The season for Japanese maple viewing is coming up again soon, and the travel experts have kindly put together a list of must-visit spots. However, the seven introduced in the first part...Japanese maple viewing?spots were all concentrated in the Tohoku, Kanto, and Kansai regions. So this time, the travel experts are here to tell you about equally stunning Japanese maple viewing spots located in four other areas. Come take a look and see which hidden gems you might have missed.
Tohoku
Exquisitely beautiful night illumination events―Entsu-in Temple
The first Japanese maple viewing spot we’re introducing is Entsu-in, located inMatsushima.Although there’s an admission fee to enter Entsu-in,it’s absolutely worth it, as just strolling through the traditional Japanese garden shows how much care has gone into every detail — full of thoughtful touches and Zen aesthetics. Even before you see the maple leaves, it feels like money well spent. But of course, the main attraction is the maple leaves themselves. When night falls, the real show begins — the night illumination combined with a sea of crimson foliage, a gentle breeze, and the temple’s uniquely serene Zen atmosphere creates a deeply purifying experience for body and soul.However, the night illumination event only takes place at the end of10each year―11and the beginning of next — be sure to check the timing so you don’t miss out.
The famous Ryoan-ji Temple is also nearby, so if you have time, you can visit both spots together.
Peak maple foliage season:10Early [month]11to early [month]
Transportation:Sendai Seaside Railway LineJRMatsushima-Kaigan Station Walk5minutes / or take the Tohoku Main Line toJRMatsushima Station Walk20minutes
World-class, top-tier scenic gorge―Oirase Gorge
Oirase Gorge’s status as one of the world’s most beautiful streams is no exaggeration. As the only river flowing out from Lake Towada, this 14-kilometer-long stream is surrounded by dense greenery, with magnificent waterfalls forming cascading curtains of water flowing through the quiet surrounding forest. The well-maintained trails along the gorge allow for a leisurely and relaxing stroll — no wonder the poet Ota Kōgetsu once praised it with the saying: “Live in Japan, visit Towada, and walk the three and a half miles of Oirase.” Such a marvel of nature is truly a must-visit in a lifetime.
Autumn foliage season:10Early11month
Transportation:JRHachinohe Station Take theJRbus Oireshi-go (approx.90minutes)),JR Aomori Station Take the bus Mizuumi-go (approx.120minutes)
★ Recommended Attractions:Matsushima,Oirase Gorge, Zuiganji Temple
Featured Itinerary:Oirase Gorge
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Central Japan
Japan’s Alps —Mount Tateyama
Located between Nagano and Toyama prefectures, Mount Tateyama is Japan’s largest canyon, renowned as part of the Japanese Alps. Due to its high-altitude terrain, the area enjoys an extended autumn foliage season, and its magnificent scenery attracts large numbers of visitors every year. Beyond the famous fall colors, different seasons bring their own surprises—visiting in winter, for example, allows you to witness the breathtaking Snow Wall, which rises nearly seven stories high.
★ Recommended Attractions: Shirakawa-go Village,St. Paul’s Catholic Church,Old Karuizawa Ginza Street
Ten Must-See Highlights You Should Know About！
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Shikoku & Chugoku
JapanOne of Japan’s Three Great Gardens—Ritsurin Garden
Ritsurin Garden is the largest garden designated as a Special Place of Scenic Beauty in all of Japan, featuring6ponds,13artificial hills, and a variety of other landscapes that offer a new view around every corner. Additionally, Ritsurin Garden has been awarded three stars in the Michelin Travel Guide,making it a highly recommended destination. The garden also offers a unique boat ride experience where you can enjoy the scenery while listening to the boatman’s commentary—a truly relaxing activity.
The Island Where the Gods Dwell—Miyajima
Legend says Miyajima is an island where gods reside, so tree-cutting is strictly prohibited on the island. As a result, the natural environment here is exceptionally well-preserved, featuring lush forests, numerous wild deer and monkeys, and even hermit crabs along the shoreline. Moreover, the Itsukushima Shrine under the glow of the setting sun is both beautiful and mysterious, making it one of the must-see spots on Miyajima. If time allows, spend a two-day, one-night trip here for a truly soul-refreshing experience.
★ Recommended Attractions:Korakuen Garden,Dogo Onsen Town
Featured Itineraries:Ritsurin Garden、Miyajima
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Kyushu
Breathtaking Scenic Spots in Japan－Takachiho Gorge
Takachiho Gorge was formed by volcanic activity from Mount Aso and has been carved over time by the flowing waters of the Gokase River, resulting in its current V V-shaped cliff canyon. The gorge features slightly reddish andesite cliffs, the Manai Waterfall—one of Japan’s Top 100 Waterfalls—and scenic walking trails along the way600where visitors can stroll and take in the beauty of the canyon. The scenery changes with the seasons, from mountain cherry blossoms and azaleas to vibrant autumn foliage, offering a unique experience every time you visit.
★ Recommended Attractions: Yumura Lava Observatory, Huis Ten Bosch
Featured Itineraries:Takachiho Gorge
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Cherry blossom and autumn foliage viewing are two of the most popular seasonal activities in Japan. After checking out our special feature on top Japanese maple spots, are you feeling inspired? Don’t miss out this year—book yourflightsandaccommodationsearly on Tripresso Travel Cafe, where you’ll also find plenty of great-value group tours. Secure your spot soon before they’re all gone！
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