Autumn in Nagano: 8 Splendid Fall Foliage Spots, Light-ups, and Access

Autumn Foliage Spots in Nagano

Nagano Prefecture, abundant in nature, boasts many scenic spots with stunning autumn foliage. From October to November, you can enjoy peak viewing time while experiencing various unique landscapes at each location.

Additionally, there are spots where you can enjoy nearby sightseeing and hot springs. This time, we introduce 8 beautiful autumn foliage spots in Nagano that are perfect for fall leisure activities.

Must-Visit Autumn Foliage Spots in Nagano

1. Utsukushigahara Plateau
2. Kamikochi
3. Takaoto Castle Ruins Park
4. Shiga Kogen
5. Komoro Castle Ruins Kaikoen
6. Shirakaba Kogen
7. Tsugaike Nature Park
8. Fujimidai Kogen Ropeway

1. Utsukushigahara Plateau

Photo by Pixta
On the Utsukushigahara Plateau, you can enjoy the autumn foliage of rhododendrons, birch trees, and larch trees, which turn vibrant red and yellow from mid-to-late October. The coloration varies with altitude, allowing for a diverse array of landscapes.

In addition to the Tengu no Roji (Tengu's path) promenade, the view of autumn leaves from the Alps Viewing Course stretching from Ougatou to Hyakumagarienchi Park, overlooking the Northern Alps and the city, is particularly stunning!

The autumn foliage seen from the Ochiai Bridge on the Venus Line, connecting Chino City and the Utsukushigahara Plateau, is also exceptional.

2. Kamikochi

Photo by Pixta
Kamikochi is famous as a scenic spot where you can enjoy beautiful landscapes regardless of the season. In autumn, the foliage begins at the summit of Mount Hotaka and quickly descends the mountain, reaching its peak around the time of the first snow.

Unlike spots with vibrant red foliage, Kamikochi is characterized by many larch trees, allowing visitors to enjoy stunning golden autumn leaves. The reflections of the colorful foliage can be vividly seen on the surfaces of Taisho Pond and Tashiro Pond. It is also recommended to take memorable photos with the iconic Kappa-bashi Bridge as a backdrop against the bright autumn colors.

When visiting Kamikochi, there are some important points to keep in mind. Due to car regulations, you must switch to a bus or taxi at Sawando Parking Lot or Hirayu Akandana Parking Lot. Additionally, there are no trash bins in the area, so please take your trash with you when you leave.

3. Takaoto Castle Ruins Park

Photo by Pixta
Takaoto Castle Ruins Park, developed around Takaoto Castle, is a popular spot recognized as one of Japan's 100 Famous Castles. It is renowned not only as a cherry blossom viewing site, famously referred to as "the best cherry blossom in the land," but also for its stunning autumn foliage.

Typically, the foliage begins to change around late October, with maples and other trees reaching their peak from early to mid-November. Approximately 250 maple trees inside the park turn color simultaneously, creating a breathtaking reflection on the pond's surface.

Every autumn, the Takaoto Castle Ruins Maple Festival is held. This year will occur from November 2 (Saturday) to November 10 (Sunday), 2024. Events such as the new soba festival (held on weekends and holidays) are also featured. Visitors can enjoy a charming and tranquil atmosphere while viewing the autumn leaves.

4. Shiga Kogen

Photo by Pixta

Shiga Kogen, at an elevation of 1,300 to 2,300 meters, is surrounded by mountains such as Mount Shiga, Mount Yokote, Mount Kasagatake, Mount Iwasuge, and Mount Yake. The slopes and foothills are dotted with marshes, ponds, and lakes, providing a wealth of autumn foliage spots where you can enjoy distinct atmospheres at each location.

During autumn, the stunning contrast between the red and yellow trees and the green conifers creates a breathtaking spectacle.

Depending on the timing, you may also witness landscapes with higher elevations adorned with the first snow while the foothills are still vibrant with fiery autumn leaves.

5. Komoro Castle Ruins Kaikoen

Photo by Pixta

Komoro Castle Ruins Kaikoen is located on the site of the former Komoro Castle. In 1926, it was developed into a modern park.

The contrast of the lush green moss-covered stone walls of the ancient castle, which is over 400 years old, with the zelkova, maple, and other trees is stunning. The park also features a zoo and a children's playground, making it an excellent spot for family leisure activities.

Every year, the foliage reaches its peak in early November, providing vibrant displays of red leaves throughout the area. The autumn colors at Momiji Hill are especially noteworthy.

The Komoro Castle Ruins' Autumn Leaves Festival is also held annually. This year will occur from October 19 (Saturday) to November 17 (Sunday), 2024.

6. Shirakaba Kogen Plateau

Photo by Pixta

Shirakaba Kogen is known for its stunning autumn foliage spots, including the shores of Lake Shirakaba and Mount Tateshina, offering plenty of sights to enjoy.

In addition to the beautiful autumn leaves, the grassy plains of Kirigamine Highland are adorned with pampas grass, creating a breathtaking golden landscape. The foliage season begins with the coloration of the white birch trees in October. It lasts until the larch trees change color in November, allowing for a lengthy enjoyment of autumn scenery.

The beautiful contrast between the white trunks of the birch trees and the yellow leaves, as well as the all-gold scenery created by the larch trees, offers unique views you can only experience here.

Early in the morning, Lake Megami and Lake Shirakaba feature mirror-like reflections of the colorful leaves and surrounding mountains, making them must-see spots.

7. Tsugaike Nature Park

Photo by Pixta

Tsugaike Nature Park is located at an altitude of 1,900 meters and is one of Japan's prominent highland wetlands.

The entire area transforms from green to a golden color, beautifully highlighted by the red of the rowan trees and the yellow of the birch trees. When the first snowfall at the mountain peak coincides with the autumn foliage season, you can enjoy the spectacular three-layered scenery of snow-covered mountains, vibrant autumn leaves, and green foothills.

The park is rich in nature, and wildlife such as the Japanese serow and weasels can be encountered.

There are also barrier-free wooden paths that wheelchair users and strollers can enjoy. It is a safe option for families with small children who want to enjoy leaf viewing.

8. Fujimidai Kogen

Photo by Pixta

The autumn foliage at Fujimidai Kogen begins around mid-October, offering a landscape that can be enjoyed in three different layers: the base of the mountain, the mid-slope, and the summit.

In particular, riding the lift while taking in the stunning views of the autumn leaves is a majestic experience! The 15-minute ropeway ride provides an excellent vantage point to see the vibrant foliage along with the Southern Alps.

Additionally, special events are held during this period where visitors can enjoy both the fall colors and a sea of clouds. From October 12 (Saturday) to November 10 (Sunday), 2024, early morning operations at Unkai Terrace will be held from 5:00 AM, offering a chance to experience the enchanting scenery.

Address	Nagano Prefecture, Shimoina District, Achi Village, Chisato 3731-4
Operating Period	September 21, 2024 – November 17, 2024
Business Hours	9:00 – 16:00
Parking	1,500 spaces (Free)
Access	By Train About 45 minutes by taxi from JR Iida Line's Iida Station. By Car Approximately 5 minutes from the Chuo Expressway's Sonohara IC (accessible only from Nagoya direction). About 20 minutes from the Chuo Expressway's Iida Yamamoto IC.
Official Website/Social Media	Fujimidai Kogen Ropeway Heavens Sonohara
Best Viewing Period	Mid October to mid November
Lighting Events	None

The Autumn Scenery in Nagano is Breathtaking!

We have introduced some recommended autumn foliage spots in Nagano.

There are diverse locations in Nagano where you can enjoy the autumn leaves, from spots for trekking through nature to those offering easy access for leaf viewing.

The collaboration of mirror-like lakes and a sea of clouds creates a grand autumn landscape unique to Nagano.

Be sure to find your favorite leaf-viewing spot!