Where to see fall foliage in Japan to fully experience the beauty of autumn? Read this article to find the answer with the list of 19+ most beautiful and best places to see autumn leaves in Japan, best places to see fall foliage in Japan below!
- Where to see autumn leaves in Tokyo: The dates & 12+ Best Tokyo autumn spots you shoul GO
- Japanese Autumn Festival: 8 Amazing Autumn Festivals in Japan to Enjoy the Red Leaves
- Japan fall foliage forecast 2025 — The timeframe & 41+ places to visit in Japan during autumn
- Tokyo fall foliage forecast 2025 — When & 13+ best place to see autumn leaves in Tokyo
- Hokkaido Fall Foliage 2025 Forecast — 15+ top things to do & best places to visit in Hokkaido during autumn
Welcome to the Land of the Rising Sun, where autumn puts on a wonderful beauty of red leaves. Japan, a country of sophistication, will definitely be an autumn paradise for those who love the romantic beauty of falling leaves. Below is a list of 19 best places to see red leaves in Japan.
Let’s explore and admire the poetic beauty of autumn in the Land of the Rising Sun.
Where to see fall foliage in Japan: Rikugien Garden – The Most Beautiful Place to See Red Leaves in Japan
Rikugien Garden, a famous garden in the center of Tokyo, Japan, is especially popular in autumn when the maple leaves begin to turn brilliant colors. If you want to get the full experience, spend at least an afternoon wandering the paths of the park and then enjoy tea at a romantic little shop.
The best views are around the stream running near the Tsutsuji no Chaya teahouse, next to the Togetsukyo Bridge and at the Fujiishirotoge viewing point. The autumn colors usually peak in late November and early December, giving you a great autumn experience at Rikugien Garden.
- Location: Bunkyo, Tokyo, Japan.
Watarase Keikoku Railway
For a memorable Japanese autumn leaf viewing experience, hop on the Watarase Keikoku Railway. You will feel like you are living in a romantic movie. The Watarase Keikoku Railway runs from Kiryu in Gunma to Nikko in Tochigi, offering stunning scenery throughout the 80-minute journey.
Watarase Keikoku Railway Company Limited & Takatsudo Gorge One-day Maple Leaf & Autumn Tour
A highlight of this route that you cannot miss is the Takatsudokyo Gorge. #teamKlook can see the whole valley from a different perspective and is surrounded by amber rainforest.
- Address: 1603-1 Ōmamachō Ōmama, Midori-shi, Gunma-ken
Icho Namiki
Meiji-Jingu Gaien is one of the most famous autumn foliage spots in Tokyo, especially at Icho Namiki (Icho Namiki means “a row of ginkgo trees”). Take your time to stroll through the streets filled with yellow, orange, and red and take beautiful photos. The best time to see the autumn leaves in Icho Namiki is from late November to early December.
Mount Fuji Picturesque Instagrammable Spots Day Tour from Tokyo
- Address: 2 Chome Kitaaoyama, Minato, Tokyo
Best places to see autumn leaves in Japan: Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
If you are planning to visit Japan, don’t miss Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden! Not only is it famous for cherry blossoms (hanami), but it is also a great place to enjoy the golden leaves in autumn. The park is divided into three different areas: the Japanese Garden with its fiery red maple trees, the English Garden with its brilliant yellow ginkgo trees, and the French Garden with its colorful roses.
Nikko Toshogu Shrine & Kegon Waterfall One Day Tour from Tokyo
You can choose to visit one or all three areas (we recommend visiting all three for the full experience). Visit Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden from mid-October to mid-December for the most unique and interesting views.
- Address: Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, 11 Naito-machi, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 160-0014, Japan.
Mount Nasu
Mount Nasu, also known as Mount Chausu, is one of the most popular active volcanoes in the area. You can experience a great sightseeing trip by using the Nasu Ropeway to reach the Ninth Station of the mountain (this is the starting point for the final leg of the climb). Autumn is a great time to enjoy the red and yellow scenery.
- Location: Itamuro, Nasushiobara, Tochigi, Japan
Hitachi Seaside National Park
You’ve heard of Hitachi Seaside Park with its lush Baby Blue Eyes flower fields, but have you explored other unique sights in Hitachi? If you are looking for breathtaking views that cannot be found anywhere else, keep an eye out for Red Kochia Hill!
Ibaraki: Hitachi Seaside Park and Oarai Isosaki Shrine Day Tour (Depart from Tokyo)
With its vibrant red Kochia trees, they change from lush green in summer, to yellow in September, and finally turn fiery red in October. What’s more, you can also pick fresh pears at Ibaraki’s orchards and visit Oarai Mentai Park to learn how to make a traditional Japanese dish!
- Location: Hitachinaka, Ibaraki, Japan
Minoo Park
Osaka is not a famous destination for natural scenery, but it is interesting to explore Minoo Park – a place that is not too crowded, suitable for those who want to enjoy the natural space.
Minoo Park offers a wonderful experience, especially in autumn. Besides admiring the brilliant autumn colors and peaceful atmosphere, the biggest attraction here is Minoo Falls. In addition, you can also enjoy fresh momiji tempura – crispy fried maple leaves in a batter, a unique delicacy of the region.
- Address: 1-18 Minookōen, Minoo-shi, Osaka
Osaka Castle
During your visit to Osaka Castle, you will be captivated by the brilliant red and yellow colors of autumn. As a long-standing castle heritage, this is truly a paradise filled with autumn colors. This season, it becomes a favorite stop, especially for picnicking and relaxing. You will enjoy the fresh air and the beauty of autumn.
Don’t miss the opportunity to take lovely photos with the magnificent castle, standing out among the beautiful autumn colors, and share them on your personal page to spread the joy of autumn in Japan.
- Address: 540-0002 1-1, Osakajo, Chuo-ku, Osaka
Mount Gozaisho
[Kyoto & Nara Day Tour] Arashiyama train, Fushimi Inari Shrine
After discovering the wonders of Japan from the ground, expand your experience and enjoy the scenery from above. Board the Gozaisho Ropeway and enjoy a comfortable ride, taking in the panoramic view – with its vibrant colors of gold, red and green leaves stretching across Mount Gozaisho.
The autumn colors of Mount Gozaisho appear from the summit in mid-October and spread down the mountainside, creating a beautiful picture. Start enjoying the autumn colors right from the leaves turning at the summit, then spread down to the Yunoyama Onsen hot spring at the foot of the mountain for about a month. You can learn more about the peak season for autumn foliage viewing here.
- Location: Mie ken, Mie gun, Konno chou, Gozaishodake
Take the Sagano Romantic Train
Take the Sagano Romantic Train, a 25-minute journey around the Arashiyama district. During this train ride, you will be immersed in the gentle space, covered in the brilliant red leaves of the landscape here. Sagano is considered one of the most romantic routes, especially for nature lovers.
Kiyomizu Temple
Kyoto Arashiyama | Sagano Train (Optional) & Sanzen-in Temple Day Tour | Depart from Osaka/Kyoto
Kiyomizudera (also known as ‘Pure Water Temple’) is one of Japan’s most famous temples with over a thousand years of history. You may have heard that this temple is the perfect place to see cherry blossoms in the spring – but did you know that it’s equally beautiful in the fall?
Stand on the temple’s famous wooden stage, which offers stunning panoramic views of the many cherry and maple trees, and see for yourself! In addition to its stunning scenery, Kiyomizudera is also known as the home of Kannon, the Goddess of Mercy.
Kiyomizu Temple, Fushimi Inari Taisha & Nara Park Day Tour
Check out this day tour that takes you to Kiyomizu Temple, the Golden Pavilion Temple as well as the Fushimi Inari Shrine famous for its thousands of torii gates.
- Address: 1-294 Kiyomizu, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto
Tip: Don’t forget to get off at Arashiyama Station, which is the closest train station to the area. Use your JR Pass to save money on transportation.
Tofukuji Temple
When it comes to autumn scenery in Kyoto, Tofukuji Temple is a favorite destination for locals and tourists. Tofukuji, a large Zen temple, is famous for the Tsutenkyo Bridge that runs through a valley of lush maple trees. Plan to take stunning photos of the temple in its peak autumn colors in November.
Kyoto World Heritage & Uji Scenery One-day Tour (From Osaka/Kyoto)
- Address: 15-778 Honmachi, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto
Tenryuji Temple
Tenryuji Temple is a must-see destination when it comes to autumn in Kyoto. Explore the beautiful space of Hyakkaen Garden and immerse yourself in the vibrant colors of the leaves in the garden.
Kyoto Uji World Cultural Heritage Day Tour from Osaka / Kyoto
In addition to admiring the natural beauty, Tenryuji Temple is also recognized by UNESCO for the famous “Dragon on the Clouds” painting on the ceiling of Hatto Hall. For a small fee, you can explore not only the romantic galleries but also paintings typical of Japanese culture, all in the wonderful space of the colorful garden outside.
- Address: Susukinobaba-chō, Ukyō Ward, Kyoto, Japan
View Autumn Leaves in Nara Park, Japan
Nara is a must-visit for animal lovers when traveling to Japan. Nara Park is home to hundreds of friendly deer, ready to welcome tourists. In autumn, Nara Park is also an ideal place to enjoy the beauty of red leaves. Where to take photos in Nara Park? The vast grounds of Todai-ji Temple and the nearby Daibutsu-Ike Pond are worth exploring.
Nara Park
Kyoto and Nara Day Tour(Optional upgrade to Wagyu “Kobe Beef” lunch)
- Location: Nara, Japan
Blue Pond – Hokkaido
The Blue Pond, a quiet and mysterious pond with a distinctive blue color, is truly a wonderful phenomenon to admire, especially in autumn. The pond is so blue that, when there is no wind, the surface of the water becomes a beautiful mirror. Visit in October to enjoy the beauty of the Blue Pond at its best.
Shikisai-no-Oka & Furano Day Tour
- Location: Shirogane, Biei-cho, Kamikawa-gun, Hokkaido
Daisetsuzan National Park
Hikers in Japan will know that Daisetsuzan National Park is not short of stunning autumn scenery. The Sounkyo area, part of Daisetsuzan National Park, consists of a high mountain range surrounded by cliffs that reach up to 100 meters high. Explore the stunning waterfalls in the vibrant autumn colors and colorful landscapes – this is sure to be a trek you will never forget.
JR East Nagano / Niigata Area Pass
- Location: Sounkyo, Kamikawa, Hokkaido
Jozankei Hot Springs
Located in the Hokkaido region, Jozankei Hot Springs is the largest hot spring town with around 20 ryokan inns. It is one of Hokkaido’s main destinations, especially for those looking to relax and rejuvenate in a peaceful space with a harmonious combination of hot springs and the romantic beauty of autumn foliage.
Tokyo Asakusa Kimono&Yukata Rental at Kimono Miyabi Asakusa Station
If you want to explore more freely and flexibly, take the time to stop at Futami Tsuribashi Suspension Bridge, a symbolic cherry-red bridge located on a hiking trail about 10 minutes from Jozankei Resort. Here, you can enjoy a great view of the Toyohira River and the surrounding golden hills.
- Address: 4-chōme-321 Jōzankeionsenhigashi, Minami Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido
Noboribetsu Hot Springs
A special feature, Noboribetsu Hot Springs, also located in Shikotsu-Toya National Park, is another famous hot spring town in Hokkaido. It is known for its various types of hot spring water, enriched with various minerals such as sulfur, calcium and sodium.
Noboribetsu Date Jidaimura Cultural Park Ticket in Hokkaido
Locals believe that the natural hot spring water can cure many diseases and bring a sense of relaxation. It’s fun to soak in the hot springs while taking in the beautiful scenery around!
- Location: Noboribetsu, Hokkaido
Jigokudani Valley
Hell Valley, commonly known as “Jigokudani”, is located high above the town of Noboribetsu Onsen and is a particularly interesting destination. Here, you will discover many crevices spewing hot gas and streams with a distinctive sulfur smell. To experience this area at its best, you can take a walk on the hills or simply enjoy the scenery and soak your feet.
One-day Tour of Noboribetsu Popular Check-in Spots in Hokkaido
Despite its name, “Hell Valley”, the scenery at Jigokudani is really beautiful. If you like to explore many interesting places in 1 day, you can consider buying a day tour to have a guide take you to explore many places.
- Location: Shikotsu Toya National Park, Western Hokkaido
Japan is a great destination to experience the vibrant colors of autumn. From vast flower fields, red maple forests, to waterfalls and hot springs in sacred festivals, every corner offers visitors a beautiful and unforgettable scene.
You can enjoy the beauty of autumn in many different places, from central Tokyo to small towns, from high mountains to the blue sea. Don’t hesitate to schedule and join this wonderful autumn adventure, to feel and capture the typical moments of the Japanese red leaf season.
When does the Japanese Red Leaf Season Begin?
Traveling to Japan in autumn is just as famous as spring. In the last months of the year, this country welcomes millions of visitors to see the leaves falling gracefully, bringing with them enchanting red, orange and yellow. The best time to enjoy the Japanese autumn foliage season is from late September to early December, with the peak usually falling in November.
Major cities such as Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, Tokyo and Hokkaido are immersed in a gentle autumn atmosphere, soaked in beautiful colors. The ideal climate also allows visitors to enjoy it comfortably with a light sweater (around ~20°C).
Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, to and from Tokyo you can refer to
- Private Narita International Airport Transfers (NRT) for Tokyo 23 Wards, Hakone, or Karuizawa
- Private Haneda International Airport Transfers (HND) for Tokyo 23 Wards, Hakone, or Karuizawa
- Airport Limousine Bus Transfers from/to Narita and Haneda International Airport (Free Wifi Onboard)
- Tokyo Amazing Sightseeing Bus Day Tour
- Tokyo Highlights Private Day Tour
- Nikko Day Tour from Tokyo
- Mt Fuji & Hakone Day Tour: Lake Ashi & Ropeway Day Trip from Tokyo
- Nikko Cultural Day Tour from Tokyo
- Tokyo Subway Ticket (24, 48, or 72 Hours)
- Tokyo Skyliner and Tokyo Subway Ticket
- Shuttle Bus Transfers (One Way/Round Trip) from Shinjuku/Ikebukuro to Tokyo Disneyland or Tokyo DisneySea
- Tokyo Disney Resort Park Ticket
- Klook Pass Greater Tokyo
- SHIBUYA SKY Ticket
- Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tokyo – The Making of Harry Potter Ticket
- Skyliner Narita Airport Express Ticket
- TeamLab Planets Ticket
- TOKYO SKYTREE® Ticket
- Limousine Bus Narita or Haneda Airport to Tokyo
- Skyliner Narita Airport Express With Tokyo Subway Ticket
- JR Tokyo Wide Pass
- Sky Hop-on and Hop-off Bus Pass
- 4G Prepaid Sim Card (JP Airports Pick Up) for Japan
- 4G WiFi (BKK and DMK Airport Pick Up) for Japan (Unlimited Data)
- JR Pass for Whole Japan (7, 14, or 21 Days)
Are you looking for more Tokyo travel guide and top things to do in Tokyo: Tours, activities, attractions and other things? Read more: Tokyo itinerary 3 days — What to do in Tokyo in 3 days?
