If cherry blossoms define Japanese spring, then colorful foliage is the highlight of autumn. Warmer-than-usual temperatures are expected across Japan through October 2025, which may cause the fall colors to appear on time or slightly later than average this year.
A Delayed Foliage Season
Northern Japan
Includes: Sapporo, Hakodate, Lake Towada, Sendai
Peak viewing:
- Mountains: Early October to mid-November
- Lowlands: Late October to late November
Expect foliage to emerge around the usual time or slightly later. Cooler weather in November should bring vivid reds and golds.
Eastern Japan
Includes: Tokyo, Nikko, Nagano
Peak viewing:
- Mountains: Late October to early December
- Lowlands: Late November to mid-December
Western Japan
Includes: Kyoto, Osaka, Hiroshima, Fukuoka
Peak viewing:
- Mountains: Early November to early December
- Lowlands: Late November to mid-December
In Kyoto and Nara, vibrant maple leaves should shine from late November to early December, with golden ginkgo trees peaking around the same time.
Expected Foliage Dates by City
| City | Expected Peak Foliage Date |
| Sapporo | November 9 |
| Sendai | November 27 |
| Tokyo | December 1 |
| Kyoto | December 12 |
| Osaka | December 5 |
| Fukuoka | December 9 |
A late foliage season gives travelers plenty of time to plan their trips. The following are some popular destinations to enjoy fall colors.
1. Iwate: Esashi-Fujiwara Heritage Park
This 20-hectare theme park recreates Japan's Heian Period (794–1185), including aristocratic residences and ancient fortresses. The wooden replica of Kyara no Gosho, home of the Oshu Fujiwara clan, is especially picturesque in fall, with maple trees reflected in the pond.
Fall illuminations begin on October 17 on select dates. The entrance fee is ¥1,000 ($7) for adults.
2. Miyagi: Naruko Gorge
A 100-meter-deep gorge carved by the Otani River, Naruko Gorge transforms into a vivid patchwork of reds, yellows, and oranges. The Ofukazawa Walking Trail from Naruko Gorge Resthouse to Otani River offers stunning views, including the iconic Ofukasawa Bridge.
3. Aomori: Nakano Momiji Mountain
Known as the "Little Arashiyama of Tohoku," this mountain has been a fall favorite since the Edo period. Tsugaru Yasuchika, the 9th lord of Hirosaki, once imported about 100 maple varieties from Kyoto.
The combination of foliage, waterfalls, and the Nakano River creates a spectacular panorama. The "kanpu-dai" viewing platform is just a 10-minute walk up the mountain.
4. Fukushima: Mount Ryozen
Rising 825 meters (2,707 feet), Mount Ryozen is famous for its dramatic rocky surfaces, which turn yellow and red in autumn. Designated a national Place of Scenic Beauty, the mountain offers challenging hiking trails with ladders and chains. Views from the summit are breathtaking, attracting around 40,000 visitors each season.
5. Tochigi: Shiobara Onsen Village
This hot spring village in Nasushiobara City boasts 60 hotels and 150 springs. Historically enjoyed by the Utsunomiya clan and later by Crown Prince Yoshihito (future Emperor), Shiobara combines relaxing onsen with beautiful autumn scenery.
6. Shizuoka: Shuzenji Onsen
One of the oldest hot spring towns on the Izu Peninsula, Shuzenji has been popular with literary figures like Ryunosuke Akutagawa and Natsume Soseki. Shuzenji Nature Park has around 1,000 maple trees, while nearby Niji no Sato offers illuminated nighttime foliage displays.
7. Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route
Spanning the Northern Alps between Toyama and Nagano, this scenic route reaches Mount Tate at 3,015 meters (9,890 feet). The full route is open until November 30, showcasing foliage at different altitudes, with views accessible by bus, cable car, and walking trails, offering a diverse and unforgettable autumn experience.
The predictions are based on the Japan Weather Corporation's forecast.
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Author: Miruka Adachi
Contributions from The Sankei Shimbun are reflected in this article.
