Obara Shikizakura, Korankei, & Magome-juku Autumn Leaves Tour

Autumn-Only Red and White Beauty: Shikizakura Located in Toyota City, Aichi Prefecture, “Shikizakura” is one of the few places in Japan where you can enjoy both cherry blossoms and autumn leaves at the same time in autumn. From mid-November each year, the pinkish-white Shikizakura and fiery red maple leaves intertwine in the valleys, forming a dreamy landscape of red and white that is a unique visual feast. The local area also holds the Shikizakura Festival, selling local delicacies and specialties to add to the enjoyment of the trip.

[Trivia] Shikizakura is a rare variety that blooms in both spring and autumn, with the best viewing period from mid to late November each year, especially when the autumn blooms are the most spectacular. The cherry blossoms are single-layered white or light pink, which contrast beautifully with the alternating red and yellow maple leaves, creating a dreamlike scene.

"Kawami Shikizakura" Cherry blossoms and autumn leaves are densely concentrated on the slopes, forming a large "red and white color staircase," a stunning spot not to be missed.

During the "Obara Shikizakura Festival," there are stalls run by local residents where you can not only enjoy the scenery but also relax and enjoy the local flavors and hospitality.

The Most Representative Maple Viewing Spot in the Tokai Region: Korankei Korankei is located in Asuke Town, Toyota City, Aichi Prefecture, and is one of Japan’s 100 best places for viewing autumn leaves. It is a representative maple leaf spot in the central region and a nationally known spot for autumn foliage. From early to late November each year, about 4,000 maple trees are dyed with brilliant autumn leaves, and the tunnel of autumn leaves along the banks of the Tomoe River is poetic and moving, making it a classic spot not to be missed in autumn.

Korankei is popular not only for its spectacular maple leaf scenery but also because the area preserves the traditional wooden bridge "待月橋 (Machizuki Bridge)," quaint streets, and natural streams, creating a scene reminiscent of an Edo-era landscape painting. In addition, the annual nighttime light-up event makes the maple leaves shine with a fantastic glow under the lights, attracting many photography enthusiasts and tourists.

Back to the Edo Period Stone-Paved Post Town | Magome-juku “Magome-juku” is one of the 69 post towns on the Nakasendo Highway, located in Nakatsugawa City, Gifu Prefecture. The rustic stone-paved streets and traditional wooden houses retain the atmosphere of an Edo-era post town, making you feel as if you have traveled through time. In autumn, the mountains are dyed with red maple leaves, adding to the charm of the old streets. You can sample local delicacies such as Goheimochi and chestnut wagashi along the street, experiencing the most authentic post-town atmosphere and warm hospitality.