A Guide to Japan’s Most Iconic Autumn Destinations

As summer fades and the cool breeze of fall begins to stir, Japan undergoes a transformation. Golden hues, crimson leaves, and soft amber lights paint a scene straight out of a dream. For those chasing the ethereal beauty of autumn, Japan is the destination to experience this beautiful transitional season. Here’s a guide to some of the country’s most iconic autumnal spots.

When the amber hues of autumn grace the historic city of Kyoto, two destinations stand out prominently for their breathtaking beauty: Kiyomizu Temple and Arashiyama.

Perched majestically on the eastern hills of Kyoto, the Kiyomizu Temple, or “Pure Water Temple,” is one of Japan’s most celebrated landmarks. Dating back to 780, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is an architectural marvel and an unparalleled autumnal spectacle. The vast wooden terrace of the main hall, supported by towering pillars, overlooks a sea of trees that turn into a vibrant palette of reds, oranges, and yellows during the fall. The experience of watching the cityscape of Kyoto, intertwined with these fiery hues, is mesmerizing. The temple grounds, dotted with pagodas, stone pathways, and smaller shrines, also come alive with brilliant foliage, creating picture-perfect moments at every corner.

A short distance from Kyoto's city center lies Arashiyama, a district renowned for its scenic beauty. Autumn in Arashiyama is nothing short of poetic. The famed bamboo grove here, a path lined with soaring bamboo stalks, offers a serene experience as the slender bamboo leaves rustle in the autumn wind, their soft green shoots contrasting beautifully with the fiery maples nearby.
As you move further into Arashiyama, the Tenryu-ji Temple and its Zen gardens, provide a stunning display of landscaped beauty against the backdrop of Autumn colors. The Togetsukyo Bridge, spanning the Hozu River, becomes a popular vantage point, as both its sides burst with crimson and gold foliage, which reflects hypnotically on the river's surface.

For those desiring the ultimate Autumn experience in Kyoto and are willing to splurge, there's no better sanctuary than the Suiran Luxury Collection Hotel. Nestled amidst the captivating landscapes of Arashiyama, Suiran boasts a prime location, offering guests unparalleled proximity to Arashiyamas iconic autumn attractions. Better yet, its position along the Hozu River means guests wake up to serene riverside views, which are further accentuated by the brilliant hues of autumn leaves.

With only 39 rooms, Suiran offers an intimate experience. Each room is meticulously designed, blending traditional Japanese aesthetics with contemporary elegance. Tatami mat flooring, sliding paper doors, and private open-air baths meld seamlessly with plush bedding and state-of-the-art amenities.

The hotel’s unmatched location, combined with its dedication to luxury and tradition, make it the perfect haven for those wishing to truly immerse themselves in Kyoto’s autumnal magic.

Covering over 2,300 square kilometers, Daisetsuzan is the largest national park in Japan and is one of the first places in the country to welcome autumn. Often referred to as the "roof of Hokkaido" due to its northern location and high altitudes, the park sees the changing colors as early as September, much before other parts of Japan. This dramatic transition, starting with golden yellows and progressing to deep crimson and purples, paints a breathtaking picture against the backdrop of the park's rugged mountains, clear alpine lakes, and expansive plateaus.

Daisetsuzan comprises multiple volcanic mountains, each offering a unique hiking experience that is a must for outdoor enthusiasts. The trails vary in difficulty, catering to both novice hikers and seasoned mountaineers. As trekkers traverse these paths, they are treated to panoramic views of the valleys blanketed in autumn hues alongside the occasional glimpse of native wildlife, such as deer and even brown bears.

A standout feature of the park is the Sounkyo Gorge, characterized by its towering cliffs and numerous waterfalls. The gorge becomes even more spectacular in autumn as the cascading waters cut through the blazing foliage, creating a vivid contrast of movement and color.

Being volcanic in nature, Daisetsuzan is home to several Onsen villages. As autumn sets in, these thermal waters provide a soothing retreat. Two of the most popular Onsen towns within the park are Sounkyo and Asahidake. Here, visitors can relax in outdoor baths, surrounded by the sights and sounds of the changing seasons.

Despite its popularity, Daisetsuzan remains largely unspoiled. There's a deep respect for nature, and efforts are ongoing to ensure the park's ecosystem remains intact. Visitors are often reminded to leave no trace, ensuring that the park's beauty is preserved for future generations to enjoy.

Visitors to Daisetsuzan who need accommodation should consider Hotel La Vista Daisetsuzan. The hotel boasts an enviable location, offering guests uninterrupted views of Daisetsuzan's sprawling landscapes. Whether it's the sight of mist-kissed mountains bathed in fiery autumn hues or the serene starlit skies, guests are ensured a visual treat right from the comfort of their rooms.

One of the hotel's standout features is its onsen facilities. Fed by natural hot springs, these baths are the epitome of rejuvenation. Soak in thermal waters, with large windows which frame the spectacular tapestry of the autumnal colors outside. It's an immersive experience that melds luxury with nature's raw beauty.

Hotel La Vista Daisetsuzan is a holistic experience that encapsulates the essence of autumn in Daisetsuzan. This hotel emerges as an unrivaled choice for those seeking a luxurious refuge after a day of rugged exploring the park.

In the mystical landscape of Aomori Prefecture, the Oirase Stream stands out as a breathtaking canvas of nature, especially during the autumn months. This picturesque stream in the Towada-Hachimantai National Park offers a tranquil escape that resonates deeply with nature enthusiasts, photographers, and anyone pursuing serene beauty.

Originating from the stunning Lake Towada, the Oirase Stream winds through dense forests, cascading waterfalls, and moss-covered rocks for approximately 14 kilometers before it merges with the Pacific Ocean. This stretch is not just a waterway but a symphony of sights and sounds, where every twist and turn reveals new vistas.

While Oirase Stream is a treat for the senses throughout the year, it's during autumn that it truly comes alive. The dense canopies of beech, maple, and Japanese oak trees lining the stream burst into a riot of colors. Golds, crimsons, oranges, and yellows are reflected in the stream's clear waters, creating an ethereal play of light and shadows. This vibrant display makes it one of Japan's most iconic spots for fall foliage viewing.

The journey along the Oirase Stream is punctuated by numerous waterfalls and rapids, each with a unique charm. Notable ones include the Choshi Otaki Waterfall, a powerful cascade that sends a mist into the surrounding air, creating a dreamy ambiance, and the Kumoi no Taki, which gracefully tumbles down mossy rocks.

Efforts are continuously in place to preserve the pristine beauty of Oirase Stream. Local authorities and conservationists ensure the area remains free from pollution and degradation. Visitors are encouraged to be respectful, minimizing their footprint and immersing themselves in the natural wonder without disturbing the balance.

For visitors to the enchanting Oirase Stream in autumn, the experience of this natural marvel is further enriched with a stay at Tsuta Onsen Ryokan. This traditional Japanese inn, set amidst the forested landscapes of Aomori, offers an immersive blend of comfort, culture, and nature, making it an idyllic haven for those venturing to Oirase's enchanted realms.

Tsuta Onsen Ryokan embodies the charm of traditional Japanese hospitality. The interiors showcase classic tatami rooms, paper sliding doors, and intricate wood carvings. Guests can revel in an ambiance that transports them back in time, allowing for a deep connection with Japanese aesthetics and heritage.

One of the standout features of this hotel is its natural onsen baths. Fed by mineral-rich spring waters, these baths offer therapeutic benefits, both for the body and mind. Soaking in the onsen while gazing out at the autumnal forest is an experience that evokes pure serenity.

A visit to Oirase Stream during autumn is undeniably a mesmerizing experience, and a stay at Tsuta Onsen Ryokan amplifies this charm manifold. With its deep-rooted traditions, luxurious amenities, and unparalleled setting, the ryokan emerges as the perfect accommodation choice for those seeking to dive deep into the essence of Aomoris' natural and cultural wonders during the fall.

Perhaps the most iconic autumn location in Japan, Shinjuku Gyoen National Park, is a banquet of color that can't be missed during the autumn months.

Covering a whopping 53.3 hectares in the heart of Tokyo, this garden effortlessly marries traditional Japanese landscaping with Western influences, producing a harmonious blend of beauty that can be enjoyed in autumn, or any other time of the year.

Originally an imperial residence in the Edo Period, Shinjuku Gyoen transitioned into a botanical garden in the late 19th century. The park's history is palpable as you wander its grounds, and the architecture touches from different eras, adding depth to the visitor's experience.

Shinjuku Gyoen is unique in that it presents three distinct types of gardens.

The Traditional Japanese Garden is a serene space dominated by winding paths, tranquil ponds, and gracefully arched bridges. The meticulously maintained garden boasts a backdrop of manicured shrubs, artfully placed rocks, and elegantly pruned trees, echoing the Wabi-Sabi aesthetic of Japanese landscaping.

The French Formal and English Landscape Gardens offer an international, European twist. Expansive lawns and plants symmetrically planted give off an Alice in Wonderland tea party vibe at the French Garden. Nearby, the English garden charms with its seemingly random yet thoughtfully curated mix of trees and flowering plants, invoking a sense of the British countryside.

While all these gardens are beautiful year-round, they take on a particular charm during autumn, when the trees burst into vibrant red, yellow, and gold hues. The vast Ginkgo tree groves, in particular, turn a brilliant shade of yellow, making it one of Tokyo's most sought-after spots for autumn foliage viewing.

For those wishing to explore the lush landscape of Shinjuku Gyoen National Park, the Shinjuku Washington Hotel Main emerges as the premier choice of accommodation. Strategically located in the heart of Shinjuku, this hotel combines comfort, convenience, and exemplary services, ensuring a memorable stay for its guests. The hotel's prime advantage is its close proximity to the garden. Visitors can effortlessly walk to the garden, allowing them to reach the park early in the morning or drop by for a spontaneous evening stroll. This ease of access is particularly beneficial during the peak autumn seasons, providing guests an advantage to beat the crowds.