While cherry blossom season in Japan is a popular period for tourists to visit, another season that is highly anticipated among visitors to Japan is the autumn season. With a medley of warm colours that is sure to stun, experiencing the fall foliage in Japan is another breathtaking sight to behold and one you must experience.

If you’ve missed out on booking your tickets this season for spring, consider marking your calendars for autumn. A sight like this is something you definitely do not want to miss out on!

We share with you a forecast of the best dates to visit, as well as the recommended cities and their various viewing spots.

Photo Credit: ZEKKEI Japan

#1 HOKKAIDO

Famous for the natural hot springs, skiing areas and volcanoes, the autumn foliage season typically begins and peaks first on the north-most island of Hokkaido. Without a doubt, enjoying the fall sceneries here will be utterly jaw-dropping and beautiful.

Best Viewing Spots:
Daisetsuzan National Park – If you wish to avoid large crowds of tourists, this is the perfect location. In addition to the fall foliage, this national park boasts other sights like volcanoes, mountains, lakes for you to admire and even a hot spring for you to soak in.

Shiretoko – A popular location due to its reputation as a UNESCO world heritage site, head over to Shiretoko Five Lakes and Shiretoko Pass to view the autumn sights.

Hokkaido University – Autumn greets the university through a line of 70 gingko trees that turn into an elegant golden colour. Consider visiting at night as well, the trees are illuminated which gives it a more enchanted look.

Kosetsu-en – Take a stroll through the garden here, which is also the only government-designated cultural-asset, and enjoy the autumn leaves on an estimated 150 trees. Look out for the Hakodate MOMI-G Festa as well, a festival where you can don a kimono and take in the views,

Best Viewing Period: Mid-September to Late October

Photo Credit: Hitachi Seaside Park

#2 KANTO

Kanto is a broad region that includes the capital city of Tokyo and seven other districts such as Chiba and Kanagawa.

Best Viewing Spots:
Nasu Kogen – This is a great location for people looking to escape the metropolitan lifestyle for a bit. There is the option of taking a cable car up to Tyausu Dake Mountain to enjoy the view here.

Tanigawadake – A well-known location for tourists to visit for pictures of trees filled with warm golden leaves is Ichinokura.

Ibaraki – Visit Hitachi Seaside Park for its beautiful kochia, that change from green to a gorgeous red colour, as well as an amusement park. Also not to be missed is Fukuroda Falls.

Best Viewing Period: Late October to Early December

Photo Credit: hisgo by H.I.S. International Tours (NY) Inc.

#3 KYUSHU

If you like the scenic countryside, then Kyushu is a must-visit. It boasts magnificent sights to see and great hospitality by warm-hearted locals.

Best Viewing Spots:
Takachiho Gorge – An impressive sight to behold with waterfalls and the warm-hued leaves of trees framing it, autumn is a great time to take a stroll here.

Ohori Park – Holding a diversity of trees including azalea and rosebay, this park is located in central Fukuoka.

Maizuru Park – The lookout spot here offers a gorgeous view of maidenhair and maple trees.

Best Viewing Period: Early November to Early December

Photo Credits: Must-see Japan

#4 AOMORI

If you enjoy looking at bodies of water, Aomori is the perfect escapade away from the city for you as it has awe-inspiring views of shores, lakes and mountains for you to take in.

Best Viewing Spots:
Lake Towada – The best way to fully enjoy the sights here is through the sightseeing boat cruise, giving you a panaramic view of the multi-coloured trees and the expansive lake.

Hirosaki Park – Wander around the park and visit other sites such as the Hirosaki Castle, Gokoku Shrine, and Hirosaki Botanical Garden. This is another spot for you to consider visiting at night.

Best Viewing Period: Early October to Mid November

Photo Credits: Cool Photo Japan

#5 TOKYO

The ever-busy capital city offers both modern and traditional sights, with sky-high buildings to historic shrines. There is something for everyone in this bustling city, whether you’re going around sightseeing or visiting the eateries for a break.

Best Viewing Spots:
Yoyogi Park – Often packed with people, this park is a popular spot for both locals and tourists to take in the fall scenery due to the beautiful gingko trees that are coloured warm gold and bright red.

Meouro River – A popular spot particularly during the cherry blossom season, this is also a great location for sightseeing during the autumn season.

Ueno Park – Do not miss out on visiting this park as it boasts more than 8,000 trees. With that much greenery, it will definitely be a breathtaking sight during autumn.

Rikugien Garden – Visit this garden at night and enjoy the entrancing views with its numerous maple trees transforming the garden during autumn.

Best Viewing Period: Mid-November to Early December

#6 KYOTO

Previously the capital of Japan, Kyoto offers an abundance of tradition, history and culture with its gorgeous backdrops and cultural sites.

Best Viewing Spots:
Eikando Temple – One of the more visited spots in Kyoto, the temple is home to over a thousand maple trees that turn into a stunning reddish-brown colour during autumn season.

Kitano Tenmangu Shrine – Housing 300 maple trees, this is not only an excellent spot to visit for fall, as it is also rich in history as the shrine was built in 947AD. Catch local students visiting the shrine to pray for good exam results.

Best Viewing Period: Mid-November to Early December

Photo Credits: Nikko Yumoto

#7 NIKKO

Another location that is popular for its history and culture, Nikko is a small city that is home to numerous magnificent temples and shrines.

Best Viewing Spots:
Lake Yunoko – Catch the stunning views and breathtaking colours of the leaves being reflected on the serene waters of the lake here, this is a sight to not miss out on.

Senjogahara – One of the less populated locations, take trek along the vast marshland and enjoy the remarkable fall colours offered at Senjoghara.

Best Viewing Period: Early October to Late November

#8 NARA

Mention Nara and people will more often than not mention the famous and well-liked Nara Deer Park, where deers are free to roam. The city also offers historical sites and artwork that go back to the 8th century, when Nara was still Japan’s capital.

Best Viewing Spots:
Nara Park – Established in 1880, Nara Park is one of Japan’s oldest parks, stretching across 1,600 acres. Apart from the adorable deers, the park also offers sights such as the Momiji-lined canal and Kasuga Shrine for you to enjoy the fall foliage.

Tanzan Shrine – Originally constructed as a Buddhist temple in the Asuka Period, it was later turned into a shrine in the Meji Period. Visit the pagoda for an expansive view of the brightly saturated leaves.

Best Viewing Period: Early November to Early December

Photo Credits: Kawaguchiko.net

#9 LAKE KAWAGUCHI

Another famous site in Japan, Mount Fuji is an attraction that every visitor should not miss out on. Imagine capturing the magnificence of the mountain towering over the saturated warm hues of the trees lining the water, it will surely be the highlight of your trip.

Best Viewing Spots:
Maple Corridor – Home to many maple trees, and the Koyo Tunnel, which offers an impressive view of Mount Fuji and the fall leaves in combination.

Best Viewing Period: Late October to Late November

#10 HAKONE

Known as a hot springs’ heaven, Hakone is a town surrounded by mountains and resorts, as well as scenic views of Mount Fuji. Other nature attractions include Lake Ashi, Hakone Ropeway, and Owakudani, a volcanic valley.

Best Viewing Spots:
Gora Park – Visit this western-style botanical garden and admire the flowers along with other sites such as the greenhouses, a fountain and a tea house.

Lake Ashi – Enjoy the autumn scenery and catch a peek of Mount Fuji at the largest lake in Kanagawa Prefecture on one of the boats that cruise along the lake.

Best Viewing Period: Early November to Late November

Photo Credit: Masayoshi Hirose

#11 SHIZUOKA

Home to Mount Fuji, the highest peak in Japan, Shizuoka is a medium-sized city on central Honshu’s Pacific coast that is known for tea.

Best Viewing Spots:
Shuzenji River – Stroll along the river and take in all the brightly coloured leaves while enjoying the relaxing sounds of the water crashing against the rocks by the river here. Make sure to pass by Katsura Bridge as well, the vivid red colours will make for stunning pictures.

Okuni Shrine – Another scenic nature spot, this ancient shrine is located in Shuchi County and is visited by numerous locals who are greeted by brilliantly coloured autumn leaves right at the entrance.

Best Viewing Period: Mid-November to Late November

Photo Credit: FUN! JAPAN

#12 NAGOYA

Nagoya is Japan’s third most-populated urban city and houses many famous gardens such as Ninomaru Garden, Shirotori Garden, Hisaya-Odori Garden Flarie and Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Gardens. Nagoya is definitely a city you want to visit to catch the fall foliage.

Best Viewing Spots:
Nagoya Castle: This is a must-visit site, regardless of whether you are going during the autumn season or not. Capture the multi-coloured trees framing the traditional castle and catch the autumn festival, this is another sight not to be missed in Japan.

Higashiyama Zoo and Botanical Gardens: Head over to this zoo and gardens for their autumn festival if you are travelling with young children, they will surely be entertained by the animal feeding sessions and autumn light up at night!

Best Viewing Period: Mid November to Early December

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Note: The above dates are an approximation based on the past five years’ cherry blossoms periods. It is hard to predict the exact days as weather forecasts are ever-changing. It is, however, important to book your air tickets and accommodation months in advance to avoid exorbitant peak period prices, and to secure your necessary rooms and hotel stays.

Located on the island of Shikoku, Kochi is rather out of the way for many which are what deters tourists from visiting. But what this humble area in Japan treated us to was nature in its most pristine form and its fascinating yet exciting drinking culture.

Kochi is blessed with beautiful and abundant nature such as the Shimanto River, Niyodo River and the Kuroshio coastline. From clear-blue lakes to autumn leaves and silhouettes depicting a never-ending sea of mountains, Kochi truly impressed us from leaf to pebble.

And when it comes to eating and drinking, these folks are anything but simple. Drinking alcohol is a huge deal here and eating good food is more of a lifestyle here rather than a necessity—something we can definitely resonate with. Bonito, a close relative of tuna and mackerel, is also hugely popular here and can be found in literally every restaurant and izakaya.

We had a lovely opportunity to go on a 5D4N adventure through Kochi, seeing and experiencing all sorts of fun things, eating amazing food and even getting hands down to make our own paper and harvest our own sea salt. For the curious traveller, here are 12 reasons why Kochi has to be on your next Japan itinerary.

TOSAWO SHOTEN

Specialising in soba, Tosawo Shoten is an excellent place to begin your trip proper as their delicious yet modest bowls guarantee comfort that nicely combats the cold, and gives diners a proper introduction to some of the prefecture’s local delicacies.

Unlike the soba dishes we’re used to, we had ours in a soupy broth made using a light dashi and further intensified with whitebait—a predominant ingredient used in many of Kochi’s esteemed dishes—with a few slices of fishcake added. This type of broth is commonly used in udon rather than soba.

KOCHI CASTLE

Kochi Castle is one of the few remaining original castles in Japan to have survived both the Edo and Meiji eras and is worth a visit to gain a deeper understanding of Kochi’s history. Much of the castle itself has been demolished but it still remains pretty well preserved nonetheless, in fact, Kochi Castle is one of the only 3 castles left in Japan that still has its main gate fully untouched.

A rather interesting concept, the design of the castle isn’t in any way straightforward. Having been designed by the lord’s wife back in the day, the design of the castle was largely intended to confuse and mislead invaders, which explains its many awkward and random structural placements. Kochi Castle is located just a short walk away from Kochijomae tram stop.

HIROME ICHIBA MARKET

When visiting Kochi, it is paramount to pay a visit to Hirome Ichiba at least once (or thrice) for a meal. Similar to the hawker centres we have back home, this unique market located in Kochi’s city centre that houses over 60 stalls, many of which are either hole-in-a-wall restaurants or izakaya. The vibe and energy here is amazing and literally everywhere you turn, you’re likely to see locals socialising, eating, drinking (a lot) and having a swell time.

Many stalls there serve beer, sake, and shochu in addition to food, so having a drink together with your finger food of fancy is highly recommended.

The food options here are plenty with bonito being one of the more prominent items on display. We went for a pretty good selection of fan-favourites which included grilled Shimanto Pork, Bonito, Tuna Sashimi as well as a local river ebi that’s deep-fried and enjoyed as a beer accompaniment.

YASUI VALLEY – HIRYUU WATERFALL, NIYODO RIVER

A treat for the senses for any nature lover, the Niyodo River is something to definitely check out. The water takes on a blue-hue which is partly influenced by the naturally bluish rocks at the base of the river and the water itself is crystal clear.

Walking through the forest and toward the Hiryuu Waterfall, the experience was one filled with tranquillity and relaxation. Coupled with the autumn breeze on our backs and surrounded by the multicoloured autumn foliage, appreciating nature never felt better. During the summer, many people drive down here for picnics and barbecues and even make it a point to take a dip in the river.

MIYANOMAE PARK – COSMOS FESTIVAL

At Miyanomae Park during autumn, bask in a sea of pinkish beauty at the Cosmos Festival, a celebration of the flowers of the region in full bloom. During the festival, there are also food tents set up, allowing you to get your fill of some local cuisine as well as a series of performances for visitors.

Patronised heavily by young couples, this scenic spot is great for photos and would make for the perfect backdrop for a gorgeous couple photo for the ‘gram’.

TAISHO-KEN – UNAGI RESTAURANT

Just a short drive away from Miyanomae Park is 106-year-old unagi-centric restaurant Taisho-ken. The restaurant is currently run by 4th generation owner, Mr Masahiro Wada, who makes it his life mission to perfect the art of serving proper unagi cuisine the way his family has been doing it for over a century now. He claims that he is still far from achieving that, but we beg to differ.

Choosing the lunch set allows you to savour unagi in 3 different varieties—grilled, slathered with tare and served over rice, cooked within a tamago, and in a salad. Grilled to perfection and glazed in that perfectly balanced tare, we dare admit that their unagi is one of the best that we’ve had. Make no mistake, making the trip down for a meal here is well worth the journey, the time and the price.

HAMACHO – DINE AND BE ENTERTAINED BY A GEISHA

Geishas are a dying tradition in Japan and nowadays you can literally only find a number of actual ones that still exist—under the radar of course. Yet, over at Hamacho, a traditional Japanese high-class restaurant, a number of geishas are still allowed to perform, drink and interact with guests.

The food served here for 1 or 2 people is typically kaiseki, a massive platter of individual small components featuring a host of Kochi’s local delicacies and seasonal produce as well. But should you dine in a bigger group, they would serve a sawachi platter which is much larger.

Our behemoth of a platter comprised several types of fish, seafood and even whale. Fancy the opportunity to play games and drink with a real-life geisha? Feel free to express your interest to any of the staff and they will gladly come over to entertain you. However, language is a barrier so you may need an interpreter.

QRAUD: TOSAWASHI KOGEIMURA – PAPER-MAKING

Paper plays a big part in all of our lives—well, before computers and tablets anyway—but how often does anyone stop to wonder how the stuff is made? In Japan, paper-making is more than just a means of generating income, it’s an art.

If you’re someone artsy and enjoys getting hands-on, we reckon that paper-making will definitely be right up your alley. Over at hotel QRAUD Tosawashi Kogeimura Hotel, they offer a variety of workshops with paper-making being one of them.

KURE-TAISHO MARKET

Perhaps Kochi’s very own, smaller scale Tsukiji Fish Market, what this seafood market offers is truly a treat for any seafood or fresh fish lover. The concept is pretty much the same in that you go around selecting your item of choice and choose whether you wish to have it sliced in sashimi form or grilled with some light seasoning. There are also many other stalls selling grilled meat skewers and other types of tidbits.

Kure-Taisho Market has gained considerable popularity over the years with many people from all corners of Japan flocking over to have a taste of their bonito.

KUROSHIO TOWN – SALT HARVESTING

Salt is such a vital seasoning and is what makes food tasty. Yet, back home we never ever think about how salt is made since the majority of the time we depend on store-bought ones. Over at Kuroshio Town, residing along the vast and beautiful coastline are small family-owned facilities that devote themselves to the craft and art that is sea salt harvesting.

The particular place that we visited called Tosa no Shiomaru specialises in ‘sunshine salt’, which is naturally derived sea salt harvested using only sunlight and the coastal breeze—nothing else. The experience itself was a rather fascinating one as we were taught how about the fundamentals of salt as an ingredient and how different the effects and taste of salt can be depending on the amount of tampering it receives.

MUTEMUKA SAKE DISTILLERY – JAPAN’S FIRST CHESTNUT SAKE DISTILLERY

Everybody knows sake to be a rice-based wine and one synonymous with Japanese cuisine and Japan’s culture. At Mutemuka Sake Distillery in Kochi, they take a slightly different approach to making theirs, using locally grown chestnuts in addition to rice.

The flavour derived from Mutemuka’s chestnut sake is a lot more complex than regular, purer sakes in that it takes on a distinct nutty aroma coupled with a subtle savoury aroma. We had the pleasure of sampling a few varieties of their sake and of course, had to buy a few to take home.

CHIAKI NABEIYAKI RAMEN 

There are so many amazing flavours that one can unlock out of food simply by cooking it in a claypot. For one, its primary benefit is that it locks in heat in for a longer period of time, allowing food to stay hot longer and more importantly, lets the ingredients develop more intense flavours. The same can be observed in many Chinese dishes, and therefore comes as no surprise that cooking ramen in a claypot will guarantee one heck of a rich, multi-dimensional flavour profile.

You will find many places selling nabeiyaki (claypot ramen) all over Kochi but the one that we visited—which we strongly suggest you do too—is Chiaki Nabiyaki. The standard nabeiyaki comprises rather simply, tender yet firm egg noodles, bits of fish cake and an egg cracked over top right before serving.

As expected, the flavour was intense but balanced well enough such that it didn’t become difficult to gulp down and the egg stirred in not only thickened the broth but also added a heightened richness to the overall dish. A brilliant alternative to izakaya-style ramen and one that we highly recommend trying when in Kochi.

This post was brought to you by Kochi Tourism Board

While the cherry blossoms season—or Hanami—may be one of the most anticipated events of the year in Japan, the annual autumn fall foliage certainly does not lose out with its magical fall colours either. During this period, many travellers plan their routes around the best viewing spots just to catch the gorgeous pumpkin-orange hues of the fall landscape.

If you have yet to visit Japan during the autumn season, then this is something you definitely should be putting in your travel bucket list. It is impossible to put to words how stunning the golden autumn scenery is and only viewing it in person can do the place justice.

In this guide, we share the Autumn Fall Foliage Forecast for 2018 and the best places you can view them in Japan. Mark your calendars now!

Photo Credit: Zekkei Japan

#1 HOKKAIDO

Known for its unspoilt nature and natural hot springs, Hokkaido has always been on the top of the list when it comes to nature viewing, so you can be sure that the fall foliage is nothing short of impressive.

Best Viewing Spots:
Shiretoko – A UNESCO world heritage site, Shiretoko Five Lakes and Shiretoko Pass are two popular spots where you can catch the beautiful autumn leaves.
Daisetsuzan National Park – Hike up Mount Asahidake for a splendid view of the fall foliage or head over to Sounkyo where you can soak in an onsen while admiring the autumn scenery.
Hokkaido University – Look out for a street lined with 70 to 80 ginkgo trees within the campus.

Optimal Viewing Period: late September to late October

Photo Credit: Japan Hoppers

#2 KANTO

Kanto is a large area in Japan that comprises metropolis Tokyo, as well as other prefectures of Japan such as Gunma and Tochigi.

Best Viewing Spots:
Nasu Kogen – Found in Tochigi Prefecture, Nasu Kogen is an excellent spot for witnessing the autumn foliage. Taking a cable car up Tyausu Dake mountain is an option to consider.
Tanigawadake – Stop by Ichinokura, a popular spot for tourists to get pictures of the golden autumn leaves.

Optimal Viewing Period: late October to early December

#3 KYUSHU

Kyushu is an underrated island in Japan that is loved for its scenic countryside, stunning geographical formations, bubbling hot springs and friendly locals.

Best Viewing Spots:
Takachiho Gorge – Autumn is a wonderful season to visit as you will be greeted by a view of gorgeous caramel-coloured leaves pirouetting around the tree branches.
Ohori Park – Nestled in central Fukuoka, Ohori Park is home to a variety of trees such as azalea and rose bay.
Maizuru Park – The lookout point at Maizuru Park offers a fantastic view of maple and maidenhair trees.

Optimal Viewing Period: early November to late November

Photo Credit: Tohaku & Tokyo

#4 AOMORI

Aomori provides a great escape from the bustling cities with its expansive coastlines and breathtaking scenery views of mountains, lakes and other natural formations.

Best Viewing Spots:
Lake Towada – Take a sightseeing boat cruise along the clear waters of Lake Towada where you get to truly appreciate the autumn scenery surrounding the lake.
Hirosaki Park – Go for a stroll in the park but places you have to stop by are the Hirosaki Castle, Gokoku Shrine, and Hirosaki Botanical Garden.

Optimal Viewing Period: early October to late October

#5 TOKYO

The first-world metropolis is home to the world’s best restaurants, age-old traditional eateries, swankiest skyscrapers and ancient architectural buildings.

Best Viewing Spots:
Yoyogi Park – If you don’t mind the crowd, Yoyogi Park is where you will find many locals and tourists taking photographs of the photogenic gingko trees that have the most beautiful golden red leaves in fall.
Meouro River – While the river receives many more visitors during the cherry blossom season, autumn is a great time to admire the fall foliage too.
Ueno Park – The park is filled with more than 8,000 trees so you can imagine how ridiculously beautiful the place will be in autumn.

Optimal Viewing Period: late November to early December

#6 KYOTO

A reflection of old Japan, Kyoto is a charming city that is rich in culture, history and tradition. Once the capital of Japan, visitors to this ancient city will be in awe of the historical sites and stunning landscapes.

Best Viewing Spots:
Eikando Temple – With over 1,000 maple trees planted around the temple, it is not surprising that Eikando Temple is one of the most visited places in Kyoto to witness the falling of reddish-brown caramel leaves.
Kitano Tenmangu Shrine – Built in 947AD, students visit the shrine to pray and worship for good examination grades. The 300 Japanese maple trees turn into the most gorgeous golden shade that attract both locals and tourists.

Optimal Viewing Period: mid November to early December

Photo Credit: Nikko Yumoto

#7 NIKKO

A place for history and culture buffs, the beautiful hues of brown, red and orange surrounding the majestic shrines and temples make Nikko a must-visit destination during autumn.

Best Viewing Spots:
Lake Yunoko – In autumn, the vibrant colours of the fall leaves are reflected on crystal clear waters of the lake, creating an unparalleled view like no other.
Senjogahara – The bright autumn foliage at Senjogahara is Nikko’s hidden charm that is waiting to be explored.

Optimal Viewing Period: Early October to Mid November

#8 NARA

Talk about Nara and people would immediately identify with Nara Deer Park, which is famous for having adorable deers roaming around the park freely. Besides that, Nara is also a fine city for visiting places of worship and picturesque gardens.

Best Viewing Spots:
Nara Park – As a top tourist attraction site, Nara Park spreads across 1,600 acres and is where visitors can see the most fabulous fall foliage when they stroll along the momiji-lined canal and the lane to Kasuga Shrine.
Tanzan Shrine – Having been around since the Asuka Period, the building was originally constructed as a Buddhist temple but later turned into a shrine during the Meji period. Go up the pagoda for a bird’s eye view of the vividly coloured autumn leaves.

Optimal Viewing Period: early November to early December

Photo Credit: Zekkei Japan

#9 NEAR MOUNT FUJI

As the tallest mountain in Japan, a sight of Mount Fuji is an exciting experience not to be missed. Imagine capturing the fall foliage with Mount Fuji as a background—it makes any picture postcard-worthy for sure!

Best Viewing Spots:
Lake Kawaguchiko – The annual autumn festival held at Lake Kawaguchiko is an event that is extremely popular among the locals. The main spots are the Maple Corridor which is filled with maple trees and the Koyo Tunnel which offers a splendid view of the fall colours and Mount Fuji at the background.

Optimal Viewing Period: early November to early December

#10 HAKONE

Established as a hot springs haven, Hakone is gaining a fair bit of attention from nature lovers for its spectacular scenery views and places of attraction such as Lake Ashi, Owakudani—a volcanic valley—and Hakone Roapway.

Best Viewing Spots:
Gora Park – Admire the abundance of flowers and trees in the western-style park which was inspired by the French.
Lake Ashi – The largest lake in Kanagawa Prefecture, take the cruise boats at Lake Ashi to admire the autumn leaves. If you are lucky, you can even capture a glimpse of Mount Fuji!

Optimal Viewing Period: early November to late November