Autumn Leaf Viewing Archives

If the local parks just don't do it for you, here are some great autumn leaves day trips from Tokyo that will give you all those fall feelings. We've included nine of the most popular options. Autumn leaves give the cherry blossoms a run for their money in our opinion -- and what better way to escape the busy streets of the capital than with a relaxing day trip to enjoy them? Whether you prefer a hike, want an easy stroll, or love seasonal festivals, the perfect autumn destination is just a train ride away from Tokyo. 1: Nikkō: Waterfalls and red, red bridges Peak autumn leaves (Central Nikko): Mid- to late November Peak autumn leaves (Lake Chūzenji): Late October to mid-November 1 hour 50 minutes from Asakusa Station 2-day pass available: (round-trip) (does not incl. limited express fare) A popular day trip throughout the year, Nikkō really comes into its own during fall, with flowing waterfalls and mountains blanketed in golden-hued trees. There are countless gorges, lakes, and mountains to explore here, so take your pick. Kegon Falls provides one of the most stunning views in Japan during autumn, with water rushing down a 97m drop from Lake Chūzenji. This is the highest natural lake in Japan, with views of Mt. Nikkō and Mt. Nantai from the walking path surrounding it (as well as from the ferry). Alternatively, you could visit the Ryūōkyō Gorge and walk along a 6km nature trail with hot springs at each end. Shinkyō Bridge is another popular spot for Tokyo autumn day-trippers, right in central Nikkō. The traditional arched red bridge meets colorful leaves on either end as it crosses the bright-blue Daiyagawa River. Central Nikkō tends to peak slightly later than the falls and lake, as the altitude is lower. Pro tip: The Nikko Pass includes all travel between Tokyo (Asakusa), Nikkō, and the area around Kegon Falls and Ryūōkyō Gorge -- which saves a bit of money and trouble over individual ticket-buying. 2. Okutama: Riverside walks Peak autumn leaves: Late November to early December 2 hours from Shinjuku Station (one way) Okutama may be more popular as a summer destination thanks to all its adventure activities, but autumn is a stunning time to see the area -- towns string persimmons up to dry, and weatherwise it's still pleasant enough for a picnic. Enjoy the mountain views of Okutama while you stroll alongside the lake or rivers, feeling a million miles away from the frenetic streets of Tokyo. The Hikawa Keikoku Valley is a few minutes' walk from Okutama Station, and there is a 4km promenade along the Nippara River, Tama River, and Mt. Atago, with stunning views of the surrounding autumn leaves. With views of Mt. Kumotori, Mt. Kawanori, and Mt. Gozenyama, you won't be short of breathtaking moments, especially if you are a fan of hiking. You can take the 10km Mukashi-Michi Trail from the station, which takes you towards the lake; it is a largely paved route, with some steep sections (catch a bus back from the lake if you prefer). 3. Mt. Takao: Memorable momiji and scenic trails Peak autumn leaves: Late November to early December 55 minutes from Shinjuku Station (one way) The mountains of Tokyo are an ideal spot to see the fall colors and don't require too much strenuous exercise -- especially if you opt for the ropeways. Mt. Takao, on the outskirts of Tokyo, is listed (by the Michelin Green Guide, no less) as one of the best places to see momiji (ornamental maple leaves). Hike the scenic trails, check out Biwa Falls, visit Takao Yakuo-in Temple and the Ju-itchome Teahouse, get a delicious lunch, gaze upon the summit of Mt. Fuji (on a clear day), and soak your weary bones in an onsen. There's also the Mt. Takao Momiji Festival. 4. Mt. Mitake: Classic Tokyo autumn hike Peak autumn leaves: Late November to early December 1 hour 20 minutes from Shinjuku Station (plus 10-minute bus to ropeway) (train one way); (bus one way) Mt. Mitake is a bit further to the west than the much more crowded Mt. Takao, but still keeps the crinkle of leaves underfoot, tranquil shrines, moss-covered stones, and cascading waterfalls. During autumn, there is also a special illumination near the station. 5. Lake Kawaguchiko: Views of Mt. Fuji Peak autumn leaves: Late November 2 hours from Shinjuku Station (one way) What better way to see Mt. Fuji than surrounded by stunning autumn leaves? One of the highlights in Kawaguchiko -- which is at the base of Mt. Fuji -- is the Maple Corridor (near the Itchiku Kubota Art Museum). The tunnel -- famed for getting an iconic Mt. Fuji autumn shot -- is only a 20-minute walk from Oishi Park. There's an annual festival with food stalls, souvenirs, crafts, and more. The area is also illuminated with LED lights into the night and looks truly incredible, making this a good spot to visit later in the day. Pro tip: If you'd like to take it easy, you can book (this one includes the famous Chureito Pagoda). 6. Kamakura: Oceans and temples Peak autumn leaves: Early to mid-December 1 hour from Shinjuku Station (one way) It helps that Kamakura is an awesome place to visit anyway, but throw in some spectacular autumnal leaves and you've got an extra-great day out. Due to the coastal location, the autumn leaves in Kamakura start to turn a little later, meaning the best time to visit is around late November to mid-December. The famous temples and shrines of the area all look amazing with a backdrop of gold and red leaves, so be sure to visit Kōtoku-in Temple -- the home of the giant Buddha -- as well as the pathway up to the main hall of Hasedera Temple, which is lined with beautifully lit maple trees in the evening. Meigetsu-in Temple is famed for a unique view through a circular window into the bright autumnal foliage, and Engaku-ji Temple is surrounded by aged trees glowing with fall colors. There are also multiple hiking routes through the area if you want to get right into the forests. Pro tip: There are some really good available. 7. Hakone: Museums, mountains, and more Peak autumn leaves: Late November to early December 1 hour 30 minutes from Shinjuku Station (one way) or get the Hakone Free Pass Home to hot springs galore, onsen eggs, mountains, and really old teahouses, Hakone is one of the most popular day trips from Tokyo no matter the time of year. But in autumn, something a bit more fiery is added into the mix. Hakone is a nature-based escape, so you can find plenty of red leaves on hiking trails, as well as around Gōra Park and the Hakone Open Air Museum. Head higher up the mountains to the Pola Museum and be treated to even redder hues. That's not to say Lake Ashi won't be getting a touch of crimson, but the change will come slightly earlier than the higher areas. 8. Shuzenji Onsen: Hot springs and bamboo groves Peak autumn leaves: Early December 2 hours from Tokyo Station (one way) Rent a kimono, hop in a rickshaw, and bask in the tranquility of this sleepy onsen town. Shuzenji Onsen is known for its crimson foliage in autumn, when many of the already beautiful local sights get a dust of gold. Here you'll find one of the oldest hot-spring baths in Izu, Tokko no Yu (look, don't touch); a bamboo grove down a narrow path; a vermillion "lovers" bridge; and Shuzenji Temple, which holds events throughout the year. You can take the Odoriko train directly to Shuzenji Station from Tokyo, but the journey is even quicker -- around 1 hour 30 minutes -- if you grab the Shinkansen from Tokyo Station and change to the Izuhakone Tetsudo-Sunzu Line at Mishima Station. Pro tip: A special bus liner for only operates during the autumn season. 9. Takasaki: Darumas and shrines Peak autumn leaves: Late November to early December 1 hour 50 minutes from Shinjuku Station (one way) Takasaki, located in Gunma Prefecture, is best known for its famous shrines and being the birthplace of daruma (a traditional doll that brings good luck). Shorinzan Darumaji Temple, which is a 20-minute bus ride from JR Takasaki Station, has a beautiful display of all these bearded red dolls. During the fall, the leaves turn a vibrant red and orange, perfectly complementing the color of the daruma and making an impressive photograph. Haruna Shrine, Takasaki's grandest shrine which was built over 1000 years ago, is another great spot to admire the red leaves and learn more about the area's history. For those willing to venture out a bit more, you can take a 6-minute bus ride to the nearby Haruna River and see more autumn foliage against the water. While we do our best to ensure it's correct, information is subject to change. Autumn leaves forecasts sourced from the Japan Meteorological Corporation. Post first published in 2017 and last updated in September 2024, by Jane Pipkin.

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