Viewing the fall foliage (紅葉; kouyou) has been a popular pastime in Japan since the Heian era (8th to 12th century). Odes to the beauty and changing nature of the trees were enshrined in Waka poems and featured in stories like The Tale of Genji. Once the domain of the nobility, it’s become a beloved annual outing for residents of Japan.
Where are the best places to view fall foliage? Read on to learn the top five spots that residents chose in a recent survey.
Types of trees
Japan’s fall foliage is most famous for two types of trees: the Japanese Maple leaf and the ginkgo leaf.
The maple leaf (momiji or kaede) is ubiquitous. If asked to conjure up images of Japan, the brilliant red leaf is bound to come to mind. These gorgeous trees are native to Japan and widespread.
Over the centuries, several varieties have been cultivated that change into vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow. These add a bit of natural elegance to the environment. Some locales in Japan even regard tempura momiji leaves as a treat.
The other leaf heavily associated with Japan is the ginkgo (ginnan or ichou). Brought to Japan from China around the 14th century, they are often used to line streets and parks. The leaf is the symbol of Tokyo. In the fall, the fan-shaped leaves turn a brilliant shade of golden yellow.
Along with the maple and ginkgo are oak, beech, and cherry blossom trees. These turn into different shades of yellow and brown. The evergreen trees make the view a brilliant kaleidoscope of autumnal colors.
When to see Japan’s fall foliage
Fall officially starts at the end of September. However, the warm temperatures continue well into mid-October. As a result, the leaves change considerably later.
The best time to see the fall foliage in all its glory is late November to early December. Japan is a large island, so colder climates change first. Warmer climates get the leave a few weeks after.
If you’re worried about scheduling your trip at the right time, Japan releases an annual fall foliage prediction map. It details when each prefecture should have peak foliage.
Japan’s fall foliage rankings
In early September, Goo asked which areas residents of Japan wanted to visit for fall foliage. 339 participants responded and crowned a very clear winner.
The top pick received over one-third more votes than the number two pick. Clearly, residents have a favorite for those fall feels.
1. Kyoto
The top spot to view the turning of the leaves is Kyoto. That’s not surprising. Its ancient sites and old traditional charm are the perfect backdrop for the menagerie of colors. It’s also where the fall foliage view began.
The best place to visit if you want to indulge in a bit of Heian atmosphere with your leaves is Kyoto. Kyoto’s popular spots are mostly shrines and temples, with Kiyomizudera Temple being a key attraction. The temple has a giant wooden stage connected to it that allows a spectacular view of the brilliant trees below.
Kyoto is very congested, even at the best of times. During the fall foliage season, crowds will be high. A tour or a solid plan is recommended if you plan to visit.
2. Tochigi
Tochigi is number two on the list. Located about an hour from Tokyo by train, this area is popular for Nikko National Park.
Along with hiking and hot springs, you can enjoy gorgeous views of the foliage in the scenic mountain surroundings. Ryuzu Falls is popular where the twin streams burst out of the fall scenery, creating a truly picturesque view.
3. Hokkaido
Japan’s most northern island is ranked third on the list. Hokkaido is the coldest of all the islands and the foliage changes earlier there. Hokkaido is a vast island with lots of wooded areas with a large variety of trees. With so many forests you truly immerse yourself in the colors of autumn.
The Daisetsuzan mountain range provides a chance to see the brillant color while you hike the trails. You can also take the Kurodake ropeway and view the gorgeous leaves from above.
4. Nara
Nara Prefecture is fourth on the list. Like Kyoto, Nara is famous for its ancient temples and shrines owing to its history as the capital during the Nara period (710-794). It’s also famous for its sacred deer that freely roam the parks and mountainsides.
Nara Park is the perfect place to experience the changing leaves. Along with the beautiful cultural sights, you can also feed the deer among the trees.
5. Hiroshima
Hiroshima rounds out the top five for fall foliage delights. For spectacular leaf viewing Momijidani Park on Miyajima Island is a must-see. The park has over 700 maple leaf trees which lend it its name of Maple Leaf Valley. Photos of the bridge and trees on the premises look like a painting come to life.
Nearby is Mt. Misen, which also provides spectacular views. This is accessible by a ropeway that provides an aerial view of the crimson leaves.
If you can’t make it to one of the top spots don’t fret. Tokyo and other large cities have an abundance of parks, gardens, shrines, and temples. Wherever you are there is sure to be some spectacular foliage to see.
Discover other unique parts of Japan
Japan is on everyone’s travel bucket list. Sadly, many end up going to the same places as everyone else. That can turn what could have been a fun, once-in-a-lifetime experience into an exhausting battle with crowds.
We started Unseen Japan Tours for the same reason we started Unseen Japan: To give people a unique glimpse into Japan they can’t get anywhere else. Let us create a custom itinerary of hard-to-find spots centered on your interests. We can also serve as your guides and interpreters, taking you to places that non-Japanese-speaking tourists usually can’t access.
Contact us below to get the ball rolling today!
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Sources
紅葉シーズンに行きたい都道府県ランキング！ModelPress
