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Tokyo's Fall Foliage: Top 12 Gardens and Parks in 2024
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Our top 12 scenic autumn foliage locations in Tokyo include the famous Rikugien Garden, which is lit up at night, Inokashira Park, Meiji Jingu Gaien and its scenic yellow ginkgo foliage, but also Mt. Takao and Mt. Mitake for those who wish to enjoy an entire day amid brilliant fall foliage in Tokyo....
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This is the official account of MATCHA's editorial department. Our articles feature useful travel information for visitors to Japan, from how-to guides to recommended places to visit.
Tokyo's Fall Colors
2024 Fall foliage map created by MATCHA based on information from Weathernews
Tokyo boasts many beautiful gardens and parks where visitors can enjoy the charm of each season. The best time to see the fall foliage in Tokyo is from late November to early December.
Read on to learn the top 10 fall foliage spots in Tokyo. Some of the gardens featured here hold light-up events that enhance the beauty of the foliage!
Top 10 Autumn Foliage Spots in Tokyo
1. Meiji Jingu Gaien
2. Higo-Hosokawa Garden
3. Yoyogi Park
4. Rikugien Garden
5. Hama-rikyu Gardens
6. Koishikawa Korakuen Garden
7. Inokashira Park
8. Showa Kinen Park
9. Otaguro Park
10. Asukayama Park
11. Mt. Takao
12. Mitake Valley
Read also
1. Meiji Jingu Gaien: Tokyo’s Most Famous Fall Foliage Spot
Photo by Pixta
Meiji Jingu Gaien is a street lined by gingko trees on both sides of the 300-meter road. These trees create a stunning landscape come autumn with their vibrant yellow foliage!
Meiji Jingu Gaien is just outside of Aoyama-Itchome Station (Ginza/Hanzomon Line) if you take the Aoyama Dori Street Exit. The approximately 146 trees on this road turn into a golden color during the peak season, creating a glimmering tunnel when illuminated by the sun.
Annual Fall Foliage Season
The fall foliage on Meiji Jingu Gaien can be enjoyed from late November to early December
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2. Higo-Hosokawa Garden
Photo by Pixta
Higo-Hosokawa Garden was created on the site of the former Edo residence of the Hosokawa clan, a family of feudal lords that governed the region that is Kumamoto Prefecture during the Edo period (1603 - 1868). The garden takes advantage of the undulating terrain of the Mejirodai plateau as it slopes down to the Kanda River, creating a dramatic landscape.
The beautiful pond at the heart of the garden is surrounded by Japanese maple and witch hazel trees seemingly overhanging the pond, reflecting their autumnal red foliage on the water's surface. The garden path leading to the top of the hill resembles a natural mountain ridge path deep within the forest; there are benches along the way for visitors to rest.
The garden is directly connected to the Eisei Bunko Museum, a facility that displays art objects and documents from the Hosokawa Family collection.
The building at the entrance is called Shoseikaku and dates back to the Taisho era (1912-1926). During events such as the autumn foliage light-up, visitors can stop here to enjoy a bowl of green tea and Japanese sweets.
The Higo-Hosokawa Garden holds a yearly autumn foliage light-up event for a week at the end of November. The red foliage of the maple trees looks very impressive in combination with the pine trees decorated with ropes that protect them from snowfall.
Annual Fall Foliage Season
The fall foliage in Higo-Hosokawa Garden can be enjoyed from late November to early December.
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3. Yoyogi Park: Enjoy a Picnic Under the Golden Trees
Photo by Pixta
Yoyogi Park was part of the Olympic Village during the Tokyo 1964 Olympics. It then opened as a park in 1967.
Yoyogi Park is a classic location to view autumn foliage in the city. There are six tree varieties of trees, including 1,000 zelkova, 200 ginkgo, and 100 maple trees that grace the vast, 54-hectare park with their foliage in autumn.
Photo by Pixta
The park can be easily accessed from Harajuku Station or Shibuya Station and is always full of people bicycling, picnicking, and practicing their instruments on the weekends. Many events and flea markets are also held here. How about spreading out a picnic blanket and enjoying nature while gazing at fall foliage?
Annual Fall Foliage Season
The fall foliage in Yoyogi Park can be enjoyed from November to early December.
Read also
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4. Rikugien Garden: A Splendid Traditional Japanese Garden
Photo by Pixta
Visiting an authentic Japanese garden is a must while in Japan. In Tokyo, the most famous one may be Rikugien Garden.
Rikugien was created in 1702 and was designed so that visitors can enjoy strolling around the garden. It was made by constructing a hill from flat land 8.9 hectares in size, then supplying water to its manmade pond. Records state that Tokugawa Tsunayoshi (1646-1709), the shogun of the time, visited the park at least 58 times upon its completion.
Photo by Pixta
There are 450 Japanese maple trees, as well as 600 other maple varieties and ginkgo trees bursting into color in autumn.
Rikugien is lit up at night during the fall foliage season, offering dreamlike scenery.
In 2024, the Rikugien Evening Autumn Foliage Ligh-up will be held November 22 - December 4 between 18:00 and 20:30 (last admission at 19:30).
Online tickets: 900 yen (available on Asoview)
Same-day tickets: 1,100 yen (*cash only. The same-day tickets can be purchased only during the evening light-up hours.)
*Kaiyushiki Tsukiyama Sensui Teien: a Japanese-style garden where visitors stroll through the grounds. With a large pond at its center, this style of garden recreates scenic views from across Japan through landscaping features like artificial hills, islets erected in the pond, bridges, and exquisite stones that surround the pathways around the pond.
Annual Fall Foliage Season
The fall foliage in Rikugien Garden can be enjoyed between late November and early December.
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5. Hamarikyu Gardens: An Oasis amid Skyscrapers
Picture courtesy of the Tokyo Metropolitan Park Association
Hamarikyu Gardens is located by the Sumida River amid the city office buildings near Tokyo's Shiodome Station. The water in the garden pond is seawater, which changes in level depending on the time of the low tide. This seawater pond is the only one of its kind found in Tokyo!
Trident maple and other maple varieties can be found in the garden, allowing you to take in the beautiful fall foliage.
The Japanese teahouse located on the islet can be accessed by its two bridges. Here, you can enjoy a bowl of matcha tea and Japanese sweets. How about enjoying the flavors of Japan while gazing up at the crimson foliage?
Annual Fall Foliage Season
The fall foliage at Hama-rikyu Gardens can be enjoyed between mid-November and early December.
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6. Koishikawa Korakuen Garden: A Beautiful Pond and Fall Foliage
Photo by Pixta
Koishikawa Korakuen is a garden made to recreate famous views from all across Japan. Its main attraction, the garden pond, is said to represent Lake Biwa near Kyoto.
Near the Oigawa River, modeled after its namesake near Kyoto's Arashiyama, is a view that splendidly combines the red Tsutenkyo Bridge with the autumn leaves. The reflection of the red and yellow foliage on the water is magnificent.
The garden has many other highlights during the season, such as the Fall Foliage Forest, which is a tunnel of leaves. There is an autumn leaves festival usually held in November.
Tokyo Dome City, an entertainment complex next to the Tokyo Dome stadium, has restaurants, amusement parks, and spa facilities. Be sure to stop by after viewing the foliage!
Annual Fall Foliage Season
The fall foliage at Koishikawa Korakuen Garden can be enjoyed between late November and early December.
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7. Inokashira Park: Enjoy a Stroll amid the Fall Colors
Photo by Pixta
Inokashira Park is home to several facilities. These include Inokashira Pond, located at the center of the park, a promenade, Inokashira Park Zoo, and the Ghibli Museum.
In the fall, 600 trees dyed in crimson and yellow create gorgeous scenery! If you ride a boat at Inokashira Pond, you can gaze at the fall foliage from a unique perspective.
Strolling around the pond or sitting on a bench and peacefully observing the foliage are also pleasant activities to enjoy here. Come to Inokashira Park and enjoy the seasonal beauty!
Annual Fall Foliage Season
The fall foliage at Inokashira Park can be enjoyed between mid-November and mid-December
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8. Showa Kinen Park: Enjoy the Fall Foliage at Tokyo's Largest Park
Photo by Pixta
Showa Kinen Park is the largest park in Tokyo with a total area of 180 hectares. The location is famous for its seasonal flowers, such as tulips, sunflowers, and cosmos. In particular, the ginkgo foliage is a major autumn highlight.
The Canal road stretches for 200 meters from the Fureai (Friendship) Field and is lined with ginkgo trees on both sides.
Photo by Pixta
Several Japanese maple trees are also located in the Japanese garden at the park. The Japanese garden is definitely worth a visit!
There are several cafes and teahouses where you can enjoy a break during your visit.
Annual Fall Foliage Season
The fall foliage at Showa Kinen Park can be enjoyed from early to the end of November.
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9. Otaguro Park
Photo by Pixta
Otaguro Park, located in Tokyo's Suginami ward near Ogikubo Station, is home to a serene Japanese garden. When the radiant autumn colors fill the garden, the seasonal highlights can be enjoyed from various angles by leisurely exploring the garden.
One of its highlights is the Otaguro family residence, which adds a historical touch to the park. The park is designed for relaxation, with walking paths, benches, and open spaces that invite visitors to enjoy nature. Additionally, the park often hosts cultural events and exhibitions, making it a vibrant part of the community.
Annual Fall Foliage Season
Mid to late November
10. Asukayama Park
Photo by Pixta
Asakuyama Park, located near Oji Station in Tokyo's Kita Ward, is celebrated as a famous cherry blossom spot. However, the autumn colors in Asukayama are not less beautiful.
The beautiful stone Otonashi Bridge, the gondola that takes you up Asukayama Hill, the old tram car that evokes the first days of modern transportation in Tokyo - these highlights make Asukayama an exciting park to explore and capture unique scenery together with the red foliage.
Annual Fall Foliage Season
Mid to late November
11. Mt. Takao: Go Hiking amid the Fall Foliage
Photo by Pixta
Mt. Takao is accessible in about one hour by train from Shinjuku. You can choose from eight different trails based on hiking time and difficulty level. Visitors can observe the Japanese maple leaves on the summit of the mountain as well as along the cable car line.
The nearest station to Mt. Takao is Takaosanguchi Station on the Keio Line. If you depart from Shinjuku Station, take a train on the Chuo Line to Takao Station and transfer to the Keio Line. Takaosanguchi Station is just on stop away from Takao Station.
Annual Autumn Leaves Season
The fall foliage on Mt. Takao can be enjoyed from early to late November.
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12. Mitake Valley: Stroll on a Path Surrounded by Fall Foliage
Picture courtesy of Ome Tourism Association
The Mitake Valley can be accessed in about an hour and a half by train from Shinjuku. At this location at the foot of Mt. Mitake, you can walk through the forest and enjoy the beautiful foliage and fresh air. The well-maintained promenade is near Mitake Station on the JR Ome Line and is perfect for hiking.
The Ozawa Sake Brewery is located at the end of the promenade. Here you can sample tofu dishes and local Japanese sake. It's the perfect place for a refreshing meal after your hike!
Annual Fall Foliage Season
The fall foliage in Mitake Valley can be enjoyed from mid to late November.
FAQ
When can you see fall colors in Tokyo?
In Tokyo, the peak time to see fall colors, known as "koyo" in Japanese, typically occurs from late November to early December. This period marks the autumn foliage season in Tokyo when the leaves on trees like maples and ginkgoes transform into vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow. Popular spots in Tokyo to witness fall colors include parks like Shinjuku Gyoen, Yoyogi Park, and the gardens around temples and shrines throughout the city. Planning a visit during late November to early December ensures the best chance to experience Tokyo adorned in its autumn splendor.
When should I go to Japan for autumn foliage?
To witness the breathtaking autumn foliage in Japan, known as "koyo," planning your visit based on regional timelines is crucial for an optimal experience. Hokkaido, the northernmost island, displays vibrant fall colors from late September to early October, while the Tohoku region, encompassing areas like Aomori and Sendai, reaches its peak foliage from mid to late October. Moving south to Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka in central Japan, the vivid autumn hues typically peak from late November to early December, showcasing iconic spots like Shinjuku Gyoen and Arashiyama in Kyoto. Southern regions like Kyushu, including Fukuoka and Kumamoto, experience fall colors slightly later, reaching their peak from early to mid-December. By aligning your travel schedule with these regional timelines, you can immerse yourself in Japan's mesmerizing autumn foliage spectacle, ensuring a memorable and visually captivating journey through the country's diverse landscapes during this colorful season.
Where to see Ginkgo trees in Tokyo?
Tokyo offers several enchanting locations to witness the golden beauty of Ginkgo trees during the autumn season. Notable spots include Icho Namiki (Ginkgo Avenue) in Meiji Jingu Gaien, known for its stunning row of Ginkgo trees that form a golden tunnel, creating a picturesque setting for autumn strolls. Showa Kinen Park in Tachikawa features a charming Ginkgo grove that transforms into a sea of gold during fall, providing a serene retreat to admire the seasonal hues. Ueno Park near Ueno Station boasts rows of Ginkgo trees along Ikenohata Street and Shinobazu Pond, offering a vibrant display of yellow leaves. Meiji Jingu Gaien, beyond Icho Namiki, also showcases Ginkgo trees along Aoyama Avenue, inviting visitors to revel in the autumn spectacle. Additionally, the Jingu Gaien Ginkgo Festival in November celebrates these majestic trees with cultural events, illuminations, and culinary delights, enhancing the experience of witnessing the golden beauty of Ginkgo trees in Tokyo during autumn.
Is it cold in Tokyo Japan in October?
In Tokyo, Japan, October brings a transition from the warmth of summer to the cooler conditions of autumn. The average temperatures range from around 20 to 25 degrees Celsius (68 to 77 degrees Fahrenheit) for highs and around 15 degrees Celsius (59 degrees Fahrenheit) or slightly lower for lows. The weather in October is generally mild and pleasant, with clear skies and lower humidity compared to summer. While Tokyo is not excessively cold during this month, visitors should be prepared for varied conditions and occasional rainfall by bringing light layers, including long sleeves, light jackets, and sweaters for cooler evenings, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience exploring the city and its attractions.
What month is fall in Tokyo?
Fall, or autumn, in Tokyo typically spans from September to November. During this period, the weather gradually transitions from the warmth of summer to cooler temperatures, with the leaves on trees changing colors to vibrant hues of red, orange, and yellow. The peak of the fall foliage season in Tokyo, known as "koyo," usually occurs from mid to late November, offering a picturesque display of autumn colors across the city's parks, gardens, and tree-lined streets. Visitors to Tokyo during the fall months can enjoy the pleasant weather, seasonal festivals, and the stunning transformation of the city's green landscapes into a canvas of autumnal beauty.
When to see maple leaves in Tokyo?
The ideal time to witness the brilliant maple leaves, or "momiji," in Tokyo is generally from mid to late November, marking the peak of the autumn foliage season in the capital. During this period, the city's parks and gardens, such as Shinjuku Gyoen, Meiji Jingu Gaien, and Rikugien, come alive with vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow from the maple trees. These popular spots offer an enchanting setting for viewing the fall foliage, creating a picturesque experience for visitors seeking the beauty of autumn in Tokyo. Planning a visit during mid to late November ensures a memorable and captivating view of the stunning maple leaves that grace the city's landscapes during this colorful season.
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Enjoy Autumn in Tokyo 2024
In Tokyo, you can enjoy historical gardens painted red and gold by the fall foliage, as well as mountain scenery in the fall. We hope you enjoy the splendid seasonal scenery in Japan's capital.
Read also
Main image courtesy of Pixta
This is the official account of MATCHA's editorial department. Our articles feature useful travel information for visitors to Japan, from how-to guides to recommended places to visit.
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