Japan in Autumn: A Seasonal Spectacle

Posted on 11/10/2023 Last updated on 03/30/2024

As a country of four seasons, Japan has many things to enjoy in it year-round. And the fall or autumn is no different. Here are some of the best places to visit and the best festivals to enjoy during the fall season!

Where to go

Japan offers a wide range of beautiful places to visit during the fall, with stunning autumn foliage and pleasant weather. Here are some great destinations to consider:

1. Kyoto: Kyoto is perhaps the most famous destination for fall foliage. Visit iconic spots like Kinkakuji (the Golden Pavilion), Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, and the Philosopher’s Path to see the vibrant red and orange leaves.

2. Nikko: Nikko, in Tochigi Prefecture, is known for its picturesque fall scenery, especially around Toshogu Shrine and Lake Chuzenji. The vibrant colors of the leaves complement the historic architecture.

3. Hokkaido: In northern Japan, Hokkaido offers beautiful fall foliage with a more relaxed atmosphere. Sapporo and the Biei and Furano regions are great places to enjoy the colors.

4. Daisetsuzan National Park: This national park in Hokkaido is famous for its stunning autumn foliage, rugged mountains, and hiking trails.

5. Hakone: Close to Tokyo, Hakone is known for its onsen (hot springs) and offers scenic views of Mount Fuji, especially during the fall.

6. Tohoku Region: This northern region boasts beautiful foliage in places like Aomori, Sendai, and Yamagata. The Oirase Gorge in Aomori is particularly famous for its autumn beauty.

7. Shirakawa-go and Gokayama: These UNESCO World Heritage-listed villages in the Gifu and Toyama Prefectures offer stunning landscapes with traditional thatched-roof farmhouses amidst autumn colors.

8. Koyasan (Mount Koya): This sacred mountain in Wakayama Prefecture is a serene place to enjoy the fall colors, especially around the temple complexes.

9. Okayama: Visit the Korakuen Garden in Okayama, one of Japan’s three great gardens, which is especially beautiful in the fall.

10. Yakushima: Although not known for fall foliage, this subtropical island’s lush greenery and ancient cedar trees are beautiful year-round, making it a unique destination.

11. Kanazawa: In Ishikawa Prefecture, Kanazawa offers beautiful gardens like Kenrokuen and quaint samurai districts with autumn colors.

12. Nara: Explore Nara Park, home to friendly deer and surrounded by beautiful trees that turn golden and red in the fall.

13. Ise-Shima: Known for its rich history and coastal beauty, this area is enchanting during the fall season, especially around Ise Grand Shrine.

14. Yoshino: The Yoshino region in Nara Prefecture is renowned for its cherry blossoms in spring, but it’s equally beautiful in the fall when the leaves change color.

15. Gero Onsen: Located in Gifu Prefecture, this onsen town is surrounded by beautiful foliage in the fall, offering a relaxing and scenic retreat.

From my own cherished memories, visiting Kyoto in the fall is an unparalleled delight. It’s the season when you can embark on a journey to Fushimi Jukkokubune.

A serene boat ride surrounded by the resplendent hues of autumn, as the vibrant leaves paint a breathtaking panorama. Spring is undoubtedly captivating, but autumn has a unique allure. It’s a paradise for photographers, a canvas for unforgettable moments.

Fushimi Jukkokubune isn’t just a destination; it’s an enchanting experience you won’t want to miss. The memories and photographs you’ll collect are as timeless as the seasons themselves.”

When planning your trip, be sure to check the timing of the fall foliage, as it varies by region and can change from year to year. Typically, the peak of autumn colors in Japan falls between late October and early December.

What to do

There are also a variety of festivals and events during the fall season. Here are some of the most popular ones:

1. Jidai Matsuri (Festival of the Ages) – Kyoto: Held on October 22nd, this is one of Kyoto’s most famous festivals. Participants dress in historical costumes representing various periods in Japanese history and parade through the city.

2. Kurama Fire Festival – Kyoto: Held on October 22nd, this event involves a procession of torches through the streets of Kurama, a mountain town. It’s a spectacular and unique event that creates a mystical atmosphere.

3. Takayama Festival – Gifu Prefecture: This two-day festival occurs in early October and showcases ornate floats and traditional performances in the historic town of Takayama.

4. Nagasaki Kunchi – Nagasaki: This festival runs from October 7th to 9th and features performances, dances, and processions with beautifully decorated floats representing various Nagasaki neighborhoods.

5. Hirosaki Castle Chrysanthemum and Autumn Foliage Festival – Aomori: Held in early October, this festival features thousands of meticulously cultivated chrysanthemum flowers and beautiful autumn foliage.

6. Meiji Shrine Outer Garden Autumn Garden Festival – Tokyo: This event features impressive illuminations and light-up displays in the beautiful Meiji Shrine Outer Garden during the fall season.

7. Nikko Toshogu Shrine Grand Autumn Festival – Tochigi Prefecture: This festival in Nikko takes place in October and includes various performances, processions, and ceremonies at the Toshogu Shrine.

8. Ise Jingu Autumn Grand Festival – Mie Prefecture: Held in October, this festival celebrates the harvest season and includes various ceremonies and processions at Ise Grand Shrine.

9. Kyoto Arashiyama Hanatouro – Kyoto: This event, typically held in December, illuminates the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and the surrounding area with thousands of lanterns and light displays.

10. Kanazawa Hyakumangoku Festival – Kanazawa: Held in early November, this festival celebrates the city’s history with parades, traditional performances, and food stalls.

11. Yabusame (Horseback Archery) Festivals – Various locations: Yabusame events, where archers on horseback shoot at targets, are held in various places during the fall season.

12. Kawasaki Halloween Parade – Kanagawa Prefecture: While not a traditional festival, this Halloween parade in Kawasaki is one of the largest in Japan and features creative costumes and lively street performances.

Please note that the exact dates of these events can vary from year to year, and/or cancelled so it’s essential to check the specific dates and details for each festival you’re interested in attending.

Photo Credits:

Top photo: Sousuke48 on PhotoAC

Additional photo provided by Christopher Banayat, used with permission.