Japan is a country of striking contrasts, where ancient traditions blend seamlessly with cutting-edge modernity. While each season in Japan has its own charm – like the well known cherry blossom season – Japan’s fall is no less impressive.
As the heat of summer fades, Japan’s landscapes turn to fiery reds, burnished golds, and bright yellows. Known as “Aki” in Japanese, this enchanting season not only signifies beautiful fall foliage views (紅葉/Momiji), but also a pleasant climate and a rich cultural experience for those planning a trip.
This guide is all about the Japanese autumn season in 2024, including the best time to see the dazzling foliage, must-see attractions and how to enjoy the season like a local.
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When is Autumn in Japan?
Autumn in Japan typically runs from mid-September to early December. During this time, the leaves change color, creating beautiful landscapes. The exact timing of peak foliage varies each year and by region. Generally, the leaves start changing in the northern areas and gradually move southward.
- Early Autumn (Mid-September to Mid-October)
Hokkaido, the northernmost island, boasts the earliest glimpse of fall colors. Expect fiery crimson hues to paint the slopes of Mount Daisetsuzan and vibrant golds to grace the landscapes around Lake Toya.
- Peak Autumn (Late October to Mid-November)
This is the prime period to witness the breathtaking transformation of Japan’s central regions. Iconic destinations like Kyoto, Nikko, and Mount Fuji come alive with a kaleidoscope of reds, oranges, and yellows.
- Late Autumn (Late November to Early December)
As the temperatures dip further south, the southernmost island of Kyushu experiences its peak autumn season. Here, the fall foliage takes on a softer palette of mellow yellows and warm oranges, offering a more subdued yet enchanting spectacle.
Note: Weather patterns can slightly influence the timing of peak foliage. While forecasts for 2024 are still under development, some sources predict a possible delay in the northern regions due to potential El Niño effects. Keep an eye on official Japan Meteorological Corporation (JMC) updates closer to your travel dates for the most accurate information.
Must-See Destinations in Japan Autumn
Japan is home to countless locations that become even more enchanting during autumn. Here are ten must-visit spots to enjoy the autumn foliage:
1. Kyoto
Timeless beauty and historical charm
As the former capital of Japan for over a millennium, Kyoto is steeped in cultural and historical significance. The city boasts numerous temples, shrines, and traditional gardens, many of which become even more enchanting with the arrival of autumn. The vibrant hues of the maple and ginkgo trees provide a spectacular contrast to the serene temples and traditional wooden buildings.
Visiting the city’s temples and gardens during autumn offers a unique opportunity to experience the harmonious blend of nature and architecture. The serene atmosphere and stunning views make Kyoto a must-see destination for anyone visiting Japan in the fall.
Kiyomizu-dera: Famous for its wooden stage that juts out from the main hall, offering a panoramic view of the maple trees below.
Tofuku-ji: Known for its beautiful garden and the Tsutenkyo Bridge, which provides an excellent view of the colorful valley.
Arashiyama: A picturesque district with bamboo groves, temples, and the iconic Togetsukyo Bridge.
2. Hakone
Mountainous landscapes and hot springs
Hakone is located in Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, which combines natural beauty, cultural sites and recreation. The area is famous for its hot springs, and is the perfect place to warm up on a crisp autumn day while enjoying the surrounding fall colors.
Hakone Ropeway: Provides a bird’s-eye view of the vibrant autumn leaves.
Lake Ashi: Offers beautiful views of the autumn foliage with Mount Fuji in the background.
Gora Park: A French-style landscape garden perfect for a leisurely stroll.
3. Nara
Deer and delightful colors
Nara, the ancient capital of Japan before Kyoto, boasts numerous historical sites and expansive parks that combine natural beauty and unique wildlife, making it an enchanting destination in the fall.
Nara is particularly famous for Nara Park, where hundreds of tame deer roam freely and interact with visitors, adding to the unique charm of the fall season.
Nara Park: Home to hundreds of deer and stunning autumn leaves.
Todai-ji Temple: One of the world’s largest wooden buildings, surrounded by colorful foliage.
Kasuga Taisha: Known for its stone lanterns and beautiful forested area.
4. Nikko
Nature’s splendor and cultural heritage
Located north of Tokyo, amidst the mountains of Tochigi Prefecture, Nikko is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its ornate shrines and lush natural surroundings. In autumn, its dense forests and crystal-clear lakes come alive with brilliant colors. The perfect combination of cultural heritage and stunning autumn scenery makes Nikko a great destination for visitors to experience the beauty of Japan in autumn.
Toshogu Shrine: A UNESCO World Heritage site surrounded by vibrant forests.
Lake Chuzenji: A scenic lake with nearby Kegon Falls, providing stunning autumn views.
Irohazaka Winding Road: Offers a scenic drive with numerous hairpin turns and beautiful foliage.
5. Fuji Five Lakes
Iconic mountain and reflective waters
The Fuji Five Lakes area offers breathtaking views of Mt. Fuji and the stunning autumn foliage, making it ideal for visitors who wish to combine outdoor activities with breathtaking scenery. Located in the northern foothills of Mount Fuji, the area consists of five lakes formed by previous volcanic eruptions. Especially on a clear fall day, the view of Mount Fuji reflected in the lakes is awe-inspiring.
From hiking to boat tours, there are many ways to enjoy the beauty of autumn and create unforgettable memories of Mt. Fuji & the surrounding landscape.
Lake Kawaguchi: A popular spot for its stunning views of Mount Fuji and autumn colors.
Maple Corridor: A walkway lined with maple trees that turn vibrant red in autumn.
Chureito Pagoda: Provides a picturesque view of Mount Fuji framed by autumn leaves.
6. Kamikochi
Alpine beauty and pristine wilderness
Lying within the Chubu-Sangaku National Park, Kamikochi is a remote mountainous area known for its stunning alpine scenery and crystal-clear rivers. The valley is surrounded by towering peaks and lush forests, which become a vibrant mosaic of colors in autumn.
The area is popular among hikers, who come to explore the numerous trails and enjoy the breathtaking views of the Japanese Alps.
Azusa River: Offers stunning views of the autumn foliage along the river.
Kappa Bridge: A famous spot for scenic views and photography.
Dakesawa Marsh: A peaceful area with vibrant autumn colors and mountain views.
7. Tokyo
Urban vibrancy and natural beauty
As the bustling capital of Japan, Tokyo is a city of contrasts, with modern skyscrapers set against historic temples and tranquil gardens. Despite its urban setting, Tokyo still has many green spaces where citizens and visitors can experience the beauty of fall.
Shinjuku Gyoen: A large park with Japanese, English, and French-style gardens.
Rikugien Garden: Known for its beautiful autumn leaves and traditional tea houses.
Meiji Shrine Outer Garden: Offers a peaceful retreat with stunning autumn colors.
8. Miyajima
Sacred island and scenic views
Miyajima Island near Hiroshima is famous for its floating torii gate and autumn foliage. Officially known as Itsukushima, the island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that boasts beautiful views and great spiritual significance. The most iconic sight on the island is Itsukushima Shrine, whose torii gate floats on the water at high tide.
On Miyajima Island, you can explore the island’s scenic trails, visit the historic shrines, or sample the local cuisine to immerse yourself in the beauty of Japan’s fall season.
Itsukushima Shrine: Known for its iconic torii gate that appears to float during high tide.
Momijidani Park: A valley filled with maple trees that turn brilliant red in autumn.
Mount Misen: Offers hiking trails with breathtaking views of the island and autumn colors.
9. Takayama
Traditional townscape and colorful leaves
Takayama is known for its well-preserved Edo period streets and fall festivals, making it an ideal destination for experiencing Japan in autumn. The city’s old town, with its narrow streets and wooden stores, offers a glimpse into traditional Japanese life, and is especially charming in the fall when the maple leaves change color. The city’s annual fall festival, held in October, features elaborate floats and traditional performances, providing visitors with a unique cultural experience.
Old Town: Features traditional wooden houses and beautiful autumn decorations.
Takayama Jinya: A historical government building surrounded by autumn foliage.
Shiroyama Park: Offers a panoramic view of the town and colorful leaves.
10. Hokkaido
Northern wilderness and early colors
With the cool climate, Hokkaido begins to change color earlier than other regions, making it one of the first places in Japan to sense autumn, and perfect for those who want to sample the fall foliage scene in early autumn.
Hokkaido offers a wide variety of experiences, too, as you can hike mountains, visit national parks, or soak in hot springs to get the full effect of the spectacular fall scenery created by the vast wilderness and rugged landscapes.
Daisetsuzan National Park: Known for its stunning alpine scenery and early autumn colors.
Shiretoko National Park: Offers beautiful views of autumn leaves and wildlife.
Noboribetsu: Famous for its hot springs and vibrant autumn foliage.
How to Enjoy Autumn Colors (紅葉狩り/Momijigari) Like a Local
Now that we’ve discovered some of the best places to see the autumn leaves in Japan, what we can do to further enhance the experience is to take part in some local activities
Here are some authentic ways to enjoy the autumn colors:
Hiking
Japan’s diverse landscapes offer countless hiking opportunities that provide stunning views of autumn foliage. Some popular trails include:
Kamikochi: Located in the Northern Japan Alps, Kamikochi offers pristine nature and breathtaking views. The trails around Kappa Bridge and Myojin Pond are particularly beautiful during autumn.
Nikko: The area around Lake Chuzenji and Ryuzu Waterfall offers scenic hiking trails that showcase the vibrant fall colors.
Mount Takao: Just an hour from Tokyo, Mount Takao is a popular day hike with trails that wind through forests of red and yellow leaves.
Scenic Train Rides
Taking a train ride through Japan’s countryside is a relaxing way to enjoy the fall foliage. Some scenic routes include:
Sagano Scenic Railway: Also known as the Sagano Romantic Train, this route in Kyoto offers stunning views of the Hozugawa River and surrounding mountains, especially during autumn.
Hakone Tozan Railway: This mountain railway weaves through the hills of Hakone, providing passengers with panoramic views of the autumn landscape.
Gono Line: Running along the coast of the Sea of Japan, this line offers views of both the ocean and the vibrant fall colors of the surrounding mountains.
Onsen (Hot Springs)
Soaking in an onsen surrounded by autumn foliage is a quintessential Japanese experience. Here are some famous onsen towns:
Hakone: Known for its hot springs and views of Mount Fuji, Hakone offers several ryokan (traditional inns) with outdoor baths where you can enjoy the autumn colors.
Kusatsu: Located in Gunma Prefecture, Kusatsu is one of Japan’s most famous onsen towns. The outdoor baths at Sainokawara Park are particularly beautiful in the fall.
Nikko Yumoto: Situated in the mountains of Nikko, this onsen town offers a tranquil setting with stunning autumn foliage.
Seasonal Foods
Autumn in Japan is also a time to enjoy seasonal foods that are only available during this time of year. Don’t miss your chance to feast!
Matsutake Mushrooms: These highly prized mushrooms are often grilled or used in soups and rice dishes.
Kuri (Chestnuts): Chestnuts are used in a variety of dishes, including kuri-gohan (chestnut rice) and kuri-manju (sweet chestnut buns).
Persimmons: Known as kaki in Japanese, persimmons are a popular autumn fruit that can be eaten fresh, dried, or used in desserts.
Autumn Festivals
While not as widely celebrated as in other Asian countries (such as China), the Mid-Autumn Festival holds significance in certain regions of Japan. Families gather to admire the moon, enjoy moon-viewing parties, and offer prayers for good fortune.
On top of that, there are some other autumn festivals worth experiencing:
Jidai Matsuri (Festival of Ages) in Kyoto: Held on October 22nd, this festival features a historical parade with participants dressed in period costumes.
Kurama Fire Festival: Takes place in Kurama, near Kyoto, on October 22nd. The festival involves a dramatic display of torches and traditional rituals.
Tsukimi (Moon Viewing): A traditional celebration where people admire the full moon and enjoy seasonal foods like dango (rice dumplings).
Tips for Planning a Fall Foliage Tour in Japan
To make the most of your autumn experience in Japan, consider these tips:
Popular spots can get crowded, so visiting early in the morning or later in the afternoon can provide a more peaceful experience.
️Staying in locations like Hakone or Nikko allows you to enjoy the scenery at a leisurely pace and experience the serene early morning and evening light.
You may consider joining a local tour so that local guides can provide you with unique insights and take you to lesser-known sights.
In terms of clothing, it is best to dress in layers as there is a big difference in temperature between day and night. A thin jacket, sweater and comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
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