By / MOOK Scenic Spots Family Travel Life Network Editorial Department Compilation Report
Although summer hasn’t ended yet, many people have already started planning their autumn trips. When it comes to the most beautiful color of autumn in Japan, it’s the red of the maple leaves, which paints the landscapes with poetic beauty. Below is a collection of five of the most beautiful castles across Japan during the autumn season. If you have the chance, be sure to catch this season-limited beauty for yourself!
Maple leaves adorn the castle, bringing a touch of poetry to the architecture. (Image source / JNTO)
● Matsue Castle
The elegant and majestic Matsue Castle is a landmark of Matsue City. It’s not only a famous spot for cherry blossom viewing but also for autumn leaf viewing. The maple leaves in the surrounding parks and along the Horikawa River, paired with the castle’s wing-like shape, create a breathtaking sight.
The roof of Matsue Castle resembles a bird with wings spread. (Image source / JNTO)
● Hikone Castle
Hikone Castle is one of Japan’s four national treasure castles. Its harmonious and graceful keep lacks the fierceness of war, instead standing quietly atop a hill by Lake Biwa. From November to December, visitors can enjoy views of Hikone Castle from the nearby garden “Enkoen,” where a light-up event is also held.
Hikone Castle embraced by maple leaves. (Image source / JNTO)
● Matsumoto Castle
Located in Matsumoto City, Matsumoto Castle is a historic castle designated as a National Treasure by the Japanese government. The castle’s keep is the oldest existing five-story donjon in Japan. Surrounded by a moat, although originally built for defense and military functions, the building itself is not overly ostentatious or grand. The surrounding area is planted with maple trees, and in autumn the colors change, offering views of the black walls set against vibrant foliage—a charming scene unique to Japan. It’s also one of the best spots for enjoying momijigari (autumn leaf viewing) in Japan.
The exquisitely designed Matsumoto Castle has been designated as a National Treasure-level historic site. (Image source / matsumoto-castle)
● Tsuruga Castle
The area around the castle, now known as Tsuruga Castle Park, was originally the Tokugawa residence called Higashi-Kurokawa-yakata, built in 1384 by Narimasa Kanamori. In 1591, Ujisato Gamo expanded it by adding a seven-story keep on the foundation of Higashi-Kurokawa-yakata and renamed it “Tsuruga Castle.” Every autumn, the maple leaves around the area turn red, and from late October to mid-November, nighttime illuminations are held—offering a stunning view of the red leaves and the castle glowing together at night.
Nighttime maple leaves, blazing like fire. (Image source / Tsuruga Castle)
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