Autumn Foliage in Sunlight: 10 Must-Visit Spots

Text by / MOOK Scenic Spots Home Travel Life Network Editorial Team, compiled and reported
 
Visiting Japan in autumn means being greeted by hills and valleys blanketed in vibrant red leaves—the most enchanting scenery of the season. The maple leaf cycle that sweeps sequentially from Hokkaido southward seems to be perfectly orchestrated, taking turns to captivate everyone’s attention. While the famous autumn foliage spots in the Kanto region may not be as concentrated in urban areas like spring cherry blossoms, the nearby Tochigi Prefecture’s Nikko offers the most densely packed and popular foliage destinations. When the maple leaves turn red, visitors flock to the area non-stop.
 
● Senjogahara

Senjogahara is said to be the ancient battlefield where the gods of Mount Nantai and Mount Akagi once clashed. In ancient times, Senjogahara was a lake formed after the eruption of Mount Nantai, but now it has silted up into a wetland. Walking along the wooden boardwalk trail, you’ll find a riot of flowers in spring and summer, while in mid-October, amber-hued grasslands are set off by the crimson leaves.

Foliage viewing period: Mid-October to late October (grass foliage: Late September to early October)
 
● Odashirogahara (Odashiro Lake)

Odashirogahara is a wetland area located west of Senjogahara. Surrounded by larch trees, the scenery is breathtaking, and in spring and summer, plants such as Japanese irises bloom beautifully. After heavy rain, a temporary Odashiro Lake appears—an ephemeral, dreamlike lake that forms only once every few years.

Foliage viewing period: Early to mid-October (grass foliage: Late September to early October)

● Ryuzu Falls

The Yun River flows through the ancient battlefield of Senjogahara before entering Chuzenji Lake. Just before it reaches the lake, it splits into two graceful waterfalls known as “Ryuzu Falls” (Dragon Head Falls). The most beautiful seasons to view Ryuzu Falls are during the autumn foliage and the fresh greenery of May, when flower petals drift on the snow-white waters, creating poetic, swirling patterns.

Foliage viewing period: Early to mid-October
 
● Chuzenji Lake

Chuzenji Lake is a highland lake formed by the volcanic eruption of Mount Nantai, the main peak of the Nikko mountain range. During the autumn foliage season, the lake’s azure waters reflect the deep blue sky and the fiery red leaves of late autumn, creating a stunningly picturesque scene that is simply mesmerizing. It also served as the filming location for the movie “Lost Paradise.”