🍁 Top Autumn Foliage Spots in Japan for Travelers 2025
Japanese autumn runs roughly from September (in the north/high mountains) to early December (in the south/major cities). The peak season for Tokyo and Kyoto is generally mid-November to early December.
1. The Classic & Iconic Views (Kansai & Fuji Area)
| Location | Region | Best Time (Approx.) | Why It’s a Must-See |
| Kyoto (e.g., Tofukuji Temple, Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Arashiyama) | Kansai | Mid-November to Early December | The most famous. The vibrant red maple leaves (Momiji) set against historic temples, traditional gardens, and wooden architecture provide that quintessential "Old Japan" photo opportunity. Kiyomizu-dera's illuminated stage is breathtaking. |
| Fuji Five Lakes (Lake Kawaguchiko) | Yamanashi (Chubu) | Late October to Mid-November | The ultimate backdrop. This area offers the iconic view of Mount Fuji framed by fiery red and golden leaves. The Momiji Kairo (Maple Corridor) festival near the lake is particularly popular. |
2. Best for Nature & Hiking (Alps & Tohoku)
| Location | Region | Best Time (Approx.) | Why It’s a Must-See |
| Oirase Stream & Lake Towada | Aomori (Tohoku) | Mid-October to Early November | Stunning natural scenery. This is one of Japan's most celebrated natural autumn spots. You can walk or cycle alongside the beautiful mountain stream as it flows under a canopy of yellow and red. |
| Kamikochi (Japanese Alps) | Nagano (Chubu) | Late September to Late October | Alpine brilliance. Located in the heart of the Japanese Alps, the high-altitude spot offers vast, untouched nature. The larch trees turn a brilliant gold against the towering, snow-dusted peaks. Note: The park closes for winter, usually mid-November. |
| Kurobe Gorge | Toyama (Chubu) | Late October to Mid-November | Scenic train ride. A charming, narrow-gauge railway (Kurobe Gorge Railway) takes visitors deep into one of Japan's deepest V-shaped gorges, offering panoramic views of the changing mountain foliage. |
3. Accessible from Tokyo (Kanto Region)
| Location | Region | Best Time (Approx.) | Why It’s a Must-See |
| Rikugien Garden | Tokyo | Late November to Early December | Urban oasis with illumination. A beautiful traditional Japanese landscape garden known for its stunning evening illuminations, where the fiery maple leaves reflect beautifully on the water. |
| Mount Takao | Tokyo | Mid-November to Early December | Best day trip from Tokyo. Easily accessible by train, this mountain is perfect for a casual hike, offering great views of the city (and sometimes Fuji) amidst the colorful slopes. The ropeway and chairlift offer fantastic overhead viewing. |
| Nikko (Lake Chuzenji, Kegon Falls) | Tochigi (Kanto) | Early October to Mid-November | Temples and waterfalls. Home to the UNESCO World Heritage Toshogu Shrine, Nikko also boasts beautiful natural areas. The colors start high in the mountains (Okunikko) and gradually descend into the town. |
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