Japan has recorded its warmest autumn in 126 years, so you can still catch autumn leaves in December!
An autumn foliage adventure is something you can look forward to in Japan from November to December! Here are some of our favourite sightseeing spots to bookmark and some amazing tours that will take you to the best autumn fall foliage views 🤩
Update on 3 December 2024: Japan is experiencing its hottest autumn since 1898 (when recording began), delaying fall foliage into December. According to the Japan Meteorological Corporation, the best time to see the autumn leaves in Tokyo is around 5 Dec and in Osaka on 9 Dec!
When to See Autumn Leaves in Japan
Autumn in Japan is a breathtaking season, with fall foliage painting the landscape from mid-September to early December. The peak time to enjoy the vibrant autumn colours is typically in late November, but the exact timing can vary by region and altitude.
In general, September is too early for fall colours in places like Tokyo and Kyoto, with barely a hint of changing leaves. Early to mid-October is usually still too soon, but by the end of October, the colours start to turn. The timing can vary greatly depending on geography and altitude, with mountainous areas seeing the leaves turn a bit sooner.
So, whether you’re planning an autumn trip to the bustling cities or the serene countryside, keep an eye on the fall foliage forecast to catch the spectacular autumn colours at their peak.
Autumn Foliage Forecast Japan 2024
Based on the 26 November 2024 update from the official Japan Meteorological Corporation
Autumn in Japan is as popular as spring, where many flock to catch a glimpse of magical red, orange and gold leaves that fall between end-November to mid-December (most regions peak in November).
Cities like Fukuoka, Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, Tokyo and Hokkaido are transformed and drenched in gorgeous autumn hues; plus it’s perfect sweater weather (hovering around ~20°C)!
Early October marks the beginning of the fall colour transformation in various scenic locations across Japan.
Image credit: Japan Meteorological Corporation
Image credit: Japan Meteorological Corporation
Autumn in Japan typically brings a spectacular display of two distinct kinds of leaves to look out for: the fiery red of maple trees and the brilliant yellow of ginkgo trees. The maple leaves are known for their intricate, star-shaped design, and turn a vibrant red, while the ginkgo leaves with their fan-like shape, transform into a striking golden yellow. There are two different forecasts for the maple and ginkgo colours.
UPDATE: The fourth update for the Autumn Foliage Forecast 2024 and Yellow Foliage Forecast 2024 have just been released! You can check out more details on the Japan Meteorological Corporation website 👀
Best Fall Foliage Spots in Tokyo
1. Rikugien Garden
Image credit: @thatsgiappone on Instagram
Rikugien Garden is a famous landscape garden in Tokyo that's well-known and loved especially during the autumn months, thanks to its numerous maple trees.
We recommend taking an entire afternoon off to stroll the many trails around the park before enjoying tea at one of the many teahouses. The views are particularly beautiful around the stream that runs by the Tsutsuji no Chaya teahouse, around the Togetsukyo Bride and from the Fujishirotoge viewpoint.
Colours usually peak around late November to early December.
Address: 6 Chome-16-3 Honkomagome, Bunkyo City, Tokyo 113-0021, Japan
2. Watarase Keikoku Railway
Image credit: Visit Gunma Tourism
For an unforgettable autumn colours viewing experience, all aboard the Watarase Keikoku Railway for a romantic train ride through vibrant fall colours - it's almost as if you're in a scene right out of a romantic movie!
The Watarase Keikoku Railway runs between Kiryu in Gunma and Nikko in Tochigi, providing breathtaking views over the 80-minute ride. One highlight along the railway route that you cannot miss is the Takatsudokyo Gorge, which offers a different vantage point of the valley and surrounds of the amber rainforest.
Check out this tour Autumn Maple Leaves Sightseeing Day Tour or Watarase Valley & Takatsudo Gorge Autumn Maple Day Tour from Tokyo that will take you to see dazzling fall colours by the scenic Watarase Valley Railway, Takatsudokyo Gorge and a stop by Ashikaga Flower Park!
Address: 1375 Omama, Omama, Midori (Omama Station), connects to the JR Ryomo line at Kiryu Station
3. Icho Namiki
Image credit: Japan Tourism Board
Image credit: Visit Minato City
Meiji-Jingu Gaien is one of the most famous spots to see autumn leaves in Tokyo, particularly at Icho Namiki (Icho Namiki means “a row of ginkgo trees”). Take your time to stroll through the gold-lined streets and take gorgeous photos - it's a perfect photo op at every corner!
The best time to admire the leaves is from late November to early December.
Address: 1 Kasumigaoka, Shinjuku-kuTokyo
Check out this 70-minute Open Top Bus Sightseeing Trip that will take you to see various Tokyo attractions, from the Tokyo Tower to Meiji-Jingu Gaien. The bus also goes around Tokyo Station, Marunouchi, Akasaka, Meiji Jingu Gaien, Roppo
ngi, Tokyo Tower, Ginza, and more!
4. Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden may be an iconic must-do during hanami (cherry blossom) season, but did you know that it's a great place for autumn foliage viewing too?
Image credit: Live Japan
There are three distinct gardens here in the park; the Japanese Garden is known for its deep red maple leaves, while the British Garden is where you will find yellow ginkgo gold foliage. You can also spot roses blooming at the French Garden too! Take your pick (but we definitely think that you should visit them all).
Visit Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden between mid-October and mid-December to make the most out of the unique sceneries.
Address: 11 Naitomachi, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 160-0014, Japan
5. Mount Nasu
Mount Nasu, also known as Mount Chausu, is one of the region’s most iconic active volcanoes. You can enjoy a scenic ride on the Nasu Ropeway up to the mountain's Ninth Station (the waypoint marking the ninth stage of the hike). Come autumn, the views are just simply spectacular and covered in red and gold.
Address: 215 Yumoto, Nasu Town, Nasu County, Tochigi Prefecture
6. Hitachi National Seaside Park
Many will know and recognise the Hitachi Seaside Park for their rolling fields of gorgeous Baby Blue Eyes, or Nemophila menziesii, but did you know that Hitachi has other breathtaking flower fields too?
In autumn, look out for the Red Kochia Hill, which features a carpet of blazing red Kochia ball plants. These Kochia plants are green in the summer and gradually turn yellow in September, and finally a fiery red in October.
Address: 605-4 Mawatari Onuma, Hitachinaka 312-0012 Ibaraki Prefecture
7. Koishikawa Korakuen Garden
For an extra-special autumn fall foliage viewing experience - check out the limited-time night illuminations at Koishikawa Korakuen Gardens! Besides enjoying the autumn sights by night, you can also enjoy performances of traditional performing arts from the Edo period (Kanda Hayashi, Kotobuki Shishi, Oedo Tamasudare, Edo Taikagura), as well as indulge in seasonal autumn goodies and snacks. There will even be a lantern streaming event on 6 October 2024.
Address: 1 Chome-6-6 Koraku, Bunkyo City, Tokyo 112-0004, Japan
📅 27 September - 6 October 2024
Best Fall Foliage Spots in Osaka
8. Minoo Park
Image credit: @mathildeqgn on Instagram
Osaka is lesser known for its natural landscape so you’ll be glad to find Minoo Park free from the usual throngs of crowd (hopefully!).
Minoo Park is definitely a great place to visit during autumn. Besides the lovely fall colours, and main park attraction, Minoo Falls (waterfall), you can also treat yourself to freshly-fried momiji tempura - maple leaves deep fried in batter.
Address: 1-18 Minookoen, Minoo, Osaka 562-0002, Japan
9. Osaka Castle
Image credit: @kstyle5963 on Instagram
Plunge deep into an oasis of autumn reds and golds when you visit Osaka Castle. This heritage site has long been a popular picnic spot and especially so during the fall season.
And who wouldn't want to capture that IG-worthy shot of the grand castle draped in fall hues?
Address: 1-1 Osakajo, Chuo Ward, Osaka, 540-0002, Japan
10. Mount Gozaisho
Image credit: @ihappytime on Instagram
Now that you have seen the best of Japan from the ground, how about switching things up a notch and taking in an aerial view instead? dyed maple leaves? Hop on the Gozaisho Ropeway and enjoy a relaxing, scenic ride - complete with sweeping panoramic views of gold, auburn and emerald sprawled across Mount Gozaisho.
Fall colours on Mount Gozaisho begin at the summit in mid-October and gradually travel down the mountainsides to Yunoyama Onsen Hot Springs at the base in the span of a month. You can find more information about the various autumn peak foliage durations here.
Address: 8625 Komono, Komono-Cho, Mie-gun, Mie
If you're looking for a tour that includes a ride on the Gozaisho Ropeway, try this Nabana no Sato & Osaka Maple Viewing Day Tour. It also includes a bento lunch!
Best Fall Foliage Spots in Kyoto
11. Sagano Romantic Train
Image credit: Sagano Romantic Train on Facebook
Hop aboard the Sagano Romantic Train, which will take you on a leisurely 25-minute ride around the Arashiyama district.
As you glide past landscapes flamed in a blanket of fiery red, you’ll understand why it’s reputed as one of the most well-loved trails, especially for all the hopeless romantics.
Nearest Station: Arashiyama Station (via the JR Pass)
12. Kiyomizu Temple
Kiyomizudera (also known as 'Pure Water Temple') is one of the most famous temples in Japan, with over a thousand years of history. It is famed for its wooden stage that offers gorgeous panoramas of the many cherry and maple trees and is especially crowded come spring or autumn as many flock here for cherry blossom or fall foliage views. The temple is also home to Kannon, the Goddess of Mercy.
Be sure to stay until evening to witness the temple come alive with autumn night illuminations—it's truly a sight to behold! Plan your visit between November 18th and November 30th to catch the enchanting display.
Address: 1 Chome-294 Kiyomizu, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0862, Japan
Check out this day trip tour that will take you to the Kiyomizu Temple, Golden Pavilion Temple as well as the Fushimi Inari Shrine which is famous for its thousand torii gates.
There's also this Kyoto World Heritage & Uji Scenery One-day Tour (From Osaka/Kyoto) that is perfect for matcha lovers! Besides visiting the Kinkaku-ji Temple, Kiyomizu Temple, and Yasaka Koshindo, a visit to Uji is included!
Uji is famous for the beautiful Uji River and rich matcha culture. In Uji Matcha Street, you can enjoy and try a variety of matcha desserts and drinks, such as matcha ice cream, matcha cake, matcha latte, and more!
13. Tofukuji Temple
When it comes to autumn foliage views in Kyoto, Tofukuji Temple is a hot favourite among locals and tourists alike. Tofukuji is a large Zen temple with the prime vantage point being the Tsutenkyo Bridge, which spans a valley of lush maple trees.
Address: 15 Chome-778 Honmachi, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0981, Japan
Capture the temple dressed in peak autumn colours in November! Check out this tour, which includes pitstops at the Tofukuji Temple, Fushimi Inari Shrine, and Kifune Shrine to see the gorgeous autumn colours.
14. Tenryuji Temple
Tenryuji Temple is another unbeatable spot when it comes to catching autumn hues. Waste no time and head inside the Hyakkaen Garden for another stunning foliage spot.
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is also home to famous paintings like “The Cloud Dragon” right on the ceiling of the Hatto Hall. For a small fee, you can pair a romantic gallery viewing of Japan’s renowned painting while admiring the garden beyond in shades of red.
Address: 68 Saga Tenryuji Susukinobabacho, Ukyo-ku, Kyoto 616-8385 Kyoto Prefecture
In case none of these piqued your interest, here are more spots to view the fall foliage!
Best Fall Foliage Spots in Nara
15. Nara Park
Animal lovers definitely can't skip past Nara on their Japan holiday. Nara Park is home to hundreds of friendly deer who will bow for their biscuits. Come autumn, it is also an excellent spot for fall foliage. The best place for a photo? The spacious grounds of Todai-ji Temple and across the Daibutsu-Ike Pond are highly recommended.
Best Fall Foliage Spots in Fukuoka
16. Kawachi Wisteria Garden
Image credit: JNTO
You know and love the Kawachi Wisteria Garden for the beautiful lilac wisteria tunnels in spring but did you know that you can also find flaming red autumn scenery here too? Come Mid-November, the garden transforms into a spectacular sight to behold. About 700 colourful trees fill the garden with crimson foliage in autumn!
Address: 2 Chome-2-48 Kawachi, Yahatahigashi Ward, Kitakyushu, Fukuoka 805-0045, Japan
17. Raizansennyoji Taihioin
Image credit: Visit Fukuoka
Sennyoji Daihioin Temple, located on Mount Shosha in Himeji, Japan, is a great place to visit for those who want an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Serene and historical, step into this Buddhist temple with roots dating back over a thousand years and experience a wave of peace wash over you. The tranquil surroundings, ancient structures, and stunning views of Himeji Castle make it a perfect place for reflection, and it's also famous for its connection to Japanese culture and the filming of the movie The Last Samurai.
The foliage on the 400-year-old giant maple (which is a Municipally-Designated Natural Monument) in mid-November is also gorgeous.
Address: 626 Raizan, Itoshima City, Fukuoka
For those who are looking for a tour - this Kyushu: Imari Pottery Village & Karatsu 1Day Tour(Fukuoka Departure) takes you to the temple to admire the foliage, as well as to golden rice fields and a trip to the famous Imari Pottery Village.
18. Akizuki Castle Ruins
Image credit: Visit Fukuoka
Akizuki Castle Ruins is the remnants of a castle from the feudal era, offering a glimpse into Japan's historical and cultural heritage. It was built in 1203 by the Akizuki clan, and while much of its original structure has since been lost, visitors can still come to explore its remaining stone walls and gates. In spring it is known to be a popular cherry blossom spot, and in autumn - a wonderful place to enjoy fall colours.
Address: 663 Akizukinotori, Asakura-shi, Fukuoka-ken
Best Fall Foliage Spots in Hokkaido
19. Blue Pond
The mystical, magical Blue Pond truly is a stunning sight to behold, even more so in autumn. A pond so cobalt-blue that in the absence of wind, a moment of stillness would turn the crystal surface into a mirror reflection. Come in October for the best viewing experience!
Address: Shirogane, Biei, Kamikawa District, Hokkaido 071-0235, Japan
20. Daisetsuzan National Park
Any seasoned hikers in Japan would know that Daisetsuzan National Park has nothing shy of the most spectacular fall scenes. Part of Daisetsuzan National Park, the Sounkyo area comprises a range of gorges surrounded by 100-metre-high cliffs. Chase waterfalls splashed in rich and crisp autumn colours - trust us, this is a hike you will never forget.
Address: Sounkyo, Kamikawa, Kamikawa District, Hokkaido 078-1701, Japan
21. Jozankei Onsen
The largest hot spring town in Hokkaido with about 20 ryokan inns, Jozankei Onsen in Shikotsu-Toya National Park is one of Hokkaido's major tourist attractions. And it's not hard to see why! Located just an hour from Sapporo, visitors can look forward to relaxing and revitalising onsen soaks paired with stunning foliage all around.
Image credit: Jozankei Tourism
Check out this Houheikyou & Fukidashi park Autumn Maple One Day Tour from Sapporo which includes a stop at Jozankei as well as:
- Fuping Gorge (one of the best places to enjoy fall foliage in Sapporo)
- Lake Toya (amazing views of the lake paired with autumn leaves)
- Showa Shinzan (a volcano with cable car ride)
- Mt Yotei (top 100 mountains in Japan)
If you are travelling free and easy, don't miss a pit stop at the Futami Tsuribashi Suspension Bridge, an iconic cherry red bridge that is part of a hiking trail about 10 minutes away from Jozankei Hot Spring resort. Enjoy the view which overlooks the bubbling Toyohira River flanked by hills of yellow and gold.
Address: Jozankei Onsen Higashi 3-chome, Minami-ku, Sapporo
22. Noboribetsu Onsen
Another hot spring town part of Shikotsu-Toya National Park, Noboribetsu Onsen is also one of Hokkaido's most famous hot spring resorts. Why, you ask? For starters, it has multiple types of hot spring water - boosted by a variety of different minerals like sulphur, calcium, and sodium.
Locals believe that natural hot spring water is healing for a variety of ailments - not only for your aches and pains! After all, what could be better than a healing dip and stunning scenery?
Address: Noboribetsuonsencho, Noboribetsu, Hokkaido 059-0551, Japan
23. Jigokudani (Hell Valley)
Image credit: Japan Tourism
Jigokudani (more commonly known as 'Hell Valley') is a spectacular valley above the town of Noboribetsu Onsen. Here you will find many hot steam vents and sulfurous streams. To best explore the area you can do a walking trail through the hills or just admire the view and enjoy a footbath in the area.
Address: Noboribetsuonsenchō, Noboribetsu, Hokkaido 059-0551, Japan
More Fall Foliage Tours in Japan to Check Out
24. Izu & Atami: Shuzenji Onsen Fall Foliage Viewing Day Tour (Depart from Tokyo or Shinjuku)
Explore the best of Izu and Atami's autumn spots with this fall foliage tour! Your first stop takes you to the gorgeous Atami Plum Garden, which is renowned for its early-blooming plum trees, with some blooming as early as late December, making it one of the earliest spots in Japan to witness plum blossoms. However, this garden is also a fantastic destination to visit in the Fall, with its spectacular autumn colours splashed over beautifully landscaped garden grounds.
The next pitstop takes you to Shuzenji Onsen, an ancient hot spring town where you can enjoy a relaxing soak. Next, visit Nijigo and Shuzenji Nature Park to experience the beauty of the Japanese and Western gardens, as well as the red-leaf forest!
25. Mount Fuji popular instagrammable sightseeing tour (Depart from Tokyo)
Explore the beauty of Mt Fuji framed in autumn hues on this tour - Mount Fuji popular instagrammable sightseeing tour (from Tokyo)!
The tour covers all of the IG-worthy spots so you can get amazing photos of the magnificent Mt Fuji dressed in her seasonal best.
Other tour highlights:
- Arakurayama Sengen Park
- Hikawa Clock Shop
- Oshino Hakkai
- Oishi Park
- Kawaguchiko Maple Corridor
- Lawson Fujikawaguchiko Town hall
26. Zao Autumn Leaves & Fox Village 1Day OpenTop BusTour (Depart from Sendai)
Check out the breathtaking views of the Okama Crater painted in autumn hues of red and gold on this tour! Okama Crater, located on Mount Zao, is a stunning volcanic lake that's often referred to as the Five Color Pond because its waters change hues depending on the weather and light conditions.
Autumn sights aside, you'll also get a peek and (perhaps, meet and greet!) with the cutest foxes at the Zao Fox Village!
27. Nikko Toshogu One Day Bus Tour (Depart from Tokyo)
Image credit: JNTO
Explore the best of Nikko on this bus tour that will pick you up from Tokyo! Your first stop is to the historical Nikko Toshogu Shrine, which is a magnificent memorial to Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa Shogunate. After this, tuck into Kuri Okowa Aoi Gozen, a delicious Buddhist vegetarian dish for lunch before going on an adventure along the famous Irohazaka Winding Road, which features 48 bends that take in the beauty of the surrounding autumn landscape.
Image credit: Japan Airlines
Your next stop is Lake Chuzenji, where you'll be mesmerized by the picturesque beauty of crystal clear waters against the autumn colours of the mountain surrounds. There's also a pit stop to Kegon Falls, where the water cascades down from a height of 97 meters. Experience the cultural treasures and natural wonders of Nikko on this unforgettable tour!
28. Gifu: Torokei Mountain Eihoji Temple & Korankei "Cherry Blossom and Maple Leaf Frame" Day Tour (Depart from Nagoya)
This cherry blossom and maple leaf tour promises a unique experience as you will get to view cherry blossoms and maple foliage at the same time. Say whattt! Yes, the Obara area of Toyota City is unique as it is home to a special variety of cherry tree, known as "shikizakura", or "four-season cherry blossoms". This species blooms twice a year - once in the spring and once in the fall - for a stunning sight unavailable in most places.
Other tour highlights:
- Toraikeyama Eihoji Temple (Enjoy the 700-year-old ginkgo and beautiful red maple)
- Ohara Shiki Sakura Festival (Enjoy the spectacular scenery of about 10,000 cherry trees and red leaves)
- Korankei (More than 4,000 red-leaf trees of 11 different species surround the beautiful Tomoe River)
29. Amanohashidate & Ine Funaya & Kyoto Gassho Village Miyama Thatched House No Sato Day Tour (Depart from Osaka)
Explore the autumn beauty of Ine Town and Amanohashidate on this day tour!
Ine is a picturesque fishing town located on the coast and famous for its unique "funaya" boathouses that line the bay. These traditional wooden houses are built directly over the water, with the lower floor serving as a boat dock and the upper level as living quarters. Known for its peaceful atmosphere, Ine offers visitors a glimpse into Japan’s coastal heritage and a chance to experience the serene beauty of rural life along the Sea of Japan.
Amanohashidate, located in Kyoto Prefecture, is one of Japan's "Three Scenic Views" (Nihon Sankei) and features a stunning natural sandbar covered with pine trees, stretching across Miyazu Bay. Often referred to as the "Bridge to Heaven," this land formation is best viewed from elevated points, where it appears to float in the sky when seen upside down, a famous tradition for visitors. The area is popular for its tranquil beauty, walking paths, and scenic boat rides, offering a peaceful retreat into nature and a glimpse of Japan's natural wonders.
The tour also covers Miyama Kayabukinosato, which is known as one of the three largest thatched house settlements in Japan, along with Gassho Village in Shirakawa-go. You'll also get to sample tasty Miyama milk ice cream!
31. Autumn only: Korankei autumn leaves & Obara Shikizakura bus tour (Depart from Nagoya)
The Autumn Maple and Obara Shikizakura Cherry Blossom Bus Tour offers a unique experience of Japan's stunning seasonal beauty. This tour takes you to two picturesque locations: Korankei Gorge, famous for its vibrant autumn maple leaves, and Obara, where rare Shikizakura cherry blossoms bloom alongside the autumn foliage. Get to take postcard-perfect shots here - the perfect blend of red maples and pink cherry blossoms, all in one breathtaking landscape!
32. Miidera Temple Autumn Leaves Illumination + Metasequoia Tree Lined Day Tour (Depart from Shiga / Osaka)
The Miidera Temple Autumn Lighting Day Tour offers a mesmerizing experience of the autumn foliage illuminated at night at Miidera Temple in Shiga. It's a whole new experience to enjoy the fall foliage and the temple’s stunning architecture and serene gardens by night.
Other tour highlights:
- Ishiyama-dera Temple: Famous as the starting point of “The Tale of Genji,” it is built on a huge piece of wollastonite
- Philosopher’s Path: A 2km-long walking path along which water flows from a canal drawn from Lake Biwa
- Metasequoia Avenue: A beautiful spot with metasequoia trees on both sides of the road
BONUS: Dress Up in Kimono and Yukata
Want to take your fall foliage photos up a notch? Why not do a photoshoot and dress up in traditional yukata and kimono? Some shops also offer kids-sized kimono and yukata so those travelling with little ones can do a family photo shoot.
Simply rent your yukata or kimono on Klook and head off to snap all your pics with the sensational autumn leaves in your background. Your Instagram friends are going to be so jealous!
Tips for Visiting Japan During Autumn
Planning an autumn trip to Japan? Here are some tips to make the most of your visit during this beautiful season. First, plan ahead and book your itinerary and accommodation well in advance, as autumn is a popular time for tourism in Japan. Check peak foliage times and research when the leaves are at their best in the specific areas you plan to visit.
Pack light and wear clothing in layers to adapt to the changing temperatures throughout the day. Staying in ryokans, which are often located in scenic areas, can offer beautiful views of the autumn foliage. To save on transportation between cities, consider using the Japan Rail Pass. Don’t miss out on seasonal cuisines, such as mushrooms, sweet potatoes, and chestnut yokan. Lastly, respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting temples or shrines, to ensure a pleasant and respectful experience.
How to Enjoy Autumn Leaves in Japan
To truly experience the magic of autumn leaves in Japan, immerse yourself in nature like a local. Take a leisurely walk or hike to see the autumn colours up close and personal. Slow down and take your time to explore and appreciate the details of the autumn foliage. Consider taking a slow train ride to watch the changing colours and bucolic scenery unfold before your eyes.
Driving through the mountains can also provide access to remote areas where you can enjoy the autumn colours in a more rural setting. City parks in bustling cities like Tokyo offer thousands of trees for Koyo and Momiji leaf hunting. Japan’s many mountainous hiking trails are a fantastic option for those who love the great outdoors. The area surrounding Mount Fuji, including Lake Kawaguchiko, and national parks such as Daisetsuzan in Hokkaido and Oze north of Tokyo, are ideal for Momijigari.
Fall Festivals and Illuminations
Autumn in Japan is not just about the stunning foliage; it’s also a time for traditional festivals and illumination events. Throughout the country, you can find many events celebrating the beauty of the season. In Kyoto, the Jidai Matsuri is a historical parade that takes place in October, while Sapporo hosts the Autumn Festival, featuring local food and crafts.
Many shrines and temples across Japan also host popular illumination events, offering a unique way to experience the autumn scenery at night. Some must-see events include the Koyo Festival in Kyoto, the Autumn Leaves Festival in Nikko, and the Momijigari Festival in Kamakura. These festivals often feature traditional food, drinks, and performances, as well as stunning displays of autumn colours. Be sure to check the dates and schedules for these events in advance, as they can be very popular and crowded.
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