VI
EN
Many tourists around the world are eagerly awaiting the moment when forests and roads turn into vibrant shades of yellow, orange, and red. To help tourists easily plan their autumn "hunting" trips, the tourism boards of countries such as South Korea, Japan, and China have simultaneously released detailed 2025 autumn foliage color forecast maps.
Japan
Japan is renowned for the romantic and ancient beauty of its maple (momiji), oak, and ginkgo leaves in autumn. According to the Japan National Weather Service and the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO), this year's autumn foliage season will begin in the northern regions. Golden and red leaves will officially arrive in Sapporo and Aomori on November 6th. Following that, the autumn colors will gradually move south, with Tokyo experiencing golden leaves from November 26th and red leaves from November 30th; while Osaka will see golden leaves from November 24th and red leaves from December 4th.
In Hokkaido, visitors can explore Daisetsuzan National Park or Lake Aka to admire the vibrant mountain scenery and relax in the hot springs (onsen). For those who want to discover both culture and nature, Tokyo is an ideal choice. Visitors can stroll under the golden ginkgo trees along Icho Namiki Avenue, visit Shinjuku Gyoen Park, or Rikugien Garden. One of the most anticipated sights is autumn at Lake Kawaguchiko, where Mount Fuji is reflected on the lake's surface amidst the crimson maple leaves.
To avoid crowds at popular destinations, JNTO recommends exploring lesser-known areas such as the Chugoku and Shikoku regions, or traditional gardens like Ritsurin and Yuushien, which offer a peaceful and authentic beauty. Autumn in Japan is also the season for unique cultural festivals such as Jidai Matsuri (Kyoto, October 22), Takayama Autumn Festival (Gifu, early October), and masquerade festivals in Tokyo and Osaka.
China
China is becoming an attractive destination for Vietnamese tourists wanting to "hunt" for autumn foliage. According to forecasts, maple and ginkgo leaves will begin to change color in the northern and high mountain regions of China from late September to early October. In major cities like Beijing, Tianjin, and Hebei, the best time to see the autumn leaves is usually from mid-October to early November. In southern China, the leaf-changing season will come later, with the peak of the autumn foliage typically occurring in late November.
Korea
The autumn foliage season in South Korea is likened to a giant oil painting, beginning in the majestic mountains of the North and gradually spreading southward. According to the Korea Tourism Organization (KTO), the autumn season in 2025 will begin in Seoraksan Mountain on September 30th, reaching its peak around October 23rd.
Next, other famous mountains will also don their new colors, such as Jirisan from October 13th (autumn peak on October 23rd) and Hallasan on Jeju Island from October 14th (autumn peak on October 30th). In Seoul, autumn will arrive later, with Bukhansan Mountain beginning to turn yellow from October 17th and reaching its peak on November 4th, while Naejangsan in the south will officially enter its autumn season from November 11th.
Besides the mountains, visitors to Seoul have countless options to enjoy the beauty of autumn. Historical sites like Gyeongbokgung Palace and the stone walled walkway at Deoksugung Palace become more romantic than ever under the red hues of maple leaves and the golden colors of ginkgo trees.
Additionally, visitors can stroll through Seoul's forests, Olympic Park, or Seokchonhosu Lake to enjoy the fresh, cool autumn air. Other popular suburban destinations include Nami Island, Morning Calm Garden, and Hongcheon ginkgo forest.
Beyond its beautiful scenery, autumn in South Korea is also a season of vibrant cultural festivals. Visitors can immerse themselves in the Royal Cultural Festival (October 8-12) at grand palaces, admire the 90-minute fireworks display at the Hanhwa Seoul International Fireworks Festival (September 27), or participate in unique events such as the Siheung Gaetgol Festival (September 26-28) and the Suwon Hwaseong Festival (September 27 - October 4).
