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AUTUMN – Coloured leaves (Koyo)
Colourful autumn leaves, known as koyo in Japanese, draw just as many visitors in autumn as the cherry blossoms do during spring. The viewing of autumn leaves has been a popular activity in Japan for centuries. Today people still set out all over the country to find the best spot to view the beauty of the stunning blend of yellow, orange and red leaves. The season lasts from September through to early November, depending on the weather and location.
Famous spots for viewing the autumn foliage are dotted all across the country, especially in parks, temples and mountainous regions. See below for a list of some popular autumn leaves viewing destinations and the approximate best time of year to visit.
Please note:
Suggested viewing dates represent averages of actual peak viewing dates over the past several years. Viewing dates are subject to change due to weather conditions.
Late September to Early October
- Niseko, HOKKAIDO:
A top destination in Hokkaido, with lakes, hiking trails and hot springs. End a day of golf, canoeing, or paragliding with a refreshing tankard of local beer.
Early October to Mid October
Mid October to Late October
- Lake Towada-ko, AKITA/AOMORI:
Hop on a sightseeing boat for a great view of the mountains. In nearby Okuirise there are breathtaking gorges. During a three-hour gorge walk, you'll pass fourteen waterfalls and be delighted by the beautiful autumn colors.
- Kinu-gawa River, TOCHIGI:
The Kinu-gawa River is famous for its hot-spring resorts. Admire the autumn colors from the window of your hotel. Nikko is not far away, where you can visit the lake Chuzenji-ko, the Kegon Falls and other natural wonders.
- Karuizawa, NAGANO:
This is Japan's best-known mountain resort. It's a great place to visit in the heat of summer; but its fine boutiques, restaurants and museums also welcome visitors in autumn.
Late October to Early November
- Risshaku-ji Temple, YAMAGATAI:
Soon after leaving Yamadera Station, there's a magnificent view of the temple Risshaku-ji, perched on a rock. Climb to the top for stunning views.
- Lake Inawashiro-ko, FUKUSHIMA:
Mt. Bandai-san and Mt. Azuma-san have good roads and are popular autumn destinations. To the north of Bandai-san, there are many excellent sight-seeing spots such as Lake Hibara-ko, and Lake Goshiki-numa with its incredible colors of red and blue.
- Lake Ashino-ko, KANAGAWA:
A visit to Mt. Fuji is an absolute must for visitors to Japan. There are many spas in the foothills as well as beauty spots such as Lake Ashino-ko, which can be visited by cable-car.
- Eihei-ji Temple, FUKUI:
This is one of Japan's best known Zen temples. Take part in zazen meditation here, or just visit the nearby souvenir shops, which sell local delicacies such as goma-dofu and shojin-ryori.
- Takachiho-kyo Gorge, MIYAZAKI:
Admire the autumn colors from the boats that travel the gorge. Get to Takachiho by the Takachiho-railway, which crosses the highest railway bridge in Asia. The views from the train's windows are spectacular.
Early November to Mid November
- Aoba-dori Avenue, Sendai, MIYAGI:
Sendai's trees are an amazing blend of red, gold and yellow in autumn. Take a day-trip to the islands of Matsushima, where oysters are in season at this time of year.
- Nagatoro-kyo Valley, SAITAMA:
Head downstream on the Ara-kawa River to see the maple leaves. Nearby Mt. Hodo-san is accessible by cable-car and the view from the peak is spectacular.
- Kenrokuen Garden, Kanazawa, ISHIKAWA:
This is one of the most beautiful gardens in Japan. Relax with a bowl of Japanese green tea while viewing the garden. Kanazawa is famous for traditional crafts such as Kaga-yuzen textiles and Kutani-yaki pottery which make great souvenirs.
- Momiji-dani Park, Miyajima Island, HIROSHIMA:
Momiji-dani means Maple Valley and turns a bright red color in autumn. Go to the top of Mt. Misen by cable-car. The nearby Itsukushima-jinja shrine is also a World Heritage Site.
Mid November to Late November
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Seasonal Attractions - Autumn
Where to go, What to do
