Autumn Leaves in Japan 2024: Viewing Places and Best Time 

Autumn in Japan is an incredibly breathtaking season, with landscapes transformed by shades of red, orange, and yellow. For travellers, witnessing the Japanese autumn leaves, known as “koyo,” will be a truly unforgettable experience. This guide provides information on the best spots to see autumn leaves in Japan and forecasts for the 2024 season.

Japan’s Autumn Leaves Season

When Do the Leaves Change Colour?

The timing of Japan’s autumn leaves varies depending on the location and weather conditions, particularly temperature. Generally, the peak viewing season extends from September to December.

• Temperature Influence: The timing of the colour change is determined by the temperatures in early autumn. Warmer temperatures delay the colour change, while cooler temperatures hasten it.
• Regional Differences: In the mountains of Hokkaido, the northernmost part of Japan,  the leaves start to turn as early as September. However, in the warmer regions along the Pacific coast, the peak of the autumn leaves might not arrive until December. In Okinawa, with its subtropical climate, autumn leaves are almost non-existent.
• Long Viewing Period: Due to Japan’s mountainous terrain and its long shape stretching from Hokkaido to Okinawa, the autumn leaves season is longer than in many other countries.

Autumn Leaves Forecast for 2024

Since the timing of autumn leaves depends heavily on autumn temperatures, and the prediction of autumn leaves for 2024 is not yet announced. However, according to data from the Japan Meteorological Agency, temperatures from September to November 2024 are expected to be higher than average nationwide. This suggests that the peak viewing period for autumn leaves might be later than usual this year. We will update this guide as more accurate forecasts become available.

Autumn Leaves Places and Best Time 2024

Hokkaido Region

大雪山国立公園 (Taisetsuzan National Park)

This is the first place in Japan where the autumn leaves start to change colour. The variety in elevation allows for a prolonged viewing season.

定山渓温泉 (Jozankei Onsen)

Close to Sapporo city, this spot offers beautiful autumn leaves view while enjoying hot springs.

Tohoku Region

奥入瀬渓流 (Oirase-keiryū Gorge) / Aomori 

The contrast between the flowing stream and the autumn leaves is stunning.

鳴子峡 (Naruko Gorge) / Miyagi 

The dramatic cliffs and autumn leaves create a breathtaking scene, and it’s also a popular hot spring destination.

八幡平 (Hachimantai)/ Iwate 

A scenic route perfect for drives and hikes.

Kanto Region

日光 (Nikko) / Tochigi

Nikko is one of Japan’s top autumn foliage spots, where you can enjoy the scenery in various ways, such as scenic drives, lakeside hikes, or a combination of colourful leaves and waterfalls.

高尾山 (Mt. Takao) / Tokyo

A popular hiking spot near Tokyo, also known for its autumn leaf festival.

明治神宮外苑 (Meiji Jingu Gaien) / Tokyo

The 300-metre-long road lined with golden ginkgo trees is easily accessible during your stay in Tokyo.

Chubu Region

河口湖 (Lake Kawaguchi) / Yamanashi 

The autumn leaves beautifully lit against the backdrop of Mt. Fuji create a photogenic scene.

黒部渓谷 (Kurobe Gorge) / Toyama

Enjoy the autumn foliages from a scenic trolley train ride through the gorge.

香嵐渓 (Korankei) / Aichi

About 4,000 maple trees turn colour at once, creating a stunning display over the water.

兼六園 (Kenrokuen Garden) / Ishikawa

One of Japan’s three most famous gardens, where you can enjoy the beauty of both the autumn leaves and the garden itself.

Kansai Region

嵐山 (Arashiyama) / Kyoto

Among Kyoto’s many autumn leaves spots, Arashiyama is the most famous. The view from the scenic train is especially stunning.

永観堂 (Eikando Temple) / Kyoto

It is a temple especially known for its beautiful autumn leaves. The garden is adorned with 3,000 maple trees.

瑠璃光院 (Rurikoin Temple) / Kyoto

The photogenic autumn foliage reflecting off the black lacquered tables are a must-see.

清水寺 (Kiyomizu Temple) / Kyoto

The view of autumn leaves from the stage of Kiyomizu, with the historic cityscape of Kyoto in the background, is truly stunning.

吉野山 (Mt. Yoshino) / Nara

A famous cherry blossom spot where you can also enjoy the autumn foliage of cherry trees.

箕面公園 (Minoh Park) / Osaka

A dynamic nature site conveniently located in the suburbs of Osaka. A walking course leads to an autumn foliage spot and waterfalls.

Chugoku Region

宮島 (Miyajima) / Hiroshima

It is famous for the red gate at Itsukushima Shrine on the sea, and the autumn leaves at Momijidani Park is truly magical.

帝釈峡 (Taishakukyo Gorge) / Hiroshima

The autumn foliage along this gorge are particularly beautiful when viewed from a boat.

Shikoku Region

祖谷渓谷 (Iya Valley) / Tokushima

The entire valley turns into a canvas of red and yellow, with stunning night illuminations.

寒霞渓 (Kankakei Gorge) / Kagawa

One of Japan’s most scenic nature spots, where you can enjoy autumn leaves from a ropeway.

Kyushu Region

深耶馬溪 (Yabakei Gorge) / Oita

One of Kyushu’s top spots for autumn leaves, perfect for hiking.

竈門神社 (Kamado Shrine) / Fukuoka

This shrine’s beautiful approach is lined with colourful autumn foliages.

Japan’s unique geography and diverse climate create an exceptionally long autumn foliage season, allowing travelers to enjoy the stunning fall colours from September to December. Many popular spots for autumn leaves are also well-known hot spring areas. So, be sure to relax in a hot spring when you visit those places!