Autumn in Japan has its own magic. The heat of summer fades away, the air becomes pleasant, and the cool morning and evening breezes make every walk feel refreshing. Chasing autumn leaves is poetic enough, but pairing it with seasonal delicacies – like roasted chestnuts or limited-edition wagashi – makes the trip even sweeter. I still remember drinking matcha in a cool Kyoto temple when I first heard about this year's foliage forecast. It felt as if the entire country was inviting me to go out and travel.
That's why we've created the Japan Autumn Travel Ranking – a hand-picked list of 20 must-visit places across the country. Instead of breaking it down by region, we picked the best across the country so you can match destinations to your travel style. Whether you are interested in mountaineering, a walk along the lake, or a temple visit, this guide has it all for you.
#1 Daisetsuzan (Kurodake) / Hokkaido
Nicknamed the "Roof of Japan", Daisetsuzan is a massive mountain range whose gateway is Kurodake. At an altitude of 1,984 metres, the summit can be reached via a ropeway and a lift from Sounkyo Onsen. In early September, the leaves begin to burst with color, making it one of the first places in Japan to welcome autumn.
Highlights: Get off the ropeway and you will be welcomed by red colored bushes and untouched forest. As you climb higher, the colors change dramatically, painting the slopes in fiery reds and golden yellows. At Sugatami Pond, the reflection of leaves against the bright blue sky seems like a living canvas. The crisp alpine air makes the scenery even more detailed than Honshu's autumn scenery.
#2 Yahiko Park (Momiji Valley) / Niigata
Located in Yahiko Village, Niigata, this park is beloved year-round, but its Momiji Valley steals the show in autumn. The scarlet maples that surround the valley form a fiery corridor, with the vermilion Tsukimi Bridge adding a perfect contrast. At night, the light-ups transform the park into a dreamscape.
Highlights: The bridge made of glowing leaves is a photographer's dream. The reflections on the stream double the beauty, while the evening light makes it feel as if you have stepped into another world.
#3 Mt. Tanigawa / Gunma
Mount Tanigawa, stretching between Gunma and Niigata, is 1,977 meters high and is part of Japan's "100 Famous Mountains". Easy access makes it popular with both casual visitors and experienced hikers. A ropeway takes you to Tenjindaira at an altitude of 1,323 metres, where autumn colors cover the slopes.
Highlights: From Tenjin Pass, you can see bands of foliage set against rugged cliffs, with Mount Echigo in the distance. This is a rare one-day trip that still offers gorgeous mountain views. During peak season, lively crowds add to the festive autumn feeling.
#4 Bandai Azuma Skyline / Fukushima
This 29 km scenic road climbs up to 1,600 metres, offering sweeping views of the volcanic terrain and autumnal valleys. It is listed among the top 100 roads in Japan and attracts self-driving travelers from across the country.
Highlights: From Jododaira, you can look down into Tsubakuro Valley, where red and yellow foliage lines a dramatic V-shaped valley. The rugged volcanic landscape blends beautifully with the soft autumn colors, making every roadside stop worth it.
#5 Tsugaike Nature Park / Nagano
At an altitude of 1,900 metres, it is the largest alpine wetland in Japan. Boardwalks wrap around the marsh, offering a 5.5 km walk through seasonal scenery. In autumn, the wetlands glow red while the birch and larch forests turn golden.
Highlights: From the viewing deck, the Hakuba Mountains rise behind golden larch forests – a breathtaking sight. Walking along the path, you will notice the leaves shifting from bushes to trees, each turning up a new surprise.
#6 Nikko (Irohazaka, Lake Chuzenji, Kegon Falls) / Tochigi
This classic route starts at the World Heritage Sites of Nikko and winds through 48 turns of Irohazaka to Lake Chuzenji and Kegon Falls. The higher you climb, the richer the colors.
Key Features: Driving the Irohazaka feels like going through a tunnel of leaves. On Lake Chuzenji, the reflections of red leaves shimmer on the water. Kegon Falls, falling from a height of 97 meters, surrounded by autumn colours, is simply spectacular.
#7 Mt. Takao / Tokyo
Only an hour from central Tokyo, Mount Takao is a favorite spot. Ropeways and lifts make it accessible, while the routes range from beginner-friendly to challenging. Autumn turns the mountain into a festival of colours.
Highlights: On Trail 1, the temple grounds sparkle with foliage. Trails 6 and Inariyama offer quiet forest walks. From the summit, you can see autumn leaves against the Tokyo skyline – a rare city-nature scene.
#8 Lake Kawaguchi (Momiji Corridor) / Yamanashi
Against the backdrop of Mount Fuji, Kawaguchi's Momiji Corridor is a tunnel of maples spanning hundreds of meters. At night, the lights add a dreamy glow.
Key Features: Walking through the corridor feels like stepping into another world. The reflection of Fuji and the leaves on the lake are iconic photo spots. There are spectacular views during the day, while the evenings are dazzling with lights.
#9 Meiji Jingu Gaien (Ginkgo Avenue) / Tokyo
This 300-meter path, lined with 146 ginkgo trees, turns golden in late autumn. Easy accessibility makes it a favorite with both locals and tourists.
Highlights: From Aoyama Street, you can take stunning perspective shots. Nearby cafes allow you to enjoy lunch or tea under a golden umbrella.
#10 Ikaho Onsen (Kajika Bridge) / Gunma
Famous for its stone-stepped streets, Ikaho Onsen hides a gem in its valley – the vermillion Kajika Bridge. In autumn, the bridge sparkles amid vivid leaves, and at night, the lights add a magical touch.
Highlights: During the day, the red bridge made of leaves looks like a painting. At night, the lights transform the area into a dreamland. Combine this with a soak in the hot springs down the stone stairs, and you've got the perfect autumn finale.
#11 Arashiyama (Togetsukyo Bridge Area) / Kyoto
Arashiyama is the autumn symbol of Kyoto. The Togetsukyo Bridge over the Katsura River is framed by rolling hills, while nearby bamboo groves and temples make for a day-long stroll.
Highlights: The morning reflection on the river is calming, the afternoon rush brings energy, and the sunset casts a golden glow on the hills. Combine it with a stroll along the bamboo walkway or in the gardens of Tenryu-ji for the full Kyoto atmosphere.
#12 Naeba Dragondola (Naeba–Tashiro) / Niigata
Japan's longest Gondola stretches 5.5 km between Neba and Tashiro Highlands. Riding it feels like swimming in a sea of autumn colours.
Highlights: From valleys to peaks, the color of the leaves changes as you climb. At Lake Tashiro, the reflections of vivid leaves and mountain ranges create a breathtaking scenery. On clear days, you can even see Mount Echigo in the distance.
#13 Naruko Gorge / Miyagi
This V-shaped valley has 100-meter cliffs spanning 2.5 km. In autumn, the explosion of colors on the sheer rock faces is unforgettable.
Highlights: Walking trails let you experience the foliage up close. From the viewing platforms, the gorge looks like a living painting. Seasonal trains add a touch of celebration to the Tohoku autumn atmosphere.
#14 Kurobe Gorge Railway / Toyama
This open-air train runs from Japan's deepest valley, Unazuki Onsen, to Keyakidaira. The 80-minute ride is a slow-paced journey through autumn scenery.
Highlights: Bridges, rivers, and peaks open before your eyes. In Keyakidaira, walking paths and outdoor baths let you combine train travel with hot spring relaxation.
#15 Utsukushigahara Highlands / Nagano
At an altitude of about 2,000 metres, this highland is accessible by car and connects to the Venus Line scenic drive. It is a popular autumn holiday.
Highlights: The golden larch forests overlooking the Northern Alps make for dramatic views. At sunset, the ridgelines glow orange, adding a cinematic feel. The open air and sweeping views make the city stress instantly disappear.
#16 Zao Onsen (Zao Mountain Range) / Yamagata
At an altitude of 880 meters, Zao Onsen is a hot spring town surrounded by autumn colors. Ropeways take you to the Zao peaks, where the foliage is spread like a carpet.
Key Features: From above, the slopes look like a patchwork quilt of red and yellow. The steam rising from the hot spring streets amidst the colorful hills creates a unique sight. Day or night, taking a bath while gazing at the autumn leaves is pure luxury.
#17 Mt. Adatara / Fukushima
This 1,700-meter-high peak, called the "true sky", is celebrated in poetry. The ropeway makes it easy for beginners to see autumn leaves.
Highlights: Trails along the mountain ranges blend the leaves with the vast sky. The volcanic terrain of Numanodaira contrasts perfectly with the soft autumn colours, creating unique scenery.
#18 Mt. Yoshino (Senbon Ridge) / Nara
Known for its cherry blossoms in spring, Yoshino also shines in autumn. The peaks glow red and orange, turning the mountain into a colorful tapestry.
Highlights: From the viewpoint of Kimpusen-ji temple and its surroundings, the leaves look like waves of fire. Combining the scenery with a visit to the temple adds a layer of history to the natural beauty.
#19 Metasequoia Avenue (Makino Highlands) / Shiga
This 2.4 km area of 500 Metasequoia trees turns golden and orange in autumn. Passing through here feels like entering a natural cathedral.
Key Features: The view of the tall trees forms a golden tunnel. The surrounding farms add a peaceful rural ambiance to the trip.
#20 Oirase Stream (Lake Towada) / Aomori
Flowing from Lake Towada, the Orase Stream runs for 14 km through forests and waterfalls. Each season has its own charm, but autumn is especially magical.
Highlights: Mossy rocks, golden reflections in the water, and famous spots like Ashura-no-Nagare and Choshi Otaki Waterfall make it a must-see. With private cars banned during peak season, a stroll along the river feels like indulging in the luxury of time and space.
From Hokkaido’s alpine peaks to Kyoto’s temple gardens, Japan’s autumn is a kaleidoscope of experiences. Whether you’re chasing fiery maples, golden ginkgo, or riding a gondola above the treetops, each stop offers its own flavor of fall. Pack a light jacket, grab your camera, and let Japan’s autumn colors guide your journey.
