Autumn is just around the corner, and that means it’s time once again to get ready for nature’s beautiful change to welcome in the new season. And this is something especially true in Japan! Although not as well known worldwide, the change of the Autumn leaves is just as important a time in Japanese culture as the Sakura Season. Every year, people around the country gather not only to admire the beautiful and colorful changes but also to welcome in the new season as we begin to head into the final months of the year.
First forecast map for 2026 Autumn Foliage – Japan Meteorological Corporation
Peak Viewing Dates Overview
Much like preparing for hanami, one must consider the time and location when viewing autumn foliage. After all, not every area experiences the same weather, and this can certainly affect when and how the trees change their colors. This year, Sapporo will be the first to see the trees take on their fall appearance, predicted to begin on November 7th. From here, you can follow the foliage down the countryside, with one of the latest peak viewing dates expected to take place in Fukuoka on the 7th of December.
The Ginkgo Tree Tunnel in Tokyo – Credit: Tharanga Dinusha
Autumn Foliage in the Three Major Cities
Tokyo
Of course, the most popular spots to enjoy the Fall Foliage are always the major cities, and it’s not hard to see why. Tokyo’s modern cityscape transforms with the red, orange, and yellow leaves, creating a magical atmosphere that perfectly combines the new world with Japan’s longstanding culture. It really is one of the best times to explore the capital, and this year, you can expect peak time to arrive on the 29th of November.
Autumn colours in the gardens of Daigo-ji Temple – Credit: Charles Barbe
Kyoto
Kyoto in Autumn, on the other hand, with its historical and traditional atmosphere, transforms the city into a picturesque atmosphere that is bound to transport you back to a bygone era. And we’re not kidding when we say it’s going to be gorgeous; every photo you take wandering the city streets is sure to be immediately Insta-worthy! This year, the peak viewing date is expected to occur on December 11th.
Osaka Castle during autumn – Credit: f11photo
Osaka
Finally, let’s move on to the last of the three major cities, Osaka. Also known as Japan’s Kitchen, Osaka is the place to be for delicious culinary delights, and Autumn is certainly no different. With the streets and sightseeing spots transforming under the red, yellow, and orange leaves, there is no better time to sit back and enjoy some beautiful food whilst appreciating the beauty of nature. Osaka’s peak foliage date this year is expected to be on December 4th.
Autumn leaves framing a clear view of Mt Fuji taken in Shizuoka City – Credit: Ritsu Miyamoto
Our Top Viewing Spots
Suruga and Shizuoka
As you may know, we love to get off the beaten track, which is why one of our top spots for Autumn Foliage viewing has to be Suruga and Shizuoka Prefecture! After all, what makes for a better photo opportunity than framing the majestic Mt. Fuji with the gorgeous autumn colors of the surrounding trees? Combine this with how many incredible Japanese experiences you can find in Suruga, and it’s honestly the perfect place to grab all of your autumn adventures in Japan! Located around the Mt. Fuji area, the peak viewing dates for Shizuoka are said to take place around December 6th. If you’re hoping to visit Suruga in Autumn, make sure you keep an eye out to see if more exact dates are released! And if you’d like some help planning your Suruga in Fall, our Tailored Travel team is more than happy to help you out, working closely with our amazing friends and partners, Visit Suruga, to craft you an incredible itinerary and trip you’ll never forget!
Beautiful Autumn colours in Nagoya – Credit: Sean Pavone
Nagoya
Nagoya is another spot very close to our hearts, and autumn time is certainly no exception. Known for its large number of temples that transform under the red, orange, and yellow foliage, transporting you to a bygone era of tradition and culture. Just like Kyoto, Autumn in Nagoya perfectly encapsulates just how important this season is to Japan. The best part? The crowds found in the bigger cities are practically non-existent, allowing you to explore at your own pace and escape the pressures of everyday life. And to make things even easier, our friends at Nagoya is not boring have an incredible private tour taking you through some of the best spots to view the Fall Foliage. This year, the peak viewing dates are expected to start around November 17th.
Beautiful shot of Nagura River Valley in Fukushima during Autumn – Musashi2001
Some Other Amazing Spots to See the Foliage
Fukushima
Probably one of the more underrated areas, Fukushima City is filled to the brim with incredible nature spots, untouched by man, and gorgeous temples. Under the Autumn foliage, all of these amazing aspects come alive with a beauty you simply cannot experience anywhere else, making it perfect for history and nature lovers alike. Fukushima’s peak viewing dates fall on the 23rd of November, so it’s important to keep an eye out during this period to catch the best times!
Autumn leaves and trees at the Hiroshima Nishinikko – Credit: Masayoshi Hirose
Hiroshima
The City of Peace is always a memorable city to visit, any time of the year. But when the trees change their colors, the whole atmosphere changes into something truly magical. Whether you’re reflecting in Peace Memorial Park, spectating the floating torii from the famous Itsukushima Shrine, or simply exploring the city to find all of its hidden gems, you are sure to find autumn beauty no matter where you go. This year, the peak viewing dates for Hiroshima are expected to occur on November 28th.
Lady reaching out to a deer in Nara Park transformed by Autumn – Credit: tvcuong8892
Nara
Known for its high population of friendly deer and its gorgeous nature park, Nara is already a must-visit for any Japan trip. During the autumn months, the already beautiful city transforms into a serene landscape like nothing you’ve ever seen or felt before! It’s the perfect spot to take time, sit back, and escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, underneath amazing colors. This year, the peak viewing time period for the autumn leaves is expected to take place starting from November 24th.
Gorgeous Autumn Landscape located near Fukushima – pianoman555
Well, that’s it for this year! Of course, one important thing to remember is that nature is unpredictable, and right now, it is still early days. So remember to double-check the specific dates for any location you want to visit before you go. The Japan Weather Association is always a good bet for events like this, so make sure to keep an eye out! Autumn in Japan is a magical time of year, and this is made all the more true thanks to the gorgeous fall foliage that transforms the entire country. We can’t wait to take it all in, and we hope to see you there!
Featured Photo Credit: anek.soowannaphoom
