Autumn Leaves in Japan 2023

Discover the best spots to take in the colorful autumn scenery across Japan.

Japan’s seasonal beauty never ceases to amaze us. Visitors crowd the country’s parks and gardens for cherry blossoms in spring and migrate up north for skiing and snowboarding in winter. In autumn, mother nature paints Japan in chunky brush strokes of burnt red and orange.

We’re talking of course about koyo, or changing autumn leaves. Hiking through the Japan Alps, riding a heart-stopping cable car over dense forests, or simply walking in the park are all good ways to enjoy the bursting autumn colors.

Best spots for autumn leaves in Shikoku Hotel Iya Onsen

Enjoy the fall foliage in style in Shikoku.

Typically the koyo season lasts from late-September to early December with the earliest leaves changing in northern Hokkaido and sprouting southward in a wave.

We’ve broken down the best spots for fall foliage viewing by region, to help you plan your trip. Crisp air and dramatic views await.


Mifuneyama

The Best Spots to See Autumn Leaves in Kyushu

Leaves in Japan's sunny southern island are among the last to fall so you can take your sweet time to explore.

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Autumn Colors of Oirase River, located in Aomori Prefecture Japan

The Best Spots to See Autumn Leaves in Tohoku

If you’re eager for a real autumn adventure, Tohoku’s oh-so poetic landscape is exactly where you’ll find one.

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Best spots to see autumn leaves in Chugoku in Mt Daisen

The Best Spots to See Autumn Leaves in Chugoku

Choose iconic Hiroshima or head over to Japan's least-visited prefectures. Either way, you'll encounter some seriously photogenic autumn vistas.

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The Best Spots to See Autumn Leaves in Hokkaido

See the earliest autumn leaves in Japan at Hokkaido's billowing onsen towns and quiet parks.

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The cable car to the onsen at Hotel Iya Onsen.

The Best Spots to See Autumn Leaves in Shikoku

Don't worry, Japan's smallest main island is big on stunning autumnal viewing spots.

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The Best Spots to See Autumn Leaves in Kanto

Discover the gardens and valleys of Kanto in Tokyo and beyond.

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Nara Park

The Best Spots to See Autumn Leaves in Kansai

From Kyoto to Mie, the Kansai region is flourishing with colorful foliage.

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KamiKochi Autumn Leaves in Nagano Japan

The Best Spots to See Autumn Leaves in Chubu

Get your outdoorsy fix with hiking in the Japanese Alps and the real "castle in the sky" in central Japan.

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