[Japan Autumn Foliage Guide 2026] Guide to Enjoying Autumn Leaves in Japan | Best Places to Enjoy Autumn Leaves | Tokyo, Osaka, Kyushu, Tohoku, Hokkaido

Every autumn, major meteorological agencies and tourism associations in Japan provide real-time updates on the progress of autumn foliage, allowing travelers to stay informed and adjust their itineraries accordingly. The following table was published by the Japan Meteorological Corporation. The last update date was October 1st.

Kanto Region | Nikko, Meiji Jingu Gaien, Showa Kinen Park

Nikko, Tochigi Prefecture | Nakazenji Lake, Senjohara, Iroha Slope

Best viewing period: Mid-October to early November

Nikko is renowned as one of Japan's three most famous autumn foliage viewing spots. Starting from the higher-altitude Okunikko, Lake Chuzenji stretches approximately 25 kilometers with autumn colors; you can also enjoy the mountain scenery along the shore by sightseeing boat. Those who enjoy hiking can visit Senjougahara within the Nikko National Park to enjoy the stunning autumn foliage along the way, with Mount Nantai as a backdrop. Those driving can visit Iroha Slope, which is divided into two parts, featuring a total of 48 sharp bends to enjoy the gradual color changes of the autumn leaves while driving around. But since the mountain road splits into two one-way routes, it is recommended to allow extra time and depart early to avoid traffic jams.

Tokyo | Showa Kinen Park

Best viewing period: Late October - Late November

Showa Kinen Park is the largest park in the Seoul metropolitan area, covering an area of approximately 160 hectares. Every autumn, visitors can enjoy the beautiful scenery of symmetrical ginkgo tree-lined avenues along the canal, the large lawn plaza with maple leaves, and the interplay of red and yellow ginkgo leaves; there are also tree-lined paths where ginkgo trees are in full bloom, and the ground is covered in golden leaves, allowing visitors to stroll around all day and fully enjoy the autumn scenery.

Tokyo | Meiji Jingu Gaien

Best viewing period: Mid-November to early December

The outer garden of Meiji Shrine features a ginkgo tree-lined avenue. Every autumn, the ginkgo leaves lining both sides of the avenue carpet the ground with golden leaves, creating the illusion of entering a golden tunnel. Furthermore, Meiji Jingu Gaien is easily accessible by JR or subway, making it a great alternative to city shopping trips.

Best viewing period: Mid-November to early December

Osaka | Katsuoji Temple

Every year in mid-November, Katsuoji Temple in Minoo City and the surrounding mountains are tinged with red and yellow hues, and the lake reflects the autumn leaves and torii gates, creating a particularly enchanting scene at dusk. During the autumn foliage season, the temple grounds also host illumination events; details are available on the official website.

Kyoto | Rurikoin Temple

Rurikoin is famous for the stunning scenery created by the interplay of red leaves in the garden and their reflections inside, but due to considerations of cultural heritage protection, 

It is only open to the public during "special periods", and during peak season, an "appointment lottery" system is used for entry. Since reservations need to be made by mail, it is recommended that visitors go during non-reservation periods. There is paid parking near Rurikoin Temple, but the capacity is limited, so it is best to use public transportation."

Opening dates: October 1, 2026 to December 13, 2026
Reservation period: November 13, 2026 to December 6, 2026

Best viewing period: Mid-November to late November

Miyazaki | Takachiho Gorge

Takachiho Gorge is located in Miyazaki Prefecture. During the autumn foliage season, the red and yellow leaves, V-shaped cliffs, green water, and the famous "Manai Falls" blend together to create a rich and layered stunning landscape. However, due to its mountainous location, public transportation transfers are complicated and travel time is long. It is recommended to drive or hire a car and allow a full day for the trip.

Fukuoka | Taiyuan Ginkgo Forest

Located in Fukuoka Prefecture, Taiyuan Ginkgo Forest has planted nearly a hundred short ginkgo trees. In late autumn, after their leaves fall, they carpet the entire ground, creating a magnificent golden carpet and a breathtaking scene. The Taiyuan Ginkgo Forest is private land; entry is limited to the park during the opening hours. Temporary parking lots will also be set up for tourists who drive themselves.

Opening dates: November 17-23, 2026
Opening hours: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Best viewing period: Mid-October to late October

Kamikochi is located in the upper reaches of the Azusa River in the southern part of the Hida Mountains. Kamikochi boasts abundant natural scenery, with magnificent mountains and beautiful lakes creating a unique and tranquil landscape. During autumn, the birch forests turn golden, and visitors can stroll along flat trails amidst the autumn colors to explore famous attractions such as Taisho Pond, Kappabashi Bridge, Takezawa Marshland, and Myojin Pond. However, private vehicles are strictly prohibited from entering Kamikochi; visitors driving must park their cars at designated parking areas. Then take a shuttle bus or taxi up the mountain.

Best viewing period: Mid-October to early November

Aomori | Oirase Stream

Oirase Stream is a 14-kilometer trail from Yakeyama to Nenokuchi, taking approximately 4 to 5 hours to complete. Surrounded by natural forest, the trail offers views of streams and waterfalls while you stroll among the autumn leaves, allowing you to appreciate the beauty of nature. The section with the most attractions is from Ishigedo to Nenokuchi, which takes about 3 hours to walk. JR buses require reservations; drivers can park their vehicles at designated Parking Lot and Ishigedo. Local authorities will take measures to manage the influx of people. Traffic control measures will be in place from September 7 to 13 in 2026, and the autumn foliage season will not be affected.

Miyagi | Naruko Gorge

Naruko Gorge is a 100-meter-deep cliff, approximately 2.5 kilometers long. Every autumn, the maple leaves covering the cliff and valley gradually turn red, creating a stunning landscape of red and yellow hues in different layers. Visitors can experience the height and scenery of the gorge from the Oufukasawa Bridge, capturing the classic image of trains crossing the gorge on the iron bridge, or stroll along the Naruko Gorge hiking trail to admire the natural beauty. Naruko Gorge has three large parking lots. A parking fee will be charged during the autumn foliage season.

Best viewing period: Mid-September to mid-October

Higashikawa Town | Daisetsuzan

Daisetsuzan is a group of volcanoes within Daisetsuzan National Park. The leaves turn red around mid-September, making it one of the earliest places in Japan to welcome autumn foliage. From Asahidake Onsen, you can take the aerial tramway to the Shigami Station, which is 1,600 meters above sea level, and enjoy the breathtaking natural scenery surrounded by autumn leaves along the Shigami Pond tour route. There's even a chance to witness the spectacular sight of autumn leaves and snow appearing simultaneously.

Kamikawa Town | Sounkyo Gorge

Cengyun Gorge is also located within Daisetsuzan National Park; this 24-kilometer-long cliff canyon boasts not only stunning cliff scenery but also the spectacular twin waterfalls of Ginga Falls and Ryusei Falls. During the autumn foliage season, the vibrant red and yellow maple leaves create a truly breathtaking sight. Visitors can also explore the renowned Sounkyo Onsen resort.

Sapporo | Hokkaido University

Every autumn, the approximately 380-meter-long ginkgo avenue at Hokkaido University will transform into a golden tunnel, and the Golden-Leaf Festival will also be held. Admission is free, and nighttime illuminations are offered. Hokkaido University is located in the city center and is easily accessible, about a 7-minute walk from the north exit of JR Sapporo Station, attracting many tourists for walks every year.

Hokkaido University Golden-Leaf Festival
October 31, 2026: 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM
November 1, 2026: 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM