It feels like 2018 just started, but in the blink of an eye, half of 2018 has already passed. Time flies. There are so many amazing spots for Japan’s autumn foliage. If you missed the foliage season last year or haven’t decided where to go this year, don’t worry. Travel experts have compiled the best Japanese maple-viewing spots voted on over the past two years. Here’s the hot-off-the-press 2018 Japan autumn foliage forecast. Come see which incredible destinations managed to make the list for two years in a row—
Hokkaido
A crystal-clear unfrozen lake—Lake Shikotsu
Lake Shikotsu is the second deepest lake in Japan. Due to its great depth, the water temperature doesn’t drop easily, keeping it unfrozen year-round. Its exceptionally clear and transparent waters have even been praised as the best in Japan. In autumn, the lake hosts the Shikotsu Lake Autumn Leaves Festival, allowing visitors to enjoy the foliage while savoring local delicacies. Sometimes there are even performances by locals. It’s a perfect Japanese autumn foliage destination for families and friends alike.
DaisetsuzanHome to Hokkaido’s highest peak—Mount Asahi
Mount Asahi is located within Daisetsuzan National Park, the largest national park in Japan, and is the highest peak in Hokkaido. As a result, many visitors come specifically to hike and challenge themselves here. But even if you’re not up for hiking, don’t worry—the park has a cable car that allows easy access to the mountain, along with stunning views along the way. However, due to the high altitude, temperatures can drop suddenly, so be sure to dress warmly.
A hidden secret garden showcasing Hokkaido’s breathtaking autumn colors—Fukuhara Villa
Fukuhara Villa was originally a private garden owned by Japanese entrepreneur Fukuhara Jihei. To give back to the local community, it is opened to the public for free every autumn foliage season. The garden also features a dedicated path for viewing the foliage, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the maple leaves. Isn’t that thoughtful?
2018 Free admission period:9/15(Sat) ~ 10/21(Sun)
Located at Japan’s northernmost point, Hokkaido is the first region in the country to kick off the autumn foliage season. Those eager to catch the early foliage can head here, but because it starts early, the season typically ends around the end of November. Make sure to catch this fleeting beauty while you can.
★ Recommended Attractions:Otaru Canal,Odori Park,Mount Hakodate
Recommended Itineraries:Lake Shikotsu,Daisetsuzan、Mount Asahi、Fukuhara Villa
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Kanto
Tokyo’s largest garden, once exclusively enjoyed by the imperial family—Shinjuku Gyoen
Located right in the heart of Tokyo, Shinjuku Gyoen stands out strikingly amidst the sea of skyscrapers like an oasis in the desert. It's a perfect spot for city dwellers to unwind on weekends, and it wasn't open to the general public until after World War II—before that, only the imperial family had access. Go experience that royal exclusivity for yourself (Kuwan also wants to pretend she’s a princess)!
Autumn foliage season:10Mid-11to end of month
Transportation:Metrō Marunouchi Line Shinjuku Gyoen Station1Exit Walk about5minutes
★Recommended attraction: Tokyo Shinjuku
Featured itinerary:Shinjuku Gyoen
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Kyoto
The next four classic Japanese maple-viewing spots we’re about to introduce just happen to all be in Kyoto too — no bias here, these places are seriously amazing!
The top-ranked Japanese maple-viewing spot for two years in a row —Eikando Zenrin-ji Temple
2018The most anticipated maple-viewing destination in Japan is―Eikando Zenrin-ji Temple ! Back-to-back first place for two years isn’t an accident — after seeing the world’s only “turning-around” Amitabha Buddha statue and the various architectural features in the temple grounds, you’ll almost forget all your worldly worries, and every autumn the temple opens up night illuminations. The sea of natural red leaves, unique shrine buildings and temples, all reflected in the pond water, create an indescribable beauty of an Eastern temple — which is why Eikando is also known as the “Maple Eikando” !
Maple foliage season:10Late October –11Mid November
Transportation:Tozai Subway Line Kiyotaki Station1Exit 1 Walk about15minutes, or take Kyoto City Bus5# to Nanzenji-Eikando-mae Stop and walk about3minutes to arrive, or take Kyoto City Bus100# to Higashi-Tenman-cho Get off at the station Walk for about5minutes to arrive.?
A national treasure of Japan The historic three-storied Sanmon gate—Tofuku-ji Temple
The garden landscapes in Tofuku-ji are very famous, featuring moss and stones arranged together. There are unique hojo gardens in the east, south, north, and west, among which the northern garden is the most renowned. The temple also has a three-storied Sanmon gate that stands 22 meters tall (about as tall as ten Yao Mings), making it the oldest main gate of Zen Buddhism in Japan, hence it is listed as a Japanese national treasure. In addition to maple leaves, Tofuku-ji displays different flowers and plants in various seasons, such as5irises in6month,9bellflowers in
month, and10lespedeza in11month—there's always a new surprise each time you visit !
Maple leaf season:End of 88month – Mid208month207Transportation:202Take Kyoto City Bus20,)?
, , or―(approximately
A uniquely designed three-story pavilion-style building1994A World Heritage SiteKinkaku-ji Temple (Rokuon-ji)
Maple Leaf Season:10End of11month to mid-
Transportation:Take bus 205 to reach Kinkaku-ji
A refreshing and uplifting experience to relax your body and soul—Sanzen-in
Sanzen-in is located in Ohara, on the outskirts of Kyoto. Although it takes some time to get there from the city center, during maple leaf season, the temple is always packed with visitors from all over, clearly showing how beloved it is. The grounds are filled with various forest paths and adorable child-like novice monk statues scattered throughout. The main hall, the Shojuraigo-in, is famous for its unique roof design. Its simple exterior blends seamlessly with nature, and every time you see it, it brings a profound sense of peace and tranquility. It’s not only a must-visit spot for many Buddhists but also an important cultural property of Japan.
Maple Leaf Season:10End of11month to mid-
Transportation:Take bus 19 to Ohara Station and walk15minutes to reach Sanzen-in
Recommended Itinerary:Kyoto,Eikando Zenrin-ji,Tofuku-ji,Kinkaku-ji,Sanzen-in
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Be a Smart and Tasteful Maple Leaf Viewer!
Essentials for Viewing Maple Leaves
1. Wear Durable Shoes with Thick Soles
Since many famous maple viewing spots in Japan are located in forests, wearing stylish shoes like heels or boots is like hitting your own feet with stones — you'll probably wish you were barefoot by the end.
2. Bring a Breathable Jacket
Even if you're sensitive to the cold, don’t wear too much, or you’ll sweat while walking and trap heat, which will have the opposite effect. Instead, opt fora breathable jacket.Also, some popular maple viewing spots require indoor visits (like Eikando Temple), so it’s recommended to wear thicker socks.
Things to Watch Out for When Viewing Maple Leaves
1. Keep an Eye on the Weather Forecast:The weather changes as quickly as your mood, so it’s best to be prepared before heading out.
2. Start Early:Autumn evenings come quickly, so remember to arrive early for maple viewing (and securing a good spot), or you might miss out.
3. Don’t Touch Toxic Fruits:Although ginkgo leaves are beautiful, the――ginkgo fruits actually smell terrible.Be careful not to step on them, or restaurants may refuse to let you in.Also,ginkgo fruits are toxic,so parents with young children should be especially cautious and prevent accidental ingestion.
4. Avoid Crowds:The number of people visiting Japan for maple viewing every year is truly astonishing. For these extremely popular spots, try to avoid weekends if possible, or be ready to set off at dawn.
Practice Good “Tourism Diplomacy” While Viewing Maple Leaves
1. No matter where you go, always remember to take your trash with you.。
2. Maple leaves and branches are as delicate as a princess — don’t pull on branches or pick leaves when taking photos.
3. When entering temples, walk slowly and keep your voice low so as not to disturb those in quiet contemplation.
Just a final reminder: the best time to view autumn foliage varies each year, and the activities, train schedules, and business hours mentioned may be subject to changes due to unforeseen circumstances. If you’re traveling independently, make sure to double-check everything before you go. But if you’re as lazy as I am, just leaving it to a travel agency saves all the hassle!!
By Kayline | Tripresso Travel Cafe Editorial Team
More travel tips:
[Japan Autumn Foliage] The top-ranked popular spots for maple viewing over the past two years are all here — don’t say you haven’t been there yet (Part 2)
Autumn Exclusive: Japan’s Top 5 Ginkgo Viewing Spots – Take a Stroll Through the Golden Tunnel Together~
[Korea Ginkgo Viewing] Maple leaves and ginkgo trees — we’ve got them all covered. Here are Korea’s most popular ginkgo spots this autumn~