As summer ends and autumn beckons, the colours of the leaves slowly transform into vivid shades of red, yellow and orange.
The turning of the leaves in Japan is a major draw for not only holidaymakers, but also the locals, who plan their drives, hikes and picnics to coincide with the best viewing times.
Beyond the usual fall foliage hot spots, which are packed with visitors during the season, many parks in the big cities also offer incredible views of trees awash in vibrant hues.
If you are looking to explore the entirety of Japan, you can do so with a cost-effective JR Whole Japan Rail Pass, which gives access to an extensive network of train lines.
Here are some must-see autumn foliage destinations.
SAGANO SCENIC RAILWAY AND TOFUKUJI TEMPLE, KYOTO
SAGANO SCENIC RAILWAY AND TOFUKUJI TEMPLE, KYOTO
For a memorable experience, embark on a leisurely ride on the Sagano Scenic Railway.
The sightseeing train in Kyoto has come to be known as the romantic train, as it takes passengers through dreamy and breathtaking scenery.
The sights along the line change with the seasons. In spring, cherry blossoms sway above the passing train. In autumn, the landscape is wrapped in a blanket of flaming orange and crimson red leaves.
DAISETSUZAN NATIONAL PARK, HOKKAIDO
Hokkaido, the first place in Japan where autumn descends, is the ideal launchpad to the rest of the country.
The fall foliage season usually peaks in October on the northernmost island. In other parts such as Tokyo and Kyoto, the best viewing times range between November and December.
Kick-start your foliage hunt with a visit to the Daisetsuzan National Park, said to be the first spot to see the changing colours of the leaves each autumn.
RIKUGI-EN GARDEN AND UENO PARK, TOKYO
In downtown Tokyo, you can soak in breathtaking views of the autumn leaves at Rikugi-en Garden, an Edo period feudal lord’s garden created three centuries ago.
Stroll through this traditional Japanese-style garden, which has a network of walking paths winding around small hills, forested areas and a lake, and get lost in the beauty of the warm red leaves, which are a spectacular sight between midNovember and early December.
Rest at one of the teahouses, where you can enjoy a quiet cup of green tea against a romantic fall foliage backdrop.
LAKE KAWAGUCHI-KO AND MAPLE CORRIDOR, FUJIKAWAGUCHIKO
Make a day trip out to Lake Kawaguchi-ko, for some stunning views of red, orange and yellow autumn leaves in the shadow of the iconic Mount Fuji.
While there are many spots to admire the country’s tallest peak, which stands at 3,776m, few offer unparalleled views.
On a clear day, you can rent a boat and catch gorgeous views of the mountain and trees reflected on the lake’s calm surface.
MINOO PARK, OSAKA
Minoo Park, located less than 30 minutes from downtown Osaka, is a welcome respite from the busy city.
The forested park, with nearly 1,000 types of plants, has a main hiking trail that starts from Hankyu Minoo Station and leads up to the park’s hidden attraction: the 33m Minoo Waterfall set against a backdrop of natural greenery.
The autumn colours are at their loveliest around late November, when the leaves turn red and gold.
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