If you could only go to ONE place to see autumn leaves in Japan,...

14 Answers

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  genkidesu

  on Oct 31

  Oh, this is a tough one. Honestly, I'm fortunate that my local area is stunning. We went up the Hakkaisan Ropeway over the weekend and the colors were popping. Hopefully there's another autumn theme post for November so I can share! Outside of Niigata though, I really want to visit Kankakei Gorge in Kagawa. The colors there in autumn look just divine.

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  genkidesu

  on Nov 1

  Since no one else has answered yet, maybe this site might help with some inspiration: https://koyo.walkerplus.com/ranking/ It's got some of the top spots across the country ranked. So many beautiful destinations!

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  SalarymanJim

  on Nov 2

  I'd go to one of the temples or shrines in Kyoto. Tofukuji Temple is often featured on lists, but it would depend on the number of people there. If I could have it to myself, then a temple or shrine in Kyoto is my answer.

  1
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  TonetoEdo

  on Nov 6

  I've been to three spectacular autumn leaves locations - Nikko for Irohazaka, Kawagoe for Kitain Temple, and Hakone. Hakone is magical whether you are driving the winding roads in the mountains or taking the train.

  1
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  JTsu

  on Nov 9

  I would say either taking my husband back to Kyoto to re-enact our first date and see Ginkakuji again (maybe this time it won't be covered by a tarp) or Geibeki gorge in Iwate, which would be experienced on one of their specially made boats, with a kotatsu and an autumnal beer. It would be glorious.

  2
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  Eli

  on Nov 18

  I would go to Nikko. I visited the temples once in November and it was beautiful.

  1
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  helloalissa

  on Nov 23

  Naruko Gorge and onsen in Miyagi looks amazing in fall. We recently went to Matsushima but it was kind of too far to get there and back as a day trip, without a car.

  1
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  genkidesu

  on Oct 13

  What's on everyone's autumn list for this year? I really want to go and check out Goshikinuma in Fukushima, because I've seen photos of it online from previous years during autumn and it looks just incredible!

  0
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  BigfamJapan

  on Nov 16

  This really is a tough question! I am quite partial to Mt Takao, but I've been there done that quite a few times now. Same with Nikko and most of Gunma and Saitama's famous spots. I suppose Kyoto really is a must see in Autumn and I haven't been in Autumn yet, so... final answer; Kyoto!

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  JapanRamen

  on Jan 15

  Kyoto is the first the come to mind, but considering the crowd, I would prefer Nikko. It is crowded too, but there is a lot more space to walk around!

  1
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  Ekimsaido

  on Jun 1

  I'm actually here to read comments and suggestions. I am looking forward to my first autumn here in Japan.

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  Ekimsaido

  on Jun 1

  This is not an answer but a question really. I am living in Chiba and I would love to find out where's the best spot to witness this in my area? I know autumn is months away, but I want to plan ahead. Thank you.

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  genkidesu

  on Sep 13

  @Ekimsaido This might help, it's directly from the Visit Chiba website: https://www.visitchiba.jp/things/fall-foliage-guide/ I always find the official prefectural tourism websites are really helpful with finding places to explore!

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  genkidesu

  on Sep 30

  I'm curious whether our City-Cost crew are folks who prefer the busier, more popular koyo spots (like these: https://tenki.jp/kouyou/ranking/) or if seeking out hidden, quieter spots is preferred. After so many years in Japan now I really prefer the less crowded places, I feel like the experience is a whole lot nicer without hordes of people.

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