Honestly, I never thought I’d be one of those people who chase the fall foliage every year, but here we are. So, picture this: a crisp October morning, the sun just peeking through, and I’m off on a spontaneous trip to soak up Japan’s glorious autumn hues. It’s that time of year when nature decides to put on its most colorful show, and who am I to say no?
Where to Get Your Fall Foliage Fix
First stop: Jozankei Onsen in Hokkaido. It’s less than an hour from Sapporo, so it’s perfect if you want a quick escape. The whole area is surrounded by mountains, and the colors are just popping. I walked across the Futami Suspension Bridge—trust me, the view of the gorge from up there is breathtaking. Oh, and don’t miss the Momijigari Shuttle that takes you around to the five top spots for leaf-peeping. It’s like nature’s own red carpet event.
Another gem is Lake Toya. There’s this spot called the Silo Observation Deck that gives you a panoramic view of Lake Toya, Mt. Usu, and Showa Shinzan. It’s like standing in a living postcard. The reflections of the vibrant leaves on the lake are something else. And after all that walking, chilling in a nearby onsen is the cherry on top.
The Unexpected Beauty of Fall
You know what surprised me? The Kinzenkyo Gorge in Takinoue. I stumbled upon it by accident while following the Shokotsu River. The narrow, fast-flowing river creates waterfalls, and the way the colors reflect off the water is mesmerizing. I didn’t expect to find such tranquility in the middle of a town!
And then there’s Oirase Gorge in Aomori. It’s like walking into a fairy tale. The sound of the river, the colors of the leaves—it’s almost too perfect. I even told my mom about it, and now she’s planning a trip. Not gonna lie, I felt a bit like a nature guru, haha.
Timing is Everything
If you’re planning to catch these spots, aim for late October. The leaves are usually at their peak, and the weather is just the right amount of chilly to make you appreciate a hot cup of tea afterward. Oh, and budget-wise, it’s pretty reasonable. Most of these places are free, but if you’re taking the shuttle or gondolas, you’re looking at around ¥1,500 (about $10 USD).
So, if you find yourself in Japan this fall, do yourself a favor and check out these spots. It might not be everyone’s cup of tea, but honestly, I’m glad I went. Who knew leaves could be so captivating? If it sounds fun, go for it—I’d love to hear what you think!
