Hokkaido is the earliest place in Japan to enjoy autumn leaves. Contrary to the “cherry blossom front,” the “autumn leaf front” begins each year in September, slowly descending from the peaks of Daisetsuzan National Park, traveling from north to south. Gradually, the landscape is painted in stunning shades of red and yellow. It’s truly breathtaking how the crimson leaves can shine as brilliantly as flames.
Shiretoko Five Lakes
The autumn leaves in Hokkaido have a majestic beauty that comes from its grand mountains and vast waters. With its expansive natural surroundings and the bright white snow on the mountaintops, the contrast of red and white, as well as the blend of yellow and green in the northern autumn, offers a scenery quite different from the monochromatic landscapes found elsewhere. To enjoy momijigari (autumn leaf viewing) at its first stop along the front — Hokkaido — it's recommended to plan a visit to Sounkyo Gorge in Daisetsuzan National Park, or the easily accessible hot spring town of Jozankei on the outskirts of Sapporo. For those seeking the unforgettable sight of red leaves falling in a northern wilderness, the Shiretoko region in eastern Hokkaido boasts breathtaking natural scenery. The Shiretoko Peninsula, jutting out in northeastern Hokkaido, is known as the “last unspoiled wilderness” due to its pristine natural environment. Its rich geological features, natural landscapes, and wildlife led to Shiretoko being designated as a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site in the summer of 2005. The Shiretoko Five Lakes are the area’s main tourist attraction. In late autumn, the grass and trees around the lakes turn golden, the treetops are dyed in autumn red, and the peaks of the Shiretoko mountain range are lightly dusted with snow. This serene scene becomes especially enchanting, making it perfect to take a stroll along the walking paths by the lakes, feeling the beauty of nature’s changing seasons beneath your feet as you walk on fallen leaves.
The beautiful reflection of the Shiretoko Mountain Range on the lake surface
The appreciation period for the autumn leaf front in Japan lasts about 3 to 4 weeks, though this can vary slightly depending on factors such as terrain and temperature in each region. At Shiretoko Five Lakes, the leaves can typically only be enjoyed for about 1 to 2 weeks before they fall and are soon covered by snow. To start your autumn leaf viewing journey from the easternmost part of Hokkaido — the Shiretoko Peninsula — you can take the limited express train Okhotsk or the Super Ozora, then transfer to the JR Senmō Main Line to save travel time and leave more precious hours to leisurely experience the northern autumn in Shiretoko. Autumn Leaves in Shiretoko Maple Leaves: Mid-September to Early October Transportation: The “Shiretoko Shari” Station on the JR Senmō Main Line can be considered the gateway to the Shiretoko Peninsula. From there, transfer to the Shari Bus to reach Utoro in the Shiretoko Peninsula. Sightseeing Bus: During regular periods, if you wish to tour the Shiretoko Five Lakes, you must take a guided bus tour operated by Shari Bus. You can take a bus from Shiretoko Shari to Utoro, then continue on a dedicated bus tour to explore the Shiretoko Five Lakes. Operating Period: Late April to Late October Article Reference: The Forefront of Hokkaido’s Autumn Leaves – Momijigari in the Hidden Gem of Shiretoko
Read More: Salmon Parent and Child Dish Is a Must-Try Hokkaido Delicacy:: Eastern Hokkaido:: Shiretoko (Provided by Tripass Attractions)
