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.
Kenrokuen Gardens in Kanazawa during autumn
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.
Jingu Gaien Ginkgo Avenue
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.
Rikugien Garden
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.
Mount Takao
4. Kegon Waterfall, Nikko, Tochigi Several autumn viewing spots in Nikko are within walking distance from each other, but the 100m tall Kegon waterfall gets our vote. There are multiple viewpoints here, too – take the Akechidaira Ropeway to the observatory for a view from above and enjoy the postcard-perfect view of the waterfall and Lake Chuzenji among the vibrant autumn trees.
When Mid to late October
Get there Trains to Nikko leave Tokyo at least once an hour by JR and Tobu lines. From Nikko, the journey to the Chuzenjiko bus terminal takes just under an hour.
Kegon Waterfall
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.
Fushimi Inari Shrine
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.
Togetsukyo Bridge 7. Kiyomizudera, Kyoto Kiyomizudera is considered one of the most iconic temples in Japan for its three-storey Koyasu Pagoda and Otowa springs. Autumn is particularly special; the whole area transforms into a photographer’s dream with the illumination of 1000-plus maple trees every evening.
When Late November to early December
Get there Bus from Kyoto Station.
Koyasu Pagoda
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.
Momijidani Park
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.
Obukasawa Bridge
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).
Shirakawa-go
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.
Korankei Gorge
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.
Hakone Tozan Railway
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).
The Great Buddha of Kamakura
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.
Daisetsuzan National Park
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.
Metasequoia Namiki Avenue
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.”
"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
Najah loved Japan's autumn foliage season
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!”
“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.”
