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From September to November, Japan undergoes a stunning transformation. The hot, humid summer gives way to crisp days, and the trees respond with a spectacular show of colour. Japan in autumn is an experience like no other: ancient temples blanketed in red maple leaves, golden ginkgo trees lining wide boulevards, and misty mountains covered in a rich tapestry of orange and rust. For many travellers, it’s the most beautiful season to explore the country.
When is the best time to visit Japan in autumn?
Autumn in Japan typically spans September to November, though timing varies across regions.
- Hokkaido autumn begins earliest, around mid-September
- Tohoku autumn leaves follow in early October
- Tokyo autumn and Kyoto autumn leaves are at their peak from mid-November
- Kyushu and other southern areas typically experience peak autumn colours from mid to late November, occasionally extending into early December.
Peak foliage periods vary yearly, so many travellers refer to the Japan Meteorological Corporation's autumn forecast for updates. Cooler temperatures and fewer crowds (compared to cherry blossom season) make it one of the most comfortable and scenic times to travel.
Due to the cooler climate, autumn colours often arrive earlier in highland areas such as the Japan Alps. Places like Kamikochi or Norikura Kogen offer stunning alpine views and excellent walking trails for those interested in autumn hiking in Japan.
Did you know?
The tradition of seeking autumn leaves is called “momijigari”, which means ‘maple leaf hunting’—a cherished tradition of seeking out autumn foliage, especially red maple leaves.”
Best places to see autumn foliage in Japan
From serene temples to mountain trails, here are some of the most iconic and underrated spots to experience Japanese autumn foliage.
Kyoto
Kyoto is considered the crown jewel of autumn viewing in Japan. Stroll through Arashiyama's bamboo grove toward Togetsukyo Bridge, surrounded by blazing foliage. Visit Kitano Tenmangu Shrine, known for its vibrant maple trees, or spend the evening at Eikando Temple, where the trees are beautifully illuminated.
Other stunning locations include Tofukuji Temple, famous for its elevated walkways offering panoramic views of autumn leaves, and Kiyomizudera, where you can view fiery foliage from the temple's iconic wooden stage.
Nikko
Easily accessible from Tokyo, Nikko is one of the best day trips for fall foliage. Home to UNESCO-listed shrines and scenic parks, the area boasts some of Japan’s brightest fall colours. Lake Chuzenji and Irohazaka Winding Road are particularly stunning.
Autumn colours reflect beautifully off Kegon Falls, one of Japan’s most famous waterfalls. The combination of colourful leaves and cascading water is a photographer’s dream.
Curious how it compares to Kyoto? Nikko's colours peak earlier (mid-October), while Kyoto autumn leaves usually shine in mid to late November.
Mt Fuji
Viewing Japan’s tallest peak in autumn is breathtaking. Head to Lake Kawaguchi for the postcard shot: Mt Fuji framed by fiery leaves. Many tours, such as those featured in 5 Mount Fuji views you won’t want to miss, include this classic autumn setting.
Travellers visiting in October will often find the mountain capped with snow, adding to the visual contrast. The Maple Corridor (also known as the Momiji Corridor) in Kawaguchiko is especially popular in November—dozens of maple trees line a small canal, creating a natural tunnel of red and gold with Mt Fuji perfectly framed in the distance.
Tokyo
Tokyo's urban parks explode with colour in autumn. Yoyogi Park, Shinjuku Gyoen, and Rikugien Garden are highlights, featuring brilliant yellow ginkgo and deep red Japanese maples.
For something different, try Hamarikyu Gardens, a tranquil space near Tokyo Bay that combines foliage views with traditional teahouses. Or visit Showa Kinen Park in Tachikawa, home to long paths of ginkgo trees.
Tohoku region
Tohoku is ideal if you're seeking less touristy locations. Hike the trails around Lake Towada or ride the Naruko Gorge railway for scenic views. Foliage here peaks early to mid-October, making it perfect for early-season travellers.
Don’t miss Yamadera Temple, dramatically set into a cliff face, or Mount Hakkoda, known for its ropeway offering views across sweeping valleys of colour. Tohoku is also home to charming hot spring towns like Ginzan Onsen, where you can enjoy the foliage from a traditional ryokan.
Hokkaido
Hokkaido autumn starts early and is known for dramatic national parks like Daisetsuzan and Shiretoko. Crisp air and fewer crowds make it ideal for autumn hiking in Japan.
In Furano and Biei, rolling hills and farms provide a unique contrast to the mountainous scenes elsewhere in Japan. If you're after spectacular views and hot springs, Jozankei Onsen near Sapporo is a great autumn base.
Cultural autumn festivals to attend in Japan
Autumn is also festival season. Join locals in traditional celebrations that showcase the season's bounty:
Jidai Matsuri (Kyoto, Oct 22)
One of Kyoto’s most iconic festivals, the Jidai Matsuri (Festival of the Ages) celebrates the city’s long history as Japan’s imperial capital. Over 2,000 participants don historically accurate costumes representing various eras, from samurai warriors to Heian nobles, in a grand procession from the Imperial Palace to Heian Shrine. It’s a living timeline of Japanese history, best viewed under the colourful canopy of Kyoto’s autumn trees.
Takayama Autumn Festival (Oct 9-10)
Held in the picturesque mountain town of Takayama, the Takayama Autumn Festival is known for its beautifully crafted yatai (floats), which are paraded through the streets by teams in traditional dress. As night falls, the floats are lit by hundreds of lanterns, casting a warm glow against the cool autumn air. The blend of artistry, tradition, and natural surroundings makes this one of Japan’s most enchanting seasonal events.
Chrysanthemum Festivals (nationwide): Chrysanthemums are honoured with exhibitions across Japan in October and November. These festivals often feature elaborate floral sculptures, some arranged in the likeness of famous figures or historical scenes. You’ll find large displays at Tokyo’s Shinjuku Gyoen, Meiji Shrine, and Kyoto’s Nijo Castle, among many others.
Kurama Fire Festival (Oct 22)
Held in the small mountain village of Kurama, just north of Kyoto, the Kurama Fire Festival is one of Japan’s most dramatic. Locals carry enormous torches, some weighing over 80 kilograms (176 pounds), through the narrow streets, creating a river of fire and smoke. The ritual dates back to the 10th century and commemorates the relocation of deities to Kurama’s Yuki Shrine. The combination of fire, chanting, and the forested setting is unforgettable.
Shuki Taisai Grand Autumn Festival (Oct 16-17)
Shuki Taisai Grand Autumn Festival features the historical re-enactment honouring the founder of the Tokugawa shogunate, Tokugawa Ieyasu, whose mausoleum is located at Nikko’s Toshogu Shrine. The highlight is the Hyakumono-Zoroe Sennin Gyoretsu, a procession of over 1,000 participants dressed in ornate Edo-period attire. With autumn leaves in full colour, the visual spectacle is as powerful as the cultural reverence behind it.
Did you know?
Beyond its beauty, the chrysanthemum symbolises longevity and rejuvenation in Japanese culture—it even graces the Imperial Family’s crest. During autumn, this motif is found in seasonal sweets, decorations, and art.
What to eat in Japan during autumn
Japanese cuisine is deeply seasonal. Autumn menus feature rich, comforting dishes:
- Shinmai (new rice): Freshly harvested rice, prized for its flavour
- Grilled sanma (Pacific saury): A traditional autumn fish
- Kabocha (Japanese pumpkin) and matsutake mushrooms
- Sweet potato and chestnut desserts
- Momiji manju: Maple-leaf-shaped cakes from Hiroshima, filled with sweet bean paste
Autumn is also the best season for enjoying oden, a warming stew of fish cakes, tofu, and root vegetables often sold at convenience stores and street stalls. Street markets also begin selling roasted chestnuts, filling the air with their nutty aroma.
Many local bakeries and sweet shops feature seasonal wagashi shaped like maple leaves, persimmons, or chrysanthemums. These small desserts often reflect the colours and themes of the season.
For more delicious Inspiring Vacations tips on what to eat during your time in Japan, read up on how to eat like the Japanese.
Planning your Japan autumn leaf-peeping trip
Planning an autumn foliage trip to Japan? Here’s a quick guide to help you make the most of autumn in Japan, from the best destinations to cultural insights and seasonal experiences:
- Japan in autumn typically runs from September to November, with foliage peaking at different times depending on the region.
- Kyoto, Nikko, Tokyo, Tohoku, and Hokkaido are some of the best places in Japan to see autumn foliage.
- The age-old tradition of momijigari (autumn leaf viewing) has been part of Japanese culture for centuries.
- Seasonal food highlights include new rice, grilled Pacific saury, sweet potatoes, and chestnut desserts.
- Cultural autumn festivals in Japan, like the Jidai Matsuri and Kurama Fire Festival, offer unforgettable experiences.
- It's best to plan ahead and stay flexible with dates, as weather can affect when leaves peak.
- Don’t miss combining leaf viewing with onsen soaks, historic temples, and local food adventures.
Ready to explore Japan in autumn?
From vibrant city parks to peaceful mountain trails, autumn in Japan offers some of the country's most breathtaking scenery. With Inspiring Vacations, you can time your visit perfectly thanks to curated itineraries that follow the peak of the foliage season. Whether you're walking beneath Kyoto's fiery maples or exploring Tohoku's crisp alpine beauty, our tours showcase Japan at its seasonal best.
Choose from popular options like the 10-Day Premium Japan By Rail, which offers a leisurely journey through Tokyo, Kyoto, and Hakone with the flexibility of independent travel, or the 12-Day Independent Wonders of Japan with Traditional Onsen, featuring stays in traditional ryokans and access to iconic sites like Himeji Castle and Kinosaki Onsen.
Browse our full range of Japan tours to find the perfect itinerary for experiencing the most colourful time of year.
