Bookmark this guide for Japan’s Fall Foliage Forecast in 2026! Plus, the best times to visit top viewing spots in each prefecture 🍁
Autumn in Japan 2026 promises a breathtaking display of fall colours, crisp air, and serene landscapes. From the northern peaks of Hokkaido to southern islands like Kyushu, the autumn leaves (koyo, 紅葉) paint the country in fiery reds, golds, and oranges.
This guide covers everything you need: Autumn in Japan 2026 forecast, the best months to visit, temperatures, peak leaf-viewing spots, and answers to all your questions about autumn in Japan.
Table of Contents
- Japan 2026 Autumn Forecast at a Glance
- When to Visit: Autumn in Japan Months
- Autumn in Japan 2026: Temperature & Weather
- Japan Fall Foliage Forecast 2026
- Peak Foliage Dates For Top Viewing Spots
- Best Places to View Autumn Leaves in Japan
- Autumn in Japan FAQs
Japan 2026 Autumn Forecast at a Glance
Planning an autumn trip to Japan? Bookmark this map for an easy reference to the 2026 foliage forecast across the country 🍁
When to Visit: Autumn in Japan Months
Autumn in Japan months span September to November, with regional variations:
- September: Early autumn begins in Hokkaido. Light orange and yellow leaves appear. Warm and humid, with typhoon possibilities.
- October: Ideal for visiting Tohoku, the Japan Alps, and northern regions. Temperatures cool, humidity drops, and foliage intensifies.
- November: Peak season for central and southern regions like Kyoto, Osaka, and Tokyo. Expect the most vivid colours.
- December: Southern regions such as Kyushu still show late autumn hues, but colours are fading.
Pro tip: For the fullest experience of autumn in Japan, aim for “late October through early December”.
Autumn in Japan 2026: Temperature & Weather
Autumn in Japan temperature varies by month:
| Month | Average Temperature | Weather Notes |
|---|---|---|
| September | 20°C – 28°C (68°F – 82°F) | Still warm and humid; typhoon season |
| October | 14°C – 22°C (57°F – 72°F) | Crisp, low humidity; ideal for sightseeing |
| November | 8°C – 16°C (46°F – 61°F) | Cooler; perfect for temple walks and park visits |
| December | 5°C – 12°C (41°F – 54°F) | Southern regions still show autumn colours |
Japan Fall Foliage Forecast 2026
On 2 September 2026, the Japan Meteorological Corporation (JMC) released its first forecast for the beginning of autumn foliage. Due to elevated temperatures nationwide, red and yellow foliage is expected to peak somewhat later than a typical year in most regions.
Here are the estimated best viewing dates for red leaves (maple trees) and yellow leaves (ginkgo trees) in each prefecture, alongside the long-term average for comparison:
Red Leaves Viewing Dates Forecast
| Location | Forecast for red leaves | Average date for red leaves |
|---|---|---|
| Sapporo | 7/11 | 28/10 |
| Aomori | 13/11 | 13/11 |
| Sendai | 25/11 | 21/11 |
| Tokyo | 29/11 | 28/11 |
| Kanazawa | 30/11 | 24/11 |
| Nagano | 21/11 | 12/11 |
| Nagoya | 2/12 | 28/11 |
| Kyoto | 11/12 | 5/12 |
| Osaka | 4/12 | 1/12 |
| Wakayama | 11/12 | 6/12 |
| Hiroshima | 28/11 | 22/11 |
| Kochi | 9/12 | 2/12 |
| Fukuoka | 7/12 | 1/12 |
| Kagoshima | 10/12 | 15/12 |
Source: Japan Meteorological Corporation, 2026 first forecast
Yellow Leaves Viewing Dates Forecast
| Location | Forecast for yellow leaves | Average date for yellow leaves |
|---|---|---|
| Sapporo | 6/11 | 4/11 |
| Aomori | 6/11 | 2/11 |
| Sendai | 29/11 | 23/11 |
| Tokyo | 26/11 | 23/11 |
| Kanazawa | 10/11 | 10/11 |
| Nagano | 14/11 | 10/11 |
| Nagoya | 17/11 | 18/11 |
| Kyoto | 27/11 | 24/11 |
| Osaka | 24/11 | 22/11 |
| Wakayama | 26/11 | 23/11 |
| Hiroshima | 20/11 | 15/11 |
| Kochi | 16/11 | 15/11 |
| Fukuoka | 27/11 | 20/11 |
| Kagoshima | 27/11 | 25/11 |
Source: Japan Meteorological Corporation, 2026 first forecast
Keep an eye on the JMC (Japan Meteorological Corporation) updates closer to your trip for exact peak dates.
Peak Foliage Dates For Top Viewing Spots
| Top Locations | Prefecture | Estimated best time to view |
|---|---|---|
| Daisetsuzan National Park | Hokkaido | Late September to Mid-October |
| Oirase Gorge | Aomori | Late October to Early November |
| Takatsudo Gorge | Gunma | Mid-November to End November |
| Nikko National Park | Tochigi | Mid-October to Early November |
| Togakushi | Nagano | Early November to Mid-November |
| Momijidani Park on Miyajima Island | Hiroshima | Mid-November to End November |
| Mount Takao | Tokyo | Late November to Early December |
| Meiji Jingu Gaien Ginkgo Avenue | Tokyo | Late November to Early December |
| Arashiyama | Kyoto | Late November to Early December |
| Tofukuji Temple | Kyoto | Mid-November to Early December |
| Osaka Castle | Osaka | Mid-November to Early December |
| Minoh Park | Osaka | Late November to Early December |
| Ritsurin Garden | Kagawa | Late November to Early December |
| Mt. Hiko | Fukuoka | Mid-November to Late November |
| Katsuyama Park (Kokura Castle) | Fukuoka | Late November to Early December |
| Lake Kawaguchi | Yamanashi | Early to Late November |
| Kikuchi Gorge | Kumamoto | Mid-November to Late November |
| Hakone Gora Park | Kanagawa | Mid-November to Early December |
| Nara Park | Nara | Mid-November to Early December |
Best Places to View Autumn Leaves in Japan
1. Hokkaido
Image credits: Japan Starts Here
Hokkaido is the first region in Japan to welcome autumn, with leaves starting to change in late September. Its rugged mountains, vast national parks, and crisp air make it one of the best places in Japan to see stunning autumn foliage.
| Hokkaido Foliage | Forecasted Best Viewing Dates |
|---|---|
| For Yellow Leaves (Ginkgo) | 6 November |
| For Red Leaves (Maple) | 7 November |
Best places to experience autumn in Hokkaido:
- Daisetsuzan National Park: The park is famous for its alpine terrain and is one of the earliest spots to see autumn leaves in Japan. Vibrant red and yellow leaves cover the mountains, creating a stunning contrast against the clear blue skies.
- Shiretoko National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Shiretoko’s mix of pristine forests and dramatic coastlines offers an unforgettable fall foliage experience.
- Jozankei Onsen: Located just outside Sapporo, this hot spring town is surrounded by beautiful mountains adorned with colourful leaves, providing a serene autumn escape.
- Noboribetsu: Known for its hot springs, Noboribetsu offers scenic hiking trails with views of vibrant autumn colours.
- Furano: Famous for its lavender fields in summer, Furano transforms into a picturesque autumn landscape with rolling hills and vibrant foliage.
- Sapporo Jozankei Momiji Festival: Celebrates the autumn foliage with various events and activities.
🍁 Refer to Otenki Navigator Autumn Foliage Navigator for Hokkaido for the most accurate dates for viewing spots.
2. Kyoto Prefecture
Image credits: Japan Travel
Kyoto, Japan’s former capital, is world-famous for its temples, tea houses, and gardens. In autumn, the city transforms into a stunning landscape of red, orange, and yellow leaves, making it one of the best places to experience autumn in Japan.
| Kyoto Foliage | Forecasted Best Viewing Dates |
|---|---|
| For Yellow Leaves (Ginkgo) | 27 November |
| For Red Leaves (Maple) | 11 December |
Best places to experience autumn in Kyoto Prefecture:
- Kiyomizu-dera: One of Kyoto’s most famous temples, Kiyomizu-dera offers panoramic views of the city surrounded by autumn colours.
- Arashiyama: This scenic district in western Kyoto is famous for its bamboo groves and temples, but it’s equally stunning during autumn when the hillsides turn vibrant shades of red and orange.
- Tofuku-ji Temple: Known for its grand wooden bridge, Tofuku-ji is one of the best places to view autumn foliage in Kyoto, especially in mid-to-late November.
- Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion): The golden temple contrasts beautifully with the surrounding red and orange leaves, perfect for Insta-worthy shots.
- Nanzen-ji Temple: This temple features beautiful gardens that come alive with rich autumn colours during the fall season.
- Kitano Tenmangu Shrine: Hosts the Zuiki Festival, celebrating the harvest season in October.
3. Tokyo Prefecture
Image credits: Japan Travel
Tokyo may be famous for its skyscrapers and neon lights, but in autumn its parks, gardens, and nearby mountains turn into vibrant landscapes of red and gold, offering a serene escape from the city.
| Tokyo Foliage | Forecasted Best Viewing Dates |
|---|---|
| For Yellow Leaves (Ginkgo) | 26 November |
| For Red Leaves (Maple) | 29 November |
Best spots in and around Tokyo:
- Meiji Jingu Gaien: Renowned for its ginkgo-lined avenue, where the trees turn a vibrant golden-yellow in mid-November, creating a “golden tunnel” effect that’s perfect for leisurely walks and photography. ⚠️ The area is mid-redevelopment, so expect some construction fencing nearby, and the Meiji Memorial Picture Gallery at the avenue’s head is closed for restoration until May 2027.
- Rikugien Garden: This traditional Japanese garden is famous for its weeping maple trees that turn striking red in late November.
- Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden: One of Tokyo’s largest parks, Shinjuku Gyoen boasts a mix of Japanese and Western gardens, which come alive with brilliant autumn colours.
- Mount Takao: A popular hiking destination just an hour outside of central Tokyo, Mount Takao offers stunning views of both the autumn foliage and the surrounding landscape.
- Koishikawa Korakuen Garden: One of Tokyo’s oldest gardens, Koishikawa Korakuen is a peaceful retreat where you can enjoy the vibrant autumn colours in a traditional setting.
- Hibiya Park: Located in the heart of Tokyo, this park offers a peaceful retreat with its blend of ginkgo, maple, and cherry trees, scenic ponds, and fountains, with peak foliage occurring from late November to early December. They also host the Tokyo Chrysanthemum Exhibition in November.
4. Kanagawa Prefecture
Image credits: nippon.com
In autumn, Kanagawa Prefecture becomes a symphony of colours, where nature’s brilliance is on full display. From the scenic hot spring mountains of Hakone to the historic temples of Kamakura, visitors can experience the enchanting autumn colours across various landscapes.
Top spots to view autumn leaves in Kanagawa:
- Hakone: Famous for its hot springs, Hakone offers stunning autumn foliage around Lake Ashi, with the vibrant colours of the mountains reflecting beautifully in the water.
- Kamakura: Known for its historic temples, Kamakura becomes a picturesque autumn destination, especially at places like Hasedera Temple, where maple trees turn brilliant red.
- Sankeien Garden: This traditional garden in Yokohama showcases elegant autumn colours, with its ponds and historic buildings framed by beautiful red and yellow foliage.
- Odawara Castle: The grounds of Odawara Castle are especially scenic in autumn, where vibrant maple and ginkgo trees add to the beauty of this historic site.
- Oyama: A mountain area popular for hiking, Oyama offers panoramic views of fiery autumn foliage as you ascend its trails.
- Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse: During autumn, this cultural hub hosts the annual Oktoberfest, where the festivities are enhanced by the seasonal beauty of the surrounding trees.
🍁 Refer to Japan Otenki Navigator for the most accurate dates for Kanagawa fall foliage forecasts.
5. Nara Prefecture
Image credits: Visit Nara
Nara, Japan’s ancient capital, is famous for its temples, deer-filled parks, and scenic landscapes. In autumn, the city transforms as red, orange, and gold leaves create a stunning backdrop to its historic sites.
Top spots in Nara to experience the fall season:
- Nara Park: Home to the famous Nara deer and several historic temples, Nara Park is a stunning autumn destination, with its expansive grounds blanketed in vibrant fall foliage.
- Yoshino: Known for its cherry blossoms in spring, Yoshino also offers breathtaking autumn views, with the surrounding mountains turning into a colourful patchwork of red, orange, and yellow.
- Tanzan Shrine: This shrine’s scenic grounds are particularly beautiful in autumn, with its ancient trees and historic architecture providing a picturesque backdrop to the fall colours.
- Mount Wakakusa: A popular spot for panoramic views, Mount Wakakusa’s slopes are covered in colourful autumn leaves, offering stunning vistas of the surrounding landscape.
- Muro-ji Temple: Nestled in the mountains, Muro-ji Temple provides a tranquil setting for enjoying the vibrant fall colours among its historic structures and serene gardens.
- Shosoin Treasure Exhibition: Held at the Todai-ji Temple, this exhibition showcases historic treasures against the backdrop of Nara’s autumn scenery, adding a cultural touch to the seasonal beauty.
🍁 Refer to Japan Otenki Navigator for Nara for the most accurate fall foliage forecasts.
6. Hiroshima Prefecture
Image credits: HIS USA
Hiroshima combines rich history with natural beauty, making it a great destination in autumn. From Miyajima’s Itsukushima Shrine to serene gardens and mountain gorges, the region comes alive with brilliant red and gold leaves.
| Hiroshima Foliage | Forecasted Best Viewing Dates |
|---|---|
| For Yellow Leaves (Ginkgo) | 20 November |
| For Red Leaves (Maple) | 28 November |
Must-visit spots in Hiroshima during the autumn season:
- Miyajima: Home to the iconic floating torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine. Miyajima is especially stunning in autumn. The island’s forested hills and temples glow with vibrant foliage, while Momijidani Park, with nearly 700 maple trees, is a must-visit spot for fiery red leaves.
- Shukkeien Garden: Located in Hiroshima City, Shukkeien Garden offers a peaceful retreat with its beautifully landscaped grounds, where the traditional Japanese garden setting is enhanced by the warm hues of autumn leaves.
- Sandankyo Gorge: Renowned for its dramatic scenery, Sandankyo Gorge is a stunning destination in fall, with its deep ravines and cascading waterfalls surrounded by a brilliant display of autumn foliage.
- Mitaki-dera Temple: This historic temple, nestled in the mountains, is known for its serene atmosphere and vibrant autumn foliage, with colourful leaves creating a striking contrast against its ancient structures.
- Hijiyama Park: Situated in Hiroshima City, Hijiyama Park provides panoramic views of the city and is adorned with beautiful fall colours, making it a great spot for leisurely walks and scenic vistas.
- Hiroshima Flower Festival: Held in Hiroshima’s Peace Memorial Park, this annual event showcases a spectacular array of flowers and plants, complemented by the seasonal beauty of autumn foliage, creating a festive and colourful atmosphere.
7. Nagano Prefecture
Image credits: Activity Japan
Nestled in the heart of Japan’s mountainous region, Nagano Prefecture is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and culture seekers, particularly during the autumn season.
| Nagano Foliage | Forecasted Best Viewing Dates |
|---|---|
| For Yellow Leaves (Ginkgo) | 14 November |
| For Red Leaves (Maple) | 21 November |
Top autumn destinations in Nagano:
- Kamikochi: This stunning alpine valley is renowned for its breathtaking scenery, with clear rivers and majestic peaks providing a perfect canvas for the brilliant reds and oranges of autumn foliage.
- Togakushi: One of the famous koyo spots in Japan is situated in the lush mountains of Mt. Togakushi. It is home to many important Shinto shrines and towering forests that change into beautiful fall colours.
- Kiso Valley (Nakasendo Trail): Walking along this historic trail, you’ll experience charming post towns and scenic landscapes, where the colourful autumn scenery beautifully complements the traditional architecture.
- Zenko-ji Temple: A significant Buddhist temple in Nagano City, Zenko-ji is surrounded by beautiful gardens and forests that turn into a rich tapestry of fall colours, offering a serene backdrop to the temple’s historic architecture.
- Norikura Kogen: This highland area, known for its outdoor activities and scenic beauty, offers panoramic views of autumn foliage from its hiking trails and scenic spots, with the surrounding peaks covered in vibrant hues.
- Obuse: A charming town famous for its chestnut delicacies and autumn festivals celebrating the harvest, making it a delightful destination for a leisurely visit.
8. Yamanashi Prefecture
Image credits: TimeOut
Located at the base of Mount Fuji, Yamanashi Prefecture’s picturesque lakes, dramatic gorges, and serene plateaus transform into a vibrant display of autumn colours each season, making it an exceptional place for viewing autumn foliage.
Top autumn spots in Yamanashi:
- Lake Kawaguchi: Offering stunning views of Mount Fuji, Lake Kawaguchi is particularly enchanting in autumn, with its surrounding trees reflecting brilliant hues of red, orange, and yellow onto the lake. You can celebrate the Fuji Kawaguchiko Autumn Leaves Festival.
- Shosenkyo Gorge: Known for its dramatic rock formations and clear, rushing streams, Shosenkyo Gorge is a popular autumn destination where vibrant foliage contrasts beautifully with the rugged natural landscape.
- Oishi Park: Located along the northern shore of Lake Kawaguchi, Oishi Park’s expansive flower beds and well-maintained gardens showcase a colourful backdrop of autumn foliage against the spectacular views of Mount Fuji.
- Kiyosato Plateau: This highland area offers panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and mountains, with rolling landscapes covered in brilliant autumn colours, making it an ideal spot for hiking and enjoying the view.
- Nishizawa Valley: Renowned for its dramatic and beautiful waterfalls, Nishizawa Valley is a must-visit in autumn, with vibrant fall colours lining the picturesque trails and serene river views.
🍁 Refer to Japan Otenki Navigator for Yamanashi for the most accurate fall foliage forecasts.
9. Tochigi Prefecture
Image credits: COOL JAPAN VIDEOS
Tochigi, in the Kanto region, is a top autumn destination with its mix of culture and nature. From Nikko’s sacred shrines to the waterfalls and fiery foliage around Lake Chuzenji, the prefecture offers some of Japan’s most breathtaking autumn scenery.
Top spots to visit in Tochigi during the fall season:
- Nikko: Famous for its historic temples and shrines, including the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Toshogu Shrine, Nikko has become an autumn destination with its lush forests and vibrant fall colours surrounding these ancient sites.
- Lake Chuzenji: Located in the Nikko National Park, Lake Chuzenji offers stunning reflections of the surrounding mountains and fall foliage in its clear waters, creating a memorable setting.
- Ryuzu Waterfall: Known for its distinctive, dragon-head shape, Ryuzu Waterfall is especially dramatic in autumn, with the surrounding foliage providing a brilliant backdrop to the cascading waters.
- Kegon Falls: One of Japan’s most famous waterfalls, Kegon Falls is a spectacular sight in autumn, framed by fall colours from the surrounding mountains.
- Mount Nasu: This volcanic mountain area offers stunning panoramic views and hiking trails that are enhanced by the colourful autumn foliage, with the surrounding landscapes providing a beautiful contrast as far as the eye can see.
🍁 Refer to Japan Otenki Navigator for Tochigi for the most accurate fall foliage forecasts.
Autumn in Japan FAQs
September to November, with peak colours usually in November.
Late October to early December, depending on the region. The JMC’s 2026 forecast points to a slightly later peak than usual, following a warmer autumn nationwide.
October is better for vibrant autumn colours and comfortable weather. September is still warm, humid, and typhoon-prone.
Late November to early December.
Ranges from 20°C–28°C in September to 8°C–16°C in November.
Kyoto’s red maple leaves are forecast to peak around 11 December 2026, and yellow ginkgo leaves around 27 November — roughly two weeks later than Tokyo.
Hokkaido, typically from mid-to-late September in mountain areas like Daisetsuzan, before the colour sweeps south through central Japan and reaches Kyoto and Kyushu by early December.
Japan’s forecasts track two separate foliage types — red momiji (maple) and yellow icho (ginkgo) — which don’t always peak on the same date, so it’s worth checking both if you’re after a specific colour.
Most spots hold their colour for two to four weeks, so even if you miss the exact peak date, you’ll likely still catch good foliage within a week or two either side.
The JMC’s early-September forecast is a rough guide — it typically issues updated, more precise forecasts as the season gets closer, so it’s worth checking again a few weeks before you travel.
Experience Autumn in Japan!
Autumn in Japan 2026 is your chance to walk under fiery maples, wander through golden ginkgo tunnels, and capture picture-perfect seasonal landscapes. Whether in bustling cities like Tokyo or serene temples in Kyoto, autumn in Japan promises an unforgettable travel experience.
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Happy travels!
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