Autumn in Tokyo: Top 10 Autumn Leaves Spots & Forecast

https://www.hifivetrip.com/tokyo-travel-guide/shinjuku-gyoen-national-gardenLooking for inspiration for autumn travel? How about Tokyo? As one of the best places to visit in Japan, the atmosphere of Tokyo in autumn is enchanting and magical. Within the city, there is a stunning display of bright autumn colors. Late November to mid-December is the best time for autumn foliage in Tokyo.

Autumn in Tokyo is cool and mild with colorful fall leaves and delicious seasonal food. Soaking in a hot spring makes you feel warm. Check out our guide to learn about when and where to view autumn leaves in Tokyo.

Why Tokyo's Autumn Foliage is a Must-See

Autumn is the best time to visit Tokyo for kōyō (紅葉) in Japan. The maple leaves and ginkgo trees gradually change color, making Tokyo a picturesque scene.

Autumn in Tokyo offers pleasant weather with average temperatures ranging from 12 to 23 °C (54 to 73 °F). The weather is refreshing and sunny, offering a perfect time to explore outdoors.

As a modern metropolis, Tokyo seamlessly integrates its natural landscapes with the modern urban environment. You can enjoy beautiful autumn foliage in a concrete jungle and admire special illuminations. There are several stunning gardens to stay away from the hustle and bustle of the city and feel the atmosphere of Tokyo's autumn.

Autumn festivals and events are full of fun! The Meiji Jingu Gaien Ginkgo Festival would be held from mid-November to early December, providing game booths, crafts, and food stalls. After dark, Shinjuku Gyoen Autumn Leaves Illuminations features projection mapping displays, lit-up autumn foliage in Tokyo.

Best Time to Visit Tokyo for Fall Foliage in 2025

The best time for autumn leaves in Tokyo is from late November to mid-December, such as in Rikugien Gardens and Koishikawa Korakuen. And you have two to three weeks to enjoy the fall leaves in Tokyo, which makes it easier to plan your autumn foliage tour.

For the golden ginkgo trees, you can visit Tokyo during mid-November to early December and head to Meiji Jingu Gaien and Showa Kinen Park.

In mountainous areas, Tokyo weather is cooler than in central Tokyo. So the autumn colors here also change earlier, in places like Mount Takao and Okutama.

Nature is difficult to predict. But you can follow this Tokyo autumn leaves forecast for the approximate best time to view autumn leaves, if you plan a Tokyo tour in autumn.

Top 10 Tokyo Fall Foliage Spots You Can't Miss

Uncover the best of 10 Tokyo autumn leaves spots, including hidden autumn foliage gems and what to do in Tokyo in autumn. Take a journey through modern, traditional Tokyo with the beauty of autumn leaves!

1. Shinjuku Gyoen

If you're searching for the best place for autumn hues in Tokyo, Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden is your choice. Shinjuku Gyoen is a vast park that ingeniously blends British, French, and Japanese garden styles. In autumn, Shinjuku Gyoen is dotted with colorful leaves, as beautiful as a painting. It's also a perfect place for walking and having a picnic.

In the traditional Japanese garden, you can visit tea rooms, which offer views of the autumn garden, green tea, and seasonal sweets. There is a Chrysanthemum Exhibition held from November 1st to November 15th every year.

2. Meiji Jingu Gaien

Meiji Jingu Shrine is an important cultural landmark in Tokyo, surrounded by lush trees, forming a tranquil oasis in the city. During autumn, Meiji Jingu Gaien's Ginkgo Avenue becomes the protagonist.

150 ginkgo trees form two golden tunnels on both sides of the road. You can take a stroll along the golden carpet-like passages covered with yellow leaves and enjoy a laid-back and relaxing autumn time.

Jingu Gaien Ginkgo Festival provides rich cultural experiences and various delicious dishes. The night illumination event is another mesmerizing atmosphere.

3. Ueno Park

Shinobazu Pond is one of the most attractive autumn viewing spots in Ueno Park. You can take in the beautiful scene of autumn leaves reflected on the lake's surface. Or you can take a boat trip and float leisurely on the water. There are colorful maple trees, ginkgo trees, zelkova trees, cherry blossom trees, etc.

Ueno Park is spacious enough for you to avoid the bustling crowds. Ueno Park not only boasts natural beauty but also numerous cultural attractions, such as the Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum, the Tokyo National Museum, and Ueno Zoo. While enjoying the autumn in Tokyo, tourists can also deeply experience Japanese culture and art.

4. Rikugien Garden

Rikugien Garden provides some of the best fall leaves in Tokyo. You can stroll along the winding paths while enjoying the spectacular autumn displays. There are tea houses in Rikugien Garden, where you can enjoy tea and sweets.

Autumn illumination in the evening is another kind of beauty, showing a completely different charm from that of the day. The maple trees in the garden combine with the carefully arranged lighting and the reflection on the lake, which looks particularly wonderful.

5. Yoyogi Park

Yoyogi Park is a serene haven for autumn foliage in Tokyo. The trees are in a riot of colors in autumn, with over 1,000 trees that change color in autumn, making it an ideal place to relax during your Tokyo tour. There are fun activities that are suitable for the whole family, such as cycling, picnicking, and taking photos.

Yoyogi Park is adjacent to trendy districts such as Harajuku and Shibuya, blending natural landscapes with trendy culture.

6. Koishikawa Korakuen Garden

Koishikawa Korakuen Garden is one of the oldest gardens in Tokyo, especially attractive in autumn. Crimson maple leaves are complemented by a beautiful pond and traditional architecture. Tsutenkyo Bridge, Engetsu-kyo Bridge, and the Pond are excellent locations for taking perfect photos. Walking through the continuous trails, you can see all the scenery of the garden.

7. Mount Takao

Mount Takao is a place for you to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. The trails on the mountain are blanketed with autumn leaves. Put on your comfortable shoes and hike through the vibrant forest. With cable cars and lifts, even beginners can enjoy the fun of hiking in autumn.

After climbing up the summit, you can enjoy a distant view of the magnificent Mount Fuji on clear days. Whether admiring the autumn scenery or hiking in nature, Mount Takao can help you relax your mind.

You can visit Takaosan Yakuoin Temple and experience the traditional and solemn atmosphere of the temple. The contrast between the historic temple and the red leaves is particularly striking. It's worth visiting the Monkey Park and Wild Plant Garden located halfway up the mountain. From late October to early December, the annual Mount Takao Autumn Leaves Festival is held. You can watch various performances and savor local food and drinks.

8. Inokashira Park

Experience Tokyo's autumn with a slow-paced walk at Inokashira Park. The park offers vast areas for people to enjoy picnics, strolls, and jogs. You can take a peaceful boat trip on Inokashira Pond or visit the Inokashira Park Zoo for native Japanese animals. Don't miss the nearby Ghibli Museum, a good place for nature and art.

9. Showa Kinen Park

With vivid ginkgo trees and seasonal events, Showa Kinen Park gives you a wonderful Tokyo autumn experience. You can take a leisurely stroll or rent a bike to explore the breathtaking gardens.

Katarai Ginkgo Tree Avenue, Japanese Garden, and the canal area are ideal spots for fall foliage in the park. During the Autumn Night Walk event, you can visit illuminated Showa Kinen Park and soak in a magical atmosphere.

10. Todoroki Valley

Discover the stunning Todoroki Valley, filling your eyes with the picturesque, vibrant autumn wonder of foliage. Todoroki Valley is a great place to take in nature with fewer crowds.

Stepping into the valley, you can visit Todoroki Fudoson Temple in charming autumn colors. Along the pathways, you will discover the Golf Bridge and several small shrines. Relax with autumn sweets and drinks in a traditional Japanese tea house, like famous Settsugekka.

Where to See Autumn Leaves Near Tokyo

If you expect more breathtaking autumn scenery, why not embark on autumn day trips from Tokyo? Here are some ideal places for a day tour.

Mount Fuji

Autumn is one of the sunniest seasons for visiting Mount Fuji. Lake Kawaguchi is the most popular maple leaf viewing spot among the Five Lakes of Fuji. Here, the beautiful views of the red leaves and Mount Fuji provide a natural photography spot for nature enthusiasts.

There is a Momiji Corridor on the shore of Lake Kawaguchi! During the peak autumn leaf season, the Autumn Leaves Festival is also held here.

Arakurayama Sengen Park is an iconic photography place for Mount Fuji and the five-story Chureito Pagoda with red leaves. You can explore the park and the Arakura Fuji Sengen Shrine inside.

You might consider spending the night in Hakone after your trip to Mount Fuji.

Kamakura

Whether visiting ancient temples or enjoying the autumn seaside scenery, Kamakura is worth considering as a destination to add to your Tokyo tour. At ancient wonders like Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine, Hasedera Temple, and Meigetsuin Temple, the deep red maple leaves are intertwined with Japanese history and culture.

There are scenic trails in Shishimai Valley for hiking lovers. You can capture the breathtaking fall foliage along the way. You can take the Enoden Train traveling through the beautiful scenery of the azure sea and the clear autumn sky. Take a walk along the coast and beach in the late afternoon, waiting for the sunset.

Hakone

Hakone is a hot spring town located near Mount Fuji. It's a healing experience to enjoy in hot springs in cooler autumn. You can soak in the open-air hot spring while enjoying the red leaves, and you might even catch a glimpse of Mount Fuji in the distance. You can stay overnight at a Japanese-style ryokan with private baths.

In Hakone, you can take a pirate-themed ship tour on Lake Ashi, surrounded by mountains covered in autumn colors. The Hakone Ropeway would take you to Owakudani, where you can enjoy the volcanic landscape with sulfur smells. Don't forget the huge torii gate of Hakone Shrine, which stands on the water of Lake Ashi.

Nikko

Nikko is a two-hour drive from Tokyo. You can visit Toshogu Shrine and Rinnoji Temple for fiery autumn colors and Japanese culture. Historical Shinkyo Bridge is a well-known landmark. You can walk through it with a small fee or appreciate the beautiful bridge with autumn leaves from the side. It would be enjoyable to have a scenic hike tour at Nikko National Park and explore Lake Chuzenji.

Okutama

Do you want to step into the lush mountains and forests? Okutama is your first choice outside of Tokyo. You can fully enjoy the autumn in Okutama by taking a boat ride on Lake Okutama or hiking along the beautiful, scenic trails.

You would find many other great places to explore, such as Mitake Gorge, Hikawa Valley, Hatonosu Gorge, Nippara Limestone Cave, etc.

Insider Tips for a Flawless Tokyo Autumn Trip

How to Avoid Crowds

Starting earlier at 7–9 AM can help you avoid the crowds and enjoy a better viewing experience. Usually in the early morning, the popular spots, like Shinjuku Gyoen, Rikugien Garden, and Meiji Jingu Gaien, are relatively quiet before most tourists arrive.

Visiting in the early morning on weekdays helps you avoid the crowds of people while enjoying the autumn scenery, as there are fewer tourists on weekdays compared to weekends.

In addition to popular attractions, discovering some lesser-known sites can also bring unique autumn charm, such as Yanaka Cemetery, Akigawa Valley, Tonogayato Garden, and Jindai Botanical Garden.

Photography Guide

Seize the golden hour (during sunrise and sunset) to capture vibrant fall leaf colors in the best light.

Take autumn leaves as the foreground framing element, and shoot the autumn leaves along with the landmarks of Tokyo.

Ascend up to high places such as the Tokyo Skytree and Tokyo Tower, capturing the Tokyo skyline and the autumn colors dotted in parks and streets.

What to Wear & Pack

The average temperature in autumn in Tokyo is around 12 - 23°C (53 - 73°F). The peak season of maple leaves is colder from late November to mid-December, with a large temperature difference between day and night. It is recommended to pack some warm clothes.

You can bring layered clothing, including long-sleeved shirts, a sweater or a jacket, and a light down jacket. It's suggested to bring scarves, sunglasses, and an umbrella. Comfortable boots are good for outdoor activities or hiking.

Food & Drink Ideas

Autumn-themed treats are one of the appealing highlights of autumn in Tokyo. There are some must-try fall foods, like maple leaf tempura, roasted sweet potatoes, chestnut sweets, matsutake mushrooms, grilled sanma, and sake brewed with fallen leaves.

For enjoying twilight foliage views while sipping wine or a champagne cocktail, you can make your way to a wonderful rooftop bar, such as Tokyo Skytree's Solamachi and The Roof at Shibuya SKY.

FAQs about Visiting Tokyo in Autumn

1. Is November too early for Tokyo autumn leaves?

In early November, you can see early golden leaves in central Tokyo, but it reaches a peak in mid-November. For the peak period of red leaves, it's better to travel to Tokyo in late November.

2. How to handle Tokyo's autumn rain?

Compared to summer, autumn in Tokyo is usually dry with only a few light rains. You still need to bring an umbrella. It's better to visit covered spots when it rains, such as teamLab Planets, Ginza shopping areas, and museums in Ueno Park.

3. How early to book for Tokyo fall foliage season?

Autumn is one of the busiest seasons after the cherry blossom season. We highly recommend that you book your Tokyo tour in autumn 3 to 6 months in advance.

Plan Your Autumn Tour in Japan with Hi Five Trip

From breathtaking autumn foliage in Tokyo to carefully crafted food, our Japan autumn tours meticulously plan every detail. You can check several popular autumn trips or contact us to create personalized itineraries.