Autumn in Japan is like stepping into a warm, golden dream. The maple trees turn brilliant shades of red and orange, creating a breathtaking backdrop as you wander through peaceful temples or along quiet mountain paths. The air is crisp and fresh, perfect for sipping hot tea or enjoying a bowl of steaming ramen. From late September to November, the whole country feels cozy and inviting—just waiting for you to slow down and savor every moment. Wouldn't you love to get lost in this autumn wonderland?
Table of Contents
Autumn is another fantastic time to visit Japan—cool, crisp air, colorful leaves, and clear skies make it just as wonderful as spring. But since Japan has everything from snowy mountains in the north to warm beaches in the south, the weather changes depending on where you go.
In popular cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, daytime temperatures are pleasantly mild, around 18–20°C (64–68°F), while evenings can get cooler, dropping to about 12°C (54°F). A light jacket or sweater is handy, especially after sunset. The skies are usually sunny, and rain is less common than in spring or summer, so you'll have plenty of dry days for exploring.
If you're traveling north to places like Hokkaido, pack warmer clothes—daytime highs are around 12°C (54°F), and nights can get chilly, sometimes near 5°C (41°F). On the other hand, southern spots like Okinawa stay much warmer, with highs around 26°C (79°F) and evenings around 20°C (68°F), so you can still enjoy the beach if you're craving some sun.
No matter where you visit, autumn in Japan is perfect for hiking, temple-hopping, or just wandering through parks filled with red and gold leaves. The famous koyo (autumn foliage) season is a must-see—just check when the leaves peak in your area, as timing varies. Pack in layers, bring a good camera, and enjoy the stunning scenery and cozy autumn vibes!
When do the leaves turn red
2. Best Places to Visit in Autumn
(1) Kyoto
If you're planning a tour to Japan in autumn, Kyoto should be at the top of your list. This ancient city turns into a breathtaking masterpiece when the leaves change color, blending history, culture, and nature in the most beautiful way.
The weather is perfect—cool and crisp, with daytime temperatures around 18°C (64°F) and cooler evenings, so a light jacket or sweater will keep you comfortable. The air is fresh, the skies are clear, and the city feels alive with seasonal energy.
What makes Kyoto so special in autumn? The momiji (maple leaves) transform temples, gardens, and streets into scenes from a painting. Kiyomizu-dera, with its wooden stage overlooking a sea of red and gold, is even more stunning at night when lit up. Arashiyama, famous for its bamboo forest, becomes a dreamy escape with fiery foliage along the river. And Eikando Temple? It's nicknamed "the temple of autumn leaves" for a reason—every corner glows in warm hues.
Don't miss Tofuku-ji, where a wooden bridge frames a tunnel of crimson maples, or Philosopher's Path, a quiet walkway lined with trees that turn golden in late November. Even the city's less-famous spots, like small shrines or tucked-away alleys, surprise you with bursts of autumn color.
Whether you're exploring grand temples, wandering through quiet gardens, or simply strolling along lantern-lit streets, Kyoto in autumn feels like stepping into a storybook. Pack your camera, wear comfortable shoes, and get ready to fall in love with the season's magic.
(2) Osaka
As summer's heat fades and crisp autumn air arrives, Osaka transforms into the perfect urban getaway. You'll love exploring this energetic city during fall—the comfortable temperatures (around 18-20°C/64-68°F) make walking between street food stalls and autumn sights absolutely delightful. Just pack a light jacket for those slightly cooler evenings when the city lights start twinkling.
What makes Osaka so special this time of year? While it's famous for its round-the-clock energy and delicious street eats, the city also surprises visitors with stunning displays of autumn colors. The historic Osaka Castle becomes even more magnificent when surrounded by fiery red and golden maple trees in the expansive castle park. It's the perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or snapping that iconic autumn photo with the castle's towering silhouette.
For nature lovers, a short 30-minute trip to Minoo Park rewards you with a peaceful hiking trail leading to a picturesque waterfall, the entire path lined with vibrant maple trees. Don't leave without trying the area's unique momiji tempura—yes, they really do fry maple leaves into delicious crispy snacks!
Of course, we can't talk about Osaka without mentioning the food scene that gets even better as temperatures drop. Warm up with sizzling takoyaki from street vendors or comforting bowls of kushikatsu in cozy izakayas. The famous Dotonbori area becomes even more lively in autumn evenings, with the neon lights reflecting off the canal as you enjoy seasonal treats.
Whether you're here for the food, the sights, or just the incredible atmosphere, Osaka in autumn offers the perfect mix of urban excitement and seasonal beauty.
(3) Nara
You'll find something truly magical about Nara in autumn. As the summer heat fades, crisp air settles over this ancient capital, turning its temples and parks into a warm tapestry of red, orange and gold. The comfortable temperatures (around 15-18°C/59-64°F) make it perfect for wandering between historic sites and playing with Nara's famous deer under autumn skies. Just remember to bring a light jacket for those cooler mornings and evenings.
What makes Nara special this season? Imagine bowing deer framed by fiery maple trees, or ancient temple roofs peeking through golden ginkgo leaves. At Nara Park, you can feed the friendly deer while crunching through fallen leaves—their brown coats blending perfectly with the autumn palette. Don't miss Todaiji Temple's Great Buddha Hall, where the world's largest bronze Buddha statue becomes even more impressive when surrounded by autumn colors. For breathtaking views, climb up to Nigatsudo Hall at sunset—the wooden veranda overlooks the entire city bathed in golden light.
As evening falls, the stone lanterns along Naramachi's merchant district glow warmly against the darkening sky. This is when Nara feels most atmospheric—the rustle of leaves underfoot, the distant sound of temple bells, and the occasional deer nosing about for one last treat before nightfall.
Nara's autumn beauty lingers in quiet moments: sunlight filtering through ancient trees in isolated temple gardens, or steam rising from your bowl of hot noodle soup at a local restaurant. It's these simple pleasures that make visiting Nara in autumn so unforgettable!
(4) Hokkaido
You'll find Hokkaido completely transforms in autumn, offering a spectacular show of colors before winter's arrival. As Japan's northernmost island, autumn comes early here—from mid-September through October—with crisp, fresh air that's perfect for outdoor adventures. The temperatures hover around a comfortable 10-15°C (50-59°F) during the day, though mornings and evenings get chilly, so packing layers is a good idea.
What makes Hokkaido's autumn so special? Imagine vast landscapes painted in fiery reds, golden yellows, and deep oranges. In Daisetsuzan National Park, Japan's largest wilderness area, you can hike through mountainsides that look like they're on fire with color. Don't miss the beautiful blue ponds of Biei, where still waters perfectly mirror the surrounding trees in their autumn glory.
Hokkaido's harvest season means you'll enjoy some of the freshest, most delicious food. Roadside stands overflow with just-picked apples, sweet corn, and pumpkins. Try the local specialty—grilled sanma (Pacific saury)—at a seaside restaurant, or warm up with a steaming bowl of miso ramen after your outdoor adventures.
As October progresses, you might experience "kogarashi"—the first cold winds signaling winter's approach. But this just makes Hokkaido's hot springs even more inviting. Soaking in an outdoor onsen surrounded by autumn colors, maybe with light snowflakes beginning to fall, is an experience you won't forget.
Hokkaido's autumn moves quickly, with colors changing daily and winter always just around the corner. But this makes the season even more precious—a brilliant, fleeting celebration of nature's beauty before the long snowy months.
(1) Soak in a Hot Spring Surrounded by Red Leaves
There's nothing quite like relaxing in a warm Japanese onsen while the vibrant autumn leaves dance around you. As you sink into the soothing waters, the crisp fall air brushes against your skin, and the fiery reds and golds of the surrounding trees create a breathtaking view.
In places like Hakone or Kyoto's Arashiyama, you'll find ryokans (traditional inns) nestled in the mountains, where steaming outdoor baths blend seamlessly with nature. Imagine sitting in the warm water, watching the sunlight filter through the colorful leaves, or even enjoying the quiet beauty of a nighttime soak under a starry sky.
If you head north to Hokkaido's Jozankei, the hot springs are surrounded by deep valleys painted in autumn hues. The air is fresh, the water is healing, and the scenery feels like something out of a painting.
Don't forget to try a local autumn treat afterward—maybe a warm cup of sake or a bowl of hearty hot pot—to complete the perfect fall getaway.
So, if you're visiting Japan in autumn, make sure to take a moment to slow down, breathe in the crisp air, and let the hot springs and red leaves work their magic on you. It's an experience you'll never forget.
(2) Trekking
Feel that crisp breeze on your face? That's nature inviting you to explore Japan's autumn wonderland one step at a time. As your boots crunch through fallen leaves, you'll understand why locals say walking is the best way to savor this magical season.
The forest paths of Kamikochi transform into nature's art gallery, with every turn revealing a new masterpiece of red maples against evergreen pines. Near Kyoto, the Philosopher's Path becomes a tunnel of gold, where sunlight filters through trembling ginkgo leaves to dance on the cobblestones beneath your feet.
For those craving mountain air, Mount Takao's gentle slopes offer panoramic views worth every drop of sweat. Pause halfway up to catch your breath beside a moss-covered Jizo statue, listening to the distant call of wild pheasants echoing through the colored woods.
Don't rush—this is a journey to be savored. Pack some warm chestnuts in your pocket, find a sun-dappled rock to rest on, and watch as a single red maple leaf spirals down to land in your open palm. That's when you'll truly understand the Japanese art of momijigari—not just seeing autumn, but feeling it with your whole being.
(1) Japan's Autumn Festivals
There's something truly special about experiencing a Japanese festival in the fall. The air is crisp, the streets are lively, and the atmosphere is filled with excitement. As you walk through the festival grounds, the scent of grilled street food fills the air—yakitori, takoyaki, and sweet roasted chestnuts tempt you at every turn.
In Kyoto, you might catch the Jidai Matsuri (Festival of the Ages), where locals parade through the streets in stunning historical costumes, bringing the past to life. Or, if you're in Takayama, the Hachiman Matsuri dazzles with beautifully decorated floats and traditional music echoing through the old town.
Smaller towns have their own unique celebrations too. In some places, you'll see locals carrying portable shrines (mikoshi) through the streets, shouting and laughing as they go. Others might have lantern-lit processions or folk dances where visitors are welcome to join in.
Don't be shy—try some festival games, like goldfish scooping or ring toss, or pick up a seasonal treat like warm amazake (sweet rice drink) to keep cozy as the evening cools down.
Whether it's the grand parades or the simple joy of sharing food and laughter with locals, Japan's autumn festivals are a wonderful way to feel the heart of the season. So grab a snack, find a good spot, and soak up the festive spirit—you'll leave with memories (and maybe a full stomach) to cherish.
(2) Japan's Otsukimi Moon Viewing
Experience the quiet magic of Japan's Otsukimi moon viewing tradition on a crisp autumn evening. Picture yourself sitting in a peaceful temple garden or on a wooden veranda, the scent of sweet rice dumplings and seasonal grasses mixing with the cool night air. As the harvest moon rises over ancient rooftops or distant mountains, you'll understand why this simple celebration has captivated hearts for centuries.
In cities like Kyoto, you might join locals placing small offerings of round tsukimi dango rice cakes and susuki grass on makeshift altars, while Tokyo's gardens create perfect framed views of the golden moon through crimson maple leaves. Rural onsens offer perhaps the most special experience—soaking in warm mineral waters while watching the moon's reflection dance across a still pond, a cup of warm sake in hand.
Don't worry about perfect conditions. The Japanese cherish all moon-viewing moments—when clouds play peekaboo with the glowing orb they call it "kumo no tsukimi" (cloud moon viewing), and celebrations often continue for several nights after the official date. Whether you're nibbling soft dumplings at a street stall or listening to temple bells ring under the moonlight, this is autumn in Japan at its most poetic. The quiet beauty of this tradition might just become your most treasured travel memory.
Autumn in Japan brings stunning foliage, but also crowds in popular spots like Kyoto, Nikko, and the Japanese Alps. While not as busy as cherry blossom season, peak leaf-viewing weeks (late October to early December) still draw plenty of visitors. For fewer crowds, visit famous sites early in the morning or explore lesser-known areas like Tohoku's Oirase Gorge. Hotels in top destinations fill up fast during peak foliage, so book accommodations early—especially in late November when Kyoto's maples are at their best.
Prices rise moderately during autumn, but strategic planning can help. The most expensive time is late November in Kyoto, while traveling to Hokkaido in early October or Kyushu in early December often means better deals. Regional rail passes like JR East or JR West can save on transportation between cities. Enjoy affordable seasonal treats like roasted sweet potatoes and mushroom rice to balance your budget while soaking in the autumn atmosphere. With some advance planning, you can fully enjoy Japan's spectacular fall colors without overspending.
6. Japan Travel Tips in Autumn
Pack for changing weather
- Days are mild but mornings/evenings get chilly—bring layers
- Include a warm jacket, comfortable waterproof shoes, and gloves
- Don't forget your camera for the stunning fall colors
Enjoy seasonal experiences
- Try autumn specialties like roasted sweet potatoes and hot sake
- Visit famous temples early to avoid crowds
- Explore countryside onsen towns for relaxing hot springs with fall views
Be prepared on the go
- Carry cash for rural areas and small shops
- Keep coins handy for lockers at crowded viewing spots
- Pack portable WiFi or download offline maps for mountain areas
Are you interested in this tour?
This tour can be tailored.
