Balancing Japan’s spectacular springtime cherry blossom season, the wondrous displays of Autumn colours during the final three months of the year will take your breath away. The season begins in the northernmost island of Hokkaido in early October, sweeps south across the main island and on down to the southern island of Kyushu in mid-November. Thanks to Japan's unique geography stretching from north to south, you can witness the stunning autumn colors for a full three months.

Starting with Hokkaido, the brilliant golden ginkgo trees can be admired at Hokkaido University campus, Odori Park, and Maruyama Park. For panoramic views of Sapporo painted in golden and crimson hues, the Moiwa Mountain observation deck offers breathtaking vistas of the island's capital, with spectacular city lights twinkling in the evening hours. The ideal viewing period is October through mid-November.

In Tokyo, the expansive Rikugien Gardens, dating back to the Edo period, become a fiery landscape perfect for all-day photography. Beyond the golden ginkgo and momiji (maple) trees that transform from green through yellow, orange, and red, this garden features quintessentially Japanese elements like ponds, lanterns, and stone bridges. For brilliant golden views lining both sides of the street, head to Aoyama-dori leading to Meijijingu Gaien, a favorite autumn spot among locals. If you prefer autumn forests with flowing waterfalls, visit Mitake, just an hour from central Tokyo—a location that also served as a backdrop in a famous Thai novel and film, Behind the Painting. Tokyo's autumn colours are at their best around early December.

In the Chubu region, Korankei Valley, nearly 2 hours from Nagoya, is a true autumn paradise. Over 4,000 maple trees, representing more than 11 varieties, transform the valley from lush green to a blazing spectacle of yellows, reds, and oranges. The optimal time to visit is November.

Continuing to the Kansai region, Kyoto remains the ultimate destination everyone knows. Since it's such a popular tourist spot, we recommend lesser-known gems like Honenin Temple near Ginkakuji, Taizoin Temple in the Hanazono district, Jingo-ji Temple and nearby temples on Mount Takao, and Sanzen-in Temple in Ohara village. While these require a bit more travel time, they're absolutely worth the journey. In Osaka, beyond the city’s popular castle, Mino Park about 30 minutes away offers the most stunning photo opportunities. Or you can simply stroll down Midosuji Street in the city center, where brilliant golden ginkgo trees line both sides of the road. The natural display competes with the colorful holiday lights that illuminate the area during the festive season—creating an absolutely enchanting experience. Peak season in Kyoto and Osaka runs from late November through early December.

Kyushu’s green leaves are the last in Japan to change colour. The beautiful transformation rivals anywhere else, with the added bonus of smaller crowds compared to Kyoto and Tokyo. You can enjoy the seasonal splendor at Kiyomizudera Honbo Park in Fukuoka Prefecture, Kyusuikei Valley in Oita Prefecture, the bridge at Umenokitodoro Park in Kumamoto Prefecture, and Misoji-en Garden in Nagasaki Prefecture.

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