Japan is one of the best places to view colourful falling leaves. Leaf viewing is a popular pastime during autumn in Japan, where the locals refer to it as momijigari or koyo, and with the mild Japanese autumn a particularly pleasant time of year to visit, it’s well worth a trip from abroad as well. The trees next to shrines are transformed into a sea of beautiful red leaves with highlights in warm shades, creating a beautifully serene atmosphere perfect for photography and nature enthusiasts alike. We have gathered 8 superbly scenic spots across Japan, including some in the city centre and others in the countryside. Scroll away – you’re guaranteed to find at least one that gets your wanderlust ticking!
The top 8 places to view the beauty of autumn in Japan
Jozankei, Hokkaido
Jozankei, a 1-hour drive from Sapporo, is a popular hot spring area and a scenic spot in Hokkaido. The Hoheikyo Dam is the most notable spot for foliage viewing. The magnificent scenery of the dam and the red leaves will leave you an unforgettable experience.
Viewing period: early to late October
Address: Jozankei, Minami Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido 061-2301, Japan
Oirase Stream, Aomori
Oirase Stream, located in Towada City, Aomori, is known for the many waterfalls along its path. The surrounding area is a summer resort in during the hot months, but come autumn the leaves change, making the area one of Japan’s best locations for viewing maple leaves. The waterfalls’ tranquillity, coupled with the soothing colours of the leaves make the place a definite contender to add to your leaf-viewing list.
Viewing period: mid-October to early November
Address: Okuse, Towada, Aomori Prefecture 034-0301, Japan
Korankei, Aichi
Located in the suburbs of Nagoya, the Korankei valley is another top leaf destination, with the Tomoe River the most recommended scenic spot for autumn views. Traffic can be a bit inconvenient during prime leaf season, when the 4,000 maple trees on the banks of the creek are lit up in fiery shades of red and orange, but the splendid colours of the late autumn, mixed with the river’s scenic backdrop make it worth the effort. Night-time maple-viewing activities are also not to be missed!
Viewing period: late October to mid-November
Address: Iimori Asukecho, Toyota, Aichi Prefecture 444-2424, Japan
Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, Tokyo
As the largest French-Japanese garden in Tokyo, Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden is not only a famous cherry blossom garden but also a famous place for foliage viewing. Shinjuku Gyoen is conveniently located in the city centre, making it amongst the easiest places in Japan to get your fill of leaves.
Viewing period: early to late November
Address: 11 Naitomachi, Shinjuku, Tokyo 160-0014, Japan
Eikan-dō Zenrin-ji, Kyoto
Zenrin-ji is commonly known as Eikan-dō. With more than 3,000 maple trees, it has been the leading scenic spot in Kyoto since ancient times. It has been selected as the best scenic spot in the country for two consecutive years.
Viewing period: early to late November
Address: Eikan-dō Zenrin-ji, Kyoto
Meiji no Mori Minō Quasi-National Park, Osaka
Residents in the Kansai area usually go for Kyoto to watch the autumn leaves, but people from Osaka can have a glimpse of the foliage at the Mino Waterfall in the Quasi-national park. Located in precious natural forests in Osaka Prefecture, the park is the western starting point of the Tokai Natural Trail. Visitors can enjoy seasonal changes in the scenery, and in autumn the area is lit up with brilliantly coloured leaves.
Viewing period: mid-November – early December
Address: 〒 562-0002 Mino-Koen, Mino City, Osaka Pref
Ritsurin Garden, Kagawa
Located in Takamatsu City, Kagawa Prefecture, Ritsurin Park is a very traditional Japanese garden. It is famous for its traditional garden designs. The lakes make foliage viewing especially unforgettable with the reflection of red leaves in the lake, and there are night viewing sessions at Ritsurin Garden as well.
Viewing period: late November to early December
Address: 1-20-16 Ritsurincho, Takamatsu 760-0073, Kagawa Prefecture
Kumano Shrine, Fukuoka
The Kumano Shrine has a long history of over 1350 years. The locals believe that visitors who make sincere enough wishes at the shrine will be blessed with luck in their relationships for the years to come. It will be even more romantic if you come here with your loved ones!
Viewing period: mid to late November
Address: 4 Chome-13-3 Kukomae, Hakata Ward, Fukuoka, Fukuoka Prefecture 812-0002, Japan
>>Still need more? Here are a few more destinations for all your leaf-viewing needs this autumn in Japan!
*Note: These rates are based on search queries made on kayak.sg. on 26 March 2018. The prices are quoted in SGD. Flight prices are based on results for a return economy flight search. Hotel prices are for double occupancy and include taxes and fees. Prices are subject to change, may vary, or no longer be available.
