Japan in Autumn - Travel Tips for Visiting Japan in Fall 2026

Autumn in Japan goes from October to November. It is one of the best times to visit with mild weather, stunning fall colors, and seasonal celebrations.

A trip to Japan in autumn should be more than just leaf-peeping; it's a chance to immerse yourself in the culture, enjoy the country's most beautiful landscapes, and savor seasonal foods.

So how do you plan an autumn journey that goes beyond the usual sightseeing? Check out our travel tips below:

When to Visit Japan in Autumn– Best Time and Travel Tips

The best time to visit Japan in autumn is from late October to mid-November, when the weather is cool and the autumn colors are at their peak.

September and early October can still be humid and hot. By late November, winter begins to set in. See Japan's autumn weather as follows:

• September: Still hot and humid, more like summer
• October: Mild and pleasant (12–21°C / 54–70°F); first signs of autumn foliage
• November: Cool and crisp (7–16°C / 45–61°F); peak fall colors

If you prefer fewer crowds and lower costs, visit in late September. The weather is still warm in central Japan, but it's cooler in Hokkaido and the Japanese Alps, where you might spot the first autumn leaves. It is a cheap time to travel, but just note that it still feels a bit like summer.

For a classic autumn experience, late October to mid-November is the perfect time. You will see Japan's iconic fall colors. The weather is mild, and the air is fresh. The country is full of autumn vibes — from seasonal festivals to delicious fall foods. This is the best time for first-time visitors.

If you don't mind the chill, late November is a great time to visit Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka for stunning fiery-red autumn leaves. The crowds are smaller. Be sure to pack a warm coat, as it can get quite cold.

What are the Best Places to Visit in Autumn 2025/2026

An autumn trip to Japan is more than just leaf-viewing; it's an opportunity to immerse yourself in culture, tradition, and seasonal beauty.

We've selected the top destinations for an authentic autumn experience, from vibrant foliage to local festivals. With our custom travel service, you'll be at the right place at the perfect time.

1. Tokyo

For most travelers, Tokyo is the gateway to Japan—and the perfect starting point for an autumn journey.

Begin with a stroll under the golden ginkgo tunnel at Jingu Gaien, then explore the historic streets of Asakusa and visit Senso-ji, the city's oldest temple.

If you love gardens, don't miss the fiery red maple corridors at Rikugien Garden or the golden leaves at the Imperial Palace East Garden.

For a touch of nature, we can also take you hiking around Mount Fuji in the five lake areas.

And beyond the leaves, immerse yourself in culture at the Meiji Jingu Autumn Grand Festival (Nov 1–3), where you may even witness the thrilling spectacle of traditional yabusame horseback archery.

2. Kyoto: Step Into Japan's Living Autumn Tradition

Kyoto in autumn is not just about the foliage; it's where nature and tradition come together.

Enjoy a trip through Kyoto's century-old tradition: See autumn leaves in a moss temple garden, savor a seasonal kaiseki dinner in a century-old restaurant, and pick autumn tea leaves in a historic tea garden in Uji. 

For something off the beaten path, we'll take you to Kifune Shrine, nestled in the quiet mountains north of Kyoto. Walk up the stone steps lined with stone lanterns, surrounded by fiery maple leaves, and see the stunning contrast of deep red torii gates against the golden autumn forest.

And to experience Kyoto like a local, our guide will bring you to small neighborhood shops for seasonal treats: roasted chestnuts, chestnut desserts, and wagashi shaped like autumn leaves.

This way, your Kyoto autumn won't just be sightseeing, but a truly immersive journey.

3. Mount Fuji: Catch the Perfect Autumn Views

Autumn is one of the best times to enjoy crystal-clear views of Mount Fuji, especially on crisp, early mornings.

We'll take you to Lake Kawaguchi and Asama Shrine for the most iconic autumn view: fiery foliage, a red pagoda, lake in a photo.

Your visit will be planned for early in the morning, before the crowds arrive, and when the light is perfect for photos.

For photography enthusiasts, we can arrange an overnight stay by the lake, so you can wake up to a picture-perfect view of Mount Fuji right outside your window.

4. Hakone – Soak in Autumn Hot Springs

If you love hot springs, you should love Hakone.

Just a short ride from Tokyo, this mountain town is dotted with traditional ryokans and luxury onsen resorts.

We can arrange a stay at a ryokan surrounded by autumn foliage. You'll enjoy soaking in a private onsen while golden and red leaves drift around you. Some rooms even have stunning autumn mountain views right from your window.

5. Nikko - UNESCO Heritage Meets Fall Colors

Just two hours from Tokyo, Nikko is a perfect autumn getaway. From early October to early November, the mountains turn golden and red, with temples nestled right in the colorful scenery.

Take a stroll through Toshogu Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where the golden carvings really pop against the fiery maples. Walk around Lake Chuzenji and enjoy the autumn colors mirrored on the calm water. And don't miss Kegon Falls, one of Japan's top three waterfalls.

We recommend staying overnight for a more relaxed experience. Autumn is a high season in Nikko, and a day trip can feel rushed. We'll arrange a stay at Kinugawa Onsen in a traditional ryokan, where you can soak in a hot spring and unwind after a full day of sightseeing.

6. Takayama - Explore Japan's Old Mountain Town

Slow down this fall and wander into Takayama, a cozy town in the Japanese Alps wrapped in brilliant autumn colors.

Stroll past Edo-era wooden houses, explore the Miyagawa Morning Market around 8 a.m. when locals sell seasonal fruits and vegetables, and step inside Takayama Jinya to peek into the Edo period.

If you visit Takayama on October 9–10, don't miss the Takayama Autumn Festival with a colorful parade and lantern illuminations in the evening.  

Takayama is easily combined with a visit to Kanazawa. Instead of taking the highway, we'll take you along quiet country roads. On the way, you'll pass golden rice fields, rustic villages, and farmers tending their land, a glimpse of rural Japan that most travelers miss.

7. Nara

Meet the adorable deer in Nara this autumn! Just a two-hour drive from Kyoto, it's perfect for a half-day trip from Kyoto or Osaka.

Autumn is when the deer are busy munching acorns and showing off a little for mating season, so you'll see them roaming freely on a golden carpet of fallen ginkgo leaves, a truly unique photo moment.

Beyond Nara Park, we'll arrange a walk up Wakakusa Mountain, where there are fewer visitors, and you will have a quieter, more personal encounter with the deer.

And don't miss kakinoha sushi, wrapped in persimmon leaves—Nara's seasonal specialty. Our guide will take you to the best shop so you can enjoy it at its freshest.

8. Nagano, Kamikochi

If you're visiting in October and looking for an off-the-beaten-path getaway, don't miss Kamikochi in Nagano.

This stunning alpine park is filled with forests, rivers, and snow-capped peaks.

In autumn, it's even more breathtaking—golden larches line the trails, the Azusa River runs crystal clear, and the distant mountains glow with the first snow.

Take a relaxed, easy hike along the river. The flat, well-maintained trails are perfect for everyone, including families with young children

Kamikochi is conveniently close to Matsumoto, Takayama, and Nagoya, so we usually combine it with these destinations to create a seamless autumn itinerary for our travelers.

9. Hida Folk Village- Explore Rural Japan

Step into Japan's countryside this fall, where golden rice fields surround the traditional thatched-roof houses of Shirakawa. Take a slow stroll through the village and soak in the rustic charm.

Stop by the Gassho-zukuri Minkaen Open-Air Museum to learn about local life and traditions. Then walk up to the Shiroyama Observatory for that picture-perfect view of the village framed by golden fields. If you want to see the autumn colors in the region, visit between lake Oct. to early Dec. 

This is the low season, you will enjoy a quiet time here away from the tourist crowds.

10. Hokkaido: Enjoy Japan's first fall colors

Catch Japan's earliest autumn colors in Hokkaido before the crowds arrive. At the end of September, fall colors begin to appear in the north of Hokkaido, while flower fields in Furano and Biei are still in bloom—so you can catch both in one trip.

October is peak season here, and it feels completely different from the rest of Japan: wide open landscapes, fiery mountain slopes, hot spring valleys, and golden forests reflected in clear lakes.

Visit Jozankei Onsen for autumn hot springs surrounded by colorful mountains, or take in the dramatic scenery at Shikotsu-Toya National Park, where lakes and forests shine with autumn colors.

Top Unique Things to Do in Japan in Autumn

An autumn trip to Japan should go beyond leaf-watching and taking photos. It is a cultural trip into Japan's nature and tradition.

Join a momiji-gari (leaf-hunting) adventure, experience harvest festivals, or enjoy traditional performances under the autumn canopy.

1. Step into Edo Japan at Nikko's Autumn Grand Festival

If you want to feel Japan's history come alive, plan your trip around the Nikko Toshogu Autumn Grand Festival (Oct 16–17).

You will see the "Procession of 1,000 Samurai". Over 1000 people in full Edo-period costumes, samurai, nobles, attendants, marching in a solemn parade with golden mikoshi (portable shrines) and sacred horses. It's like watching a living scroll of Japanese history.

Nikko gets crowded during the festival, so we usually arrange for you to stay overnight that day to avoid the traffic jams.

2. Join the Jidai Matsuri in Kyoto

• Date: October 22, 2025/2026

Jidai Matsuri is one of Kyoto's three biggest festivals, a colorful parade that takes you back through Japan's history.

You'll see locals dressed as samurai, nobles, and courtiers, along with mikoshi shrines and traditional music filling the streets.

The procession starts from the Imperial Palace, passes Kyoto City Hall, and ends at Heian Jingu Shrine.

We'll take you to watch it at Heian Jingu Shrine. It is less crowded, easier to move around, and perfect for photos. Here you can also see the atmosphere shift from a lively street parade to solemn shrine rituals.

3. Relaxing in a Japanese Onsen

We recommend Hakone for a luxurious onsen escape this autumn. Just a short trip from Tokyo, it's one of the best places to enjoy hot springs with autumn colors.

The area is filled with hotels and traditional ryokans, many offering outdoor baths set right in the forest.

For the best experience, book a traditional ryokan nestled in the mountains, and choose a private outdoor bath surrounded by trees.

Come during peak foliage season (late October to early November), and we will help you choose a hotel surrounded by autumn colors. You will soak in the water surrounded by autumn colors.

4. Enjoy Easy Hiking in the Japanese Countryside

Autumn is the perfect season to go outdoors, and a little hiking is a great way to enjoy Japan's scenery.

For travelers focusing on Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, we often suggest adding a gentle hike along the historic Tōkaidō trail in Hakone, or a scenic walk on Mount Takao just outside Tokyo.

If your journey takes you to the Japanese Alps in Nagano, consider hiking in Kamikōchi, where rivers, lakes, forests, and autumn leaves surround you at every step. Another option is walking part of the old Nakasendō trail, passing through post towns and traditional villages that offer a rare glimpse of rural Japan.

Your dream autumn trip in Japan starts here. We tailor every detail to your interests and pace, so you can enjoy the season stress-free.

Is it Expensive to travel to Japan in the Fall?

Autumn (October to November) is one of Japan's busiest travel seasons, with prices similar to the cherry blossom period.

The most expensive time is from late October to mid-November, when hotels see the biggest jump. A 4-star hotel that usually costs $200–250 per night can go up to around $400. Tokyo and Kyoto are the two most expensive cities.

If you prefer a more budget-friendly trip, travel in early fall (late September to the third week of October). By October, the first hints of autumn colors appear.

Since central Japan's foliage hasn't peaked yet, we recommend visiting the Japanese Alps, where places like Kamikōchi for autumn colors.

Travel Tips for a Perfect Japan Autumn Trip

Plan your destination based on your travel date

Japan's autumn colors last about three months, from late September to early December.

Your destination should match your timing: Hokkaido is best in September and October, while central Japan (Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto) hits its peak in November.

For peak fall foliage, aim for mid-November

In central Japan, autumn leaves usually peak around mid-November. If your focus is the "Golden Triangle," this is the best time to visit.

Book 6-12 months ahead

Autumn is Japan's busy travel season, especially around peak foliage time (late October to November). Good hotels in popular areas can sell out quickly. Start planning early and book at least 6 months before your trip.

Avoid the crowds

Popular tourist attractions such as Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, the five lakes area in Mt Fuji, can be crowded, especially on weekends. Visit them early in the morning (before 9 AM) to enjoy peaceful moments before the crowds arrive.

For day trips to Mt. Fuji, Hakone, or Nikko, etc, try to avoid weekends and stay overnight. That's why we plan an overnight stay for tours outside cities during the autumn season.

Plan smartly for Japan's Autumn holidays

Japan's public holidays can bring big crowds, traffic jams, and higher hotel prices. See Japan Autumn holidays 2025/2026

Tips to Travel Smoothly:

• Avoid one-day trips to surrounding areas: traffic will be heavy, and day trips can feel rushed. Consider staying overnight if you want to explore outside the city.
• Book Shinkansen tickets in advance, as trains fill up quickly.
• Arrive early (before 9 AM) at major attractions such as Tokyo Disneyland and Universal Studios Japan to beat the crowds.
• Use public holidays for exploring big cities like Tokyo or Osaka. Locals usually leave town, so urban areas feel surprisingly calm.

We'll help you plan your trip to avoid the crowds and enjoy a smooth, stress-free Japan experience. Plan your perfect autumn trip with us now!

What to Pack for a Japan Autumn Trip?

If you're visiting in September, the weather still feels like summer—pack for hot days, but bring a long-sleeve shirt for the cooler evenings. By late November, it feels more like early winter, so you'll want a proper coat. For October and early November, the key is to pack layers:

• Long-sleeve shirts and light sweaters work well for most days
• A warm jacket or fleece is useful for chilly mornings, evenings, and higher elevations
• A light rain jacket comes in handy for occasional autumn showers
• Comfortable walking shoes with a good grip are essential for temple visits and autumn hikes
• If you're heading to Mt. Fuji or Hokkaidō, bring extra warm layers—it can feel like winter in the mountains

Don't worry if you didn't pack properly; our guide will help you find the best shops to buy what you need.

Plan Your Japan Autumn Trip 2026 Now

Whether it's a private guided walk along hidden autumn trails, an exclusive onsen stay, or a seamless itinerary that avoids the crowds, we craft every journey around your interests. Plan your Japan trip now.