Kyoto, the ancient capital of Japan, is littered with countless leafy spots to enjoy the autumn colours. Here’s a list of must-visit, little-known good spots in the city that enjoy all the visual treats of the seasonal, all of which are carrying out proper social distancing and anti-COVID-19 measures.

Forgot about the time and enjoy the scenery with few people around

Soak up autumn with a boat ride | Hozugawa River in Kameoka

Ride the Hozugawa River along the 16km valley from Kameoka to Arashiyama. The autumn spectacle in this area is a grand sight to behold. Visitors can enjoy two hours along the valley stretch with the colours of the maple trees reflected off the water’s surface, allowing them to fall into nature and forget their stresses for a while.

Hozugawa River
Peak Autumn Time: Mid November – Early December
Address: Shimonakajima-2 Hozucho, Kameoka, Kyoto
Boat Times: 09:00-15:00 (Changes depending on season)
Price: Adults ¥4,100 / Children ¥2,700
TEL: 0771-22-5846 (Hozukawa River Boat Service)
Official Website: https://www.hozugawakudari.jp/

Shrouded amongst it all | Kuwayama Shrine in Kameoka

Planed on the grounds of Kuwayama Shrine are around 1,000 individual trees which give rise to vivid colours during autumn. Since the shrine is located among the mountains, the site enjoys an earlier bloom than other parts of Kyoto, with trees blossoming from early to mid November.

Kuwayama Shrine
Peak Autumn Time: Early to Mid November
Address: Kamigaichi-22-2 Kamiyadacho, Kameoka, Kyoto
Viewing Times: Any time
Price: ¥300
TEL: 0771-22-1023
Official Website: http://www.kuwayama-jinjya.jp/

Walk the autumn carpet | Komyo-ji in Nagaokakyo

Komyo-ji Temple, also known as Autumn Colour Temple (Momiji-ji), is famous for being the head temple of Seizan Pure Land Buddhism. Easily accessible from the city proper, the temple site is home to hundreds of towering trees which dye the area vibrant reds and yellows around this time. One of the main paths at the temple in particular has been nicknamed Autumn Colour Road (Momiji Sando) as the overhead trees and fallen leaves on the ground create a tunnel and carpet of brilliant colour.

Komyo-ji
Peak Autumn Time: Mid to Late November
Address: 26-1 Aosaijonai, Nagaokakyo-shi, Kyoto
Viewing Times: 9:00-16:00
Price: ¥500 (Free outside autumn season)
TEL: 075-955-0002
Official Website: http://www.komyo-ji.or.jp/

Thousands of fiery trees burn red and yellow | Kongoin in Maizuru

Kongoin is famous for its autumn scenery and is nicknamed Autumn Temple of Tango. The temple is home to thousands of maple trees all of various ages from decades to hundreds of years old. It faces Kahara Park which itself boasts incredible autumnal sights and is also home to a 3-storied pagoda which makes for a picturesque snapshot together with the trees.

Kongoin
Peak Autumn Time: Mid to Late November
Address: 595 Kawara, Maizuru, Kyoto
Viewing Times: 09:00-17:00
Price: ¥300
TEL: 0773-62-1180
Official Website: http://www.maizuru-kanko.net/spot/sightseeing/kongoin.php

Contrasting beauty of red maples and ordinary greens | Omoto Shinen in Ayabe

Omoto Shinen is a popular sightseeing spot in Ayabe, home to several must-sees including a wooden structure called “The Palace of Eternal Life,” the Konohana-an building which is listed as an Important Cultural Property, and more. Its expansive grounds are also home to a garden where the autumn colours collide with the greens of ordinary trees, creating a beautiful contrast.

Omoto Shinen
Peak Autumn Time: Mid to Late November
Address: 1-1 Hongucho, Ayabe, Kyoto
Viewing Times: 09:30-16:30
Price: Free
TEL: 0773-42-0187
Official Website: https://www.ayabe-kankou.net/spot/omotoshinen/

A magical scene at an Important Cultural Property | Gansen-ji Temple in Kizugawa

Gansen-ji Temple is an ancient Buddhist temple that was built in 729. It’s home to a three-storied pagoda which is is a registered Important Cultural Property which nestles amongst the trees. If you visit the temple this year by November 30, you will be treated to a very rare look at one of its treasures which is normally closed to the public.

Gasen-ji
Peak Autumn Time: Mid November – Early December
Address: Kaminomon-43 Kamocho Iwafune, Kizugawa, Kyoto
Viewing Times: 08:30-17:00 (09:00-16:00 from December to February)
Price: Adults ¥500 / Junior High School Students ¥400 / Elementary School Students ¥200
TEL: 0774-76-3390
Official Website: http://gansenji.or.jp/

The garden of special scenic beauty | Joruri-ji Temple in Kizugawa

Joruri-ji is a temple of the Shingo Ritsu school of Buddism. It’s also home to a famous garden which is listed as a Place of Special Scenic Beauty. The vibrancy of the reds trees is truly an overwhelming delight to the eyes which is enhanced by the bright-red three-storied pagoda.

Joruri-ji Temple
Peak Viewing Time: Mid to Late November
Address: Futaba-40 Kamocho Nishio, Kizugawa, Kyoto
Viewing Times: 09:00-17:00 (Last Entries 16:00)
Price: Adults ¥400 / Children – Free
TEL: 0774-76-2390
Official Website: http://0774.or.jp/temple/jyoruriji.html

Red and yellow hue fusion | Choanji in Fukuchiyama

Choanji’s autumn colours make for a truly staggering experience as the dazzling reds and yellows complement each other. There’s a 600-year-old tree in near the temple which throws in another huge chunk of yellow to the red dye of the temple grounds.

Choanji
Peak Autumn Time: Early to Mid November
Address: 577 Okunobe, Fukuchiyama, Kyoto
Viewing Times: 09:00-16:30
Price: Adults ¥300 / Children ¥100
TEL: 0773-22-8768
Official Website: http://www.chouanji.jp

Evening illuminations for a late-night autumn experience

Breathtaking in the day or night | Nariaji Temple in Miyazu

Nariaji is an ancient temple huddle among mountains that overlook Amanohashidate, one of Japan’s Three Scenic Views. The five-storied pagoda there is an example of Kamakura Period architecture and offers an unmissable view together with the hundreds of trees during autumn. On November 14 and 15, the area will be lit up in the evenings.

Nariaji
Peak Autumn Time: Early to Late November
Light Up Times: 17:20-21:00 (Regular viewing times are 08:00-16:30)
Address: 339 Nariaji, Miyazu, Kyoto
Price: Adults ¥500
TEL: 0772-27-0018
Official Website: http://www.nariaiji.jp/

Autumn reflected on the water | Keihanna Commemorative Park in Soraku

Keihanna Commemorative Park is split into several areas such as the Suikei-en (Japanese garden) and Mebuki-no-Mori (Budding Tree Forest). There’s also the Momijiya, a garden designed in a valley where maple trees grow. Talking a stroll along the bridge and looking down at the 80 trees in their autumnal garbs reflecting off the water surface is a sight to not be missed. especially at night when the lights are turned on.

Keihanna Commemorative Park 

Peak Autumn Time: Mid to Late November

Light-Up Period: Fridays, weekends, and holidays from November 3, 2020 – November 29, 2020

Light-Up Time: Sunset to 21:00 (Last Entries 20:30)

Address: 6-1 Seikadai, Seika, Soraku District, Kyoto

Price: Adults ¥200 / Children ¥100
TEL: 0774-93-1200
Official Website: https://keihanna-park.net/

Musashi Kyuryo National Government Park is set to host an autumn illumination event from November 14 to 29 where around 500 individual trees of 20 species will be lit up with beautiful lights. The best time to see the park’s autumn colours is dated at November 20.

Musashi Kyuryo National Government Park opened as Japan’s first national government park in 1974. This enormous park spans 5km between its north and south entrances. It’s home to many fun family activities including trampolines, an athletic course, and more. It also offers gorgeous natural scenery throughout the year.

500 maple trees lit up at night

The park will be open in the evenings for this event when red, yellow, and orange maple trees will be illuminated in breathtaking lights. There will also be art installation illuminations for visitors to enjoy too.

There’s no better way to embrace autumn in Japan than to take a relaxing stroll in the autumn leaves. There are so many spots around Tokyo where the autumn leaves make for a breathtaking sight you just can’t miss. Today we’ll be introducing you to six spots around Chiyoda Ward which would make for the perfect autumn stroll.

Hibiya Park

The 160,000㎡ park is home to maidenhair trees, Japanese maple trees and flowering dogwood. When autumn arrives, the park turns a yellow and red tinge. There is a spectacular row of maidenhair trees in the shape of an “S” which extends from the side of the tennis court near Kasumigaseki. Make sure to also visit Kumogata Pond where the red and yellow leaves reflect off the water’s surface with a relaxing effect.

Address: Hibiya Park 1-6, Chiyoda Ward, Tokyo

Yasukuni Shrine

Enter through the shrine’s main gate known as Ōtorii and continue down the path to the main shrine. The 240 metre-long path is lined with beautiful maidenhair trees and stone lanterns, creating a gentle amber path for you to follow. Make sure to visit Kamiike Garden located at the back of the main shrine for a breathtaking scenery of autumn leaves.

Address: 3-1-1, Kudankita, Chiyoda Ward, Tokyo

National Diet Building

The eight-lane road facing the National Diet Building is lined with graceful maidenhair trees in perfect symmetry. Enjoy a peaceful stroll around the garden joined to the National Diet Building which is filled with a variety of species of trees. The park changes colour from season to season.

Address: Nagatachō 1 Chōme, Chiyoda Ward, Tokyo

Gyōkō-dōri Avenue

This road connects the Imperial Palace and Tokyo Station. It represents the gateway to Japan and its rich history and culture. The road is pedestrian-friendly and is lined with an abundance of trees. As autumn falls, the trees turn to yellow and amber, brightening the streets with warm colours.

Address: Kokyogaien, Chiyoda Ward, Tokyo

Kitanomaru Park

This park is located among the Edo Castle ruins. The west side of the garden is home to a large area of Japanese Maple trees of different varieties. The autumn leaves pile so high that it was nicknamed the “Momiji-yama” (mountain of autumn leaves). At the peak of autumn, the scenery makes for one of the most beautiful spots in Tokyo.

Address: Kitanomaru Park 1-1, Chiyoda Ward, Tokyo

Shimizudani Park

Shimizudani Park is a breath of fresh air hidden amongst the hustle and bustle of busy Tokyo life. You can reach it in just a three-minute walk from Akasaka-mitsuke Station or a five-minute walk from Nagatachō station. The bright red maidenhair leaves create a peaceful atmosphere perfect for relaxation. The park is also home to Ōkubo Toshimichi Memorial which celebrates the life of Ōkubo Toshimichi – a great samurai from the 1800s who is regarded as one of the main founders of modern Japan.

Address: Kioicho 2-1, Chiyoda Ward, Tokyo

If you’re in Tokyo and need a break from busy city life, head to one of these spots to put your mind at ease.

The marvel that is the 375m-long Ryujinotsuri Bridge in Ibaraki, is a must-see this autumn season as maple trees, sawtooth oaks, and other autumnal spectacles dye the area in breathtaking reds from mid to late November.

Ryujinotsuri Bridge: Japan’s biggest suspension bridge

Ryujinotsuri Bridge is located in Okukujichanosato Park in Ibaraki Prefecture’s city of Hitachiota. From atop the towering bridge one can overlook at the expansive gorge 100m down below where the misty Ryujin Lake flows. Trees stretch to a horizon in this incredible breathtaking environment, offering beautiful vistas throughout all four seasons.

Bungee jump over Ryujin Lake

Ryujinotsuri Bridge is the biggest suspension bridge in Japan, and so of course it has to offer something special to visitors. And that would be bungee jumping which is sure to excite thrill-seekers travelling to Japan.

Outdoor activities galore

Visitors can enjoy the surrounding nature by taking a canoe or boat on top of Ryujin Lake.

BBQ and camping facilities

There are also BBQ and camping facilities in the area for people to enjoy the outdoors and see the stars at night.

A full hiking autumn experience at Ryujinotsuri

There are several hiking courses on offer that cater to both beginners and pros. Get close with nature and see the autumn colours, hear the birds sing, and breathe in that fresh air.

The Fujikawaguchiko Tourism Association will host this year’s Fujikawaguchiko Autumn Leaves Festival, which will be the 22nd run, to help support the tourism industry in the northern region of Fuji which has seen a great impact as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

With much less people travelling to Japan during the pandemic, and the virus having continued for a long time, the Fujikawaguchiko Tourism Association is instead focusing on travellers within the country by hosting various events that can be enjoyed at Fujikawaguchiko.

All the necessary precautions will be taken at this year’s festival, including taking people’s temperature upon arrival, the mandatory wearing of face masks, alcohol gel being available at the site, and more. This will protects not only the locals but sightseers too, and so cooperation is being asked of everyone visiting.

At this year’s festival, visitors can look forward to the popular Momiji Tunnel of maple trees which will be lit up at sunset until 10:00pm. The beautiful autumn colours can be enjoyed with Mount Fuji in the background. There will also be food, souvenirs, and a variety of activities to be enjoyed.

The Momiji Tunnel is an absolute must-see for anyone visiting Yamanashi during autumn and is nothing less than Instagram-worthy.

Autumn illuminations are set to shine on Konkai-Komyoji Temple in Kyoto from November 13.

Konkai-Komyoji Temple is a Buddhist temple that was founded in 1175. It is one of the eight temples of the Jodo sect of Buddhism and his home to numerous treasures including a painting by Edo period painter Itō Jakuchū, folding screen paintings by Tomioka Tessai, and more. There are many wonders to behold at the temple, such as the Tora-no-ma which has sliding doors that depending on how they are open or closed display a different number of tigers, or the Shiun Gardens which have a stream that reflects the beautiful autumnal colours of the overhead trees.

The temple is also home to the Goko Shuyui Amida Butsu statue, which has been picked up by the Japanese media on many occasions and referred to as the “Afro Buddha” due to its afro hairstyle.

There will be Japanese music performances with traditional instruments like the koto and shinobue three times an evening for the illumination event. If you’re in Kyoto this autumn, this is one event to not miss.

Taiko-en is an enormous site spanning 250,000 square feet and is home to a breathtaking garden, restaurant, and more. This year, the site is giving host to a special illumination event for autumn this year which began on Saturday.

Since July 2019, Taiko-en has been lighting up its garden with illuminations for people to enjoy the beautiful garden in the evening, bringing together nature with the history of the site.

The illuminations begin with projection mapping at the entrance of the garden which rolls out an autumn colour carpet. As visitors walk along the projected path, the lights and colours dance beneath their feet.

Further in they will come to the “Night Museum” area where they will find stone statues collected by Denzaburō Fujita lit up, as well as paper lanterns, and more, offering a magical atmosphere different from that during the daytime. There’s also a path home to moso bamboo as well as acrylic bamboo with LED lights in it which lead visitors into a mystical world of dazzling radiance. In the main area, there’s a lake with a sea of clouds above it, and the trees of the garden coloured bright red.

The restaurant and banquet area are open for business, so after enjoying a gourmet meal, visitors are encouraged to go and see the light show.

Keifuku Electric Railroad is lending its strength to Rokuo-in Temple in Kyoto this autumn to light up the ancient site in the evenings from November 14 to December 6.

Shari-den (Photo taken in 2019)

Temple path (Photo taken in 2019)

This year marks the 5th run of the autumn evening light-ups. The temple, just a four minute walk from Rokuoin Station, is known for its beautiful maple trees which blossom breathtaking autumnal colours during the fall season.

Temple reception hall with fusuma images

Fusuma image example

The temple is selling new goshuin temple stamp books this year for the light-up event. Visitors will also be able to see 56 fusuma images drawn by contemporary Japanese artist Takaya Fuji.

Rokuo-in Temple will close early next year for approximately 2 years and 9 months for repairs. The temple is also currently limiting the number of people allowed at once, making this year the best time to see the autumn leaves.

Oita in Kyushu has been nicknamed “Hot Spring Prefecture Oita” due to having the largest number of hot spring water sources and outputs in Japan. Oita welcomes many visitors every year who flock to the prefecture’s many famous hot spring locations like Beppu and Yufuincho Kawakami.

But the charm of Oita doesn’t lie solely in its hot springs. It’s also a location that offers breathtaking scenery during autumn. We’ve picked 6 spots around Oita Prefecture that are must-visits during autumn.

Keiseki-en

The gorge of Yabakei is designated as a Place of Scenic Beauty in Japan. Keiseki-en is a beautiful Japanese garden that was built to commemorate the completion of the Yabakei dam. It’s home to over 31,000 individual trees of around 100 species as well as a lake, waterfalls, and crags. It’s a place that boasts natural beauty throughout all four seasons.

Address: 2286-1 Yabakeimachi Ōaza Ōshima, Nakatsu, Oita

Kinrin Lake

Kinrin Lake is one of Yufu’s most famous sightseeing spots for the mysterious torii gate that sits within the lake. Spring water and hot spring water flows through the lake, and because the temperature of the water is warm throughout the year, you can see steam rising from the surface in the early hours of winter days. Tenso Shrine also sits on the bank of the lake which is home to a sacred tree that’s designated as a natural monument.

Address: 1561 Yufuinchō Kawakami, Yufu, Oita
Access: 20 minutes on foot from Yufuin Station (JR Line)

Kyusuikei

Kyusuikei’s scenery spans through the prefectural road that connects the Kokonoe IC to Yamanami Highway. Its 2km expanse is made up of sheer cliffs which create the valley that is known for its autumn colours. Visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of the maple and ginkgo trees from the observation deck that runs along the cliff. There are other nearby sightseeing spots too like Kokonoe Yume Otsurihasi Bridge and Kyusuikei Onsen hot springs.

Address: Tano, Kokonoe, Kusu District, Oita
Access: 20-minutes by car from Kokonoe IC

Hakubakei

The valley of Hakubaki was designated as a Place of Scenic Beauty of the city of Usuki. In autumn, surrounding trees are dyed in reds and yellows, bringing people from all over to witness the spectacle. And because the valley it at a high altitude, the gradation of the colourful trees changes as you go further in.

Address: Badai, Usuki, Oita
Access: 5-minutes by car from Usuki IC

Fukiji Temple

Fukiji Temple was built in the Heian Period for the high priest of Usa Jingu. The temple is a national treasure, and the Amida-Nyōrai contained inside is designated by the Japanese government as an Important Cultural Property.

Address: 2395 Tashibufuki, Bungotakada, Oita
Access: 30-minutes by car from Usa Station

Mount Kuju

Mount Kuju stands as the highest mountain in Kyushu Island at nearly 1,800-meters tall, which has also led to to be nicknamed the “Rooftop of Kyushu.” Its has many peaks, the highest being Mount Nakadake at 1,791-meters. One peak in particular draws mountain climbers, and that’s Mount Taisen. At its apex one can enjoy the breathtaking autumn colours together with the sight of the rolling mountains.

Address: Tano, Kokonoe, Kusu District, Oita
Access: 40-minutes by car from Kokonoe IC.

Hirakata Park’s “Hikari no Yuenchi” illumination event, which has been running for the autumn and winter season and is set to finish on March 1, 2020, is being extended into the spring season due to its huge popularity. The spring period will run from March 20 to April 7.

The theme of this year’s Hikari no Yuenchi is “Time Travel Fantasy.” Dazzle your eyes with a bright selection of breathtaking illuminations inside the event’s four areas, such as the lights along Time Travel Fantasy Street where the symbol of the parkーa 10-meter tall treeーstands gloriously, or the Illumination Flower Garden. The blue and purple winter colours of the lights will change into springtime pinks, greens, and yellows.

Illumination Flower Garden

Flowering illuminations will twinkle atop the hill in spring pastel colours like cherry blossom pinks, fresh verdure green, and rape blossom yellows.

The dazzling delights of the winter season will continue into the spring period, like the 24 different night attractions, and the illumination food too like the “shining bubble tea.” We also recommend taking advantage of the “Night Fee,” which sees a special entry price open from 16:00.

Enjoy the cool spring breeze and gorgeous Japanese illuminations at Hirakata Park this March.

Early November marks the opening of the autumn cherry blossoms in Obaracho, Toyota. By the time mid-November rolls around, close to 10,000 shikizakura cherry blossoms bloom a pale pink until the end of the month.

The Yoshino cherry bears its pink petals in springtime, but the shikizakura blossoms twice a year: first in spring, then in autumn. They are considered one of the most beautiful flowers of autumn, especially when they bloom against the gorgeous and vibrant red maple leaves. The Obara Shikizakura Matsuri began on November 1, and right now, you can witness this spectacle for yourself.

The shikizakura trees planted in Obara have been there since Kansei era (1789-1801). With the helping hand of locals, the trees have become one of Japan’s most famous shikizakura spots. They were designated as Chiku (District) Trees in 1978 and can be seen throughout the entire district. Some of the trees are over 100 years old and as such registered as Natural Monuments of Aichi prefecture.

This is a spot we highly recommend visiting when travelling to Aichi.

▼Obara Shikizakura Cherry Blossoms

Peak Blossom Time: From Mid-November

Locations:

441-1 Johei, Obaracho, Toyota, Aichi (Obara Fureai Park)

Senmichi, Toyota, Aichi (Senmi Shikizakura no Sato)

Access: Take the Toyota Oiden Bus bound for Kaminigi (上仁木行き) and get off at Obaraokusa (小原大草) or Kaminigi (上仁木)

Details:  http://www.kankou-obara.toyota.aichi.jp/

▼Obara Shikizakura Matsuri

Running: November 1, 2019 – November 30, 2019

Locations: Senmi Shikizakura no Sato, Obara Fureai Park, and elsewhere in the region

Notes: The Kururin Bus can be boarded for free on weekends and public holidays while the festival is on

Official Website: https://www.aichi-now.jp/spots/detail/132/

The Korankei Maple Festival is also taking place this month where you can witness around 40,000 maple trees bearing their gorgeous autumn foliage.

The trees are being lit up every night for the month of November. Watch the sun set before the illuminations are turned on, creating an enchanting atmosphere with the warm, radiating lights against the night sky.

▼Maple Trees

Peak Blossom Time: From Mid-November

Location:  Iimori Asukecho, Toyota, Aichi

Access: Ride the Meitetsu Mikawa Line to Toyotashi Station, change onto Meitetsu Bus, and alight at Korankei (香嵐渓)

Official Website:  http://asuke.info/korankei/

▼64th Korankei Maple Festival

Running: November 1, 2019 – November 30, 2019

Location: Around Iimori Asukecho, Toyota, Aichi

Light-Up: Sunset to 21:00

Access: 20 minutes from Sarugata Green Road Interchange / 20 minutes from Toyota-Kanpachi Interchange

Official Website: http://asuke.info/event/nov/entry-705.html

Witness two of Japan’s most celebrates treesーthe cherry blossom and the mapleーflower together in one place in Aichi.

The Former Shizutani School, recognised as the oldest school existing for commoners in Japan, has reached its peak season for autumn foliage. Speficially, for the Chinese pistache tree, which is a symbol of the school.

Shizutani School first opened in 1670 during the Kambun era. In 2015, it was registered as an Educational Heritage Site from Early-Modern Japan. The majority of the site is listed as an Important Cultural Property, including the temple, Shizutani Shrine, as well as the auditorium which is considered a national treasure.

The school’s surrounding natural landscape enjoys the blooming of many different flowers throughout the entire year which people flock to see. It’s especially famous for autumn, a season during which the enchanting red and yellow hues boas their beautiful blossom.

The three colours reflect from the lacquered flooring of the auditorium, rippling like ocean waves.

The beautiful contrast between the reds and yellows of the pistaches can be enjoyed during autumn-time only. The best time to see them is from now until November 20, so if you’re travelling to Okayama, be sure to pay the Former Shizutani School a visit.