Visit Japan in Fall: 2025 Ultimate Guide to Autumn Foliage, Forecast & Best Spots

Planning a Japan autumn tour? Autumn is indeed a good time for momijigari (紅葉狩り) in Japan. Momiji (紅葉) means red maple leaves, while momijigari refers to hunting beautiful autumn foliage like a hunter.

Follow in our footsteps, we will take you to explore the best places to see fall colors in Japan and experience autumn in Japan through fun activities. We offer insider tips, expert knowledge, and carefully selected itineraries to help you during the planning of your Japan tour in autumn.

Why Autumn is the Best Time to Visit Japan

Autumn in Japan means vivid autumn leaves and perfect weather. Japan in the fall is known for red leaves. You can admire breathtaking autumn views from Kyoto's temples to Hokkaido's mountains. During autumn, most areas of Japan are around 10-20°C (50-68°F) with clearer days, meaning you can have a comfortable traveling experience.

It's not only about beautiful Japan fall colors but also about traditional festivals and autumn cuisine, which can help you gain a deeper understanding of Japanese culture. And compared to cherry blossom viewing, there are fewer tourists who appreciate the red leaves, whether in nature or in the city.

Japan Weather in Autumn

The overall temperature in autumn in Japan gradually decreases from September. The weather is cool and pleasant in October and November.

In the first half of September, the heat and humidity of summer still persisted. when the temperature is as high as 30°C to 34°C (86°F to 93°F). Then it becomes cool and comfortable. The temperature in Hokkaido and the Tohoku region is lower than that in Tokyo and Kyoto.

The temperature will further decrease in October with a more significant temperature difference, and the temperature will range from 14°C to 23°C (57.2°F to 73.4°F). November (10°C to 17°C or 50°F to 62.6°F) is a dry and sunny month and the peak period for viewing red leaves.

September and October are seasons with frequent typhoons. Remember to pay attention to the weather forecast before traveling.

Is autumn enough to discover Japan? Let's see the best time to visit Japan.

When to See Fall Colors in Japan

Every mid-September, from Hokkaido in the north to Kyushu in the south, Japan enters the red leaf season, which lasts for nearly three months. You can appreciate autumn leaves from mid-September to early December.

September is the beginning of appreciating autumn leaves in Japan. Red leaves change color in high-altitude areas from mid-September to October, mainly concentrated in Hokkaido.

In October, the red leaves gradually spread southward. From the end of October to December, you can enjoy the best views of autumn leaves in most areas of Honshu. You can visit autumn leaves viewing spots, such as Fuji Five Lakes, Tokyo, Kyoto, Nara, etc.

In December, the red leaves in Japan gradually fall, and only some warm regions such as Kyushu and Shikoku still have red leaves to enjoy.

The viewing time of red leaves in different regions may vary slightly due to altitude and the climate of the year. You need to plan your itinerary in advance, but it had better be a flexible plan. Follow the real-time Japan fall foliage forecast to adjust your itinerary.

Click and read more about the detailed Japan Fall Foliage Forecast 2025.

5 Best Places to See Fall Colors in Japan

Kiyomizu Temple (Kyoto)

As soon as you step onto the Stage of Kiyomizu, the gradient maple leaves are completely displayed in front of you. It's a stunning moment that makes people cannot stop shooting. Colorful autumn hues complement the antique temples and courtyards, which create a unique beauty and atmosphere. The city of Kyoto and the red leaves of the mountains can be seen in full view from a distance.

The illumination event is worth a visit. Admiring the brightly lit and fiery red maple leaves at night will give you a unique experience. Note that there are still many people at night.

You can stroll the meandering pathways of Kiyomizu Temple and look for different angles to appreciate the Japan fall colors. Besides Kiyomizu Temple, there are other beautiful gardens and hidden shrines, like Jishu Shrine.

Mount Fuji

In autumn, Mt. Fuji remains the best places to visit in Japan. At Lake Kawaguchi, the 150-meter-long Momiji Tunnel is the most attractive places to enjoy colorful autumn foliage. In November, you can taste local cuisine at Fuji-Kawaguchiko Autumn Leaves Festival, which takes place on the northern shores of Lake Kawaguchi.

Stand on the top of Arakurayama Sengen Park to overlook the Chureito Pagoda, red leaves, and Mt. Fuji. The clear pond water of Oshino Hakkai, combined with the beautiful autumn leaves and traditional houses around it, looks like a pastoral landscape painting.

Meiji Jingu Gaien (Tokyo)

In autumn, Tokyo boasts both bustling urban landscapes and serene natural beauty. Meiji Jingu Gaien Ginkgo Avenue is a symbol of autumn in Tokyo. 146 ginkgo trees spread along the 300-meter avenue, forming a dazzling golden hue.

The falling ginkgo leaves cover the ground. Many people enjoy taking photos and going for walks here. If you like cycling, then this is also a good way to explore Ginkgo Avenue.

If you have more time, you can explore Meiji Jingu Shrine together, where you can enjoy a beautiful wooden beautiful wooden, the vast forest, and the iconic sake and wine barrels.

Nara Park

Nara Park is truly an excellent spot for Japanese autumn colors. Take a gentle stroll around Nara Park to appreciate the colorful leaves. Here, you may encounter free-roaming deer. The deer in Nara Park appear more lively and adorable in autumn. Don't forget to buy deer crackers (shika senbei) and interact with the deer.

Todai-ji Temple at Nara Park is one of the most famous temples in Japan, which is known for its Great Buddha Hall, the world's largest wooden structure. In the hall, you can admire the bronze Great Buddha statue. Kasuga Taisha Shrine is also a must-see in Nara Park. Walking on the Sando with thousands of stone lanterns, it will lead you to Kasuga Taisha Shrine. 4-nara-park-deer-red-leaves

Daisetsuzan National Park (Hokkaido)

As a place with the earliest maple red in Japan, Daisetsuzan National Park is famous for its magnificent and unspoiled mountain scenery. In the fall, the beautiful leaves create picturesque scenes in the mountains.

Pleasant weather makes autumn an excellent time for hiking in nature. Mountainous Daisetsuzan National Park also provides convenient opportunities for outdoor adventure. And you can also enjoy breathtaking autumn and volcanic landscapes during the hike.

Why not soak in a hot spring to relax after a tiring hike? Daisetsuzan National Park provides several great hot springs, such as Sounkyo Onsen, Asahidake Onsen, Tokachidake Onsen, etc.

You can experience Kurodake Ropeway or Asahidake Ropeway and admire unbeatable views of the surrounding mountain range with colorful autumn leaves.

Click here for the Top 10 Best Places to See Autumn Leaves in Japan.

What to Do in Japan in Autumn

To make your journey more unforgettable, you can participate in local activities and deeply experience the local culture in the following ways.

Momijigari (Maple-Leaf Viewing)

Every autumn, Japanese people head to the mountains, parks, shrines, and other spots to observe the changes of the seasons, which is called momijigari. Momijigari is a Japanese tradition which can be traced back to the Heian period (about 8th-12th century). At first, this was a pastime for the nobility, and later it gradually evolved into an autumn activity participated in by ordinary people.

Autumn Festivals

Every September, the Sapporo Autumn Fest is held at Odori Park. During the festival, you can enjoy Hokkaido's specialties, seasonal ingredients, and grand cultural events.

On October 22nd every year, Jidai Matsuri is held at Heian Shrine, which shows the history of Japanese clothing from different eras. This is a good opportunity for those who want to learn about traditional Japanese culture. The costumes, props, and rituals in the festival can all offer you a glimpse into the history of Japan.

Jingu Gaien Gingko Festival in mid-November gives you a chance to admire Tokyo's autumn colors with various food stalls and craft stalls. You can try Ginkgo nuts (the seeds of the ginkgo tree) and enjoy street performers.

Hot Springs

Soaking in Japan's hot springs in autumn is a peaceful enjoyment. The red leaves dotted around hot springs enrich the experience of enjoying hot springs. Japan is rich in hot spring resources from cities to rural areas, such as Hakone and Noboribetsu. You can also spend the night at a traditional Japanese ryokan and experience the hot springs inside the ryokan.

Seasonal Food & Tea Ceremonies

Autumn is a season for harvest. Japan in autumn offers autumn-themed kaiseki (multi-course meal). The Japanese pay attention to the changes of seasons, and the ingredients change accordingly. The autumn limited ingredients are a specialty of autumn-themed kaiseki. You can taste mushrooms and chestnuts.

The red maple scenery and pleasant climate in autumn make it a great time for tea ceremony activities. In addition to indoors, the tea ceremony in autumn can also be extended outdoors. You can take part in a tea ceremony experience in the courtyard or in the mountains decorated with red maple leaves. The natural scenery is around you while sipping green tea (matcha).

Suggested Japan Autumn Tour Itineraries

These suggested Japan fall foliage tours cover the most beautiful places in Japan autumn. And you can contact our travel consultants to customize a personalized itinerary according to your travel duration and other requirements.

2-Week Japan Autumn Leaves Tour (Best for Hiking)

This 2-week autumn foliage itinerary is designed for those who are interested in hiking. Along the way, you will travel through lush forests and scenic landscapes of Kumano Kodo. Besides those, you will also visit classic highlights in Tokyo, Mt. Fuji, and Kyoto, which are also surrounded by vibrant autumn foliage.

Days 1-4: Tokyo (explore Tokyo's iconic landmarks like Shinjuku Gyoen, Rikugien Garden, etc., & Mt. Fuji)
Day 5: Hakone (Lake Ashi, Owakudani, Hakone Open-Air Museum)
Days 6-7: Kyoto (exploration of Kyoto, including famous attractions, such as Kinkaku-ji Temple, Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Arashiyama, etc.)
Days 8-10: hike the ancient pilgrimage routes: Kumano Kodo, and explore shrines along the way.
Days 11-14: Osaka (a day trip to Kobe, free day in Osaka)

10-Day Best Japan Fall Foliage Tour

On this 10-day tour, we arrange an itinerary to appreciate autumn colors and famous landmarks in Tokyo, Kyoto, Mt.Fuji, Kanazawa, and Shirakawago. There are various ways to make your Japan tour more interesting, such as the Mt. Fuji Panoramic Ropeway, the Sagano Romantic Train, and Arashiyama's Hozu River Boat Tour.

Days 1-4: Tokyo (visit beautiful temples and gardens, visit Mt. Fuji)
Days 5-7: Kanazawa (Kanazawa and Shirakawago sightseeing)
Days 8-10: Kyoto (explore Kyoto's historical temples and shrines, Arashiyama viewing)

Practical Tips for Your Japan Autumn Trip

When to Visit

Popular tourist attractions in Japan are usually crowded with people, so you need to choose the right time for a better travel experience.

On the weekend, more locals join in to enjoy the autumn scenery. It's suggested to visit popular attractions on weekdays, such as Kiyomizu Temple, Eikando Temple, and Tofukuji Temple.

Check the opening hours of scenic spots in advance and prioritize visiting popular locations in the early morning.

Transportation

If you plan to travel across different regions in Japan (such as Tokyo - Kyoto - Hokkaido), Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass) is great for you. JR Pass offers unlimited travel throughout Japan by JR trains, including Shinkansen (bullet trains). You can choose the 7, 14, or 21-day ticket according to your Japan autumn itinerary.

In Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and other major cities, public transport is convenient. In Hokkaido and Japan's countryside, you can rent a car to explore.

Packing

The temperature difference between day and night is significant in Japan in autumn, especially in mountainous areas. We suggest you bring layered clothing to add or remove clothing conveniently, such as T-shirts, sweaters, long-sleeved tops, a warm coat, and even a down jacket.

Carry comfortable sports shoes for easier strolling in parks, mountainous areas, and other places. You also need a pair of shoes that are easy to put on and take off, because some indoor places in Japan require you to take off your shoes to enter, such as ryokans, temples, and shrines. And socks with holes aren't recommended.

If planning a hiking trip to mountainous areas or colder Hokkaido, prepare waterproof sports shoes, scarves, hats, and warm gloves.

Typhoon season in Japan usually ends in October. The southern and western regions of Japan will be significantly affected. In October, autumn leaves in Hokkaido are at their best, which is minimally affected by the typhoon. But you'd better bring a light rain jacket just in case.

Etiquette

When visiting temples, it is necessary to keep quiet and respect the local religious culture.

Photography is prohibited in some shrines and temples. Please check specific rules or signs of each temple and shrine.

Keep quiet on the bullet trains, subway, and restaurants.

If required, you need to take off your shoes before entering the room.

There are very few trash cans in the streets in Japan, so carry a small garbage bag with you.

Japan Autumn Foliage FAQs

1. When is autumn in Japan?
From mid-September to early December, Japan is experiencing autumn with stunning red, yellow, and orange views.

2. When is the best time to go to Japan in autumn?
The best time to visit Japan in autumn is from mid-October to late November, because the trees turn vibrant colors in central Japan, including cities that many people choose to visit, like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka.

However autumn leaves season lasts from mid-September to early December throughout the entire of Japan. For example, October is an ideal time for autumn foliage in Hokkaido.

3. When to start planning my autumn trip to Japan?
It's best to plan your Japan fall tours 3 to 6 months in advance because autumn is one of the peak seasons for tourism in Japan. Accommodation and event tickets in popular places like Kyoto, Tokyo, and Hokkaido are quickly booked up during the red leaf season.

Plan Your Japan Autumn Tour with Hi Five Trip

The Japan autumn tour is a magical experience. Whether you like colorful natural beauty, Japanese rich culture, or fascinating autumn matsuri, delicious food, Japan can meet the needs of everyone. So, don't hesitate to plan your autumn trip to Japan.