Sapporo locals flock here to view autumn leaves—2 “secret red leaf spots” only known to residents

▲ The maple leaf scenery at Jozankei Onsen is at its most beautiful right now. (Photo / fromJozankei Sightseeing Association Facebook page)

Reported by reporter Tsai Wen-jun / Interview and reporting

Japan’s autumn foliage season has kicked off in Hokkaido, and now is the most beautiful time. If you want to avoid the crowds or have already seen the famous red leaf spots well-known to Taiwanese travelers, consider spending a bit more time and traveling a bit farther to some lesser-known hidden gems. A local from Sapporo, Aoyama Tatsuya, recommends two secret spots only known to locals. If you want to explore deeper into Hokkaido, why not start this autumn?

▲ %Urgent roast 5 the ravine of the university of the river that the ravine of the university of the river that the clear water and the mountain range of the ravine, their wife of the ravine of the university of the river. (Photo / Reporter Cai Wenjun, photographer Chen Ruru)

Aoyama Tatsuya said that if you want to enjoy beautiful ginkgo and maple leaves in the city area, you certainly can’t miss the Hokkaido Government Building and Hokkaido University, while Jozankei Onsen and Eniwa Valley, located in the suburbs, are secret spots that Sapporo residents always visit when autumn arrives every year.

▲ Jozankei Onsen’s red leaves are beloved by Sapporo locals. (Photo / from Jozankei Sightseeing Association Facebook page)

Jozankei Onsen is about an hour’s drive from Sapporo. Not only does it offer comfortable hot springs to soak in, but along the natural trails in the valley, you can also enjoy views of the majestic mountains and beautiful red leaf scenery. Or you can take a sightseeing boat through the valley—a unique way to enjoy the foliage, which is very popular among locals.

▲ Eniwa Valley is also a famous spot for red leaves, not crowded and super photogenic. (Photo / fromEniwa City Facebook page)

Eniwa Valley, with different scenery throughout all four seasons, is most popular during the autumn season. Vast red leaf forests and waterfall landscapes make walking along the trails a uniquely relaxing experience. The yellow and red maple leaf forests, as well as the stream running alongside the path, are not only less crowded but also extremely photogenic. Travelers can take the JR to JR Eniwa Station, then transfer to the limited-time Red Leaf Bus to get there.