Autumn foliage in Tokyo and the surrounding areas usually begins around mid-October at Lake Chuzenji in Nikko and continues through mid-December at Shinjuku Gyoen, giving visitors roughly two months to enjoy the colors. This guide brings together 23 top autumn foliage spots across central Tokyo, Lake Kawaguchi, Chichibu, and more, with highlights, the best viewing periods, and the 2026 foliage forecast. Whether you are strolling through central Tokyo or planning a day trip to the suburbs, you can quickly find the right place to enjoy the autumn colors.
Recommended Reading:[2026 Tokyo Independent Travel]The Ultimate Tokyo Itinerary Planner: Attractions, Transport, Accommodation, Costs & Tips to Avoid Pitfalls
Tokyo Autumn Foliage Forecast: 2026 Foliage Front and Viewing Map
| Region | 2026 Forecast Viewing Start Date | 2025 Viewing Start Date |
|---|---|---|
| Tochigi Nikko | Updated in September | Around November 2 |
| Nagano Karuizawa | Updated in September | Around October 31 |
| Yamanashi Lake Kawaguchi | Updated in September | Around November 13 |
| Kanagawa Hakone Kamakura | Updated in September | Around November 17 |
| Saitama Chichibu | Updated in September | — |
| Tokyo | Updated in September | Around November 15 |
※ The 2025 figures are based on the actual color-change dates recorded for the attractions included in this guide.
※ Chichibu is a newly added destination for 2026, so there is no measured 2025 data.
Best Viewing Periods for Tokyo Autumn Foliage Spots
| Attraction | 2026 Forecast Viewing Period | 2026 Actual Color Change Date (Updated Weekly from September) | 2025 Viewing Period Start Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| 【Tokyo】 Kinuta Park | Mid-November–Early December | — | 11/17 |
| 【Tokyo】 Hibiya Park | Late November–Early December | — | 11/18 |
| 【Tokyo】 Yoyogi Park | Late November–Early December | — | 11/20 |
| 【Tokyo】 Asukayama Park | Late November–Early December | — | 11/21 |
| 【Tokyo】 Inokashira Park | Mid-November–Early December | — | 11/24 |
| 【Tokyo】 Otaguro Park | Late November–Early December | — | 11/24 |
| 【Tokyo】 Rikugien Gardens | Mid-November–Early December | — | 11/25 |
| 【Tokyo】 Ueno Park | Late November–Early December | — | 11/27 |
| 【Tokyo】 Koishikawa Korakuen Gardens | Late November–Early December | — | 11/27 |
| 【Tokyo】 Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden | Late November–Mid-December | — | 12/1 |
| 【Tokyo】 Hama-rikyu Gardens | Late November–Early December | — | 12/1 |
| 【Tokyo】 Shiba Park | Early–Mid December | — | 12/4 |
| 【Tokyo】 Mount Mitake Mitake Gorge | Mid–Late November | — | 11/12 |
| 【Tokyo】 Lake Okutama | Early–Late November | — | 11/13 |
| 【Tokyo】 Mount Takao | Mid-November–Early December | — | 11/14 |
| 【Tokyo】 Akigawa Valley | Early November–Early December | — | 11/19 |
| 【Saitama】 Chichibu | Late October–Mid-November | — | — |
| 【Tochigi】 Lake Chuzenji, Nikko | Mid-October–Early November | — | 10/26 |
| 【Tochigi】 Nikko Toshogu Shrine | Early–Mid November | — | 11/9 |
| 【Nagano】 Kumoba Pond, Karuizawa | Late October–Early November | — | 10/31 |
| 【Yamanashi】 Lake Kawaguchi Maple Corridor | Early–Late November | — | 11/13 |
| 【Kanagawa】 Lake Ashi, Hakone | Mid–Late November | — | 11/10 |
| 【Kanagawa】 Meigetsuin Temple, Kamakura | Late November–Early December | — | 11/24 |
12 Best Autumn Foliage Spots in Central Tokyo
When it comes to autumn foliage in central Tokyo, Shinjuku Gyoen is one of the city's most representative spots. Tokyo also has Edo-period gardens such as Rikugien, conveniently located urban parks, and quieter hidden places for viewing fall colors. Below are 12 selected foliage spots, each offering a different side of Tokyo in autumn.
Kinuta Park
【Mid-November–Early December】
Kinuta Park is located in Tokyo's Setagaya Ward and features spacious lawns and tree-lined walking paths. In autumn, maple and ginkgo trees turn vivid red and golden yellow, while fallen leaves cover the ground like a golden carpet. In addition to strolling through the foliage, the park has a bird sanctuary for observing nature and play facilities suitable for children, making it a good choice for families. The Setagaya Art Museum and a French restaurant are also located within the park, allowing visitors to enjoy nature, art, and food in a single day.
Why It's Popular:
① Beautiful contrast between red maple leaves and golden ginkgo
② Suspension bridge, bird sanctuary, art museum, and other facilities make it family-friendly
③ Relatively fewer crowds and a relaxed atmosphere
Address: Kinuta Park, 1-chome Okura, and 1-chome Okamoto, Setagaya, Tokyo
Viewing Period: Mid-November–Early December
Opening Hours: Open All Day
Access: About a 20-minute walk from Yoga Station on the Tokyu Den-en-toshi Line, or about 5 minutes by bus
Hibiya Park
【Late November–Early December】
Hibiya Park is located in central Tokyo and combines a modern urban atmosphere with natural scenery. In autumn, the park is filled with color, especially along its golden ginkgo avenues and areas of red foliage, creating a striking contrast with the surrounding high-rise buildings. This unique cityscape attracts many visitors and photographers every year. The park also has ponds, flower beds, and other landscaped areas, giving it the atmosphere of a comfortable garden. For travelers who enjoy a blend of city scenery and nature, Hibiya Park is an excellent autumn destination.
Why It's Popular:
① A distinctive autumn landscape where city scenery and nature come together
② A chance to enjoy both ginkgo and maple foliage at the same time
③ Convenient location, with Ginza, Yurakucho, and Tokyo Station easy to visit afterward
Address: Hibiya Park, Chiyoda, Tokyo
Viewing Period: Late November–Early December
Opening Hours: Open Year-Round
Access: Directly accessible from Kasumigaseki Station on the Tokyo Metro Marunouchi and Chiyoda Lines, Hibiya Station on the Hibiya and Chiyoda Lines, or Hibiya Station on the Toei Mita Line
Yoyogi Park
【Late November–Early December】
Yoyogi Park, near Oku-Shibuya, is one of the largest green spaces in central Tokyo. Each autumn, its maples and ginkgo trees turn vivid colors against wide lawns, creating beautiful scenery. Whether jogging, walking, or having a picnic, visitors can enjoy a strong sense of nature. Its proximity to Harajuku and Omotesando also makes it easy to combine foliage viewing with shopping, which is why it is a popular stop for independent travelers in Tokyo.
Why It's Popular:
① Enjoy both red maple leaves and golden ginkgo
② Spacious grounds ideal for walking or picnics
③ Close to Harajuku and Omotesando, making it easy to add shopping to your itinerary
Recommended Reading:Complete Guide to Yoyogi Park: Cherry Blossoms, Ginkgo Trees, Markets, Nearby Attractions, and How to Get There
Asukayama Park
【Late November–Early December】
Asukayama Park is not only beautiful with autumn foliage but also a popular cherry blossom spot in spring. Compared with cherry blossom season, the park feels more relaxed and peaceful in autumn, making it easy to slow down and enjoy the colors. Walking along the paths surrounded by vivid red leaves offers sweeping views and a calm atmosphere. The combination of autumn foliage with the park's classical clock tower is especially photogenic and worth adding to your travel album.
Why It's Popular:
① Three museums and play facilities make the park suitable for families
② Take the Toden Arakawa Line streetcar to the park for a nostalgic experience
③ Ride the free Asukayama Park monorail to the top and enjoy panoramic autumn foliage views
2026 Asukayama Autumn Illumination (not yet announced; 2025 information below)
November 29–December 7, 2025, sunset–21:00 (last admission 20:30)
Address: 1-1-3 Oji, Kita, Tokyo
Viewing Period: Late November–Early December
Opening Hours: Open all day (※ Some areas are closed to the public at night)
Access: About a 2-minute walk from the South Exit of Oji Station on JR or Tokyo Metro, or about a 2-minute walk from Asukayama Station on the Toden Arakawa Line
Inokashira Park
【Mid-November–Early December】
Inokashira Park in Kichijoji is popular with visitors throughout the year. Whether during cherry blossom season or autumn foliage season, it is a great place to visit with family or friends, ride a swan boat, or take a leisurely walk around the pond. Kichijoji is also excellent for shopping, and the Ghibli Museum, Mitaka is a must-visit for fans of Hayao Miyazaki's animation. There is enough to do here to easily fill an entire day.
Why It's Popular:
① Walk by the pond or ride a swan boat while enjoying the autumn foliage for a romantic atmosphere
② Shop around Kichijoji after viewing the fall colors
③ Combine your visit with the Ghibli Museum, Mitaka for a full day out
Otaguro Park
【Late November–Early December】
Otaguro Park in Tokyo's Suginami Ward is a Japanese garden created around the former residence of music critic Motoo Otaguro. Although the grounds are not large, maples and ginkgo trees are arranged beautifully, turning vivid red and gold in autumn and reflecting attractively in the pond. Nighttime illuminations create a dreamlike atmosphere, making this one of Tokyo's most popular hidden autumn foliage spots.
Why It's Popular:
① A lesser-known foliage spot favored mainly by Japanese visitors
② Nighttime illuminations create a dreamlike atmosphere
③ Pond reflections and the Japanese garden create beautiful compositions
2026 Otaguro Park Night Illumination (not yet announced; 2025 information below)
November 28–December 7, 2025, 17:00–20:00 (until 21:00 on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays)
Address: 3-33-12 Ogikubo, Suginami, Tokyo
Viewing Period: Late November–Early December
Opening Hours: 9:00–17:00 (last admission 16:30); extended hours during the illumination period
Night Illumination: 【Autumn Foliage Season】17:00–20:00 (last admission 19:45) / Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays 17:00–21:00 (last admission 20:30)
Admission: Free; nighttime illumination requires a separate fee
Access: About a 10-minute walk from the South Exit of Ogikubo Station on JR or the Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line
Rikugien Gardens
【Mid-November–Early December】
Rikugien Gardens, a strolling landscape garden with ponds and hills planned by Yoshiyasu Yanagisawa, an aide to the fifth Tokugawa shogun Tsunayoshi, is one of the two representative Japanese gardens of the Edo period and is designated a Special Place of Scenic Beauty. In autumn, colorful maple leaves can be seen almost everywhere across the spacious grounds. The garden also has teahouses surrounded by foliage, where visitors can rest while enjoying the scenery, making it a relaxing retreat in the city.
Why It's Popular:
① Edo-period garden where autumn foliage complements the historic atmosphere
② Pond reflections of fall colors and yukitsuri rope supports showcase distinctive Japanese aesthetics
③ Limited-time autumn night illumination creates a magical evening foliage scene
2026 Rikugien Night Illumination (not yet announced; 2025 information below)
November 28–December 9, 2025, 18:00–20:30 (last admission 19:30)
Ueno Park
【Late November–Early December】
Ueno Park is one of Tokyo's most popular attractions. In addition to cherry blossoms in spring, the autumn foliage is also beautiful. The park contains museums, art museums, temples, shrines, and the famous Ueno Zoo, allowing visitors to enjoy many different scenes surrounded by fall colors. You can also ride a swan boat on Shinobazu Pond and admire the relaxing views along the shore. It is highly recommended for a varied and rewarding autumn outing.
Why It's Popular:
① Zoo and museums make it a good choice for families
② Convenient access, with autumn foliage visible soon after leaving the station
③ Ride a swan boat on Shinobazu Pond while enjoying the foliage for a relaxed, romantic experience
Koishikawa Korakuen Gardens
【Late November–Early December】
Koishikawa Korakuen Gardens, located near Tokyo Dome, is a spacious strolling garden famous for plum blossoms, cherry blossoms, and autumn foliage. During the Edo period, it served as the garden of the Mito Tokugawa family and is now designated a Special Place of Scenic Beauty. Despite being in busy central Tokyo, it offers a strong sense of nature, and many of its landscapes are named after famous places in China, giving the garden a distinctive Chinese influence.
Why It's Popular:
① Edo-period garden where autumn foliage complements the historic atmosphere
② Enjoy reflections of colorful leaves on the ponds while walking
③ Near Tokyo Dome, offering a peaceful autumn landscape in the middle of the city
Address: 1-6-6 Koraku, Bunkyo, Tokyo
Viewing Period: Late November–Early December
Opening Hours: 9:00–17:00 (last admission 16:30)
Access: About a 5-minute walk from JR Suidobashi Station or a 6-minute walk from Korakuen Station on Tokyo Metro
Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
【Late November–Mid-December】
From the high-rise buildings around Shinjuku, you can look toward Shinjuku Gyoen and see fiery red maples mixed with golden ginkgo trees, but walking through the garden itself is even more refreshing. Its beautiful Japanese garden combined with autumn scenery creates endless photo opportunities. It is one of Tokyo's most popular foliage spots and should not be missed when shopping or sightseeing around Shinjuku.
Why It's Popular:
① Enjoy autumn foliage throughout the park and Japanese garden
② Convenient location, with colorful trees visible soon after leaving the station
③ Combine your foliage visit with shopping in Shinjuku afterward
Hama-rikyu Gardens
【Late November–Early December】
Hama-rikyu Gardens is one of Tokyo's few gardens that still preserves an Edo-period atmosphere. Located beside Tokyo Bay and surrounded by modern high-rises, it turns shades of red, orange, and yellow every autumn. The garden's famous tidal pond, Shioiri-no-ike, is surrounded by beautiful foliage and is ideal for an autumn afternoon stroll. Hama-rikyu combines history and nature and is also an excellent place to enjoy the fall colors.
Why It's Popular:
① Enjoy autumn foliage in an Edo-style garden with a historic atmosphere
② Photograph colorful leaves reflected in Shioiri-no-ike
③ Surrounding skyscrapers create a distinctive contrast between city and nature, old and new
Address: 1-1 Hama-rikyu Teien, Chuo, Tokyo
Viewing Period: Late November–Early December
Opening Hours: 09:00–17:00 (last admission 16:30)
Admission: Adults ¥300 / Age 65 and over ¥150 / Free for elementary school students and younger, and junior high school students living or studying in Tokyo
Access: 【Otemon Entrance】7-minute walk from Tsukijishijo or Shiodome Station on the Toei Oedo Line; 12-minute walk from Shimbashi Station on JR, Tokyo Metro Ginza Line, or Toei Asakusa Line. 【Naka-no-Gomon Entrance】5-minute walk from Shiodome Station on the Toei Oedo Line; 15-minute walk from JR Hamamatsucho Station
Shiba Park
【Early–Mid December】
Shiba Park is one of Japan's oldest parks and sits beside Tokyo Tower, a symbol of modern Tokyo, creating a classic autumn scene where the tower rises above colorful foliage. As autumn deepens, the park's ginkgo trees first turn golden, followed later by maples changing to orange and red. These colors pair beautifully with the red Tokyo Tower. For one of Tokyo's most iconic autumn views, Shiba Park with Tokyo Tower is an excellent choice.
Why It's Popular:
① The classic combination of Tokyo Tower and autumn foliage is a must-photograph scene
② Convenient access, with foliage and Tokyo Tower views close to nearby stations
③ Urban high-rises and natural fall colors create a distinctive city atmosphere
Address: Shiba Park 1-, 2-, 3-, and 4-chome, Minato, Tokyo
Viewing Period: Early–Mid December
Opening Hours: Open All Day
Access: About a 12-minute walk from JR Hamamatsucho Station; about 2 minutes from Shibakoen Station, 2 minutes from Onarimon Station, 5 minutes from Daimon Station, or 2 minutes from Akabanebashi Station on the Toei Subway
11 Best Autumn Foliage Spots Near Tokyo
For autumn foliage near Tokyo, Mount Takao is one of the most representative destinations. The surrounding region also offers World Heritage sites, lakes with Mount Fuji views, and historic temple gardens. Below are 11 selected foliage spots ranging from dramatic natural scenery to cultural landmarks, all ideal for an autumn day trip or short getaway.
Lake Chuzenji, Nikko
【Mid-October–Early November】
Lake Chuzenji, located at the entrance to Oku-Nikko, is one of Nikko's most representative lakes. With a circumference of about 25 kilometers and mountains on all sides, it becomes especially beautiful in autumn when colorful maples and golden larch are reflected on the water. In addition to walking along the lakeside trails, taking a sightseeing cruise is recommended for enjoying the rich autumn scenery from different angles.
Why It's Popular:
① Beautiful, romantic reflections of autumn foliage on the lake
② Enjoy the colors from a sightseeing boat or on a hike for different perspectives
③ Easily combine your visit with Kegon Falls
2026 Oku-Nikko Night Illumination (not yet announced; 2025 information below)
November 15–November 24, 2025, sunset–19:00
Address: Chugushi, Nikko, Tochigi Prefecture
Viewing Period: Mid-October–Early November
Access: Take a bus for about 50 minutes from JR Nikko Station or Tobu-Nikko Station and get off at Chuzenji Onsen
Chichibu (Mitsumine Shrine, Nagatoro, Oku-Chichibu)
A Rare Mountainous Autumn Foliage Area Near Tokyo
【Late October–Mid-November】
Chichibu in western Saitama Prefecture is one of the few mountainous foliage areas near Tokyo. Because of its large elevation differences, autumn colors can be enjoyed from late October through mid-November. Mitsumine Shrine, at around 1,100 meters above sea level, is surrounded by cedar forest, and under the right weather conditions visitors may see a mysterious combination of a sea of clouds and autumn foliage. Nagatoro is known for its striking rock formations along the Arakawa River and colorful leaves, which can be enjoyed from sightseeing boats. Travelers seeking fewer crowds can head deeper into Oku-Chichibu for quieter foliage among valleys and mountain roads.
Why It's Popular:
① The old cedar forest, sea of clouds, and autumn foliage around Mitsumine Shrine create a solemn, mysterious atmosphere
② In Nagatoro, take a sightseeing boat to view the foliage from the river, with nighttime illumination during the autumn festival
③ Large elevation differences let you follow the colors for nearly a month within one region
2026 Nagatoro Autumn Leaves Festival (not yet announced; 2025 information below)
November 1–November 30, 2025
2026 Tsuki-no-Ishi Momiji Park Illumination (not yet announced; 2025 information below)
November 12–November 30, 2025, 16:00–21:00
Admission: ¥300 for junior high school students and older; free for elementary school students and younger
Recommended Reading:[Chichibu Day Trip] The Three Shrines of Chichibu, Nearby Sightseeing Spots, Seasonal Events, Local Food, and Transportation Guide
Kumoba Pond, Karuizawa
【Late October–Early November】
Kumoba Pond is one of Karuizawa's best-known autumn foliage spots. In fall, colorful leaves are reflected on the water, creating a picturesque scene. A walking path of about 1 kilometer circles the pond, offering beautiful views where mirror-like reflections and autumn colors blend together.
Why It's Popular:
① Autumn leaves reflected on the water create a dreamlike natural painting
② The approximately 1-kilometer loop is ideal for a leisurely walk and photography
③ Close to Karuizawa Station with convenient access, making it easy for a short trip
In addition to Kumoba Pond and Shiraito Falls, beautiful autumn foliage can also be found around Old Karuizawa Ginza Street, Stone Church, and the Mampei Hotel. Karuizawa is highly recommended for a fall day trip from Tokyo.
Recommended Reading:2026 Karuizawa Kumoba Pond Guide: Winter Scenery, Autumn Foliage, Parking, and Transportation
Lake Okutama
【Early–Late November】
Lake Okutama lies between Tokyo and Yamanashi Prefecture and is an artificial lake with a circumference of about 45 kilometers. During foliage season, walking along the shore offers picturesque views of colorful trees reflected in the water. The lake's floating bridges are another distinctive feature and are especially enjoyable in the crisp autumn weather. (※ Mugiyama Floating Bridge and Tozura Floating Bridge are currently closed because of low water levels at Lake Okutama, with no reopening date announced. Visitors heading to Mount Mito should take particular note.)
Why It's Popular:
① Driving is recommended, with beautiful natural scenery along the way
② The floating bridges are popular photo spots
③ Surrounded by mountains with spectacular scenery
Akigawa Valley
【Early November–Early December】
Akigawa Valley stretches about 20 kilometers from Akiruno City to Hinohara Village and is about an hour by car from central Tokyo. Surrounded by mountains, the valley has distinct scenery in every season, with red maples and golden ginkgo especially popular in autumn. From the landmark Ishibune Bridge, visitors can enjoy sweeping views of both the stream and the valley. In addition to the scenery, the area has campsites and barbecue facilities, making it a good destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Why It's Popular:
① Colorful valley foliage reflected in the clear stream, with picturesque views from Ishibune Bridge
② Combine foliage viewing with hot springs, camping, barbecue, and other outdoor activities
③ Relatively few overseas visitors and a peaceful environment
Address: Otsu area, Akiruno, Tokyo (Ishibune Bridge)
Viewing Period: Early November–Early December
Access: Take a bus from JR Musashi-Itsukaichi Station to Jurigi and walk about 5 minutes
Nikko Toshogu Shrine
【Early–Mid November】
Nikko Toshogu Shrine, the final resting place of Tokugawa Ieyasu, founder of the Edo shogunate, is one of Japan's most representative World Heritage sites and is famous for its elaborate carvings and magnificent architecture. Every autumn, ancient cedar forests and maple trees around the shrine turn vivid red, orange, and yellow, beautifully complementing the solemn shrine buildings. Visitors can worship while enjoying the foliage, experiencing a distinctive blend of history and nature at one of Nikko's must-visit autumn attractions.
Why It's Popular:
① World Heritage architecture framed by autumn foliage creates a strong sense of history
② The richly decorated Toshogu buildings contrast beautifully with red maples and golden ginkgo
③ Nikko has many other foliage spots that can be visited on the same trip
2026 Nikko Night Illumination (not yet announced; 2025 information below)
October 31–November 2, 2025, 17:00–21:00 (November 2: 17:00–20:00)
In addition to Toshogu Shrine and Lake Chuzenji, Nikko also offers beautiful autumn colors at Kegon Falls, Senjogahara, Ryuzu Falls, and the Irohazaka Winding Road, making it highly recommended for a foliage trip from Tokyo in autumn.
Lake Kawaguchi Maple Corridor
【Early–Late November】
The Maple Corridor is one of the best places to enjoy autumn foliage at Lake Kawaguchi. During the day, visitors can walk through this roughly 150-meter tunnel of red leaves with the silhouette of Mount Fuji in the distance. After dark, illuminations make the fiery leaves glow and create a romantic, dreamlike atmosphere. The area is also the main venue of the Fuji Kawaguchiko Autumn Leaves Festival, with food stalls and a lively festival atmosphere.
Why It's Popular:
① A classic photo spot combining Mount Fuji, lake scenery, and autumn foliage
② Night illumination makes the foliage especially atmospheric and photogenic
③ Main venue of the Lake Kawaguchi Autumn Leaves Festival, with lively markets and events
2026 Fuji Kawaguchiko Autumn Leaves Festival:
November 7 (Sat)–November 29 (Sun), 2026, 9:00–19:00 (Night illumination: sunset–21:00)
If you want to capture the classic combination of Mount Fuji, autumn foliage, and lake scenery, Lake Kawaguchi is a must-visit destination. Every autumn, not only the Maple Corridor but also the area around Oishi Park turns vivid red and golden. You can also take the Lake Kawaguchi sightseeing boat Appare and enjoy poetic autumn views from the water, creating memorable photos and experiences.
Recommended Reading:Lake Kawaguchi Maple Corridor Guide: Autumn Leaves Festival, Night Illuminations, and Transportation
Mount Mitake and Mitake Gorge
【Mid–Late November】
Mount Mitake in Ome, Tokyo, is blessed with beautiful natural scenery and is a popular hiking destination among Japanese visitors. The Tama River runs through Mitake Gorge, which is recognized as one of the Eight Scenic Views of the Tama River. From Takimoto Station on the Mitake Tozan Railway, you can take the cable car and reach the mountain in just a few minutes to enjoy slopes covered in autumn colors.
Why It's Popular:
① Enjoy beautiful scenery directly from the train windows
② See spectacular waterfalls framed by colorful autumn foliage
③ Enjoy Japanese atmosphere from nearby shrines and temples as well
Mount Takao
【Mid-November–Early December】
Mount Takao, at an elevation of 559 meters and just over an hour by train from Tokyo, attracts hikers and sightseers throughout the year and is often described as a natural oasis within the city. You can take the cable car or chairlift halfway up the mountain, then walk about 40 minutes to the summit, where views extend over Tokyo's skyline and even across the Kanto Plain. Its foliage season lasts about a month and is a popular weekend escape for Tokyo residents.
Why It's Popular:
① Ride the cable car or chairlift while enjoying mountain foliage
② Autumn colors around shrines and temples create a distinctly Japanese atmosphere
③ From the summit, enjoy wide views over Tokyo and Mount Fuji
Recommended Reading:[Mount Takao Day Trip Guide]Cable Car, Transportation, Sightseeing Routes, Food, and Shopping
Lake Ashi, Hakone
【Mid–Late November】
If you want lake scenery together with autumn foliage, Lake Ashi in Hakone should be on your itinerary. Each fall, the lakeshore turns vivid with colorful leaves, while Mount Fuji can often be seen in the distance. A ride on the Hakone pirate ship offers sweeping views of the mountains and foliage, while travelers who prefer a slower pace can simply walk along the shore and enjoy the autumn atmosphere. Early morning and dusk are especially recommended, when the water reflects the colors and changing light, creating one of Hakone's most beautiful autumn scenes.
Why It's Popular:
① Beautiful views of Mount Fuji together with colorful foliage
② Enjoy autumn colors from the Hakone Tozan Railway, ropeway, and sightseeing boat
③ Combine foliage viewing with a hot spring visit for a relaxing experience
Meigetsuin Temple, Kamakura
【Late November–Early December】
When it comes to autumn foliage in Kamakura, Meigetsuin Temple should not be missed. Known as the “Hydrangea Temple,” this small temple is famous for summer hydrangeas, but its autumn foliage is equally impressive. Looking through the famous circular window toward the garden, the dense red leaves appear like a framed painting. The compact garden has a peaceful Zen atmosphere, making it pleasant to explore at a relaxed pace. With convenient access from Tokyo, Kamakura is ideal for a half-day or full-day trip, and Meigetsuin is a must for anyone hoping to photograph dreamy autumn scenery.
Why It's Popular:
① Historic temple garden and autumn foliage create a quiet Zen atmosphere
② Ride the Enoden for both foliage and coastal scenery
③ Convenient access makes Kamakura a top day-trip choice from Tokyo
Tokyo Ginkgo Spots
Jingu Gaien Ginkgo Avenue
Jingu Gaien Ginkgo Avenue is one of Tokyo's most popular places for golden autumn foliage. Stretching from Aoyama-dori toward Meiji Jingu Gaien, around 146 ginkgo trees line the avenue in straight rows, creating an impressive sight that often appears in films and Japanese TV dramas. In autumn, the leaves turn bright yellow and form a beautiful golden tunnel. Its location near fashionable Aoyama also gives it a stylish, modern urban atmosphere, helping explain its enduring popularity.
Why It's Popular:
① A famous filming location seen in movies and Japanese TV dramas
② Enjoy the golden ginkgo trees while strolling through fashionable Aoyama
③ Numerous nearby art museums add a cultured atmosphere
Come to Tokyo during autumn foliage season. In October, head to Mount Mitake, Mitake Gorge, or Asukayama Park. In November, central-city spots such as Shinjuku Gyoen, Rikugien, and Inokashira Park are joined by natural destinations such as Mount Takao and Lake Okutama. The must-visit places and viewing periods are all organized here, so add autumn foliage to your Tokyo itinerary.
Tokyo Autumn Foliage FAQ
1. When Is the Best Time to See Autumn Foliage in Tokyo in 2026?
In 2026, the autumn foliage season in Tokyo and nearby areas is expected to run from mid-October to mid-December. Higher-elevation destinations such as Lake Chuzenji in Nikko and Kumoba Pond in Karuizawa turn color earlier, while Shinjuku Gyoen and Shiba Park in central Tokyo are among the later places to enjoy the foliage.
2. Where Can You See Autumn Foliage Around Tokyo from October to December?
【Mid–Late October】Higher-elevation destinations near Tokyo such as Lake Chuzenji in Nikko, Kumoba Pond in Karuizawa, and Mitsumine Shrine in Chichibu begin changing color first, making them suitable for travelers who want an early start to the foliage season. 【Early–Mid November】Nikko Toshogu Shrine, the Lake Kawaguchi Maple Corridor, Lake Okutama, Mount Mitake, and Nagatoro in Chichibu gradually enter their viewing periods. 【Mid-November】Mount Takao and Lake Ashi in Hakone also begin reaching their best colors, marking the peak period for nearby mountain and lake destinations. 【Late November–Mid-December】Central Tokyo gardens and parks such as Rikugien, Ueno Park, Shinjuku Gyoen, Hama-rikyu Gardens, and Shiba Park gradually reach peak color. They are easy to access and can be combined with shopping and dining.
3. Which Month Is Best for Autumn Foliage at Shinjuku Gyoen?
Shinjuku Gyoen has many different species of trees, so its foliage season lasts relatively long. Late November to mid-December is generally suitable for autumn viewing.
4. Which Month Is Best for Autumn Foliage at Lake Okutama?
The recommended viewing period for autumn foliage at Lake Okutama is roughly from early to late November. The timing varies each year depending on temperature, so check the latest foliage conditions before departure.