Japan Fall Foliage 2025: How to Plan the Perfect Autumn Trip

Japan's fall foliage season 2025 is from late September to early December. Autumn colors first appear in Hokkaido. The best time to see fall leaves in Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and Hakone is from late November to early December.

Consider visiting Japan this autumn? Fall is one of the best times to visit: the great sunny weather, beautiful colors, and more importantly, it is less crowded than spring and summer.

Want a trip that feels relaxed, meaningful, and full of memorable moments, not just tourist stops?

Here's how to plan a fall foliage journey that goes deeper.

Japan Fall Foliage Forecast 2025

Japan's fall colors season lasts for about three months—from late September in the north to early December in the south. But the timing depends on where you go. Below is the 2025 forecast map, based on 2024 dates:

Foliage usually starts around late September in the Daisetsuzan Mountains of Hokkaido. In popular cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, the peak season comes much later, from late November to early December.

Here's the latest forecast for 2025:

• Tokyo: Late November
• Osaka: Late November
• Kyoto: Around November 25 to December 5
• Nikko: Late October (around October 20)

We'll plan your route based on your travel dates, so you're always in the right place at the right time.

As long as you travel from October to December. We will help you see the best fall colors.

The Best Time to See Autumn Colors in Japan 2025

Japan's fall foliage season lasts over three months, but each region hits its peak at a different time. Here's a quick guide to help you see the best time to see autumn leaves in the Kanto Region and other places in Japan:

Where to See Japan's Fall Foliage 2025

It is easy for you to get the usual lists: Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and Hokkaido.

But the real question isn't just where to go, it's how to experience each place at the right time, in a way that feels personal, immersive, and crowd-free.

Below, we've curated the best fall foliage spots in the Kanto region—Tokyo, Nikko, Hakone—and beyond, matched with the ideal ways to enjoy them.

1. Tokyo - Gardens, Hikes, and Hidden Autumn Spots

Autumn is one of the best times to explore Tokyo. The air is crisp, the summer crowds are gone, and the city's parks and gardens glow in shades of red, orange, and gold.

Fall in Tokyo isn't just about chasing color—it's about how you enjoy its gardens and the outdoors.

For a more classic, peaceful stroll, we often recommend Shinjuku Gyoen, one of Tokyo's most beautiful traditional gardens.

If you love the outdoors or want to see the autumn leaves in more natural settings, such as the Fuji Five Lake area, Lake Okutama, or Mount Takao.

Read more details on When and Where to Catch the Best Autumn Colors in Tokyo (2025)

2. Kyoto – Explore Autumn Colors in Historic Surroundings

If you have to choose only one place to visit this autumn. It must be Kyoto!

Kyoto's fall foliage is about temple gardens, wooden pagodas, and quiet courtyards. You're not just seeing leaves—you're stepping into tradition, beauty, and history all at once.

See Below the Top Places to See Fall Foliage in Kyoto 2025

To-ji Temple: Step into history at Kyoto's oldest temple, with vivid fall leaves surrounding its iconic five-story pagoda.

Kiyomizu-dera: Experience Kyoto's charm at its most famous temple. Visit early to avoid crowds, or enjoy the magical evening light-ups.

Ninna-ji: Wander through peaceful grounds once reserved for emperors. A quiet spot to slow down and take in the autumn beauty.

Rurikō-in: A true Kyoto hidden gem, open only in spring and autumn. Don't miss the stunning leaf reflections on the polished table upstairs—a true Kyoto hidden gem.

Arashiyama: A fun autumn escape for all ages. Ride the Sagano Scenic Train, drift along the Hozu River, explore the Bamboo Grove, and meet monkeys at the top of the hill.

Check more details on Kyoto Fall Foliage 2025

3. Osaka—A Lively Autumn Stop with a Local Twist

If it's your first time in Japan, Osaka is part of your route—either as your arrival or departure city. But instead of treating it as just a transit point, why not make it a highlight of your trip?

Let's start with the iconic Osaka Castle. It's one of Japan's three great castles. But we don't just do the usual sightseeing. Instead, we offer a private cycling tour around the castle, led by a local guide who brings Osaka's stories to life.

Ride through quiet backstreets, hidden shrines, and the colorful lanes that locals love. Stop for street snacks or a cozy okonomiyaki lunch, and enjoy a peaceful tea break in a tucked-away garden.

Relax in Spa World in Tennoji after a busy day trip! If you missed the hot springs in Hakone, this is the best place in Osaka to soak and relax..

You'll find outdoor Japanese baths, themed hot springs, and everything you need to unwind after a busy day.

4. Hakone – Soak in a Hot Spring, Surrounded by Autumn Leaves

If you are looking for a luxury onsen experience, Hakone is a must.

This mountain town is known for its natural hot springs, and come fall, the hills light up in vibrant color.

Stay at a traditional ryokan with an open-air bath, and unwind as you soak under glowing maple trees. Afterward, enjoy a multi-course kaiseki dinner—beautiful to look at and even better to eat.

Want a different experience of momiji? Ride the Hakone Ropeway for a stunning 360-degree panorama over Lake Ashi and the steamy volcanic valley of Owakudani. On clear days, you can even spot Mt. Fuji in the distance, framed by a sea of autumn colors.

5. Nikko – Japan's Best Fall Colors Near Tokyo

If you are looking for a refreshing autumn escape without going too far from Tokyo, Nikko is the best choice.

Just a few hours away, this mountain town dazzles with fiery maple leaves framing its ornate shrines and temples (a UNESCO World Heritage site), especially around Lake Chuzenji.

Instead of rushing from spot to spot, we'll plan your visit around your pace and interests to avoid the crowds.

Take a calm, scenic walk around Lake Chuzenji. This 5.6 km path has fewer people and gorgeous lake views. Along the way, stop by charming spots like the British Embassy Villa and Italian Embassy Park.

If you are more active, try kayaking across the lake.

For the big view, we'll drive you up the Nikko Skyline to Hangetsuyama Lookout, where you'll see the lake and mountains laid out like a painting. Unforgettable.

Other top places to enjoy fall foliage in Nikko include Kegon Falls and Irohazaka Road.

6. The Japanese Alps - Explore Rural Areas

If you like the countryside, escape into the Japanese Alps this autumn for 2-3 days. Discover charming villages, ancient mountain towns, and pristine national parks.

Wander through the fairytale-like village of Shirakawa-go, where traditional thatched-roof farmhouses sit against a backdrop of golden forests. Enjoy peaceful hikes or bike rides through quiet country roads, surrounded by crisp air and autumn colors.

For nature lovers, take a scenic walk in Kamikochi, one of Japan's most beautiful highland valleys. With its clear rivers, snow-dusted peaks, and flaming red foliage, it's the perfect spot for a refreshing day in the wild.

7. Hokkaido - Catch Japan's Earliest Fall Colors before the Crowds

Enjoy an early autumn trip to Hokkaido before the crowds roll in. Hokkaido's red leaves season starts from late September.

Here, you'll find something different: vast open landscapes, fiery mountain slopes, hot spring valleys glowing with color, and golden forests mirrored in crystal-clear lakes.

Because the colors change at different times across the island, we'll match your route to your exact travel dates, so you catch the best spots at the right time.

See the best places to see fall foliage in Hokkaido 2025

Jozankei Onsen (Early to Mid-October): Just outside Sapporo, this hot spring town is perfect for fall. Enjoy soaking in an open-air bath as red leaves surround the valley

Noboribetsu Hell Valley (Mid to Late October): Here you will get a more dramatic experience: steaming volcanic vents and colorful leaves side by side

Lake Shikotsu (Early to Mid-October): This crater lake is known for its crystal-clear blue water. In fall, golden forests reflect on the surface like a painting. If you're visiting in early October, don't miss the Shikotsu Autumn Foliage Festival.

8. Fukuoka - Your Last Chance to See Fall Colors This Year

If you miss the foliage in Tokyo or Kyoto, no worries!. You have your last chance this year in Fukuoka. You can still catch vivid reds and golds here well into early December.

For your Fukuoka trip, we recommend you visit Beppu for a hot spring escape. Just a 2-hour drive from Fukuoka, it has the highest volume of natural hot spring water in Japan. Allow a day and overnight there for a great hot spring experience.

Warm your feet at a footbath under fiery red trees in the "hell" hot springs, or stay in a traditional ryokan with autumn leaves right outside your window.

The Best Places to Stay for a Great Autumn Trip

Why not stay somewhere that adds to the magic of the season? The right hotel isn't just a place to sleep—it's part of the experience. Here are our top picks in Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka

Where to Stay in Tokyo

Stay near Shiba Park, Roppongi, or Marunouchi. These areas offer iconic views, vibrant city life, and direct access to major transport.

Shiba Park

• View Tokyo Tower rising above autumn leaves—especially stunning at night.
• Recommended hotel: the Prince Park Tower Tokyo

Roppongi

• Close to Midtown Ginkgo Avenue or Mōri Garden
• Best for: art lovers, fine dining, evening strolls

Shiodome / Higashi-Shimbashi (Great for families)

• Peaceful, modern, and well-connected—perfect if you want futuristic comfort with peaceful parks nearby.
• Best for families

Where to Stay in Kyoto

For the ultimate fall atmosphere, base yourself in Higashiyama / Gion, near Kiyomizu-dera and Yasaka Shrine. Here, you can walk cobblestone lanes under maple trees and wake up to temple views.

• The Celestine Kyoto Gion: A stylish retreat with Japanese garden rooms. Step outside and you're minutes from Kenninji Temple and Yasaka Pagoda. Perfect for morning walks.
• Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto: Hidden beside Heian Shrine, this luxury hotel surrounds an 800-year-old pond garden.

Where to Stay in Osaka

Skip the usual crowds and stay somewhere that lets you enjoy both foliage and urban convenience. We recommend Umeda and Nakasoshima

Umeda: A quiet, upscale shopping and transport hub—ideal for easy day trips to Kyoto, Nara, or Kobe.

Nakanoshima (Island of Art and Trees)

• Great settings: surrounded by water, ginkgo-lined boulevards, and cultural spaces like the National Museum of Art.
• Best for: travelers who enjoy relaxed walks, riverside cafes, and local culture. Try the Royal Park Hotel Canvas or Zentis Osaka for stylish stays.

Tips for Planning Your Fall Itinerary for Japan

Follow the following tips for a smart visit to Japan this autumn of 2025: fewer crowds, get the highlights, and enjoy an immersive trip:

1. For a first trip (around 7 days), choose the classic destinations

We recommend you visit Tokyo, Kyoto, Hakone, and Osaka. These cities offer the best taste of Japan: history, culture, hot springs and futuristic features.

If you're visiting in November, add a day trip to Nikko for breathtaking nature and fall scenery.

2. If you have around 10 days, go beyond the big cities and explore the countryside

Head to places like Kanazawa, Takayama, and Shirakawa-go—known for their Edo-period charm, traditional villages, and slower pace of life.

3. Book early — 6 months in advance: Hotels during the fall season fill up fast. We recommend booking your accommodations and key tours 6 to 12 months in advance to get the best options.

4. Spend at least 3 nights in Kyoto

Kyoto shines in autumn. To truly enjoy the temples, tea houses, and nighttime light-ups, plan to stay at least three days, and we'll help you experience it at the right time and pace.

5. Don't pack too many attractions each day: Plan for no more than 3 major stops per day so you have time to enjoy, take photos, and simply be in the moment.

Don't Just See the Leaves — Experience Japan's Momiji Culture

In Japan, autumn leaves aren't just for looking—they're a reason to celebrate. This seasonal tradition is called Momiji. Here are some immersive ways to enjoy it like the locals, and we'll help you make the most of every moment.

Enjoy Nighttime Leaf Light-ups in Kyoto

Enjoy a unique experience away from the crowds in the evening. Visit a temple or shrines in the evening to see the beautiful leaves lit by colors.

We recommend Kiyomizu-dera for its central location in old Kyoto. You can even walk there from your hotel, stroll the lantern-lit paths, and take in the view from the famous stage, without the daytime crowds.

Other great spots include To-ji and Eikando, both known for their magical night light-ups.

Enjoy a Peaceful Tea Moment Under Red Maple Leaves

We'll take you to Uji, Japan's most famous tea region, for a quiet autumn afternoon

Sit in a quiet tea house along the Uji River, sip freshly whisked matcha, and watch the red leaves flutter outside. It's a place made for slowing down.

For something special, try a seasonal momiji tea set: matcha paired with delicate wagashi shaped like red maple leaves. It's the essence of Japanese autumn in one bite.

Taste the Autumn Delicacies, and Make Your Own

Explore Japan's fall flavors not just with your eyes, but through your hands and taste buds.

We'll arrange a private wagashi workshop in Kyoto, where your group can learn to make seasonal Japanese sweets with a local master. You'll use ingredients like fresh persimmon and chestnut to shape delicate designs inspired by the season.

Afterward, you'll step into a tea room to enjoy your handmade sweets with freshly whisked matcha, just like it's done in traditional Japanese culture.

Join a Local Fall Festival

If you visit October 16–17, don't miss the Nikko Autumn Grand Festival at Toshogu Shrine.

Watch a full-scale samurai parade, traditional horseback archery, and rituals that bring Japan's Edo-era history to life. All part of the region's autumn festival. It's a fun way to see how locals celebrate the season.

Or if you're in Kyoto on October 22, don't miss the Kurama Fire Festival. With giant torches lighting up mountain trails, it's one of Kyoto's most intense and unforgettable events — fiery, loud, and full of energy.

Weather and Packing Tips

Fall in Japan runs from late September to early December, and it's one of the best times to visit—not too hot, not too cold, and packed with gorgeous scenery.

Here's a quick breakdown of the autumn weather in Japan's central regions like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka:

Tokyo / Kyoto / Osaka

You'll get clear skies, cool air, and beautiful golden afternoons. Early mornings and evenings are brisk;

Pack short sleeves for daytime activities and long sleeves or a hoodie for evenings.

Mount Fuji & the Alps:

Expect chilly mornings and even a touch of frost by November. You'll want layers and a warm jacket, especially if you're out for sunrise views or hiking.

Hokkaido

Autumn hits early here—leaves start turning in late September, and by mid-October, it already feels like winter. Daytime highs can drop to 5–10°C (41–50°F), and snow may appear in Daisetsuzan by late October.

Bring warm outerwear and boots if you're visiting northern regions.

Plan to Visit Japan in Autumn 2025?

Ready to see Japan in its most colorful season? Let us help you plan the Best Japan Fall Foliage Tours—designed around the best views, the right timing, and your travel style.