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
4404 reviews
5/5
For this team-building trip, we didn't set any strict requirements. We just hoped everyone could spend it in their own way. Some people who preferred quiet found a rock under the shade of a tree, put on headphones, and listened to music, letting their minds wander for the afternoon. Others who liked excitement played simple board games with a few colleagues, and laughter never stopped from beginning to end. Lunch was prepared collaboratively by everyone, with each person bringing a favorite local snack. The long table was overflowing with food, and every bite offered a different flavor. Even our usually serious supervisor let down his guard, joining everyone in grabbing the most popular snacks and sharing funny travel stories from his younger days, revealing a surprisingly endearing side to our leader. In the afternoon, we strolled along... As we strolled along the path, someone discovered a hidden corner. A few people huddled together and took many funny group photos. They didn't pose professionally; the smiles in each photo were genuine and touching. In the evening, we sat together chatting, reminiscing about the company's journey over the past few years, from the small office to the gradually expanding team. Every step was inseparable from the contributions of everyone present. This trip didn't preach any grand principles; it simply allowed everyone to temporarily escape the bombardment of information from computers and phones, and truly appreciate the companionship of those around them. After returning to daily life, the atmosphere in the office became more relaxed. When problems arose, everyone was more willing to proactively seek help rather than bearing them alone. This relaxed tacit understanding was the best gift this trip brought us.
5/5
After so many years of marriage, my husband and I had never tried a long road trip together. This time, we finally made up our minds, left our cat with a friend, packed our bags, and moved into the car. On our very first day, the car stereo suddenly stopped working, leaving the car awkwardly silent. My husband, who had previously struggled to even connect our home Bluetooth speaker, sat in the driver's seat and painstakingly studied the car's settings. From initially pressing buttons randomly, he eventually discovered a hidden connection tutorial. In half an hour, he not only fixed the stereo but also connected to our old playlist on our phones. When the familiar melodies started playing, we both burst out laughing. The next day, while driving on an unpaved road, our car tire ran over a sharp rock and started slowly leaking air. We squatted by the roadside to change it. I used to struggle even with bottle caps, but this time, thanks to a short video tutorial I'd seen online, I was able to correctly position the jack. My husband tightened the screws. Both of us were covered in black grease, and it took us over half an hour to finally change the tire. Sitting on a roadside rock, drinking water, I realized that the feeling of solving problems together was far more reassuring than any group tour I'd ever taken. Later, one day, we parked by the roadside to make coffee, but our outdoor coffee maker suddenly broke, and the water flow became... Little by little, I took out my little tools and cleaned the coffee maker's filter. Before, I'd even spill instant coffee, but this time I managed to unclog the small hole myself. The coffee I brewed smelled amazing throughout the car. We encountered countless little problems along the way: the navigation went astray, the camping light died, dust got into the window seals—none of them were serious issues, but they were enough to make us go from initial panic to calm and collected. My husband, who used to be easily angered by the smallest things, now reacts by stopping and looking up solutions to problems. I've transformed from a timid girl who relied on him for everything into a capable assistant who can independently solve many minor problems. Amidst all sorts of chaotic little situations, we've grown increasingly in sync. Sometimes, a single glance is enough for us to know what tools the other needs. We'll drive slowly like this, without a predetermined destination or a strict itinerary. At night, we'll park in a quiet place, open the sunroof to look at the stars, and chat about our younger days. We'll realize that this road trip isn't just about the scenery along the way; it's about growing together through various little troubles, and our relationship has become deeper and more grounded than ever before.
5/5
When we humbly step into a land, travel transforms from consumption into dialogue. We no longer rush to define the scenery before us, but instead calmly feel its pulse; we no longer judge the way of life in a foreign land by preconceived standards, but try to understand the history and emotions behind it. This open attitude allows us to gain not only knowledge, but also awe and tenderness towards the world. Travel makes us realize that every place has its unique wisdom for survival, and every culture deserves respect. This inclusiveness is the most precious gift we bring back to our daily lives.
5/5
The warm afternoon sun streamed into the bus, marking the official start of the school's humanities-themed study tour. All teachers and students had read relevant background books beforehand, gaining a preliminary understanding of the tour's theme. Along the way, the tour leader outlined the development of the theme using historical timelines, providing a clearer framework for understanding the content to be seen. Students took turns sharing their insights from reading the relevant books, sparking lively discussions among the students as their different perspectives led to diverse reflections. Upon arrival at the destination, everyone followed the experienced guide, listening to the moving stories behind each exhibit and scene. The brief descriptions found in textbooks became vivid and engaging with the rich array of artifacts and stories on-site. Many students were moved to tears, deeply touched by these authentic historical tales. In the group exploration session, students were required to create their own themed newsletter based on what they had seen. Everyone worked together, with some responsible for outlining the timeline, others for drawing illustrations, and still others for writing the text. Each person poured their heart and soul into their work, eager to convey the spiritual strength they had experienced that day through their newsletters. During breaks and meals, they continued to enthusiastically discuss the details of the stories they had just heard, sharing their inner feelings. Many students expressed that they had never before deeply appreciated the weight behind these stories. In the afternoon sharing session, each group presented their themed newsletter and shared their reflections on the study tour. Their sincere speeches moved everyone present. On the way back, everyone remained immersed in the atmosphere of the day. Many students said they would share the stories they had heard with their family and friends, allowing more people to understand this history that deserves to be remembered. This spiritually enriching humanistic study tour not only broadened everyone's knowledge but also brought profound spiritual enlightenment, making everyone cherish and be grateful for their current lives.
5/5
On our travels, we learn to reconcile with loneliness and embrace ourselves. When we walk alone on unfamiliar streets, without familiar faces or familiar conversations, that initial loneliness is ever-present, but it gradually transforms into a profound freedom. We begin to hear the voice of our own hearts; those desires and fears drowned out by the noise emerge in the silence. We learn to take care of ourselves, to find direction when lost, and to embrace ourselves when weary. This ability to accompany ourselves is the most precious gift travel gives us. The nature we encounter along the way teaches us to accept our imperfections; the people we meet teach us to cherish the present moment. These experiences, like lines etched into our bones, become a part of our lives. Travel teaches us that loneliness is not a flaw, but a choice, an opportunity for deep self-reflection. When we return with this composure, we are no longer afraid of solitude, no longer dependent on the approval of others to confirm our worth. We begin to understand that true strength is not invincibility, but the ability to maintain a love for life even in solitude, and to hear the sound of flowers blooming even in silence.
5/5
Travel is a gentle negotiation with time; we attempt to touch infinite possibilities within our finite lives. When we pack our bags, we bid farewell to our daily routines and embrace a future full of unknowns and surprises. In a foreign land at dusk, watching the sunset paint the sky like a flowing oil painting, all words seem pale; only silence and emotion flow through our veins. We learn to taste the wind with our eyes and feel the texture of time with our ears. Those hurdles we once thought insurmountable are but a speck of dust before the vastness of the world. Travel teaches us humility, reverence, and that under the boundless starry sky, personal joys and sorrows are insignificant yet incredibly precious. The people we meet on our journeys may be just passersby, but the warmth and kindness they leave behind illuminate our path like starlight. This is not escapism, but a deeper return—a return to the most authentic state of life, a return to our initial curiosity and love for the world. When we return covered in dust and grime, but our eyes shine with light, it is the courage to still love life after seeing the world.
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
189 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
94 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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