Discover beauty of Japan’s autumn foliage in 2026
Japan’s autumn season is one of the most breathtaking times of the year, turning cities, mountains, and countryside landscapes into shades of fiery red, golden yellow, and warm amber.
In 2026, the fall foliage season is expected to be just as spectacular, drawing travelers from around the world to witness this magical transformation.
Whether you are exploring bustling cities or escaping to the quiet mountains, Japan’s autumn scenery offers an unforgettable experience.
Japan Maple Leaf Expected Forecast Date
The forecast shows the expected viewing dates for both autumn foliage and yellow leaves, helping you plan your trip at the perfect time.
With these dates, you can easily see when each area reaches peak colour so you won't miss the most beautiful moment.
Location | Forecast for red leaves | Forecast for yellow leaves | Average date for red leaves |
Sapporo | 11/6 | 11/7 | 10/28 |
Aomori | 11/10 | 11/5 | 11/13 |
Sendai | 11/20 | 11/21 | 11/21 |
Tokyo | 11/23 | 11/22 | 11/28 |
Kanazawa | 11/25 | 11/4 | 11/24 |
Nagano | 11/19 | 11/12 | 11/12 |
Nagoya | 11/25 | 11/10 | 11/28 |
Kyoto | 12/15 | 11/25 | 12/5 |
Osaka | 12/7 | 11/25 | 12/1 |
Wakayama | 12/15 | 11/20 | 12/6 |
Hiroshima | 11/30 | 11/21 | 11/22 |
Kochi | 12/13 | 11/25 | 12/2 |
Fukuoka | 12/12 | 12/1 | 12/1 |
Kagoshima | 12/16 | 12/2 | 12/15 |
Top Places to See Autumn Foliage in Tokyo
1. Osaka Castle Park
If you’re looking for the best place to experience autumn in Osaka, Osaka Castle Park is unbeatable. Its ancient stone walls and iconic golden castle tower become wrapped in fiery maples and glowing ginkgo trees, creating a picture-perfect fall atmosphere.
✨ Highlights
- Admire vibrant autumn leaves with the majestic Osaka Castle as your backdrop
- Don’t miss the 1-km ginkgo avenue on the east side a true autumn showstopper
- See the impressive 300-year-old ginkgo tree inside the park
🚉 How to Get There
- A short walk from JR Osakajokoen Station on the Osaka Loop Line
- About a 10-minute walk from JR Tozai Line – Osaka-jo Kitazume Station
Osaka Castle Park Review
4.8/5
4525 reviews
5/5
The charm of this city lies in its perfect blend of the dynamism of nature and the depth of its culture. As you stroll through it, you'll find that the exquisite pavilions and towers don't rise abruptly from the ground, but rather follow the contours of the land and the flow of water, as if they had always been there. Clear waterways meander through the city, reflecting the elegantly arranged eaves and corners. A gentle breeze stirs the water, creating ripples and interplay of light and shadow, perfectly merging the weight of history with the vitality of nature. This design is not only a pursuit of aesthetics but also a reverence for heaven and earth. Walking along the cobblestone paths, flanked by meticulously manicured gardens and naturally growing vegetation, the artificial sculpting and the wildness of nature achieve a wondrous balance, blurring the lines between scenery and painting. This concept of harmonious coexistence allows every visitor to find a sanctuary for their soul amidst the hustle and bustle of the world, to feel the unique tranquility and elegance of this city, as if they themselves have become a stroke in this landscape painting, quietly treasuring this peace and beauty in their hearts with awe and admiration, turning it into the warmest comfort on their journey. In the mountains, just entering late autumn, the air is filled with the sweet fragrance of osmanthus blossoms. As you slowly climb the path lined with old osmanthus trees, the stone slabs under your feet, worn smooth and warm by time, allow your heart, usually tense by the trivialities of daily life, to slowly relax with the fragrance of osmanthus. The higher you go, the more the rolling mountains are dyed in varying shades of gold by autumn, and the distant river, like a shimmering silver ribbon, meanders through fields of rice paddies, the rice ears rippling in waves of gold when the wind blows. There were no crowds along the way, only a few local grandmothers sitting under the trees picking vegetables, warmly inviting you to try their homemade osmanthus sugar. The sweet but not cloying taste spread in your mouth, warming your heart. Standing on the mountaintop and gazing into the distance, I let go of all the worries that had accumulated for so long with the mountain breeze. Only then did I realize that my so-called anxiety was nothing more than trapping myself in a small office. On the way down the mountain, I bought a small bag of fresh osmanthus flowers from a shop at the foot of the mountain. After returning home, I dried them and brewed them into flower tea. For several days in a row, the office was filled with a faint sweet fragrance, making me feel exceptionally relaxed while working.
5/5
Autumn here is like a palette spilled by God, painting the entire city into a vibrant, richly colored oil painting, breathtakingly beautiful. When the autumn wind blows, the ginkgo leaves don their golden attire, shimmering brilliantly in the sunlight, carpeting every street. Walking on the carpet of fallen leaves, the soft rustling underfoot is autumn's most beautiful symphony. Here, autumn lacks melancholy; instead, it's filled with the joy of harvest and the charm of maturity. The sky is exceptionally high and blue, with lazy clouds drifting by, contrasting beautifully with the golden leaves on the ground, creating a perfect harmony. People stroll through this picturesque landscape, their faces beaming with happiness, as if even the air itself is filled with a sweet fragrance. This seasonal, limited beauty allows one to deeply appreciate the gifts of nature and the cycle of life. Here, you can slow down and capture every moment with your camera, or simply sit quietly on a bench, feeling the gentle autumn breeze on your face, letting your soul be completely cleansed and relaxed in this golden landscape, and treasuring this beauty of autumn forever. The mountains in late autumn are filled with patches of gold and deep red. Walking up the stone path covered with fallen leaves, your footsteps make a crisp sound, slowly releasing all the complex emotions accumulated from daily interactions. The higher you go, the more expansive the scenery becomes. The rolling mountains are painted with distinct layers of autumn colors, the distant fields are golden, and farmers are busy harvesting, their figures moving across the fields, everywhere exuding a down-to-earth atmosphere. Wild persimmon trees along the way are laden with bright red fruits, swaying gently in the mountain breeze like tiny red lanterns. Without excessive commercialization, only the most rustic natural scenery awaits you. Standing on the mountaintop, gazing at the autumn colors covering the entire mountain, I suddenly felt that life is like this mountain climbing process, with its gentle and steep parts. As long as you walk slowly, you will always see your own scenery. On the way down the mountain, I collected a bag full of fallen leaves of various shapes. When I got back, I made a simple collage and hung it on the wall. Every time I see it, I can recall the vast autumn wind on the mountaintop, and my heart is filled with a sense of peace and tranquility.
5/5
Very beautiful scenery, worth the ticket price.
5/5
The moment I stepped into the hotel, I was greeted with impeccable attentiveness. There was no extravagant welcome ceremony, nor overly enthusiastic small talk. As soon as I reached the edge of the lobby, a staff member gently approached and took my luggage, their movements as natural as those of a long-time friend. Even the tone of their inquiry was perfectly measured. During check-in, they discreetly offered me a cup of warm herbal tea, which perfectly soothed the heat of my journey. There was no unnecessary sales pitch; they simply reminded me of the buckwheat pillow and humidifier that had been prepared in advance in the room according to my noted preferences. In the following days, staff members I encountered on the street would smile and nod in greeting, never deliberately striking up a conversation, but always appearing silently beside me to offer just the right directions when I reached for a light switch or looked out the window towards the observation deck. This service is like a gentle spring rain, quietly seeping over your clothes. There is no fuss, yet it permeates every detail with thoughtfulness, hiding sincere hospitality in a sense of propriety, and showing a composed and dignified demeanor.
5/5
Upon entering the room, I was immediately drawn to the gently flowing light and shadow on the walls. A specially designed openwork partition beautifully framed the shadows of the trees outside, and as the leaves swayed in the wind, dappled sunlight danced lightly on the ground like a group of lively little sprites, exuding an indescribable poetic charm. There were no ostentatious displays of precious stone or glaring metal; all the furnishings were understated yet sophisticated. The cashmere bedding felt as soft as clouds, and the handcrafted leather storage boxes displayed a delicate texture, revealing exceptional taste in every detail—understated yet undeniably luxurious. Even more captivating was the clever integration of natural landscape into the room. A few small fish swam in the pond before the floor-to-ceiling windows, and the irises on the bank grew lush and green. A mountain breeze drifted in along the window sill, carrying the fresh, clean scent of grass and trees after the rain, making every breath exceptionally comforting. There was no need to visit any tourist attractions; simply sitting by the window and watching the interplay of light and shadow was enough to feel the meticulous attention to detail, a truly healing experience.
5/5
Strolling through Osaka Castle Park, one is enveloped in lush greenery and the castle stands majestically. Though the cherry blossoms have faded, the lawns and moat still exude tranquility and elegance. Climbing to the top of the castle tower offers a breathtaking panoramic view where city and history converge, a truly invigorating experience. Ancient trees reach for the sky, and quiet paths wind through the park; the occasional egret skimming the water adds to the poetic atmosphere. A day trip here allows one to appreciate the beauty of Japanese gardens and experience the weight of history. While it can be a bit noisy due to the crowds, it is still worth savoring and creating unforgettable memories.
2. Lake Kawaguchi
If there’s one place that truly captures the magic of autumn in Japan, it’s Lake Kawaguchi, which is the ultimate spot to admire Mount Fuji framed by fiery red and golden leaves. The mirror-like lake reflects Fuji’s snow-capped peak, creating a breathtaking, postcard-perfect autumn scene.
✨ Highlights
- Stunning blend of Mount Fuji, lake views, and vibrant autumn foliage
- Scenic walking trails perfect for slow strolls and photography
- Easy to pair with a day trip, overnight stay, or self-drive exploration
🚉 How to Get There
Take the JR Chuo Line Limited Express to Otsuki, then transfer to the Fujikyu Line and ride until Kawaguchiko Station.
Lake Kawaguchi Review
4.7/5
186 reviews
5/5
Unfortunately, Fuji disappeared after 20 minutes on Kawaguchiko, even though the forecast called for sunny and cloudless days. But! It was beautiful! Be sure to check the weather 10 times 🫡 We rode catamarans on the water, bought souvenirs, and went up to the mountain for ice cream. Overall, it was fun, if you forget about the four-hour drive.
4/5
There were so many people! The queue for the cable car took forever.
5/5
It was a very beautiful place!!
5/5
The experience of admiring Mount Fuji from Lake Kawaguchi is unforgettable. The lake's mirror-like surface reflects the majestic mountain, creating a breathtaking spectacle. Every morning, sunlight filters through the clouds, illuminating the snow-capped peak with a shimmering golden light, evoking the wonder and majesty of nature. The lakeside trails are perfect for strolling, surrounded by lush greenery and flowers. There are also numerous cafes and souvenir shops, offering visitors the opportunity to sample local delicacies and purchase unique souvenirs. In short, admiring Mount Fuji from Lake Kawaguchi offers not only breathtaking views but also a unique immersion in Japanese culture, making it a truly unique experience.
5/5
If the weather is good, you can be sure of the best view of Mt. Fuji.
There are souvenirs and accessories that are only sold here, and the ice cream is delicious. The road to the parking lot is often blocked, but even then, you can see the view of Mt. Fuji, so it is not boring.
There is a live view of Lake Kawaguchi on YouTube, so check it out.
4/5
It's a beautiful lake. You can get to Kawaguchiko Station from Shinjuku without changing trains on the Fuji Express. There are ropeways and art museums in the area, and you can see Mt. Fuji. I think it's a great place for sightseeing. There's also a lot of delicious food.
3. Jozankei Onsen
For a more relaxing and nature-filled autumn escape, Jozankei Onsen in Hokkaido is pure perfection. The valley bursts into brilliant shades of red and gold, creating a dreamy mix of hot springs, rivers, and forests. Soaking in an outdoor onsen while surrounded by crisp air and autumn colors is an unforgettable experience.
✨ Highlights
- Stunning mountain-valley autumn views along the Toyohira River
- Enjoy open-air hot springs (rotenburo) wrapped in fall foliage
- Popular spots like Futami Park and Jozankei Futami Suspension Bridge offer incredible photo opportunities
🚉 How to Get There
- From Sapporo, take a bus from Sapporo Station directly to Jozankei Onsen (about 1 hour)
Jozankei Onsen Review
4.5/5
93 reviews5/5
Really nice place with a good Indian Restaurant downstares
5/5
Easy to use and great experience! Onsen in a Snowwy weather is a must during winter time!
5/5
📍 Location
Located within Shikotsu-Toya National Park near Sapporo in northern Japan.
💧 Spring Characteristics
• It is a natural hot spring (onsen) where water gushes from underground through cracks in the rocks of a natural stream. The temperature ranges between 60–80°C.
• The clear mineral water has a mild salty taste (sodium chloride), which helps warm and relax the skin when soaked.
🌲 Atmosphere and Attractions
• Surrounded by nature, with autumn foliage in spring and snow in winter, making it a beautiful and popular hot spring bathing spot.
• There are many resorts and ryokans (Japanese-style inns) to choose from, and it's also close to Sapporo, making it suitable for day trips or overnight stays.
🛁 Suitable for:
• Tourists who want to experience authentic Japanese onsen culture.
• People who want to relax their muscles and bodies after travel or outdoor activities.
• Those who appreciate beautiful nature year-round.
5/5
On a lightly snowy day, I took a bus alone to Jozankei Onsen. ♨️
Walking along the hot spring streets, I chose a hotel's open-air bath.
It was so relaxing! The warmth of the hot springs seemed to wash away all my unhappiness.
This truly is a magical place, with beautiful snowy scenery, stunning maple leaves, and soothing hot springs.
I highly recommend a visit!
4/5
Although it's only a short walk from Sapporo, Jozankei Onsen is like a whole other world. Relaxing in the open-air bath along the valley while watching the autumn leaves is truly blissful. Walking along the illuminated riverside at night was also very tasteful. I was able to forget the hustle and bustle of the city and truly relax.
5/5
Let’s talk about transportation first:
❗️Be careful on the way out🙅
We took 7 hours to go.
I saw an information desk at Sapporo JR Station.
The staff there gave a timetable
Go to Sapporo Station Exit 26 and take
Then avoid lightning!
This train will stop at 43 stations! Took an hour and a half to drive!
The car is small and stuffy.
Return trip❗️Recommended👍
We took the bus to Makomanai Station and then changed to the Namboku Line to go back.
I recommend this train because there are many trains from Jozankei to Makomanai.
During the day, there is a bus every half an hour
At night, there is a train every hour
More than 7h trains
So everyone can choose this route back and forth!
2️⃣Hot spring selection
The famous hot springs in Hokkaido are Jozankei and Hoheikyo.
Hoheikyo only has one-day hot springs
There are hotels in Dingshanxi where you can stay and public and private hot springs.
However, you can also choose to visit the hot springs in Jozankei for a day.
1200 per person + 300 for towels
We went to the Manseikaku Hotel for a hot spring bath
Not many people, mostly Japanese
There is a guy at the front desk who can speak Chinese and can receive you.
And I feel that the Jozankei side is better
Whether it is service or hot spring experience
4. Mount Takao
If you're searching for one of Tokyo’s most iconic autumn spots, Mount Takao is a must-visit. The entire mountain transforms into a canvas of deep reds, warm oranges, and golden yellows. Whether you hike or take the cable car, every viewpoint offers spectacular fall scenery plus delicious street snacks like tenguyaki and dango along the way.
✨ Highlights
- Enjoy sweeping views of Tokyo’s autumn foliage from multiple trails
- The Momiji-dai (Maple Leaf Plateau) is especially stunning in peak season
- Fun stop for local treats, temples, and scenic rest areas
🚉 How to Get There
- Take the Keio Line from Shinjuku to Takaosanguchi Station
- Take JR Chuo Line to Takao Station, then transfer to the Keio Line
Mount Takao Review
4.4/5
52 reviews
5/5
best place to visit in autumn.
4/5
Located just an hour from Tokyo, Mount Takao is a hidden gem that you can reach directly via train from Shinjuku. For our visit, we opted to take the cable car up to the summit, which is quite crowded, and then used the chairlift for the descent, allowing us to fully enjoy the picturesque scenery.Additionally, Mount Takao features a unique dining experience at the Beer Mount—a buffet restaurant that offers an all-you-can-drink beer service along with a variety of foods.We had lunch there, and the terrace is open to the public, providing a panoramic 360-degree view of the surrounding area.
4/5
Climbing Mount Takao ⛰️
15km total on foot. Beautiful autumn leaves and good exercise 🍁
My body is tired from lack of exercise
5/5
The contrast between the autumn leaves and the blue sky was very beautiful. The recommended route to experience nature is Route 6.
5/5
Mount Takao is located in Hachioji City, west of Tokyo, Japan, in the southeast corner of the Kanto Mountains, with an elevation of 599 meters. As the mountain is close to the center of Tokyo, millions of tourists visit it every year, and it is known as the "most visited mountain in the world."
4/5
Thanks to the Keio Line, you can get there quickly by taking the express train from Shinjuku. It is said to be the most popular mountain climber in the world. There are cable cars and lifts, so some people climb even in heels. I was surprised at how tired I was when I climbed normally.
Japanese Maple Leaf Forecast Websites
While we wait for the official 2026 maple leaf forecast, these are the sites everyone quietly depends on. If you want to catch the leaves at their brightest without guessing, these tools are your best friends.
🍁 Japan Meteorological Association
Real time updates, very detailed, and perfect for anyone who wants daily accuracy.
🍁 Weathernews
Beautiful visuals, super accurate predictions, and fun colour indicators that show exactly how the leaves look.
🍁 Japan Meteorological Corporation
Clean layout, easy charts and beginner friendly even if you cannot read Japanese.
Japan Meteorological Association (TENKI jp)
Autumn leaves are beautiful but weather can make or break your trip. TENKI jp helps you plan with confidence because it combines leaf conditions and weather forecasts in one place. TENKI will announced on September 2026 as 2025 seasons have finshed.
Why people love it:
- Daily updates across all of Japan
- Shows which areas are changing colours in real time
- Includes detailed weather for each location so you can avoid rainy days
- Great for people planning road trips or last minute changes
Weathernews
This site is surprisingly charming. It uses colour intensity to show leaf conditions and honestly feels like a secret weapon for many travellers. We will update latest information as soon as possible.
Color meanings you should know:
- Orange means the mountain is fully red and it is the perfect timing
Brown means the leaves are falling, so the season is ending
Why it is popular:
- Very accurate every year
- Clear photo examples so you know what to expect
- Many autumn lovers treat it like a must check tool before heading out
Japan Meteorological Corporation
Simple and straight to the point. This site is perfect if you want quick answers without too much scrolling. Any latest information will be delivered as soon as it is released.
What makes it great:
- Shows the best viewing period for both red and yellow leaves
- Clean and easy charts
- Designed in a way that is easy to understand even without Japanese
Useful Tips for Using These Forecast Sites💫
- Check the forecast two to three days before your trip to confirm peak timing
- If you can, plan weekday visits to avoid big crowds
- Weather matters so look at both the leaf forecast and the rain prediction
- For mountains, colours usually appear earlier at higher altitudes
- Save the website links on your phone for quick checking while traveling
Best Hotels in Tokyo
See All Hotels
NO.1
Top Stays for Experiencing Autumn in Japan
Hotel Name | Price Range per Night (SGD) | Description |
Fuji View Hotel (Lake Kawaguchi, Yamanashi) | S$250 to S$400 | Classic lakeside hotel with stunning views of Mount Fuji and easy access to walking trails along the colorful autumn foliage. |
Takao Kanko Hotel (Mount Takao, Tokyo Prefecture) | S$150 to S$250 | Convenient base for hiking Mount Takao, cozy rooms, and quick access to trails lined with red maples and golden ginkgo. |
Jozankei Daiichi Hotel Suizantei (Jozankei Onsen, Hokkaido) | S$220 to S$380 | Traditional onsen ryokan with outdoor hot springs surrounded by fiery autumn leaves in the mountain valley. |
Hotel Monterey Grasmere Osaka (Osaka Castle Park, Osaka) | S$180 to S$300 | Stylish hotel near Osaka Castle Park, walking distance to ginkgo avenues and autumn markets for a full seasonal experience. |
Travel Tips for 2026 Autumn Trips
- Weekdays are less crowded than weekends
- Mornings offer the best lighting for photos
- Book accommodations early, especially in Kyoto and Fuji areas
- Bring a light jacket as temperatures can be cool in mountain regions
- Consider combining nature viewing with onsen stays for extra relaxation
Best Flights to Tokyo
See all flights
Japan's Autumn Glow That Stays in Your Heart
Japan’s autumn foliage in 2026 promises to be a season full of colour, culture, and unforgettable scenery. Whether you're admiring maple tunnels, relaxing in hot springs, or visiting historical temples, the beauty of Japan in fall is something that stays with you long after your trip ends.
Enjoy every moment of the season and happy leaf hunting! 🍁✨
FAQs About Autumn Foliage in Tokyo
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Where can I see the most beautiful autumn leaves in Tokyo?
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Do I need to travel outside Tokyo to see good autumn colors?
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Are there any hidden or less crowded spots to see autumn foliage?
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Can I see autumn foliage at temples or shrines in Tokyo?
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