If sakura defines Japanese spring, then foliage is the highlight of fall. Japan has officially entered a new season, although the lingering summer heat may suggest otherwise. July 2024 was the hottest on record for the second consecutive summer, making the prospect of autumn foliage even more enticing.
A Delayed Foliage Season
The Japan Meteorological Corporation (JMC) released its first fall foliage forecast on September 3, with the next update expected in early October.
Due to higher-than-average nationwide temperatures and the fact that foliage requires temperatures of 8°C or below, the foliage season is expected to be delayed.
According to the forecast, yellow foliage will first appear in Sapporo around November 6 and in Kagoshima by November 28. The iconic red leaves may arrive as early as November 8 in Sapporo, while Tokyo and Osaka might see them around December 1 and December 4, respectively. In some areas, such as Sapporo and Nagano, peak foliage is anticipated to occur over 10 days later than usual.
A late foliage season means there's plenty of time to plan your foliage-viewing trips. Here are a few top recommendations:
1. Iwate: Esashi-Fujiwara Heritage Park
This theme park is modeled after Japan's Heian Period (794 to 1185). It spans approximately 20 hectares and features impressive re-creations of historical sites, including the residences of Heian aristocrats and ancient fortresses.
A highlight is the wooden replica of Kyara no Gosho, the residence of the Oshu Fujiwara clan, which is particularly picturesque in the fall with maple trees beautifully reflected in the pond. The park will also offer fall illumination starting October 18. The JMC doesn't provide a specific forecast for Iwate, but it predicts that nearby Aomori and Sendai will see yellow foliage around November 15 and 17, respectively. Entrance fees are ¥1,000 ($7) for adults.
2. Miyagi: Naruko Gorge
Miyagi Prefecture is home to popular spots like Mount Zao and Mount Kurikoma, but Naruko Gorge consistently ranks among the top foliage-viewing spots. This 100-meter-deep (about 330 feet) gorge, shaped by years of erosion from the Otani River, transforms into a beautiful patchwork of autumn colors.
The Ofukazawa Walking Trail descends from the Naruko Gorge Resthouse to the Otani River, offering the perfect view of Ofukasawa Bridge.
3. Aomori: Nakano Momiji Mountain
Often referred to as the "Little Arashiyama of Tohoku," Nakano Momiji Mountain in Aomori Prefecture has been a renowned fall foliage destination since the Edo period.
In 1802, Tsugaru Yasuchika, the 9th lord of the Hirosaki domain, was so captivated by Mount Nakano's maple trees that he imported around 100 varieties from Kyoto. The vivid foliage, along with the Nakano River and waterfalls, creates a stunning natural panorama.
One of the best spots to enjoy the view is the "kanpu-dai" (foliage viewing platform), just a 10-minute walk up the mountain.
4. Fukushima: Mount Ryozen
Rising 825 meters (about 2707 feet), Mount Ryozen is renowned for its dramatic rock surfaces, which become covered in yellow and red hues during the fall. Designated as a national Place of Scenic Beauty, the mountain features hiking trails with sections requiring ladders and chains, adding an exciting challenge to the ascent.
The spectacular view from the top of the massive rocks makes the climb worthwhile, attracting around 40,000 visitors each autumn season.
5. Tochigi: Shiobara Onsen Village
Located in the northwestern part of Tochigi Prefecture, Shiobara Onsen Village is famous for its high-quality hot springs. According to the official website, the area offers 60 hotels and 150 hot springs to choose from.
During the Edo period, Shiobara was under the rule of the Utsunomiya clan, who enjoyed the region's hot springs. The village gained further prominence in the Meiji era with the construction of the Shiobara Kaido road and a villa for Crown Prince Yoshihito, who later became Emperor.
6. Shizuoka: Shuzenji Onsen
One of the oldest hot spring towns on the Izu Peninsula, Shuzenji has been a favorite of literary figures such as Ryunosuke Akutagawa and Natsume Soseki since the Meiji era.
The Shuzenji Nature Park features around 1,000 maple trees, while the nearby Niji no Sato theme park offers nighttime illuminations of the foliage.
7. Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route
The Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route is a scenic trail that traverses the Tateyama Mountain Range in the Northern Alps, connecting Toyama and Nagano prefectures. Mount Tate, or Tateyama, reaches a height of 3,015 meters (about 9,890 feet).
Due to the significant altitude difference of 2,000 meters (6,560 feet) between the mountain's base and summit, the trees along the route change color at different times. Travelers can enjoy diverse landscapes along a journey that includes bus rides, cable cars, and walking trails.
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Author: Miruka Adachi
Contributions from The Sankei Shimbun are reflected in this article.
