Fall Into Wonder: Your Ultimate Guide to Autumn in Japan This 2023

There’s nothing quite as magical as autumn in Japan: the weather starts to cool, landscapes shift into a kaleidoscope of colors, and everyone comes out to celebrate the many festivities during the season. 

Whether you’re looking to transport yourself to a red and orange wonderland or want to participate in cozy fall activities, there’s no shortage of things to do in Japan in autumn.

Each year, Japan releases an official forecast which tells you the best time to visit each destination to witness “koyo,” which is the country’s breathtaking phenomenon of leaves changing to vibrant shades or red, orange, and yellow. The best time to witness autumn colors varies per area, so make sure to book your trip during each destination’s peak foliage season. 

Try planning your visit during October through early December for the best fall foliage sighting. The mild and comfortable temperatures that autumn brings in also make it a great time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

For this year, the Japan Meteorological Corporation released its Autumn Forecast last September 4, 2023, so be sure to bookmark these images below and check out their website for full details!

Not sure where to visit? We’ve got you covered! Scroll down to discover our autumn Japan guide containing the best destinations and activities to experience during this magical season. 

Hokkaido, Japan’s northern gem, is known for stunning foliage, especially with its iconic Japanese maples which create a stunning backdrop to your Instagram-worthy shots. As the first region where fall colors start to appear in the country (as early as late September!). The region offers many exciting sights and activities during autumn time like visiting the Jozankei onsen (which is known to be the best in Sapporo) or having a taste of local sake (the weather is perfect for it), these are only some that you can discover in Hokkaido!

If you didn’t know, fall is the best time to enjoy sake (Japanese rice wine) because of its mellow flavors, making it a perfect pair for autumn cuisine. This is also when Sake is most rich and flavorful since the colder weather allows the breweries to do slow fermentation beginning from the previous winter. 

While Sapporo is popularly known as a winter destination, the city becomes just as alive during autumn, with leaves changing colors as early as late September. To catch the colorful transformation in all its splendor, Jozankei Onsen offers the perfect backdrop as its lush forests turn red, orange, and yellow all over. To keep yourself warm, you can also enjoy a relaxing Onsen experience in the hot spring resort. Parks are also a great place to witness the seasonal magic of the city with most visits including Otaru and Shiroi Kobito Park. Hit off all three spots with a Jozankei Onsen, Otaru and Shiroi Koibito Park Day Tour! 

Unlock the magic of fall in Chubu, Japan’s central playground. Surrounded by Japanese alps, the region offers stunning vantage points to witness various natural landscapes. Its cool climate also makes it a popular destination for those seeking outdoor activities like hiking around the Japanese Alps, exploring historic villages like Shirakawa-go and Hilda Takayama, or simply enjoying the serene beauty of its scenic coastal areas.

Located in the Chubu region of Japan, Gifu is the perfect destination to witness the beauty of fall without crowds. While this region is often overlooked for more popular destinations, it has just as much to offer! 

Shirakawa-go and Hida Takayama are two spots that become even more stunning during the autumn season. A trip to the UNESCO World Heritage Mountain Village, Shirakawa-go, is made even more scenic when the mountains surrounding it begin shifting to the colors of autumn. Hida Takayama, often dubbed Little Kyoto, is another picturesque spot during fall with its Edo-era architecture and restorations. The Takayama Autumn Festival held every October also adds a festive atmosphere to the city, with floats, music, and performances adding liveliness to the area. 

Japan’s bustling capital region offers an autumn escape that’s pure enchantment. For the ultimate leaf-peeping, Shinjuku Gyoen and Ueno Park fill up with red and gold leaves that’ll leave you stunned. To spot Tokyo’s famous ginkgo trees, don’t forget to hit up Hibiya Park which is located at the heart of Tokyo. 

If you happen to be traveling in early September, don’t miss out on Tsukimi, autumn moon viewing, which is a Japanese tradition that celebrates the harvest moon. Some fast food chains even have special offerings all related to Tsukimi. Moon-viewing events are held all across the region, with places like Tokyo Skytree and Tokyo Tower being hotspots. 

Tokyo becomes even more enchanting during autumn, with the vibrant foliage adding charm to the capital city’s iconic sights. Seasonal attractions also make the city a must-visit during autumn. Don’t miss out on fall cuisines like matsutake mushrooms, chestnuts, and sweet potatoes. This is also when autumn festivals take place including the Chrysanthemum Festival at Yushima Tenjin Shrine and the Autumn Festival at Kanda Myojin Shrine, giving you a peek into traditional Japanese culture.

To make your trip even more memorable, get the full experience by dressing up in a traditional Japanese costume! VASARA Kimono and Yukata Rentals allow you to pick your preferred design with 8 destinations to rent from. 

On a mission to get the perfect fall shot? Wow your Instagram followers with professional photos taken from a Private Photoshoot Experience in Tokyo. Leave it to the cameraman to take you to the city’s most picturesque autumn spots, from Mitaki Gorge to Hibiya Park. If you want Tokyo’s skyline to be the backdrop of your photos, be sure to check out Tokyo Skytree and Odaiba Window Bridge at night. 

Whether traveling with a group or going solo, this experience will leave you with photos you’ll cherish long after your Tokyo trip. 

For a fall adventure that’s pure magic, Kansai, Japan’s heartland is your must-visit destination. More than just bursting with color, the city comes alive during autumn. Foodies, brace yourselves: Osaka’s street food scene kicks into high gear with takoyaki and okonomiyaki. For unbeatable autumn views, head to Kyoto’s Kiyomizu temple and Arashiyama’s bamboo groves for postcard-worthy photos. Feeling adventurous? Get up and close with deer at Nara Park.

As one of Japan’s oldest cities, you can easily step back in time in Kyoto’s many historical Buddhist temples–the most notable ones including Kiyomizudera, Ginkakuji, and Kinakakuji. 

These temples are known for their architectural beauty, cultural significance, and breathtaking scenery surrounding them, making them a prime spot for fall leaves viewing when autumn in Japan comes around. The best part? You can explore all three of Kyoto’s World Heritage Sights in less than a day with the Kiyomizudera, Ginkakuji, and Kinakakuji Temple Half Day Tour. 

Visiting the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest in Kyoto is a captivating and unforgettable experience during fall, making it a must-see in your Japan autumn itinerary. During autumn in Japan, this iconic spot becomes a natural canopy with the sun filtering through the red, orange, and yellow leaves, creating a stunning play of light and shadow. 

This mesmerizing sight against the tall bamboo stalks will take your breath away. The Kyoto Arashiyama Bamboo Forest Small Group Guided Walking Tour takes your experience a step further by also giving you a deeper understanding of Kyoto’s history and culture. 

Kyoto has many more spots to discover during autumn for that perfect fall photo–from castles to shrines. Take a pick from its 17 UNESCO World Heritage Sights as the city’s iconic temples and traditional streets become adorned with the warm and rich tones of Autumn. 

After visiting the city’s can’t miss destinations, hit up Nishiki Market to indulge in autumnal treats including sweet potato goodies and chestnut-flavored everything. After a full day of exploring, cap off your trip by heading to Eikando Temple once the sun goes down to witness the autumn colors illuminated at night.  

As autumn comes around, Osaka’s lively streets and serene parks transforms into a colorful haven where parks become oases of tranquility, the city’s culinary scene gets infused with an autumn touch, and vibrant festivals and events take place. 

Osaka is also the perfect base for fall foliage sightseeing with its proximity to some of the most well-known fall color destinations. Picturesque Kyoto is only an hour away. Meanwhile, another hour away, located in Osaka’s east, lies Nara Park where you can enjoy fall colors all around you, surrounded by deer. Visit the best sights near Osaka with the Arashiyama, Kinakuji, and Nara Park Day Tour.

Picture this: you’re roaming around a park filled with vibrant red and gold leaves blanketing the ground as friendly deer roam amongst ancient temples and shrines. This is what you can experience during the fall season in Nara Park, one of the most iconic spots in the city of Nara. 

This ancient city offers unique experiences that’ll allow you to appreciate its time-honored heritage amidst a tapestry of colors. A visit to the iconic Todai-ji Temple and historic streets of Naramachi allows you to immerse yourself in the city’s history while still basking in the golden foliage. For sweet tooths, don’t miss out on freshly baked chestnut sweets which are typically enjoyed during the autumn months. Nara also neighbors Kyoto, another popular fall destination. Visit both cities in one day with the Kyoto and Nara Day Tour. 

Take a visit to the hidden gem of fall getaways in Japan—Kyushu. Japan’s southernmost main island during autumn is equally as stunning as its more known Northern counterparts. From mid-November to early December, Kyushu’s charming castle towns, public gardens, and historical sites get showered in fall foliage. Don’t miss the vibrant momiji leaves at Maizuru Park in Fukuoka, setting the scene for a picture-perfect fall stroll. Food lovers, you’re in for a treat: Josaien’s alleys brim with autumn flavors, from sweet potato treats to sizzling hotspots. Don’t skip the traditional tea ceremonies and catch Fukuoka’s Otsukimi Moon-Viewing festival for the ultimate Kyushu experience. 

If you want to escape the hustle and bustle for a more tranquil atmosphere, visit Fukuoka! Apart from being known for its warm hospitality, Hakata’s blend of seasonal attractions and scenic sights make it a must-visit during the autumn season in Japan. 

Don’t leave Hakata without a visit to Akizuki Castle Ruins, Kokura Castle, and Maizaru Park to witness the best fall foliage in the city. Every September, one of Hakata’s major festivals, Hojoya, is also celebrated to welcome the changing of seasons and give thanks for nature’s abundance making the city come alive whenever fall hits. 

Don’t miss a trip to Fukuoka without a visit to its most historic sights. The colors of autumn coupled with the sites’ serene atmosphere help make your experience even more magical. 

Sail along the canals of Yanagawa River, known as the Venice of Kyushu, to admire the charming traditional scenes. Dazaifu is also well worth a day trip if you seek peace and tranquility. This historic town is dotted with temples and shrines that give you a glimpse of the city’s rich cultural heritage.

Immerse yourself deeper into Japan’s traditional culture while strolling Fukuoka’s landmarks in a kimono. Fukuoka Kimono Rental offers rentals located in Yanagawa and Dazaifu for your convenience. 

What better place to witness the autumn season in Japan than in one of the country’s largest gardens—Suizenji Garden? This 64-hectare garden offers a tranquil atmosphere while allowing you to immerse yourself in its historical roots with its Japanese landscaping and miniature historic landmarks. 

The park is popular during spring for its cherry blossom trees, but these delicate flowers also bloom during the fall season, giving you a unique opportunity to witness them bloom outside of spring. 

Josaien, Kumamoto’s Castle Town, has something to offer for everyone. Plunge into culture at the Kumamoto Castle Museum, where you can learn about the structure’s history through virtual-reality tours–a 360-degree animated tour of Kumamoto’s iconic destinations powered with VR goggles. 

For foodies who want a taste of what the region has to offer, choose from more than 20 restaurants, both old and new, offering classic Kumamoto dishes. Make sure not to leave without trying local specialities like horse meat sashimi (basashi), mustard-stuffed deep-fried lotus root (karashi renkon), and sweet-potato dumplings (ikinari dango).

If you’re keen to go souvenir shopping, the village is well known for its variety of shops offering the best local crafts and souvenirs from Kumamoto, from the Kutami Shibu-Uchiwa fan or Japanese Washi paper fans to the Konohazaru pottery dolls.

Ready for your autumn adventure in Japan? Be sure to tick off all your travel essentials like airport transfers, portable wifi, and more!