Not gonna lie, I totally underestimated the power of Japan’s autumn foliage until I found myself surrounded by a sea of vibrant reds and oranges. I mean, living in Tokyo, you get used to the urban greens, but stepping out into the countryside for the real-deal autumn experience? That was something else entirely!
Shiretoko Five Lakes, Hokkaido
Let me start with the Shiretoko Five Lakes in Hokkaido. I took a chance and went in early October, and man, it was like walking into a painting. The leaves were just starting to turn, and the crisp air made it feel like I was in some magical place. It’s a bit of a trek to get there, but worth every moment. Just a heads-up: it can get chilly, so layer up!
Chūson-ji, Iwate
Then there’s Chūson-ji in Iwate. I made it for the ‘Autumn Galaxy’ light-up event, and wow, it was like the temple was floating in a sea of colorful leaves. The reflections on the water were just surreal. Admission was about ¥800 (around $5 USD), which was a steal for such an unforgettable experience.
Tatsunokuchi Valley, Miyagi
For a little adventure, I hit up Tatsunokuchi Valley in Miyagi. Ever heard of it? It’s not as famous as other spots, but the views! Seriously, the whole valley turns into a fiery palette of colors. I walked the trails and just soaked it all in. There’s a train from Sendai, and it’s a lovely day trip if you’re nearby.
Oh, and a pro tip: if you’re planning on visiting more than one spot, grab a rail pass. It saves a ton of yen and lets you explore without worrying about tickets each time. I think I saved enough for a couple of sushi dinners, lol.
Personal Thoughts
If you’re a fan of nature’s seasonal show, you’ve gotta experience Japan’s autumn at least once. There’s something about the way the Japanese landscape embraces fall that just gets under your skin. And hey, even if you’re not a ‘nature person,’ the hot springs and local food around these spots are worth the trip alone.
If it sounds fun, go for it—I’d love to hear what you think. Maybe next time, I’ll see you out there, snapping pics of the leaves just like I did!
