A collection of the best fall foliage routes in Northeastern Japan — take our survey for a chance to win exclusive gifts!

By Chi Ping-hui, compiled and reported

Autumn is truly the season for viewing maple leaves. In Japan’s northeastern Tohoku region, including Aomori Prefecture, Iwate Prefecture, Akita Prefecture, and Sendai City, the hills and valleys are ablaze with vibrant red foliage. Numerous popular scenic spots are beloved by both domestic and international travelers. Now, follow these 8 most beautiful fall foliage routes (www.promotions.com.tw/kitatohoku/), and fill out a questionnaire before October 21st for a chance to bring home limited-edition local gifts from each prefecture!

Generally speaking, the fall foliage season in northeastern Tohoku, Japan, runs from mid-October to mid-November. In Aomori Prefecture, the top recommended spot is the Oirase Gorge, where golden maple leaves add poetic beauty to the streams. Especially the 14.2-kilometer walking trail from Mount Yakeyama to the shores of Lake Towada at Konoike features 14 waterfalls and stream views that have become popular attractions for visitors and a must-visit hidden gem for photographers around the world. The autumn colors of Lake Towada moved Japanese artist Kōtarō Takamura, who created the “Maiden Statue” in the likeness of his late wife, standing by the lakeside to guard this piece of nature.

Akita is known as a land of rice, and in autumn it offers two great foliage spots: the Hachimantai Nature Study Path (walking trail) and the Kosuge Natural Study Path. The golden, fiery red maple leaves highlight the most beautiful natural scenery in Akita. The Kosuge Natural Study Path features rare mud volcano formations and an ancient, poignant love story from Japanese folklore, waiting to be discovered by visitors.

Iwate Prefecture boasts rich ecological resources, renowned local cuisine, and hidden hot springs all worth experiencing firsthand. It also offers a unique “Hachimantai Summit Hike” not typically found on regular tours — just 30 minutes to reach the mountaintop at 1,613 meters above sea level, where you can overlook the vast plains covered in autumn foliage. The Matsukawa Onsen hot spring village is home to the Kyōunso, a member of the “Japan Secret Onsen Guardians Association,” a favorite hot spring among women for its skin-beautifying properties. For more travel information, check out the autumn issue of the 《Kitatohoku Travel Guide》.