Autumn in Hokkaido is one of the most magical experiences you can have, and it's just around the corner! If you're thinking about planning your own trip to see Japan's first autumn colors, you've come to the right place.
To make it easy for you, I've compiled all my best tips and tricks in this post. I’ll walk you through the foliage forecast so you can time your trip perfectly, share my must-see spots for the best views, and give you a complete guide to planning your own Hokkaido autumn adventure. Let's get started!
When to See Autumn Leaves in Hokkaido: The 2025 Forecast is Out!
One of the best things about Hokkaido is that it's the very first place in Japan to welcome the autumn season! The leaves start turning their gorgeous shades of red and gold around September, and the spectacular show lasts all the way through mid-November. Trust me, seeing the mountains completely covered in fiery colors is a sight you'll never forget!
Based on Japan Meteorological Corporation's 2025 Autumn Foliage Forecast, released on 2 September 2 2025, the peak viewing period in Hokkaido is around 7 November 2025.
Based on the 1st forecast released on 2 September 2025 by Japan Meteorological Corporation
As usual, the colors will begin to appear in the higher elevations, like Daisetsuzan National Park, as early as mid-September. The vibrant reds and yellows will then sweep down through the region, with peak viewing in central areas like Jozankei Onsen and Sounkyo expected around mid-to-late October.
In southern cities like Sapporo and Hakodate, the best time to see the golden ginkgo and fiery maple leaves will be from late October into early November.
Our Favorite Hokkaido Autumn Spots
#1 Asahiyama Zoo
Photo Courtesy of Asahiyama Zoo Facebook
Autumn is an absolutely fantastic time to visit the famous Asahiyama Zoo. The crisp, cool weather makes for a comfortable day of walking, and more importantly, it brings out the best in the zoo's amazing animals!
You'll find that the cold-climate residents, like the majestic polar bears, playful seals, and adorable red pandas, are far more energetic and active than in the summer heat. Imagine watching these incredible creatures against a backdrop of vibrant autumn foliage, as the trees surrounding their innovative enclosures turn brilliant shades of red and gold!
#2 Sounkyo
Source: Klook
If you're looking for a place that will take your breath away, you have to visit Sounkyo! Tucked away at the foot of Mount Daisetsu, it’s stunning year-round, but in the fall, it transforms into a place I can only describe as the 'Autumn Foliage Valley'.
Imagine mountainsides covered in fiery red maples, set against dramatic cliffs and beautiful waterfalls—it's a view you need to see in person at least once. They even light up the leaves at night, which creates such a magical and romantic atmosphere.
My personal tip? You have to take the aerial tramway. You get a full 360-degree view of all the colors without a single blind spot. It's an absolutely incredible feeling!
#3 Hoheikyo Dam
If you're looking for a truly wild and beautiful landscape without leaving Sapporo, let me tell you about Hoheikyo Dam. This place is an official treasure, even named one of Japan's top "Water Source Forests."
In autumn, it's pure magic. Imagine the steep cliffs around the dam completely painted in shades of fiery orange-red from the maple trees. When they discharge water from the dam, a dreamy mist floats up through the valley, making the entire view feel incredibly dramatic and beautiful. It's a powerful display of nature that you won't forget.
#4 Lake Shikotsu
Formed by a volcano 40,000 years ago, Lake Shikotsu boasts some of Japan's clearest water. In mid-to-late October, the scenery is next-level, as the shoreline's maple trees turn a brilliant red. Seeing those colors mirrored on the pristine water is pure magic.
Plan an afternoon stroll around the lake or take a boat tour to get right in the middle of that stunning red-leaf scenery. Trust me, you won't regret it.
#5 Lake Akan
圖片來源：北海道官方旅遊網站
Another one of my absolute must-visit spots for autumn in Hokkaido is Lake Akan. Tucked away in the Akan-Mashu National Park, this area is a perfect blend of nature and relaxation.
The shores of the lake are lined with incredible hot spring hotels, making it the dream destination if you, like me, love the idea of soaking in an onsen while surrounded by fiery red maples.
#6 Noboribetsu Hell Valley
You’ve probably heard of Noboribetsu Onsen, but have you ever thought about visiting in autumn? Trust me, you should! The area's famous volcanic terrain, with its strange rock formations and constant plumes of steam, is a sight to behold on its own.
The air is filled with the smell of sulfur, giving it a powerful, primal feeling that locals long ago nicknamed "Hell Valley." But when autumn arrives, the scene transforms. The mountains get draped in a blanket of stunning red maple leaves, and seeing them against the backdrop of the rising steam creates a landscape that is both magnificent and surreal. It’s an absolute must-see.
#7 Nakajima Park
圖片來源：北海道官方旅遊網站
Nakajima Park is a true hidden gem in Sapporo. It's incredibly easy to get to by subway, but it feels a world away with its beautiful mix of fiery red maples and brilliant yellow ginkgo trees. What I love most is that it’s far less crowded, so you can actually relax and enjoy the scenery. Taking a leisurely stroll here on a crisp autumn afternoon is the best way to enjoy Japan's beautiful fall colors without the hustle and bustle.
#8 Miharashi Park
If you're a fan of traditional Japanese gardens, you absolutely have to visit Miharashi Park (Kosetsu-en) in the fall. This nationally designated cultural treasure used to be a private villa, and it has this wonderful, scholarly vibe.
While it's beautiful year-round, autumn is when it truly becomes a spectacle. The sheer number of red leaves is incredible, blanketing the ground and perfectly complementing the classical Japanese architecture. It’s one of those places where every photo you take looks effortlessly stunning, like it's straight out of a magazine.
#9 Onuma Quasi-National Park
圖片來源：onumakouen.com
One of the most famous natural parks in Hokkaido is Onuma Quasi-National Park, and it's a must-visit in the fall. It's a stunning mix of volcanic mountains, lush forests, and serene lakes dotted with little islands. You can actually walk between these islands thanks to a series of 18 bridges, which makes for a really fun and unique way to explore.
Every season here has its own charm, but autumn is truly special, ranking it among Japan's Top 100 Foliage Spots. You'll see the shoreline ablaze with fiery orange and red leaves, and their reflection on the lake's surface is so perfect, it looks like a masterpiece painting.
How to Travel Around Hokkaido in Autumn
Navigating the vast landscapes of Hokkaido is a huge part of the adventure, and how you choose to get around can really shape your trip.
While Japan is famous for its incredible train system, exploring Hokkaido is a bit different. For connecting major cities like Sapporo, Hakodate, and Asahikawa, hopping on a JR train is a fantastic and scenic option. And the JR Hokkaido Rail Pass offers great value for you to do so!
But if you dream of discovering hidden viewpoints, chasing autumn colors in remote valleys, or just having the freedom to stop wherever you please, I highly recommend renting a car. The roads are wide and the views are endless!
For those who'd rather sit back, relax, and let someone else handle the logistics, booking guided day tours for specific day trips or even chartering a private car for the day are great ways to see the highlights without any of the hassle!
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Getting around
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