Experience the most beautiful autumn season in the land of cherry blossoms.

Since October 11th, Japan has continued to ease many entry regulations for international visitors. Traveling to the Land of the Rising Sun is gradually becoming as easy as it was before the pandemic.

Autumn in Japan is also a wonderful time to welcome tourists because of its many beautiful landscapes. The autumn foliage, with its golden leaves falling in the wind, the rays of the setting sun, and the reflections of ancient temples on the lakes, creates a poetic yet solemn and tranquil atmosphere in Japan. The best time to visit Japan is usually from late September to December, depending on weather conditions.

Lake Kawaguchiko, Yamanashi

A trip to Japan in autumn wouldn't be complete without a photograph of Mount Fuji surrounded by golden and red foliage. Among the five lakes around Mount Fuji, Lake Kawaguchiko is a popular choice, thanks to its two famous autumn viewing spots overlooking Mount Fuji: the Momiji Road along the Nashigawa River and the Momiji Tunnel. The leaves here typically turn red from late November to early December.

Kurobe Gorge, Toyama

Located in the Northern Alps, Kurobe Gorge is one of the deepest gorges in Japan. The area is best known for the Kurobe Railway, a 20-kilometer stretch through the hilly terrain with several stops along the way offering panoramic views. It's a fantastic place to visit in autumn, especially from late October to mid-November.

Kyoto

If you only have time to visit one place in autumn, Kyoto is the best choice. Japan's cultural center boasts some of the country's most famous autumn scenery, with the picturesque Ruriko-in temple.

Kyoto's temples are definitely a highlight of autumn. You can find stunning foliage at many temples, such as Tofukuji, Kiyomizudera, and Eikando. Additionally, although Arashiyama is always known for its bamboo forests, this area also boasts beautiful autumn scenery. The peak period for the leaves turning yellow and red in Kyoto is usually from mid-November to early December.

Naruko Gorge, Miyagi

The magnificent gorge in northwestern Miyagi Prefecture is one of the top natural attractions in the Tohoku region. From late October to early November, the trees here burst into vibrant shades of yellow and brown. For the best views, head to Narukokyo Inn, where you can see the famous Ofukazawa Bridge from the observation deck. A hiking trail runs through Mount Naruko, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the beautiful natural scenery.

Minoo Falls, Osaka

Visitors can easily reach the 33-meter-high Minoo Waterfall with a leisurely walk (about 45 minutes) at Minoo Park, on the outskirts of Osaka. Along the trail are shrines and shops selling maple leaf tempura, a must-try. For the most beautiful autumn scenery in Osaka, visit in the latter half of November.

Jozankei Hot Springs, Hokkaido

The hot spring area in western Hokkaido is a favorite destination for tourists every autumn in Japan, especially when the Hoheikyo Dam and Futami Suspension Bridge are covered in colorful foliage. The best time to visit Jozankei Onsen is the first half of October. For panoramic views from above, visitors should go to the Sapporo ski resort (about 20 km from Jozankei Onsen) and admire the autumn scenery from the cable car.

Mikuni Pass, Hokkaido

Mikuni Pass in Kamishihoro, located at an altitude of 1,139 meters above sea level, offers free parking and scenic viewpoints along the way. From late September to mid-October, visitors can witness some of the most beautiful autumn scenery in Hokkaido at this altitude. The stunning route cuts through Daisetsuzan National Park, where visitors will find vast expanses of trees gradually changing color.

Lake Towada, Aomori

The largest crater lake on Japan's Honshu island is a stunning sight to behold in autumn. Because the weather in the north is generally colder, the foliage in Aomori tends to change color earlier than in the south, with the peak season usually in the latter half of October. What makes the scene spectacular here is the reflection of Mount Towada and its vibrant foliage on the tranquil surface of the lake.

Nikko, Tochigi

Located just north of Tokyo, Nikko is like a miniature Kyoto, boasting UNESCO World Heritage temples and picturesque natural scenery, especially in autumn. There are many scenic spots, but Shinkyo Bridge and Ryuzu Falls are among the most popular. The autumn foliage season here typically lasts from early October to early November.

Shinkyo Bridge is located near the entrance to Nikko's most famous shrines. Its vibrant red color blends perfectly with the foliage that changes color with the seasons. Ryuzu Falls is part of the Yukawa River and flows into Lake Chuzenji. In autumn, the leaves here turn yellow, orange, and red, giving the waterfall the appearance of a dragon.

Nara Park, Nara

The best time to visit Nara in autumn is from mid-November to December. In this city, Nara Park is so vast that visitors can spend an entire day there, strolling beneath the autumn foliage.

One particularly noteworthy area is the vicinity of Todaiji Temple, with its striking scenery featuring vibrant red maple leaves, brilliant yellow ginkgo trees, and the famous deer. In the middle of Nara Park is Ukimido – a beautiful wooden house seemingly floating on the water, blending seamlessly with the colorful foliage reflected on the lake's surface.

Phuong Thao is an editor at Travellive magazine. She is passionate about traveling and enjoys capturing moments with her camera in every place she visits. Travel, art, and lifestyle are Phuong Thao's favorite writing topics.

Phuong Thao