15 places to see Japan's autumn leaves

Where to experience the prettiest landscapes in Japan during the autumn foliage season

Japan might be all about cherry blossom season, but once September hits, summer is farewelled and the focus shifts towards welcoming autumn and koyo zensen or tracking the progress of the leaves turning red. Much like the pink blooming sakura, the timing of the autumnal colour change depends on geography and mother nature, but as a general rule, the wave of colour begins in Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost point with Japanese maples from late September through mid-October, following in Tokyo in mid-October to mid-November, mid-to-late November in Osaka, and from late November to early December in Kyoto. 

For the most up to date predictions, keep an eye on the Japan Meteorological Corporation site for their koyo forecast and viewing dates. There are regular updates and the first release is expected in early September. Much like the sakura zensen, tracking the koyo zensen is an annual ritual in Japan. But unlike cherry blossom season, the autumn foliage can be experienced at a much more leisurely pace,  with the season lasting around 50 days. This makes holiday planning around koyo a flexible one, especially if you’re open to letting the leaves lead your itinerary.

How to participate in momijigari

Autumn foliage hunting or momijigari, is as popular as hanami (flower viewing) in spring, a tradition which stems from the Heian period (otherwise known as Japan’s golden age) from 794 AD to 1185 when for Buddhists, momijigari was considered a spiritual and symbolic reminder that life is ephemeral. Viewing parties are popular among many Japanese people – it’s hard to ignore the beauty of the red and gold foliage – and momijigari can be anything from strolling, biking, picnics, camping trips, taking a boat out on one of the many beautiful lakes or simply sitting in a park and soaking in the magic of the season.

Here, 15 places to experience Japan’s autumn foliage season.

1.  Jingu Gaien Ginkgo Avenue, Tokyo
This 146-ginkgo tree lined road is one of the most popular autumn spots in Tokyo, attracting around 1.8 million visitors every season. Extending from Aoyama-dori to Meiji Jingu Gaien, the ground transforms into a golden carpet of ginkgo leaves and walking through provides plenty of opportunity to relive your childhood and, of course, enviable Instagrammable moments if you’re that way inclined.
 
When
September to mid-October

Get there
Gaienmae Station or Aoyama Icchome Station on the Tokyo Metro.

2.  Rikugien Garden, Tokyo
Rikugien Garden is a Japanese garden from the Edo period (1603 – 1867) and is a specially designated national scenic spot for cherry blossom and autumn foliage viewing. It is home to around 400 Japanese maples, and from late November every year, the trees begin to turn to red and gold. The park is illuminated from sunset, and there’s a pretty teahouse to rest your feet and take in the scene.  
 
When
Late November to early December
 
Get there
Komagome Station on the JR Yamanote Line or the Tokyo Metro Namboku Line.

3.  Mount Takao, Tokyo
Mount Takao is easily accessible from the city centre and one of the best places to enjoy both the autumn foliage and go on a hike in a magical location. There are six routes to choose from, with varying difficulties. To make things easy, taking the cable car up and hiking down is an option. From the viewpoint at the top, you’ll see the skyscrapers of Tokyo at a different angle and on a clear day if you’re lucky, Mount Fuji.
 
When
Mid-November to early December

Get there
Takaosanguchi Station takes about 50 minutes by express train from Shinjuku Station on the Keio Line.

5.  Fushimi Inari Shrine, Kyoto
No trip to Japan is complete without a visit to the Fushimi Inari Shrine and the forest behind the shrine is well known for its hiking paths, torii gates and cedar trees. If the cedars are a bit disappointing – they don’t show a lot of colour – keep heading upwards where you’ll find more vibrant red leaved trees.
 
When
Late November to early December
 
Get there
JR Inari Station is a five-minute ride from Kyoto Station on the JR Nara Line.

6.  Arashiyama, Kyoto
The world-famous Arashiyama needs no introduction. It’s not short of viewing spots but the one not to miss is the spectacular view of the Togetsukyo Bridge with Katsura River flowing underneath. Hike up to Monkey Park Iwatayama on Mount Arashiyama to visit Tenryuji Temple, a UNESCO site, before continuing to the iconic Bamboo Forest.
 
When
Late November to early December
 
Get there
The fastest access from Kyoto Station is via the JR Sagano Line.

8.  Miyajima Island, Hiroshima
Miyajima’s Momijidani Park extends along the river to the foot of Mount Misen, the highest peak on Miyajima. The park is a 20-minute walk from the Miyajima Sanbashi Bridge where 700-plus trees dot the park, including Japanese maples. The Miyajima Ropeway offers sublime aerial views of the mountain.
 
When
 Mid-November

Get there
Trains to Miyajimaguchi depart from Hiroshima Station every 15 minutes on the JR Sanyo Line.

9.   Naruko Gorge, Miyagi 
The scenic view from Obukasawa Bridge attracts millions of tourists every year for good reason: a bouquet of reds and yellows blanket the hillsides of the gorge which provides a stunning contrast with the greens of the pine trees. There’s also a trail (albeit shortened after an  earthquake) where you can walk or hike safely while taking in the views. Afterwards head to an onsen for some well-deserved R&R.

When
Mid-October, early November

Get there
A 10-minute cab ride or 30-minute walk from JR Naruko Onsen Station.

10.  Shirakawa-go, Gifu
The historic village of Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO site, showcases a building style known as gassho-zukuri. If you’re in the area during koyo zensen, you’re in for a treat – this is one place where time has stood still, and this is truly evident when seasonal festivities like cherry blossom and autumn foliage rolls around. Look out for hanging persimmons in the villages and other traditional touches.
 
When
Early to mid-October and November
 
Get there
Take the Hokuriku Shinkansen from Tokyo to Shin-Takaoka Station (3 hours) and transfer to the Kaetsuno Bus for Shirakawa-go (2 hours).

11.   Korankei Gorge, Aichi  
Located in Toyota City and listed as another nationally famous spot for koyo events, including a month-long festival in November. Some 4,000 maple trees transform into reds and yellows and during the festival, the trees are lit up and are a spectacular sight. Eat from the many food stalls, and visit Asuke House, the folk museum to see live performances and participate in the workshops.  
 
When
Early to late-November
 
Get there
From Higashi Okazaki Station, take Meitetsu Bus towards Asuke and get off at Korankei.

12.  Hakone Tozan train, Hakone
Enjoy the autumnal scenery in Hakone by taking a ride on the Hakone Tozan Railway, Japan’s oldest mountain railway. It works its way up to Mount Hakone through a beautiful forest and pauses a little while at the bridge between Tonosawa and Ohiradai stations to let passengers take in the views. The train runs year-round, so it’s a fun option to take if visiting during cherry blossom season, too.
 
When
November
 
Get there
The Tokaido Shinkansen Line and the Odakyu Line from Tokyo and from Odawara you then take the Hakone Tozan train.

13.  Kamakura, Kanagawa
An easy day trip from Tokyo, the old capital of Kamakura has it all: breathtaking scenery, easy hiking trails, ancient temples and the autumn foliage season makes everything even more spectacular. The idyllic viewing sites in Kamakura include the Kotokuin Temple, the home of the Great Buddha, and the Hokokuji Temple, or bamboo temple.
 
When
End of November to mid-December
 
Get there
Tokyo Station to Kamakura Station (takes around an hour).

14.  Daisetsuzan National Park, Hokkaido
The largest national park in Japan is also one of the first regions which experiences the autumnal colours. Also known as ‘playground of the gods’, the park is home to abundant wildlife, onsen resorts, picturesque trails (try Ginsendai Trailhead), and volcanic mountains including the tallest mountain on Hokkaido, Mount Asahi, which is easily accessible via a ropeway.
 
When
Mid-September to early October
 
Get there
Asahikawa Station is a 90-minute train ride from Sapporo Station aboard the Lilac or Kamui limited express train.

15.  Metasequoia Namiki Avenue, Shiga
This pretty avenue with 500-plus metasequoia trees is located in Takashima City, northwest of Shiga Prefecture. Set against the Nosaka mountains, Metasequoia Namiki runs for about 2.4 kilometres and continues toward the Makino highlands. The Metasequoia Autumn Festival also takes place during the season.
 
When
Late November to early December
 
Get there
From JR Kosei Line Makino Station, take Makino Kogen Bus and get off at Makino Pick Land. 

Missed out on travelling during autumn foliage season?

Japan is a year-round destination and anytime is the perfect time to visit. Here, some staff recommendations on when to visit Japan and why. 

Summer

“Visiting Japan in summer was breathtaking—there’s nothing better than watching the sunset over beautiful Japanese sights. Summer means longer days, so there’s more time to explore and with so much to do, you're going to want as long as possible! Make sure you stay hydrated— Japan has vending machines everywhere, even in secluded areas, so you’ll have no trouble finding a drink.” 

Jordan, Inspiring Vacations’ Marketing Coordinator 

Autumn 

"I loved visiting Japan in autumn at the end of October, and would recommend it for its breathtaking foliage and serene temple gardens. The pleasant weather is ideal for exploring and the crowds aren't too busy. Be sure to pack a comfortable pair of walking shoes. With the weather this nice, you’ll be doing a lot of extra walking and exploring. I also suggest light clothing with layers as the weather can be unpredictable especially in the early mornings and late evenings. Being prepared will ensure you are comfortable throughout your journey in Japan."

Najah, Inspiring Vacations’ Sales Specialist 

Winter

“Travelling during a less popular tourist season was a great experience. I journeyed in early December and was fortunate to catch glimpses of the remaining autumn foliage. The weather was nice - calm, sunny and little rain - creating a perfect environment for sightseeing. The tourist attractions were pleasantly uncrowded, and the weather provided an ideal opportunity to visit onsens and hot springs. I recommend packing clothing that allows for easy layering. Despite it being winter you may still feel a bit warm while walking around. I also suggest discovering a cosy local bar and trying out some Japanese whiskeys, especially delightful on a winter evening!” 

Bree, Inspiring Vacations’ Product Quality Manager 

Spring

“I caught the tail end of cherry blossom season in mid April. In the towns and villages in the hills, such as Takayama, the blossoms were still looking beautiful. Travelling after the peak season I still got a taste of the blossoms and without the crowds. The weather can be a bit mixed at this time, ranging from mild to warm in most places, but occasionally cooler days with just a little rain so remember to pack  a weather proof jacket. Given that much of the sightseeing is outdoors, spring made for a very pleasant climate to walk around in.”

Kate, Inspiring Vacations’ Product Executive