Autumn Leaves in Japan: Where and When to See the Koyo

Japan’s Other Great Color Season

Everyone knows about Japan’s cherry blossoms, but autumn may be just as magical. Each fall, the country’s maples, ginkgoes, and forests burst into brilliant reds, oranges, and golds, a spectacle the Japanese call koyo. Chasing the autumn leaves is a beloved tradition, and it makes for one of the most beautiful times to visit. Here is where and when to experience it.

What Is Koyo?

Koyo means “autumn colors,” and viewing them, called momijigari or “maple leaf hunting,” is a centuries-old pastime. Just as people gather under the cherry blossoms in spring, they travel to see the fiery foliage in fall. The star of the show is the Japanese maple, whose small, delicate leaves turn an unforgettable deep crimson, especially stunning against temples, gardens, and mountains.

When to Go

Autumn colors sweep across Japan from north to south over several weeks. In the mountains and the north, the leaves peak earlier, often in October, while the famous displays in Kyoto and much of central Japan usually reach their best from mid-November into early December. Timing shifts a little each year with the weather, so it pays to check a foliage forecast when you plan.

The Best Places to See the Colors

Kyoto is the crown jewel of autumn, where red maples frame ancient temples and gardens in postcard-perfect scenes. The area around Mount Fuji and the Fuji Five Lakes offers stunning views of the snow-dusted peak above golden foliage, and Hakone’s forests, lake, and ropeway are gorgeous in fall. Nikko and the mountains outside Tokyo also blaze with early color. Many of these are easy day trips.

See the Colors on a Tour

Autumn is a wonderful time to explore Japan, with crisp, comfortable weather and breathtaking scenery everywhere you look. On a guided tour, you can focus on soaking in the colors while we handle the planning and timing. Ask us about our Mount Fuji, Hakone, and Kyoto tours, and experience the magic of koyo for yourself.