The maples are turning red! Get an early look at Hokkaido’s “autumn foliage situation” as Daisetsuzan’s Mt. Asahidake transforms into a palette of colors

Who knew the maple leaves had turned red? Famous maple-viewing spots in Hokkaido such as Daisetsuzan’s Mt. Asahidake, Jozankei, Shikotsu-Toya National Park, Mt. Moiwa, and Lake Akan. (Photo illustration / Photographed by Jian Yixin)

With autumn in full swing, Japan’s official autumn foliage forecast was released last week, predicting that Hokkaido will reach peak foliage beauty on September 17. From north to south, you can still enjoy the crimson leaves in Arashiyama until the end of November. This weekend, the country’s highest peak, Mt. Asahidake in Daisetsuzan, is already showing hints of red, heralding Japan’s earliest autumn foliage. Yellow and red leaves are scattered among the green forests, turning the landscape into a vibrant palette.

“REAL Hokkaido” shared real-time leaf color updates from last weekend on its Facebook fan page, announcing that autumn has officially arrived in Hokkaido. The earliest foliage spot in Japan, “Mt. Asahidake,” is already showing signs of changing colors, with the transformation happening rapidly. From the summit “Suzumi” station of the ropeway at 1,600 meters above sea level to hiking trails along the way, visitors can enjoy the red leaves.

In addition to Mt. Asahidake in Daisetsuzan, Mt. Moiwa in Hokkaido is another foliage viewing spot accessible by cable car, and its night view has even been ranked among the “New Three Major Night Views of Japan.” The hot spring resort town of Jozankei not only offers stunning foliage but also the relaxing pleasure of soaking in the steamy hot springs. Other spots such as Lake Akan, Noboribetsu, and Sounkyo also allow you to enjoy the beautiful colors of the season.