Bookmark this guide for Japan’s Fall Foliage Forecast in 2024! Plus the best times to visit top viewing spots in each prefecture 🍁
Autumn in Japan is a vibrant display of colours and cultural events. The fall foliage, known as koyo (紅葉), spreads across the nation, drawing visitors from far and wide. Imagine the crisp, cool air carrying the scent of the season, while a crunchy carpet of fallen leaves lines the pathways. Buildings both old and new, of shrines and skyscrapers, are set against a backdrop of fiery maple leaves and golden ginkgo trees.
If you’re planning to experience this magical sight of autumn in Japan, here’s your comprehensive guide on the Japan Fall Foliage Forecast, the best times to visit, weather conditions, and the top viewing spots in each prefecture to enjoy this picturesque scene in 2024.
💜 Stay Up To Date:
– Best Things To Do In Osaka 2024 (Including Hidden Gems)
– 2024 Best Hotels In Osaka, Japan For Every Budget
– Best Time To Visit Japan 2024: Your Month-By-Month Guide
Travel Wednesdays: Save BIG with the best flight & hotel deals every Wednesday!

Planning on booking your flights and hotels to Japan (or literally anywhere else!) for your next holiday? You’re just in time to get S$100 OFF and up to 20% UPSIZED cashback (no cap) on hotels, flights, and more with Trip.com, Klook, Agoda, Booking.com, and Expedia via YouTrip Perks!
Autumn in Japan: 2024 Fall Foliage Forecast — Check out this page for how to redeem your YouTrip exclusive deal every Wednesday from now till 23 October 2024!
Autumn in Japan: Japan Weather & Best Months to Visit
The autumn season in Japan typically spans from September to November, but the best time to visit Japan is from late October to early December to witness the vivid fall colours. The timing of the foliage varies by region, with northern areas like Hokkaido experiencing the change first, followed by central and southern parts of the country.

- September: Early autumn marks the beginning of the season in northernmost regions like Hokkaido. Expect to see some light hues of orange and yellow as the season begins. It can still be quite warm and humid. This month is also part of the typhoon season, so there can be heavy rains and strong winds.
- October: By mid-October, the colours intensify, especially in regions like Tohoku and the Japan Alps. The weather starts to cool down. Humidity levels drop, making it more comfortable for outdoor activities. This is an ideal time to visit for those looking to experience Japan’s temples and gardens surrounded by vibrant colours.
- November: By late autumn, temperatures are discernibly cooler. Central and southern regions, including Kyoto, Osaka, and Tokyo, experience peak foliage from mid-to-late November. This is the best month to visit Japan for those looking to experience Japan’s fall scenery.
- December: Some southern regions, such as Kyushu and Shikoku, continue to showcase autumn colours in early December, although they tend to be less vivid by this time.
Autumn in Japan: 2024 Fall Foliage Forecast — Find the best hotels in Osaka, Japan here
Japan Fall Foliage Forecast 2024 (1st forecast)
On 3 September 2024, the Japan Meteorological Corporation (JMC), released its 1st forecast for the beginning of autumn foliage along with the estimated best viewing dates for red leaves (maple trees) and yellow leaves (ginkgo trees) in each prefecture. Check it out below! 👇
🍁 Forecast for red leaves viewing dates:

📍 Location | Forecast for red leaves | Average date for red leaves |
---|---|---|
Sapporo | 8/11 | 28/10 |
Aomori | 15/11 | 13/11 |
Sendai | 27/11 | 21/11 |
Tokyo | 1/12 | 28/11 |
Kanazawa | 30/11 | 24/11 |
Nagano | 23/11 | 12/11 |
Nagoya | 3/12 | 28/11 |
Kyoto | 12/12 | 5/12 |
Osaka | 4/12 | 1/12 |
Wakayama | 13/12 | 6/12 |
Hiroshima | 29/11 | 22/11 |
Kochi | 10/12 | 2/12 |
Fukuoka | 10/12 | 1/12 |
Kagoshima | 14/12 | 15/12 |
Source: Japan Meteorological Corporation
Autumn in Japan: 2024 Fall Foliage Forecast — Find the best Tokyo hotel for every budget here
🍂 Forecast for yellow leaves viewing dates:

📍 Location | Forecast for yellow leaves | Average date for yellow leaves |
---|---|---|
Sapporo | 6/11 | 4/11 |
Aomori | 7/11 | 2/11 |
Sendai | 29/11 | 23/11 |
Tokyo | 26/11 | 23/11 |
Kanazawa | 12/11 | 10/11 |
Nagano | 15/11 | 10/11 |
Nagoya | 19/11 | 18/11 |
Kyoto | 28/11 | 24/11 |
Osaka | 25/11 | 22/11 |
Wakayama | 27/11 | 23/11 |
Hiroshima | 21/11 | 15/11 |
Kochi | 16/11 | 15/11 |
Fukuoka | 28/11 | 20/11 |
Kagoshima | 28/11 | 25/11 |
Source: Japan Meteorological Corporation
Autumn in Japan: 2024 Fall Foliage Forecast — Check out the best things to do in Osaka here
Best Places to View Autumn Leaves in Japan:
Japan’s unique geography allows for an extended fall foliage season, from the northernmost point of Hokkaido to the southern reaches of Kyushu. Below is a curated list of the best places to view autumn leaves across various prefectures in Japan.
🍁 Estimated best time to view at Japan’s top viewing spots in each prefecture
📍 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 |
Dates pulled from various sources for each location.
Autumn in Japan: 2024 Fall Foliage Forecast — Find the best things to do in Kyoto here
1. Hokkaido

Image Credits: Yunomi.life
Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost island, is a nature lover’s paradise, famous for its breathtaking landscapes, rugged mountains, and vast national parks. It’s also the first region in Japan to experience the autumn season, with the leaves beginning to change as early as late September. The crisp air, open spaces, and dramatic scenery make Hokkaido one of the best destinations in the country for viewing fall foliage.

Image credits: Japan Starts Here
Here are some of the 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 this link for the most accurate dates for the viewing spots on Otenki Navigator Autumn Foliage Navigator for Hokkaido’s fall foliage.
Autumn in Japan: 2024 Fall Foliage Forecast — Here are some must-buy items you can’t miss at Don Quijote
2. Kyoto Prefecture

Image credits: Japan Travel
Kyoto, the former capital of Japan, is one of the most iconic cities in the country, steeped in history, culture, and natural beauty. Known for its serene temples, traditional tea houses, and meticulously designed gardens, Kyoto is a destination where the changing seasons are celebrated with great reverence. The city with its ancient temples and tranquil garden transforms into a canvas of vibrant red, orange, and yellow hues in autumn.
🍁 Kyoto Foliage | Forecasted Best Viewing Dates |
---|---|
For Yellow Leaves (Ginkgo) | 28 November |
For Red Leaves (Maple) | 12 December |
Here are the 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.
Autumn in Japan: 2024 Fall Foliage Forecast — Thinking of making the switch from SGD to Yen? Here’s how to capitalise on the JPY right now!
Tokyo Prefecture

Image credits: Japan Travel
Though Tokyo is known for its skyscrapers, neon-lit streets, and bustling atmosphere, the city also boasts a surprising number of peaceful, scenic spots where nature flourishes. In autumn, Tokyo’s parks, gardens, and nearby mountains become one of the most picturesque places in Japan with the fall foliage, offering residents and visitors a serene escape from the urban hustle.
🍁 Tokyo Foliage | Forecasted Best Viewing Dates |
---|---|
For Yellow Leaves (Ginkgo) | 26 November |
For Red Leaves (Maple) | 1 December |
Here are some of the best spots in and around Tokyo to immerse yourself in the beauty of fall foliage:
- Meiji Jingu Gaien: Renowned for its ginkgo-lined avenue, where the trees turn a vibrant golden-yellow in mid-November, creating a stunning “golden tunnel” effect that’s perfect for leisurely walks and photography.
- 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.
Autumn in Japan: 2024 Fall Foliage Forecast — Check out this 14-day Japan itinerary around Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka!
Kanagawa Prefecture
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.

Image credits: nippon.com
Here are some 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 this Official link by Japan Otenki Navigator for the most accurate dates for Kanagawa fall foliage forecasts of popular viewing spots.
Autumn in Japan: 2024 Fall Foliage Forecast — Wondering when to plan your trip to Japan? Here’s a month-by-month guide on the best time to visit Japan
Nara Prefecture
Nara Prefecture, Japan’s ancient capital, offers a rich tapestry of historical and natural beauty that shines especially brightly in autumn. This region is renowned for its serene temples, lush parks, and picturesque landscapes, which are transformed into vibrant displays of red, orange, and gold as the leaves change colour.

Image credits: Visit Nara
Here’s a look at some of the 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 this official link by Japan Otenki Navigator for Nara‘s most accurate fall foliage forecasts of popular viewing spots.
Autumn in Japan: 2024 Fall Foliage Forecast — Check out this Universal Studios Japan (USJ) guide for better planning
Hiroshima Prefecture
Hiroshima Prefecture, known for its poignant history and stunning landscapes, offers a diverse array of autumn experiences. From the iconic Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima Island to tranquil gardens and scenic gorges, Hiroshima transforms into a vibrant tapestry of fall colours, providing a perfect backdrop for exploration and reflection.

Image credits: HIS USA
🍁 Hiroshima Foliage | Forecasted Best Viewing Dates |
---|---|
For Yellow Leaves (Ginkgo) | 21 November |
For Red Leaves (Maple) | 29 November |
Here are some must-visit spots in Hiroshima during the autumn season:
- Miyajima: Famous for its iconic floating torii gate of Itsukushima, Miyajima Island becomes even more picturesque in autumn, with its lush forested hillsides and serene temples framed by vibrant fall foliage. Another notable place to visit is Momijidani Park, a gorgeous park at the foot of the Misen Primeval Forest on Miyajima with close to 700 Momiji maple trees.
- 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.
Autumn in Japan: 2024 Fall Foliage Forecast — Here’s a JR Pass 101 guide for everything you need to know
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) | 15 November |
For Red Leaves (Maple) | 23 November |
Check out some of the 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 sports 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.
Autumn in Japan: 2024 Fall Foliage Forecast — Top up your virtual Suica card with YouTrip via Apple Pay for seamless payments! Here’s how.
Yamanashi Prefecture
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.

Image credits: TimeOut
Here’s a look at some of Yamanashi’s top autumn spots:
- 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. There, you can celebrate one of the most popular autumn festivals in the country, 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 this official link by Japan Otenki Navigator for Yamanashi’s most accurate fall foliage forecasts of popular viewing spots.
Autumn in Japan: 2024 Fall Foliage Forecast — Here are the best ways to save money while visiting Japan
Tochigi Prefecture
Known for its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty, a stunning destination for autumn travellers. Located in the Kanto region, Tochigi offers a diverse array of places to check out, from sacred shrines to cascading waterfalls – all of which are beautifully adorned with vibrant fall foliage. Whether you’re exploring the historic town of Nikko or admiring the dramatic scenery of Lake Chuzenji, Tochigi offers a captivating autumn experience.

Image credits: COOL JAPAN VIDEOS
Here are some of the 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 eyes can see.
🍁 Refer to this official link by Japan Otenki Navigator for Tochigi‘s most accurate fall foliage forecasts of popular viewing spots.
Autumn in Japan: 2024 Fall Foliage Forecast — Here are the best autumn destinations to visit in Japan
Experience autumn in Japan!

Autumn in Japan is truly a spectacular time, with the whole country offering picturesque landscapes drenched in vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows. Whether you’re exploring the serene temples of Kyoto, the urban parks of Tokyo, or the vast wilderness of Hokkaido, there’s no shortage of incredible locations to experience the fall foliage. With 2024’s foliage forecast looking promising, now is the perfect time to start planning your autumn adventure in Japan.
So if you’re looking for a go-to travel card, sign up for your complimentary YouTrip card today with <YTBLOG5> and get FREE S$5 in your account! Then, head over to our YouTrip Perks page for exclusive offers and promotions — we promise you won’t regret it. For more great tips and articles like this, join our Telegram (@YouTripSG) and subscribe to our free weekly newsletter here or down below.
And while you’re at it, why not join the conversation with thousands of #YouTroopers in our very own Community Telegram Group @YouTripSquad? Get tips and tricks to everything YouTrip including exclusive invites to exciting events and experiences, & be part of the #YouTripSquad! 💜
And now, you’re ready.
Related Articles
2024 Best Hotels In Osaka, Japan For Every Budget
Best Time To Visit Japan 2024: Your Month-By-Month Guide
Best Things To Do In Osaka 2024 (Including Hidden Gems)

