When do autumn leaves peak in Japan?

In an average year, the 26 spots on this page peak between early October and mid December. The exact dates move with the weather each year.

Where do the leaves turn first?

Earliest on this page (average-year peak): Kegon Falls (early–late October), Lake Chuzenji (mid October – early November), Naruko Gorge (mid October – early November).

Where can I still see autumn leaves late in the season?

Latest on this page (average-year peak): Rikugien Garden (late November – mid December), Tsurugaoka Hachimangu (late November – mid December), Nara Park (late October – early December).

Japan autumn leaves 2026: peak dates by region and crowds right now

Japan's autumn-leaf spots, grouped by region, with each spot's usual peak window, today's crowd estimate and the quieter hours to go.

This year's autumn-leaf season starts on October 15, 2026. Use the usual peak windows below to plan.

Peak dates are average-year windows and can shift by a week or more with the weather. Check the koyo forecast before you go. Koyo forecast by the Japan Weather Association (tenki.jp)

Autumn-leaf spots by region

LEVEL is a crowd estimate for right now (1 calm – 5 packed). Tap a spot for its hour-by-hour forecast.

EstimateEstimate for 22:12 JST

Hokkaido

Hokkaido University (Ginkgo Avenue)SapporoUsual peak (average year): late October – early NovemberCrowd LEVEL 1/5 · Very calm (estimate)

Tohoku

Kanto (Tokyo area)

Chubu (central Japan)

Kansai (Kyoto, Osaka, Nara)

Chugoku

Miyajima (Itsukushima Shrine)HiroshimaUsual peak (average year): mid–late NovemberCrowd LEVEL 1/5 · Very calm (estimate)

Free guides

Frequently asked questions

When do autumn leaves peak in Japan?: In an average year, the 26 spots on this page peak between early October and mid December. The exact dates move with the weather each year.
Where do the leaves turn first?: Earliest on this page (average-year peak): Kegon Falls (early–late October), Lake Chuzenji (mid October – early November), Naruko Gorge (mid October – early November).
Where can I still see autumn leaves late in the season?: Latest on this page (average-year peak): Rikugien Garden (late November – mid December), Tsurugaoka Hachimangu (late November – mid December), Nara Park (late October – early December).
Are these peak dates exact?: No. They are average-year windows and can shift by a week or more. Check the koyo forecast by the Japan Weather Association (tenki.jp) before you go. IKOKA's crowd levels are estimates, not live counts.

Loading…

Did you know?

Mt. Fuji stands 3,776 m tall — and it is still an active volcano.