autumn outing, why not skip the crowded famous spots and discover these hidden gems instead? You’ll find that the true magic of autumn often lies in the quieter, more secluded places where you can connect with nature and experience the season in all its glory.
