Best Places to See Autumn Leaves in Japan.

When talking about traveling abroad, one of the most beautiful destinations would be Japan because you can travel to Japan throughout the year. The autumn season in Japan is the most beautiful and popular time to visit, surrounded by breathtaking nature and fresh cool air. In each city, there are different times when the leaves change color. In this article, we will update the must-see landmarks to experience the best of autumn in Japan with the recommended time to visit for each location so everyone can plan and prepare in advance and get the perfect travel experience.

Places to See Autumn Leaves in Japan.

1. Daisetsuzan National Park - Hokkaido.

Daisetsuzan National Park is the largest park in Japan. It is located on Hokkaido island. This park is known as the Garden of the Gods with beautiful mountains and tall trees surrounding it. One of the prominent mountains you can see is Mount Asahidake, which stands at over 2,290 meters making the view absolutely stunning. What’s particularly special is that if you visit during the changing season, you’ll witness the earliest autumn colors in Japan, and enjoy the breathtaking transformation of the forests from green to vibrant red and yellow.

• Autumn period late September to mid-October
• Opening hours 24 Hours every day.
• Admission fee Free.
• Transportation Take a bus from Hasahikama station and ride a cable car to the mountaintop or take the JR Shimokinboku train to Kamikawa station and then transfer to Hokkaido Sounkyo bus line, getting off at Sounkyo, from there, it’s only 5-minute walk to the park.

2. Jozankei Onsen - Hokkaido.

Jozankei Onsen - Hokkaido is located within the renowned Shikotsu-Toya National Park, is a well-known and highly celebrated hot spring district. It offers a serene and magnificent atmosphere with lush, abundant forests. This place is widely popular among locals and tourists. Jozankei boasts numerous onsen(hot spring) facilities and accommodations, making it an ideal destination for relaxation. When autumn arrives, you can be sure to enjoy a dip in the onsen surrounded by vibrant and beautiful fall colors.Jozankei Onsen - Hokkaido is located within the renowned Shikotsu-Toya National Park, is a well-known and highly celebrated hot spring district. It offers a serene and magnificent atmosphere with lush, abundant forests. This place is widely popular among locals and tourists. Jozankei boasts numerous onsen(hot spring) facilities and accommodations, making it an ideal destination for relaxation. When autumn arrives, you can be sure to enjoy a dip in the onsen surrounded by vibrant and beautiful fall colors.

• Autumn Period From mid-September to the end of October.
• Opening Hours 24 hours every day.
• Admission Fee Free.
• Transportation Take Jotetsu Bus number 7 or 8 from Sapporo Station to Jozankei Onsen.

3. Lake Towada - Aomori and Akita.

Lake Towada is a must-visit destination in autumn. It is a volcanic crater lake situated between Aomori and Akita provinces. It is known for its stunning landscapes and beautiful atmosphere. The main activity here involves walking around the lake, taking in the various scenic viewpoints scattered throughout the area. The highlight of the viewpoints is undoubtedly Kogakudai, which offers breathtaking sights. You can also enjoy boat rides with views of the lake and colorful mountains.

• Autumn Period From late October to early November.
• Transportation From Tokyo, take the Tohoku Shinkansen to Shin-Aomori Station (around 3 hours). From Aomori Station, head to the Yasumiya bus stop (about 3 hours by bus).

4. Kegon Waterfall - Tochigi.

Kegon Waterfall is one of Japan’s most beautiful and popular waterfalls with a height of 97 meters and flows from Lake Chuzenji. It is a popular tourist destination, and when it’s autumn, the view is a gorgeous combination of red, orange and yellow leaves against the background of the towering waterfall. You can also see the rare Kokia flowers here. With a cool breeze and remarkable views, it’s a place you shouldn’t miss.

• Autumn Period From late October to mid-November.
• Opening Hours Open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Admission Fee Free to see the waterfall; 550 yen for adults to access the observation deck, 330 yen for elementary school students and free for children.
• Transportation Take the JR Nikko Line train to Nikko Station and then board a Tobu Bus heading to Chuzenji Onsen, getting off at Chuzenji Onsen.

5. Hitachi Seaside Park - Ibaraki.

Hitachi Seaside Park is a seaside flower park where travelers come to witness the beautiful changing colors of the season. Each season shows a different color palette all around 1,250 acres. The highlight is the Kochia hill at Miharashi, which transforms from green to vibrant red forest. The view here is exceptionally stunning. Additionally, another park highlight is cosmos flowers. You can enjoy various fields of blooming flowers, each with its unique beauty.

• Autumn Period From mid-October to late November.
• Opening Hours 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (seasonal variations).
• Transportation Take the Hitachinaka Kaihin Tetsudo train to Ajigaura Station and then walk for approximately 20 minutes.

6. Lake Kawaguchiko - Tokyo.

Lake Kawaguchiko is one of the three major lakes located near Mount Fuji. Most tourists come to this area to admire the beauty of Mount Fuji. The views include Mount Fuji reflected in Lake Kawaguchiko, along with the colorful autumn leaves in the autumn making it a must-see destination for tourists. There are various activities to enjoy here as well such as exploring museums, shopping for local souvenirs and relaxing in onsen.

• Autumn Period From mid-October to late November.
• Opening Hours 24 hours daily.
• Admission Fee Free.
• Transportation Take the JR Chuo Line to Shinjuku Station then transfer to JR Chuo Line to Otsuki. From there, transfer to Fujuyuko Line and head to Kawaguchiko Station. Or you can take a highway bus from Shinjuku to Kawaguchiko station.

7. Tofukuji Temple - Kyoto.

Tofukuji Temple is an important and historic temple in Japan. The serene atmosphere, traditional Japanese architecture and the beauty of changing leaves make it become a widely recognized and beautiful tourist destination, especially during autumn. And don’t miss out on the famous Tsutenkyo Bridge, where maple leaves cover the 100-meter-long bridge, creating a beautiful scene. Additionally, there are also nearby restaurants and shops for you to enjoy the food and the view.

• Autumn Period From late November to early December.
• Opening Hours 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
• Admission Fee 400 yen for adults and 300 yen for middle school students.
• Transportation Take the JR Nara Line to Tofukuji Station from Kyoto Station or take the Keihan Main Line to Tofukuji Station from Gion-Shijo Station.

8. Osaka Castle - Osaka.

Osaka Castle is one of Japan’s largest and oldest castles. What draws tourists here is the historical ambiance, architecture and stunning views which become even more exceptional during autumn. Red and yellow surrounded the castle and the park around it, creating a sensational scene.

• Autumn Period: From mid-November to late December.
• Opening Hours: Open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
• Admission Fee: 600 yen for adults and free for children under 15.
• Transportation: You can reach Osaka Castles using 3 routes.
  1. The Osaka Loop Line getting off at Osaka Jo Koen Station.
  2. Tanimachi Line getting off at Tanimachi Yonchome Station.
  3. Chui Line, getting off at Tanimachi Yonchome Station.

9. Yubara Onsen - Okayama.

Yubara Onsen is located in the famous hot spring area known as ‘Sunayu”. It is one of the leading open-air baths in Okayama. Even though the leaves in this area may not be as extensive as in other places, the romantic and calm atmosphere here is something to experience. Yubara Onsen also offers accommodations, restaurants and souvenir shops. A must-try activity here is renting a yukata and just walking around and enjoying the sensation.

• Autumn Period From mid-November to late December.
• Opening Hours Open daily 24 hours.
• Admission Fee 600 yen for adults and free for children under 15.
• Transportation Take the JR Shinkansen to Okayama Station then take a Chutetsu bus for Yubara Onsen and get off at Yubara Onsen then walk about 5 minutes.

10. Raizan Sennyoji Daihioin Temple - Fukuoka.

Raizan Sennyoji Daihioin Temple is another significant and historic temple in Japan. Enjoy the traditional Japanese atmosphere of the temple with beautiful plants and trees that change to yellow and red surrounding it, creating a serene environment.

• Autumn Period From late November to early December.
• Opening Hours Open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
• Admission Fee 400 yen for each.
• Transportation Walk for 5 minutes from the Raizan Kannon Mae bus stop or you can also take the Itoshima City Community Bus from Chikuzen-Maebaru Station, JR Chikuhi Line, for about 30 minutes.

Tourism in Japan has received massive attention from Thai travelers this November. The cool weather and the opportunity to admire the beautiful autumn season are major attractions. Japan also offers delicious cuisine and a wide variety of tourist destinations for exploration and shopping. If you are planning on going to Japan, we suggest that you plan the trip in advance. Booking flights and accommodations ahead of time can lead to cost savings. Also, don’t forget to prepare your belongings and important personal items. Importantly, don’t forget to get travel insurance. There are travel insurance plans available for those who wish to purchase coverage for their trips.

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Japan is a country that is easy to travel to and not far from Thailand. Moreover, Thai citizens get a free visa when traveling to Japan, making it a highly popular destination. In addition, other than planning your trip and where to go, having travel insurance is crucial, as it provides protection in case of emergencies. The cost of travel insurance is super affordable, starting at just 150 Baht right now. Plus, there is a special 15% discount if you purchase travel insurance within this month. Whether you are planning a trip for the new year holiday to Asia, Europe or other destinations, dSurance has the right insurance plans for all your journeys.