Autumn in Japan: The Best Time to Visit the Land of the Rising Sun
Autumn is one of the best times to visit Japan. Besides the cool and comfortable weather, the sight of fiery red leaves creates breathtaking landscapes that can be enjoyed across the country.
Trees adorned with leaves turning red, orange, and yellow beautifully color Japan’s scenery, making it an ideal destination for travelers.
So, where can you enjoy Japan’s stunning autumn views? There are many fascinating destinations to explore — from Kyoto to Nikko. Let’s take a look together!
1. Kyoto: Japan’s Most Iconic Autumn Destination
Kyoto is known as one of the best cities in Japan to enjoy the fall foliage. With its enchanting blend of ancient temples and vibrant maple trees (momiji), Kyoto becomes a favorite destination for travelers during autumn. Here are some of the most recommended spots in Kyoto for enjoying the season’s colors:
Kiyomizu-dera Temple:
One of Kyoto’s oldest Buddhist temples, Kiyomizu-dera sits atop a hill. Famous for its large wooden terrace, the temple offers sweeping views of Kyoto city and the forest below, which bursts into red and gold hues during autumn. Visiting Kiyomizu-dera near sunset is an unforgettable experience — the sight of glowing red leaves under the twilight sky is truly magical.
Tofuku-ji Temple:
A major Zen Buddhist temple in Kyoto, Tofuku-ji is famous for its arched bridge overlooking a valley filled with fiery red leaves. With its distinctive Muromachi-era architecture, this temple is one of Kyoto’s best photography spots in autumn.
Arashiyama Bamboo Grove:
Arashiyama is famous for its bamboo forest, but the area is also filled with colorful momiji trees around the river and smaller temples. The contrast between the green bamboo and red maple leaves creates a truly captivating scene.
2. Nikko: The Perfect Blend of Nature and Culture
Located in Tochigi Prefecture, Nikko is one of Japan’s top destinations for experiencing autumn scenery. Known for its historic temples and shrines, Nikko National Park also offers spectacular natural views and scenic hiking trails — a beautiful harmony of culture and nature.
The park’s fall foliage is simply breathtaking, with maple trees surrounding temples and waterfalls, making Nikko one of the best places in Japan to enjoy the autumn season.
Kegon Falls:
One of Japan’s largest waterfalls, Kegon Falls is surrounded by blazing red leaves during autumn, creating a striking contrast between the cascading water and the colorful forest.
Lake Chuzenji:
Nestled among mountains and forests, this lake offers mesmerizing views of autumn leaves, especially when their colors are reflected on the water’s surface. It’s the perfect place for a peaceful stroll while taking in the serene autumn landscape.
Toshogu Shrine:
Famous for its ornate architecture, Toshogu Shrine is another stunning spot to view autumn foliage. The combination of the shrine’s intricate details and the backdrop of crimson leaves creates a truly picture-perfect scene.
3. Fuji Kawaguchiko: Fiery Leaves with Mount Fuji as the Backdrop
At Kawaguchiko, you can witness Japan’s most iconic sight — Mount surrounded by brilliant red maple leaves. Located near Lake Kawaguchi, this area is one of the most popular places to see autumn foliage with the majestic mountain in the background.
Momiji Tunnel:
A natural tunnel formed by rows of maple trees along the lakeshore. It’s the perfect place to capture the classic photo of Mount Fuji framed by a canopy of red leaves.
Maple Corridor:
A scenic pathway lined with maple trees along a small river. When the leaves change color, the entire corridor transforms into a spectacular sea of red.
The beautiful harmony of Mount Fuji, the lake, and the autumn foliage creates a calm and soothing atmosphere — perfect for a leisurely walk or simply relaxing while enjoying the view.
4. Takayama: A Traditional Town Surrounded by Natural Beauty
Nestled in the Hida Mountains, Takayama is a charming town that has preserved its traditional Japanese atmosphere. During autumn, it becomes an ideal destination to admire Japan’s fall colors set against a backdrop of historic wooden buildings.
Shirakawa-go:
A traditional village near Takayama, famous for its thatched-roof houses known as gassho-zukuri. When autumn arrives, the village is adorned with red and orange maple leaves, creating a postcard-perfect scene.
Shiroyama Park:
A park set against a mountainous backdrop filled with crimson trees. It’s an ideal spot for a leisurely walk while enjoying the crisp autumn air.
5. Kamikochi: Spectacular Mountain Scenery
Located in Japan’s Northern Alps, Kamikochi is one of the most breathtaking places to experience Japan’s natural beauty, especially during autumn. The area is surrounded by towering peaks, crystal-clear rivers, and forests that turn shades of red and gold as the season arrives.
Kappa Bridge:
One of Kamikochi’s most famous landmarks, this bridge offers a perfect view of the Hotaka Mountains and the Azusa River, surrounded by colorful autumn foliage. The scenery looks like something out of a painting.
Myojin Pond:
A tranquil pond surrounded by maple forests and mountain views. The reflection of red leaves on the water creates a stunningly peaceful and picturesque sight.
The Beauty of Autumn in Japan
Japan in autumn truly offers breathtaking panoramas. But beyond the scenery, it also provides an opportunity to experience the rich culture and deep traditions of the Land of the Rising Sun.
