Discover the Beauty of Autumn in Japan

Japan's Fall Colors 2026

Autumn is one of the best times to visit Japan, thanks to mild weather and clear, sunny days. The foliage begins changing in mid-September in Hokkaido and Tohoku before spreading south. Across most of the country, autumn leaves peak from mid-October to mid-December—with Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka reaching their prime colors in late November and early December.

In this special feature, we highlight Japan’s best autumn foliage spots, ranging from iconic landmarks to hidden gems. Let MATCHA’s articles guide your ultimate fall getaway!

Fall Foliage Forecast 2026

Timeline Map

Timeline MapFrom : Japan Meteorological Corporation (2026/9/2)

Average Annual Forecast by Area

Region Site Forecast
Hokkaido Daisetsuzan Asahidake Mid-September - Early October
Shiretoko Goko Lakes Mid-October
Hakodate Early November
Northern Japan Kurikoyama Early October
Naruko Valley Late October - Early November
Tokyo Mount Takao Mid-November - Early December
Ueno Park Late November
Central Japan Kamikochi Mid-October - Late October
Shirakawago Late October - Early November
Mt. Fuji Skyline Mid-October
Western Japan Kyoto Arashiyama Mid-November - Early December
Osaka Castle Park Mid-November - Early December
Hiroshima Miyajima Mid-November - Late November
Okutsu Valley Early November
Shikoku Kankakei Gorge Early November
Mt. Tsurugi Mid-October
Kyushu Kunenan Mid-November - Late November
Fukuoka Late November - Early December
*Viewing time for autumn foliage may vary between a week to 10 days, depending on the temperature and weather of the year.
  • MATCHA
  • https://matcha-jp.com/en/autumn Japan's Fall Colors 2025 - Discover the Beauty of Autumn in Japan