Text by / MOOK Scenic Spots Editorial Team
Recently, the Japanese yen has depreciated, hitting its lowest exchange rate against the New Taiwan Dollar in eight months this year. Although Japan experienced typhoons and earthquakes in September, recovery has been swift. With the yen weakening and the peak foliage season approaching, here are five renowned classic maple-viewing spots in Japan. Take advantage of the weaker yen to save on travel expenses for your autumn foliage trip.
The maple leaf season at Takao Mountain runs from November 1 to November 30, 2018, lasting one month.
1.Takao Mountain
Located in Hachioji City, Tokyo, Takao Mountain boasts rich natural beauty all year round and is beloved by international travelers for its convenient transportation. In autumn, aside from hiking to enjoy the foliage, you can also take the cable car or chairlift up to the mountainside, where the colorful forest resembles a fairyland. At the summit, you can gaze at the skyscrapers of central Tokyo, and on clear days, even catch a glimpse of Mount Fuji.
Best foliage viewing period: mid-November to late November
Transportation: A 3-minute walk from Takaosanguchi Station on the Keio Takao Line
The best time to view the foliage at Lake Okutama is from mid-October to mid-November.
2.Okutama Artificial Lake
Spanning Tokyo and Yamanashi Prefecture, Lake Okutama is a man-made lake with a circumference of about 45 kilometers. It’s just a two-hour drive from Shinjuku, making it a popular holiday route for many Japanese travelers—shopping in Tokyo first, then enjoying the forest bath by the lake. During the maple leaf season, the lakeside paths of Lake Okutama offer reflections of red leaves on the water, showcasing the unique beauty of mountain scenery and vibrant orange-red foliage.
Best foliage viewing period: mid-October to mid-November
Transportation: Take the Seibu Bus bound for Lake Okutama from Okutama Station on the JR Ome Line, and get off at the Lake Okutama stop.
The best time to view the foliage at Meijiro Garden is from late November to early December.
3.Meijiro Garden
Located in Toshima Ward, Tokyo, Meijiro Garden is a strolling pond garden. Stroll along the pond to experience the tranquil and peaceful atmosphere unique to Japan. The garden features traditional Japanese structures such as “Sekitorian” and “Rokkaku Ukimido,” surrounded by trees that display different natural sceneries in each season. During the annual foliage season, night illuminations are held, reflecting the vibrant forest and stone pagodas on the water surface, immersing you in a dreamlike landscape.
Best foliage viewing period: late November to early December
Night illumination hours: November 23 – December 2, 2018, daily from 17:30 to 21:00 (last entry at 20:30)
Transportation: A 5-minute walk from Meijiro Station on the JR Yamanote Line
The nighttime illumination of the maple leaves at To-ji Temple in Kyoto’s Minami Ward runs from October 27, 2018, to December 9.
4.Kyoto’s To-ji Temple
Also known as Kyo-o Gokoku-ji, To-ji Temple is a Buddhist temple located in Kujocho, Minami Ward, Kyoto. Its architecture has been preserved since the Heian-kyo period and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The temple’s five-story pagoda is the tallest wooden national treasure building in Japan. The lecture hall, which houses 21 Buddha statues, and the illuminated maple trees are reflected in the temple’s pond, creating a picturesque scene that allows you to experience both Japanese architectural culture and the beauty of autumn foliage.
Best foliage viewing period: mid-November to early December
Night illumination hours: October 27 – December 9, 2018, from 18:30 to 21:30 (last admission at 21:00)
Transportation: A 10-minute walk from To-ji Station on the Keihan Kyoto Line
Situated at a high elevation, Shogunzuka Seiryuden offers panoramic views of Kyoto city and illuminated foliage in autumn.
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