Top 10 Must-Visit Spots in Japan During Autumn 2024

Embark on the Autumn Spectacle in Japan!

As the crisp autumn breeze sweeps away summer's heat, we're in for a treat! This is the perfect time to explore Japan's stunning fall foliage, a feast for the eyes that captivates tourists from far and wide. Here's our guide to Japan's most breathtaking autumn destinations!

🌿 Sengokuhara Susuki Grass Fields – Step into a sea of Susuki grass (Japanese Silver Grass) in Hakone, Kanagawa prefecture. From September to November, the fields transform from lush green to a warm golden hue. Take a leisurely stroll down the pathway, capturing memorable moments while marveling at the stunning view of Mt. Hakone. Just remember to pack some warm clothes, as the temperatures can drop in the early mornings.

🌿 Senjojiki Cirque – Nestled in the Kiso Mountains (a.k.a. the Japanese Central Alps), Nagano prefecture, Senjojiki Cirque is home to an array of Alpine plants that create mesmerizing landscapes in the summer and turn magical during autumn, when Mt. Hoken is completely covered in a blanket of red, green, and yellow leaves. Access the cirque via a ropeway from Shirabi-daira station.

🌿 Koya Pond – A hidden gem in Mount Hiuchi, Niigata prefecture, Koya Pond boasts an array of alpine plants that create a stunning display especially in the early summer. In autumn, the area attracts tourist voyagers with its beautiful mountains adorned with radiant autumn leaves. Koya Pond Mountain Hut offers cozy accommodation and an unparalleled view of the pond.

🌿 Tashirotai Marsh – A vast wetland resting on the plateau in the north of Hakkoda Mountains, Aomori prefecture, Tashirotai Marsh was originally a volcanic caldera formed over two million years ago. Boardwalks guide you through the marsh safely, allowing you to marvel at the alpine plants dancing in the gentle breeze that descends from the towering mountains. In autumn, the marsh becomes a golden masterpiece – a truly enchanting sight!

🌿 Goshikinuma – A cluster of ponds and lakes in Fukushima prefecture's Bandai plateau, Goshikinuma offers visitors a unique opportunity to observe the magical colors of nature. Each pond showcases varying shades of blue and green, creating a mesmerizing scene that's truly a gift from Mother Nature.

🌿 Nakatsukyo – Recognized as a scenic spot in Chichibu City, Saitama prefecture, Nakatsukyo Valley offers a fascinating view of Nakatsu River running through cliffs that rise 100 meters. The V-shaped valley features unique rocks, making it a picture-perfect destination with an atmosphere of tranquility and serenity.

🌿 Dakigaeri Valley – Located in Akita prefecture, Dakigaeri Valley is a breathtaking 10-kilometer stretch along Tamagawa river. Visit the Mikaeri Shrine at the entrance of the valley or cross Kami-no-iwahashi, a red suspension bridge that adds a striking contrast to the blue water. Finish your adventure at the stunning Mikaeri-no-taki waterfall, refreshed by its invigorating splashes.

🌿 Daikanbo – Located near Kurobe Dam, the biggest artificial dam in Japan, Toyama prefecture, Daikanbo offers a panoramic view of the Tateyama mountain range and Kurobe Lake from an elevation of 2,316 meters. At Unjo Terrace, take a break and absorb the stunning scenery while enjoying some refreshments.

🌿 Showa Kinen Park – Tachikawa City, Tokyo is home to this national public park that enchants visitors with a multitude of flowers and seasonal plants, ensuring a peaceful park experience all year round. Catch stunning views of the ginkgo trees as they display a carpet of gold during autumn.

🌿 Ebino Kogen – Nestled in the Kirishima mountain range, Miyazaki prefecture, Ebino Kogen offers a gateway to various hiking trails and stunning views of volcanic lakes like Rokkannon-miike. The plateau transforms into a golden wonderland in late August due to the presence of sulfur-infused volcanic gases.

Don't forget to check the best time to visit each spot to fully appreciate the autumn foliage! Dress warmly, especially in the early mornings or late evenings, to protect yourself from the temperature drops.

Join us on our guided tours throughout Japan for an unforgettable journey filled with historical and cultural insights. Explore the vibrant city of Tokyo, marvel at the stunning views of Mt. Fuji, or delve into local cuisine on our Tsukiji Fish Market Food and Drink Tour. Let us help you create an unforgettable Japanese adventure!

To learn more about autumn in Japan, be sure to check out our articles:

Autumn in Japan 2024: Fall Foliage 'Koyo' Forecast and Viewing
20 Places to See Autumn Leaves in Japan 2024
10 Best Places to See Autumn Leaves in Kyoto 2024
5 Places to Experience Autumn Leaves in Hokkaido
Top 10 Must-Visit Spots for Autumn Foliage in Tokyo

Happy travels!

Embark on the Autumn Spectacle in Japan! As the itinerary unfolds, we'll visit various places to witness the beauty of Japan's stunning autumn foliage.

Start with Sengokuhara Susuki Grass Fields in Hakone, where the fields adorned with golden Susuki grass create a feast for the eyes. Delve into the history of Senjojiki Cirque in Nagano prefecture, home to an array of stunning landscapes that transform during autumn.

In Mount Hiuchi, Niigata prefecture, Koya Pond presents a hidden gem, offering cozy accommodation and a stunning view of the pond adorned with radiant autumn leaves. Wander through the vast Tashirotai Marsh in Aomori prefecture, a golden masterpiece during autumn with alpine plants dancing in the gentle breeze.

Discover the magical colors of Goshikinuma, a cluster of ponds and lakes in Fukushima prefecture. Depart from Chichibu City, Saitama prefecture, and explore Nakatsukyo Valley with its stunning views and atmosphere of tranquility.

Embark on the breathtaking Dakigaeri Valley in Akita prefecture, a 10-kilometer stretch alongside the Tamagawa river, and conclude your adventure at the striking Mikaeri-no-taki waterfall.

Explore the panoramic views at Daikanbo, Toyama prefecture, and stroll through Showa Kinen Park in Tachikawa City, Tokyo, enchanted by golden carpets formed by ginkgo trees. Venture to Ebino Kogen in Miyazaki prefecture, a golden wonderland in late August due to the presence of sulfur-infused volcanic gases.

Join our guided tours throughout Japan for an unforgettable journey filled with historical and cultural insights. Satisfy your cravings on our Tsukiji Fish Market Food and Drink Tour, or marvel at the stunning views of Mt. Fuji.

For more information, check out our articles: