8 Stunning Locations in Japan for Autumn Foliage

Japan is famously celebrated for its enchanting pink cherry blossoms in the spring, but the fall phenomenon known as koyo (the vibrant red leaves) is equally breathtaking. From the northernmost region of Hokkaido to the southern island of Kyushu, brilliant maples and golden ginkgos transform the landscape between October and early December, starting from the mountainous north and gradually making their way to the south and lowlands. Whether you're looking to engage in momijigari (leaf-peeping) on a hiking trail or wish to enjoy the autumn scenery while relaxing in an outdoor hot spring, here are some of the finest spots in Japan to witness the fall colors.

1. Kurobe Gorge, Toyama

Best Time for Fall Foliage: Late October to Early November

Located a few hours northwest of Tokyo by bullet train, Toyama Prefecture often escapes the radar of most travelers' Japan itineraries. However, during autumn, this region of Hokuriku showcases some of the country’s most stunning seasonal foliage. The highlight can be experienced on a leisurely train journey aboard the partially open-air Kurobe Gorge Railway, which follows the emerald waters of the Kurobe River between the rustic hot spring towns of Unazuki and Keyakidaira, surrounded by a breathtaking canopy of deep red maple trees.

Accommodation: Yamanoha

The train departs from Unazuki Onsen, where you can find traditional ryokan inns such as Yamanoha. This inn features a blend of Japanese and Western-style rooms, along with shared hot spring baths that offer breathtaking views of the Kurobe Gorge.

2. Rikugien Garden, Tokyo

Optimal time for viewing fall foliage: late November to early December

While Tokyo is often seen as a city of towering skyscrapers and vibrant neon lights, it also boasts remarkable gardens and green spaces. One such gem is Rikugien, an expansive stroll garden created in the early 1700s, inspired by themes from classical waka poetry. In autumn, it ranks among Tokyo's premier koyo destinations, largely due to the evening light displays that showcase the colorful leaves. However, it can get quite crowded, so if you're looking to avoid the throngs, consider exploring the serene Todoroki ravine in Setagaya or taking a weekday hike around Mt. Takao in western Tokyo.

Accommodation recommendation: Hotel Niwa

Consider staying at Hotel Niwa, located just a few stops south of Rikugien on the Mita subway line. This hotel features Western-style accommodations with Japanese touches. The name Niwa, which means 'garden,' reflects its charm, as it includes four small gardens, including a rooftop terrace offering views of Tokyo.

3. Arashiyama, Kyoto

Best time for fall foliage: mid-November to early December

Located on the western side of Kyoto, Arashiyama is primarily recognized for its heavily trafficked bamboo grove, but in autumn, the focus shifts to the brilliant colors lining the Hozugawa River. A delightful way to enjoy the scenery is by taking a ride on the Sagano Scenic Railway upstream, followed by a leisurely return downriver on a flat-bottomed boat, guided by a pilot using bamboo poles.

Beyond Arashiyama, you can also experience fall colors in traditional settings such as the Tofukuji and Eikando temples or the Kitano Tenmangu Shrine. However, keep in mind that, true to Kyoto's reputation, the most popular autumn spots tend to draw large crowds.

Where to stay: Hoshinoya Kyoto

Indulge in a stay at Hoshinoya, the most luxurious contemporary ryokan in Kyoto, boasting stunning river views. Guests can enjoy exquisite kaiseki meals and partake in cultural experiences like Zen meditation and ikebana flower arranging.

4. Lake Kawaguchi, Yamanashi

When to see fall foliage: early to mid-November

Located a short trip west of Tokyo, Lake Kawaguchi offers a stunning combination of autumn hues and breathtaking views of Japan’s iconic peak, the 12,388-foot Mt. Fuji, along with opportunities to stay in traditional ryokans. A highlight of the season is the Momiji Tunnel on the northern shore, where the snow-capped Fuji is framed by vibrant red maples. Don’t miss the Itchiku Kubota Art Museum, which showcases a remarkable collection of kimonos, some featuring Fuji throughout the seasons.

Where to stay: Fufu

For spectacular views of Fuji and the lake, consider the exclusive Fufu, a luxury accommodation that offers outdoor adventures such as canoeing and hiking excursions.

5. Jozankei Onsen, Hokkaido

When to see fall foliage: early to late October

Hokkaido, Japan's northernmost island, experiences some of the first fall colors in the country, particularly in its six national parks. While certain locations may be quite remote, the hot-spring resort town of Jozankei, nestled in a forested ravine within Shikotsu-Toya National Park, is only a 19-mile drive from Sapporo. This area becomes breathtakingly beautiful as it transforms into a tapestry of seasonal reds and yellows, particularly when viewed from one of Jozankei’s outdoor hot-spring baths.

Where to stay: Furukuwa

For a stay in the heart of town, choose Furukawa, a ryokan featuring both indoor and outdoor baths, exquisite multicourse kaiseki meals, and accommodations that blend wood flooring with tatami mats for a unique Japan-Euro atmosphere.

6. Koyasan, Wakayama

When to see fall foliage: late October to early November

Koya, also known as Koyasan, has been the center of Shingon Buddhism since the 800s. This enchanting mountaintop town becomes even more magical in the fall when its temples and gardens, including several UNESCO World Heritage sites, are framed by the vibrant colors of ginkgo and maple trees. Located just a couple of hours south of Osaka by train, it’s feasible for a day trip, but an overnight stay at one of Koyasan’s 100-plus temples allows for a deeper experience. Don’t miss an evening walk through the hauntingly beautiful Okunoin, a sprawling cemetery filled with around 200,000 graves and moss-covered statues.

Where to stay: Ekoin Temple

At Ekoin, the shukubo (temple accommodation) offers traditional plant-based shojin-ryori meals, along with the chance to participate in morning rituals with the monks.

7. Hachimantai, Iwate

When to see fall foliage: mid- to late October

Rising to 5,292 feet, Mt. Hachimantai is a stratovolcano located in Towada-Hachimantai National Park. During a brief window in early fall, the surrounding peaks burst with vibrant shades of yellow, orange, and red before heavy snow renders the roads impassable. These fleeting and colorful days are ideal for hiking through a diverse landscape of wooded mountains, stark volcanic terrain, and marshlands, with the added bonus of exploring some of Japan’s coziest hot springs along the way.

Where to stay: Toshichi Onsen

Perched 4,593 feet above sea level on the Hachimantai plateau, this unpretentious inn resembles a large mountain hut. It features outdoor hot-spring baths that offer cloudy, relaxing experiences along with breathtaking stargazing opportunities at night.

8. Mt. Daisen, Tottori

When to see fall foliage: late October to early November

In autumn, Mount Daisen transforms into a stunning tapestry of colors. Locally referred to as the “seven-colored peak,” it boasts a rich cover of maple, beech, oak, Japanese rowan, and other trees that create a dazzling display of red, yellow, gold, and orange beginning in late October. Before heading out for a hike, visitors can gather trail information at the Daisen National Park Center located in the village of Daisen at the base of the mountain. Regular bus services operate from the nearby city of Yonago, which features an airport with flights to Tokyo.

Where to stay: Sanrakuso

Sanrakuso, located close to the Daisen National Park Center, is a temple-operated inn that features modest tatami mat accommodations, vegetarian meals, a relaxed café, and options for guided meditation sessions.