Fall in Japan

Best Places to Visit in Fall in Japan: A Travel Guide

Japan's fall is stunning. The colors, the air, and the lack of tourists compared to cherry blossom season make it the perfect time to travel. Whether you’re a photographer chasing that shot or a traveler soaking up the scenery, Japan in the fall is an experience you won’t forget. 

When to Visit Japan in the Fall

Fall in Japan starts in late September and goes until early December, with the best time to see the autumn leaves varying by region. Mid-October is a big time for autumn colors in most areas. If you want to see the red and yellow leaves, mid-November is peak season. Early November is best for fall colors in northern regions like Hokkaido. But if you want to see the colors with fewer crowds, go in late October or early December.

Autumn Leaves Viewing Period

Japan’s autumn colors spread across the country at different times. Here’s a quick summary:

• Late September to October: Northern Japan and higher altitudes, like Hokkaido and the Japan Alps, start to turn.
• Mid to Late November: Central Japan peaks, including Tokyo and Kyoto.
• Early December: Southern regions, like Kyushu and Okinawa, turn.

Best Places to Visit in the Fall

Tokyo Autumn Leaves

• Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden: Japanese and French landscaping in one big park. Perfect for autumn colors against ponds.
• Koishikawa Korakuen: One of Tokyo’s oldest gardens from the Edo period. Peaceful and beautiful maples.
• Imperial Palace East Garden: A quiet oasis in the middle of the city. Beautiful foliage and great for a stroll.
• Meiji Jingu Gaien: Famous for its long ginkgo tree avenue that turns yellow in fall.
• Rikugi-en: An Edo period garden that’s especially beautiful in fall, with maples reflecting on the pond.

Kyoto Autumn Leaves

• Kiyomizu-dera: A UNESCO World Heritage site with a view of Kyoto and autumn leaves—wow.
• Fushimi Inari Shrine: Thousands of vermilion torii gates against autumn colors.
• Philosopher’s Path: A beautiful and peaceful walk with trees turning red and yellow in fall.
• Arashiyama: Natural beauty and Japanese tradition. Gardens and temples and fall colors. A must-see.
• Kinkaku-ji Temple (The Golden Pavilion): The golden temple against the autumn backdrop. A shot every traveler wants to take.

Kyoto Autumn Leaves

Kyoto is famous for its autumn colors and has many temples, gardens, and parks that display beautiful fall foliage. Here are:

• Dera Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Kyoto’s most famous landmarks. It is especially beautiful in the fall. The wooden stage offers a view of the surrounding maples, which turn red and orange, a stunning backdrop.
• Fushimi Inari Shrine is famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates and is also a popular autumn leaf spot. The red gates against the autumn colors of the trees make a great shot.
• Arashiyama Bamboo Grove: Famous for its bamboo, Arashiyama is also beautiful in fall. The peaceful bamboo grove and the fall colors of the surrounding trees are a must-see.
• Kinkaku-ji Temple (The Golden Pavilion): A Zen temple with a golden exterior. It's especially beautiful in the fall. The temple's reflection in the pond framed by the colorful maples is beautiful.

Other Places to Visit in Japan

For more off-the-beaten-path, try these spots outside the major cities with hiking trails to see autumn leaves:

• Nikko National Park: Famous for its waterfalls and lakes, the park turns into an autumn color canvas.
• Daisetsuzan National Park: The first place in Japan to see autumn. Perfect for those who like to hike through colored landscapes.
• Lake Towada: In the north, this peaceful lake surrounded by mountains is a great place to relax and see the changing colors.
• Kenrokuen Garden: One of Japan’s “Three Great Gardens,” Kenrokuen in Kanazawa is a must-see for autumn beauty in a perfect setting.
• Kamikochi: An alpine valley, Kamikochi is an autumn heaven for nature lovers with crisp mountain air and fiery forests.

Autumn Leaves in Japan

Momijigari, or autumn leaf hunting, is a popular activity in Japan. Locals and tourists search for the best fall colors, from cities to temples. While cherry blossoms have a short moment of beauty, fall has more time to enjoy.

Seasonal Japanese Food in Autumn

Fall in Japan is not just about the scenery; it’s also a time to enjoy some of Japan’s seasonal food. As you travel to Japan in autumn, try the following:

• Nabe (Hot Pot): A warm and hearty dish that varies by region but is always a cold-weather comfort food.
• Kaki (Persimmons): Nara is famous for this sweet fruit that ripens in the fall.
• Kuri Gohan (Chestnut Rice): A traditional dish combining the earthiness of chestnuts with the simplicity of Japanese rice. It's an autumn classic.
• Seasonal Seafood: Sanma (Pacific Saury), Katsuo (Bonito), and more, Japan’s autumn seas are full of flavor.
• Autumn Sweets: Momiji Manju, a maple-leaf-shaped steamed bun filled with sweet red bean paste, is a sweet treat.

Autumn Festivals in Japan

Japan has many festivals and illuminations in autumn, so it’s a great time to travel.

• Takayama Hachiman Festival: In early October, this festival features beautiful floats and is one of Japan’s top autumn festivals.
• Tori-no-Ichi Festival: In November, this traditional festival is all about buying lucky rakes to bring good luck for the year.
• Autumn Illuminations: Many parks, temples, and gardens are illuminated in the fall; Kiyomizu-dera and Fushimi Inari Shrine are must-sees.

Japanese Holidays in Autumn

Autumn in Japan is a time to celebrate, with several holidays and festivals. Some of the notable Japanese holidays in autumn are:

• Silver Week: In late September, Silver Week is a time to relax and enjoy. Many Japanese take time off to see the autumn leaves, so it’s a great time for travelers to experience the colors and atmosphere.
• Halloween: Halloween is not a traditional Japanese holiday, but it has become popular in Japan in recent years. Cities and towns nationwide host Halloween events and festivals, a unique blend of Western and Japanese culture.
• Shichi-Go-San: On November 15th, Shichi-Go-San is a traditional Japanese holiday to pray for children's health. Families visit shrines and temples to pray for their children’s health and dress them up in traditional clothes, adding to the autumn atmosphere in Japan.

Japan Autumn Travel Planning

Start planning your autumn trip to Japan six months in advance, especially for popular areas like Tokyo and Kyoto. Hotels and accommodations fill up fast during this season. To time your trip, keep an eye on Japan’s fall foliage forecast.

What to Wear in Autumn Japan

Temperatures can be quite different between morning and evening, so layering is key. Bring lightweight jackets, sweaters, and long-sleeved shirts to stay comfortable throughout the day. Comfortable shoes are a must, as you’ll be walking a lot to see the sights.

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Autumn in Japan Tips

Visit popular spots on weekdays instead of weekends. While Tokyo and Kyoto are always busy with tourists, smaller towns and rural areas are quieter and more intimate. Don’t be afraid to ask locals for their secret spots; you might find a peaceful autumn retreat that many tourists miss.

Japan in autumn is unique. Whether you’re there for the colors, culture, or food, it’s a season to remember.

Best Time to Avoid Crowds in Autumn Japan

Timing is critical to see Japan’s autumn without the crowds. While mid-November is the peak season and has the best views, it’s also the busiest. Here’s how to avoid the hotspots:

• Visit During the Week: Kyoto and Tokyo are much less crowded on weekdays. Weekends are when international and domestic tourists flock to these popular spots.
• Travel in Early or Late Autumn: If you can, visit in late October or early December, and you’ll get autumn colors and fewer crowds. The trade-off is some places may not have peak foliage, but you’ll have a more relaxed time.
• Go to Lesser Known Spots: While Arashiyama or Imperial Palace East Garden are famous, Japan has many secret spots. Go to smaller towns, local parks, or rural temples where fewer tourists go.

Momijigari

Momijigari is a word that describes the Japanese love for autumn leaf viewing. It’s an activity that tells people to slow down, appreciate nature, and enjoy the season. Walking in a city park or hiking on a mountain trail can be a meditative experience.

Japan’s parks and temples are the perfect setting for momijigari. The sound of leaves crunching beneath your feet, the cool air, and the colors that transform the scenery are what make autumn in Japan amazing.

Autumn Itinerary

Fall is a peak season, so booking your accommodation early is a must. But beyond that, take some time to plan your route and make sure you hit the critical spots. Whether it’s Tokyo’s gardens, Kyoto’s temples, or Hokkaido’s remote beauty, autumn has something different in each region.

Japan’s Autumn Illuminations and Events

Autumn in Japan is not just about the leaves. The season is full of festivals, food markets, and illuminations that light up the night. For example, the Takayama Hachiman Festival has elaborate floats parading through the streets, while Kiyomizu-Dera and Arashiyama become even more magical at night with the autumn foliage light up.

If you want a mix of culture and fun, don’t miss Sumo Season—one of Japan’s most traditional and entertaining sports. And for foodies, this is the time to try the best of Japan’s seasonal ingredients, from roasted chestnuts to persimmons.

Fall in Japan

Fall in Japan is a feast for the senses. The air is cool and fresh, the food is warm and seasonal, and the scenery is painted red, orange, and yellow. Whether you’re a first-timer or a repeat visitor, the season has something for everyone—from the culture vulture to the food adventurer.

So, if you haven’t added Japan in the fall to your bucket list yet, it’s time. The full bloom of contrasts, festivals, and nature will blow your mind.

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Wherever you go—Tokyo’s city parks, Kyoto’s temples, or Hokkaido’s mountains—you’ll leave with unforgettable memories and photos that capture the real Japan in autumn.

Enjoy Japan’s Autumn

Japan’s autumn season is a particular time, with the country’s autumn leaves, seasonal food, festivals, and holidays making it a peak season to visit. Whether you like hiking, sightseeing, or just enjoying the local culture, Japan’s autumn has something for everyone. With its mild weather, beautiful scenery, and rich culture, Japan is the perfect destination for anyone who wants to experience autumn. So start planning your trip to Japan now and experience the magic of autumn in this fantastic country.