Hokkaido's autumn foliage season usually begins nearly a month earlier than in other parts of Japan. From Asahikawa and Sapporo all the way to Hakodate, an autumn trip can let you chase fall colors for as long as a month and a half. This guide selects 20 of the best autumn foliage spots in Hokkaido for 2026, with peak viewing times, transportation information, and the 2026 foliage forecast to help you plan your Hokkaido autumn trip.
Hokkaido Autumn Foliage Forecast
Hokkaido is vast and has large differences in elevation, so during a single autumn you can follow the colors from mountain areas in late September all the way to the urban areas of Sapporo and Hakodate in early November. Japan Weather Association released its first autumn foliage forecast on September 2, 2026. Northern Japan is generally expected to be close to average, although some areas such as Sapporo may be noticeably later than usual. Be sure to keep checking the latest foliage forecast before departure.
| City | 2026 Forecast Viewing Start Date | 2025 Viewing Start Date |
|---|---|---|
| Sapporo | Around November 7 | Around November 9 |
| Asahikawa | Around October 25 | Around October 26 |
| Obihiro | Around October 28 | Around October 28 |
| Kushiro | Around October 21 | Around October 24 |
| Muroran | Around November 12 | Around November 12 |
| Hakodate | Around November 8 | Around November 11 |
※ The 2026 forecast is based on the first forecast released by Japan Weather Association on September 2. Actual color-changing dates may still be affected by subsequent temperatures. Source: Japan Weather Association
Hokkaido Autumn Foliage Calendar
| Attraction | 2026 Forecast Viewing Period | 2026 Actual Color Change Date Updated Weekly from September | 2025 Viewing Period Start Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Daisetsuzan Asahidake Around Sugatami Pond | Late September–Early October | — | 9/27 |
| Mount Tokachi | Early–Mid October | — | 10/6 |
| Sounkyo Gorge Daisetsuzan National Park | Mid–Late October | — | 10/13 |
| Shinsen Marsh | Mid October | — | 10/13 |
| Lake Akan | Mid–Late October | — | 10/18 |
| Jozankei | Mid–Late October | — | 10/20 |
| Jigokudani (Noboribetsu Onsen) | Mid–Late October | — | 10/20 |
| Shirogane Blue Pond | Mid–Late October | — | — |
| Lake Toya | Late October | — | 10/22 |
| Lake Shikotsu | Late October | — | 10/21 |
| Mount Moiwa Ropeway | Late October | — | 10/27 |
| Otaru Park | Late October–Early November | — | 10/22 |
| Onuma Quasi-National Park | Late October–Early November | — | 10/24 |
| Odori Park | Late October–Early November | — | 10/24 |
| Nakajima Park | Late October–Early November | — | 10/24 |
| Maruyama Park | Late October–Early November | — | 10/30 |
| Goryokaku Park | Late October–Early November | — | 10/30 |
| Hokkaido University Ginkgo Avenue | Late October–Early November | — | 10/30 |
| Hakodate Park | Late October–Early November | — | 10/30 |
| Kosetsuen Garden (Miharashi Park) | Early November | — | 11/2 |
※ This table is updated weekly from September each year. The actual 2026 color-changing dates for each attraction will be reflected in the table as they become available. Foliage conditions vary depending on elevation, temperature, and weather, so check the latest information for each location before departure.
20 Best Autumn Foliage Spots in Hokkaido
Lake Akan
【Mid–Late October】
Lake Akan is not only famous for marimo moss balls but is also a popular autumn foliage destination among Japanese travelers. Besides taking a sightseeing cruise or walking around the lake, renting a bicycle and enjoying the scenery along the lakeshore is another excellent option. Nearby, you can also experience the culture of Hokkaido's Indigenous Ainu people at Lake Akan Ainu Kotan. It is a famous destination for autumn colors and a cool summer retreat.
Why It's Popular:
① Take a sightseeing cruise and enjoy the autumn colors from the lake
② Walk or cycle through the maple forests along the lakeshore
③ Lake Akan Onsen is nearby, letting you soak in hot springs while enjoying autumn lake and mountain scenery
Jigokudani (Noboribetsu Onsen)
【Mid–Late October】
Surrounded by dreamlike white steam and the distinctive scent of sulfur, Jigokudani is one of Hokkaido's best-known hot spring attractions. In autumn, the surrounding leaves turn red, creating a beautiful combination of geothermal scenery and fall colors that feels both warm and captivating. The Oyunuma Observation Deck on the southern side is especially recommended for panoramic views of Oyunuma and the autumn foliage.
Why It's Popular:
① Volcanic terrain and autumn foliage create a dramatic and unique landscape
② Follow the walking trails for close-up views of steam, rock walls, and fall colors
③ Enjoy autumn foliage while soaking in hot springs
Recommended Reading:Noboribetsu Travel Guide: Jigokudani, the Hot Spring Town, Attractions, and Transportation
Jozankei
【Mid–Late October】
No autumn trip to Hokkaido is complete without the fall colors of Jozankei. From central Sapporo, head into the mountains along the Toyohira River and you will soon reach Jozankei Onsen. Walking along the stream, colorful foliage covers the surrounding mountain scenery, with the area around Nishiki Bridge particularly recommended. Nearby attractions such as the surrounding mountains, Lake Sapporo, and Hoheikyo also offer beautiful autumn scenery.
Why It's Popular:
① Magnificent gorge scenery with colorful leaves reflected on the river
② Take a sightseeing cruise to enjoy autumn foliage and waterfalls from the water
③ Numerous hot spring ryokan let you soak while admiring mountains covered in fall colors
2026 Jozankei Nature Luminarie: June 1–October 31, 2026 【September and October】18:00–21:30, last admission 21:15
The illuminations around Jozankei Onsen can be enjoyed freely, while nighttime worship at Jozankei Shrine is generally limited to guests staying at local accommodations
Lake Shikotsu
【Late October】
Lake Shikotsu is Japan's second-deepest lake and is famous for its clear, highly transparent water. The sight of autumn leaves reflected on the lake surface is especially beautiful. Visitors can also take a sightseeing cruise, making it a great independent-travel destination for both sightseeing and photography.
Why It's Popular:
① Exceptionally clear water creates beautiful reflections of the autumn foliage
② Take a sightseeing cruise or canoe to enjoy the colorful mountains from the lake
③ Lake Shikotsu Onsen is nearby, making it easy to combine hot springs with autumn foliage
Address: Shikotsuko Onsen, Chitose, Hokkaido
Viewing Period: Late October
Access: Take a Hokkaido Chuo Bus from Chitose Station to Shikotsuko
Lake Toya
【Late October】
Backed by Mount Showa-Shinzan and Mount Usu, Lake Toya is blessed with natural hot springs and is also one of Hokkaido's famous autumn foliage destinations. Take a sightseeing cruise to enjoy the beautiful colors around the lake, then head to a hot spring hotel for a relaxing soak. It is an excellent choice for an autumn getaway.
Why It's Popular:
① Ideal for exploring by bicycle
② Take a sightseeing cruise to admire the autumn colors from the lake
③ Enjoy lake views and autumn foliage while soaking in hot springs
Onuma Quasi-National Park
【Late October–Early November】
Since the early Meiji period, Onuma Quasi-National Park has been a favored autumn foliage destination among members of Japan's Imperial Family and important foreign visitors. The combination of lakes and mountains is picturesque, and sightseeing cruises make you feel as if you have entered an autumn landscape painting. The view of Mount Higurashi from the observation point is especially photogenic and should not be missed.
Why It's Popular:
① Cycle around the lake while enjoying autumn foliage and beautiful lake-and-mountain scenery
② Take a sightseeing cruise for views of colorful reflections and Mount Komagatake
③ Easy access on foot from the station
2026 Onuma Quasi-National Park Autumn Halloween: 2026 event information has not yet been announced (last year it was held on October 25 and 26, 2025)
Address: 1023-1 Onumacho, Nanae, Kameda District, Hokkaido
Viewing Period: Late October–Early November
Access: Get off at JR Onuma-Koen Station on the Hakodate Main Line
Otaru Park
【Late October–Early November】
Otaru Park is about a 20-minute walk from JR Otaru Station. The park is planted with maples, ginkgo trees, Enkianthus perulatus, winged spindle trees, and many other species, turning into a mix of red and yellow in autumn. It also features a Japanese garden, the Flame Tower, and Miharashidai viewpoint. From the viewpoint, you can overlook central Otaru, the port, and the direction of Suitengu Shrine, making this a pleasant walking route combining port-city atmosphere with autumn colors.
Why It's Popular:
① The Japanese garden displays vivid autumn colors and is ideal for a relaxed stroll and photography
② Miharashidai offers views of central Otaru and the harbor, combining autumn scenery with port views
③ Free admission and within walking distance of JR Otaru Station, making it easy to add to an itinerary
Address: 5-3 and surrounding area, Hanazono, Otaru, Hokkaido
Viewing Period: Late October–Early November (※ Otaru City updates foliage conditions in the park on its official website every October, so check the latest information before visiting)
Access: About a 20-minute walk from JR Otaru Station
Odori Park
【Late October–Early November】
Odori Park is the green heart of central Sapporo. Stretching 1.5 kilometers through the city center, it is known for flowers in spring and summer and brilliant maple foliage and golden ginkgo trees in autumn. Each fall, the trees turn shades of red, orange, and yellow, creating a striking contrast with Sapporo's modern buildings. The park has many benches and walking paths where visitors can stroll, take photos, or rest while enjoying the crisp autumn air. Numerous cafes and restaurants around the park also make it easy to enjoy food and drinks while taking in the fall colors and experiencing everyday life in Sapporo.
Why It's Popular:
① Conveniently located in central Sapporo
② In addition to autumn foliage, enjoy flowers and fountains, with plenty of nearby cafes and restaurants
③ A must-visit photo spot with Sapporo TV Tower in the background
2026 Winter Illumination: November 20–December 25, 2026, 16:30–22:00; extended to 24:00 from December 23 to 25
Nakajima Park
【Late October–Early November】
Nakajima Park is located in central Sapporo and is easily accessible by subway. Watching the red autumn leaves reflected on the lake makes it feel as if you have escaped the noise of the surrounding high-rise buildings. The park also features a Japanese garden, literature museum, observatory, and other attractions worth visiting.
Why It's Popular:
① Beautiful lakeside foliage reflected on the water
② The park includes a Japanese garden, literature museum, and observatory that can be combined in one itinerary
③ Nearby cafes make it easy to enjoy afternoon tea while admiring the autumn colors
2026 Nakajima Park Night Illumination: 2026 event information has not yet been announced (last year: October 24–November 3, 2025, 17:30–21:00)
Address: 1 Nakajima Park, Chuo Ward, Sapporo
Viewing Period: Late October–Early November
Access: Take the Sapporo Municipal Subway Namboku Line to Nakajima-Koen Station
Maruyama Park
【Late October–Early November】
Maruyama Park in Sapporo is famous not only for cherry blossoms but also for autumn foliage. The park contains a large area of natural forest, making it highly recommended for travelers who want to experience nature close to the city.
Why It's Popular:
① Dense woodland lets you experience nature within the city
② Hokkaido Shrine is located within the area, so shrine visits and autumn foliage can be combined
③ After viewing the foliage, visit Maruyama Zoo for a family-friendly outing
Goryokaku Park
【Late October–Early November】
Goryokaku in central Hakodate was built in the 19th century and is designated as a Special Historic Site of Japan. Its most distinctive feature is the star-shaped moat and grounds. In autumn, from a distance it looks like a vivid red star set in the middle of the city. Goryokaku Park also has a direct shop of Rokkatei, one of Hokkaido's most popular souvenir brands, making it a convenient place to shop and rest after sightseeing.
Why It's Popular:
① A must-visit Hakodate attraction where the star-shaped fort is surrounded by autumn foliage
② Climb Goryokaku Tower for spectacular panoramic views of the colorful park
③ Experience Hakodate's late-Edo-period history while enjoying the fall colors
Hokkaido University
【Late October–Early November】
In addition to maple leaves, Hokkaido University is especially famous for its ginkgo trees. As the weather cools in autumn, clusters of maple trees around campus turn bright red and contrast beautifully with the European-style architecture. The famous Ginkgo Avenue transforms from green into a golden tunnel. In previous years, the “Golden Leaves Festival” has been held around the peak viewing period, with nighttime illuminations and student-organized events, making a walk through the campus feel like entering a golden dream.
Why It's Popular:
① Enjoy both maple foliage and golden ginkgo trees at the same time
② The Golden Leaves Festival and nighttime illuminations have been held in previous years
③ The spacious campus combines European-style architecture and greenery, making it ideal for walking and photography
2026 Hokkaido University Golden Leaves Festival: As of September 2, 2026, the dates have not yet been announced (last year: November 1 and 2, 2025)
Do not miss Japan's golden ginkgo trees on your autumn trip. From Hokkaido University's Ginkgo Avenue and Meiji Jingu Gaien in Tokyo to the thousand-year-old Kitakanegasawa Giant Ginkgo in Aomori, the guide below introduces 12 popular ginkgo spots across Japan so you can enjoy both red maples and golden foliage on the same autumn journey.
Hakodate Park
【Late October–Early November】
Hakodate Park contains museum-related facilities, a children's amusement park, and even a small animal area, making it suitable for both adults and children. While enjoying the autumn foliage, you can also explore the surrounding attractions and experience a trip combining culture and nature.
Why It's Popular:
① The spacious park has tree-lined paths filled with autumn foliage
② The amusement park and small animal facilities make it suitable for families
③ On clear days, it is ideal for a leisurely walk and enjoying the autumn atmosphere
Address: 17 Aoyagicho, Hakodate, Hokkaido
Viewing Period: Late October–Early November
Access: Take a bus from JR Hakodate Station to Hakodate Park, or take the Hakodate Tram to Aoyagicho Station and walk about 2 minutes
Daisetsuzan Asahidake
【Late September–Early October】
Daisetsuzan National Park was established in 1934 and is the largest national park in Japan. Within the park, 2,291-meter Mount Asahidake is the highest peak in Hokkaido. The area enters autumn foliage season as early as September each year, covering the mountains in spectacular red and yellow colors. Visitors can take the Asahidake Ropeway to higher elevations and enjoy the famous view of Mount Asahidake and volcanic terrain reflected in Sugatami Pond. The park also has several hiking trails and is a must-visit for photography and trekking enthusiasts.
Why It's Popular:
① Hokkaido's highest peak and one of the earliest places in Hokkaido to enter autumn foliage season
② Take the Asahidake Ropeway for easy access to panoramic red and yellow mountain scenery
③ Sugatami Pond offers a classic autumn reflection of Mount Asahidake
Address: Asahidake Onsen, Higashikawa, Kamikawa District, Hokkaido
Viewing Period: Late September–Early October
Access: Take a bus from JR Asahikawa Station to the Asahidake Onsen area
Mount Tokachi
【Early–Mid October】
Mount Tokachi, also located in Daisetsuzan National Park, is another representative autumn foliage destination in Hokkaido. You do not need to climb all the way to the summit in autumn. From the Tokachidake Bogakudai Observation Deck at an elevation of about 930 meters, you can enjoy expansive views of the Tokachi mountain range and the Biei and Furano areas. During foliage season, low shrubs, valleys, and volcanic terrain turn red and yellow, creating spectacular scenery on clear days.
Why It's Popular:
① Enjoy autumn views of the Tokachi mountain range from Bogakudai without a long hike
② Bare volcanic terrain contrasts dramatically with red and yellow vegetation
③ Close to Shirogane Onsen, Fukiage Onsen, and Tokachidake Onsen, making it easy to combine with a hot-spring trip
2026 Mount Tokachi Volcanic Information
Since June 18, 2026, the eruption alert level for Mount Tokachi has been raised from Level 1 to Level 2, and entry is currently prohibited within about 1.5 kilometers of Crater 62-2. Very small eruptions occurred on July 22 and August 6, 2026, and the alert remained at Level 2 as of early September. The Shirogane area, Bogakudai Observation Deck, Tokachidake Onsen, and Fukiage Onsen are currently outside the 1.5-kilometer restricted zone, but be sure to check the latest announcements from the Japan Meteorological Agency and local authorities before departure.
Address: Tokachidake Onsen, Kamifurano, Sorachi District, Hokkaido
Viewing Period: Early–Mid October
Access: About 40 minutes by bus from JR Kamifurano Station on the Furano Line
Shinsen Marsh
【Mid October】
Shinsen Marsh in southwestern Hokkaido is a beautiful wetland surrounded by mountains. In autumn, golden grasses and colorful foliage are reflected on the calm, mirror-like water, creating a picturesque scene. In the early morning or around dusk, light mist sometimes drifts over the marsh, adding a mysterious atmosphere. Wooden boardwalks run through the Shinsen Marsh area, and if you have enough time, a slow walk through the wetland is highly recommended.
Why It's Popular:
① Wooden boardwalks make the walking route relatively easy
② Enjoy mountain scenery, wetlands, and autumn foliage all in one place
③ Reflections of the mountains and fall colors make it ideal for photography
Address: Maeda, Kyowa, Iwanai District, Hokkaido
Viewing Period: Mid October
Access: Public transportation is limited, so driving is recommended
Sounkyo Gorge (Daisetsuzan National Park)
【Mid–Late October】
Sounkyo Gorge is a must for any Hokkaido autumn foliage itinerary. Located in the Daisetsuzan area, both its latitude and elevation are high, so the mountains enter foliage season relatively early. In addition to hillsides covered in colorful leaves, the gorge's cliffs and waterfalls are also spectacular. Visitors can take the Kurodake Ropeway for elevated views over the valley or drive along the national highway to enjoy autumn scenery at different elevations.
Why It's Popular:
① One of the earlier areas in Hokkaido to enter autumn foliage season
② Take the Kurodake Ropeway for panoramic views of the dramatic valley covered in fall colors
③ Cliffs and waterfalls combined with red foliage create spectacular scenery
Address: Sounkyo, Kamikawa, Kamikawa District, Hokkaido
Viewing Period: Mid–Late October
Access: From JR Kamikawa Station on the Sekihoku Main Line, transfer to a Dohoku Bus bound for Sounkyo
Shirogane Blue Pond
【Mid–Late October】
Shirogane Blue Pond is one of Biei's most representative scenic attractions. Water from upstream rivers containing different minerals combines to form fine particles that scatter sunlight, giving the pond its dreamlike blue color. In autumn, the surrounding trees turn golden yellow and orange-red, creating a striking contrast with the blue water and an entirely different view from summer. A well-maintained path runs along the pond, so visitors can enjoy the scenery without hiking.
Why It's Popular:
① The blue water creates a vivid contrast with red and yellow autumn foliage
② Well-maintained paths make it easy to visit without hiking
③ Nighttime illuminations have traditionally begun in late October, creating an atmosphere completely different from daytime
2026 Shirogane Blue Pond Night Illumination: As of September 2, 2026, the dates have not yet been announced
2026 Shirogane Blue Pond Night Illumination: October 24, 2025–April 22, 2026 【October and November】17:00–21:00)
※ The autumn foliage viewing period is relatively short, and nighttime illuminations may be temporarily canceled due to severe weather. In previous years, visitors in late October sometimes had the chance to see both autumn foliage and the illumination, so check the latest announcements before departure.
Sapporo Mount Moiwa Ropeway
【Late October】
Mount Moiwa is not only a popular autumn foliage spot but also one of Sapporo's best-known night-view destinations. During the daytime ropeway ride, you can enjoy the fall colors covering the mountain slopes, while the summit offers panoramic views over Sapporo. With good timing, you can head up in the afternoon for autumn foliage, stay through sunset, and then enjoy the night view, experiencing two very different landscapes in a single visit.
Why It's Popular:
① Ride the ropeway for easy mountain access while enjoying autumn foliage along the way
② The summit observation deck offers expansive views over central Sapporo
③ Enjoy fall colors by day, sunset in the evening, and city lights at night—all in one trip
Address: 5-3-7 Fushimi, Chuo Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido
Viewing Period: Late October
Access: From Ropeway Iriguchi stop on the Sapporo Streetcar, transfer to the free shuttle bus
Kosetsuen Garden (Miharashi Park)
【Early November】
Kosetsuen, Hokkaido's only nationally designated Cultural Property garden, is located within spacious Miharashi Park. It was once the villa of the wealthy Iwafune family of Hakodate and is now one of the city's most representative autumn foliage spots. The garden is planted with many trees that turn red and yellow each autumn. In previous years, nighttime illuminations have also been held during the foliage season, allowing visitors to enjoy beautiful illuminated leaves after dark.
Why It's Popular:
① Autumn foliage beautifully complements the Japanese garden
② Nighttime illuminations have been held in previous autumn seasons, giving the foliage a different atmosphere after dark
③ Parking is available, making it convenient for travelers driving themselves
2026 Kosetsuen Night Illumination:
As of September 2, 2026, the official dates for the 2026 “Hakodate MOMI-G FESTA” have not yet been announced
2025 Kosetsuen Night Illumination: October 17–November 3, 2025, 16:00–21:00
Address: 56 Miharashicho, Hakodate, Hokkaido
Opening Hours: 9:00–17:00
Viewing Period: Early November
Access: Take a Hakodate Bus from JR Hakodate Station and get off at Kosetsuen
Hokkaido is one of the earliest regions in Japan to welcome autumn foliage season. The colors begin in the mountains of Daisetsuzan in late September, move to lakes and hot spring areas in October, and continue into Sapporo, Otaru, and Hakodate in early November. The timing still varies each year depending on temperatures, so check the latest Hokkaido foliage forecast again before finalizing your itinerary to improve your chances of seeing the most beautiful autumn scenery.
Hokkaido Autumn Foliage FAQ
1. When Is the 2026 Hokkaido Autumn Foliage Season?
Hokkaido is among the first regions in Japan to enter autumn foliage season. Colors generally begin at Daisetsuzan Asahidake in late September, then gradually move to lower elevations and areas such as Sapporo, Otaru, and Hakodate, continuing until around early November. With the right regional itinerary, you can find fall colors from late September through early November.
2. Where Can You See Autumn Foliage in Hokkaido from September to November?
Hokkaido's autumn foliage season begins at Daisetsuzan Asahidake from late September to early October, making it one of the earliest areas in Japan to change color. From early to mid-October, the Tokachidake Bogakudai Observation Deck offers views of mountain ridges and valleys gradually turning red. From mid to late October, the colors spread to lakes and hot spring areas, with Sounkyo, Shinsen Marsh, Lake Akan, Jozankei, Noboribetsu Jigokudani, Shirogane Blue Pond, Lake Toya, and Lake Shikotsu entering their best viewing periods. From late October to early November, the focus shifts to parks in central Sapporo, Otaru Park, Onuma Quasi-National Park, and Hakodate's Goryokaku Park, Hakodate Park, and Kosetsuen, marking the final highlights of Hokkaido's foliage season.
3. What Autumn Foliage Spots Are Recommended for a Hokkaido Self-Drive Trip?
For a self-drive autumn foliage trip in Hokkaido, seven recommended spots are Daisetsuzan Asahidake, Mount Tokachi, Sounkyo Gorge, Shinsen Marsh, Shirogane Blue Pond, Lake Toya, and Kosetsuen (Miharashi Park). Some of these locations are far from railway stations, so driving provides greater flexibility and makes it easier to combine hot springs, viewpoints, and other natural attractions along the way.
4. Besides Autumn Foliage, What Other Highlights Does Hokkaido Offer in Fall?
Besides mountains covered in red foliage, autumn in Hokkaido is also perfect for a hot spring trip. Visit Noboribetsu Onsen or Jozankei and enjoy the colors while soaking in the baths. Autumn food is another highlight, so do not miss king crab and Hokkaido melon.