Top Picks for Autumn Foliage Viewing in Japan: 4 Hidden Scenic Spots in the Hometown of Chief Tama

▲ Mount Koya is also known as the Sacred Place in the Sky. (Photo / Provided by Wakayama Prefecture Commerce, Industry, Tourism, and Labor Bureau Tourism Division)

Reported by Cai Wenjun / Special Feature

Japan’s autumn foliage season is about to begin, and the Kansai region is already a popular destination on many travelers' "chasing the leaves" itineraries. Besides Osaka and Kyoto, Wakayama Prefecture—famous among Taiwanese tourists for its cat stationmaster Tama—is also home to several hidden foliage spots well worth exploring. Here are four recommended foliage viewing sites in Wakayama to help you enjoy a unique momijigari (autumn leaf hunt) this year.

▲ Mount Koya, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. (Photo / Provided by Wakayama Prefecture Commerce, Industry, Tourism, and Labor Bureau Tourism Division)

1. Mount Koya
Mount Koya, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is also known as the Sacred Place in the Sky. It gained fame as the sacred training ground of the monk Kukai (Kobo Daishi). The solemn temples inspire awe, and when autumn arrives, the surrounding maple leaves blaze in a sea of fiery red that can be seen from every corner. The breathtaking natural landscape combined with the sacred atmosphere makes it a place where many seek spiritual tranquility. It is also the earliest area in Wakayama to see fall colors, with the best viewing period from late October to early November.

Transportation: Get off at Gokurakubashi Station on the Nankai Koya Line, then take the Nankai Koyasan Cable Car and get off at Koyasan Station

▲ The Engetsu-kan Pavilion in the Nishinomaru Garden of Wakayama Castle is a must-visit spot for foliage. (Photo / Provided by Wakayama Prefecture Commerce, Industry, Tourism, and Labor Bureau Tourism Division)

2. Wakayama Castle
Wakayama Castle offers both cherry blossom and autumn foliage views, and it's also the most easily accessible foliage spot. As one of Japan’s Top 100 Castles, Wakayama Castle is best known for the autumn leaves at the Engetsu-kan Pavilion in its Nishinomaru Garden. The pavilions set against the red foliage, with the pond reflecting the colors, make it a must-visit spot within the castle grounds. The optimal time for foliage viewing is around late November to early December.

▲ The Shionogawa Valley is a hidden foliage gem. (Photo / Provided by Wakayama Prefecture Commerce, Industry, Tourism, and Labor Bureau Tourism Division)

3. Shionogawa Valley
Shionogawa Valley is considered one of Japan’s most beautiful valleys. Travelers can take a boat ride through the gorge to admire the emerald-green waters flanked by vibrant autumn foliage. This is also a foliage spot highly recommended by locals, with the best viewing time around late November to early December.

Address: 271 Hizoku, Kumano-gawa-cho, Shingu-shi, Wakayama, Japan  Kumano Kotsu Shiko Ferry Terminal Transportation: Take a JR limited express train from Shin-Osaka Station to Kii-Katsuura or Shingu, approximately 3.5 hours
 

4. Road Between the Kumano Ancient Trail and Mount Koya
For those who prefer driving, locals recommend the road between the Kumano Ancient Trail (also a UNESCO World Heritage Site) and Mount Koya. A section of this route is covered with vibrant red foliage in autumn—a hidden foliage spot only visible by car.