The Official Japan Autumn Leaves Forecast 2026

Key Takeaways

Here are the key takeaways for the 2026 autumn leaves season in Japan:

• Later season in 2026: the autumn foliage will peak a few days later than average.
• Red maple leaves: peak around 29 November in Tokyo and 11 December in Kyoto.
• Yellow ginkgo leaves: peak around 26 November in Tokyo and 27 November in Kyoto.
• Regional timing: colours appear first in Hokkaido in early November and last until mid-December in Kyushu.
• Top viewing spots: popular locations include Nikko, Kamakura, Hakone, Lake Kawaguchi, Mt. Takao, Arashiyama, Kiyomizu-dera Temple, and Miyajima.
• Hidden gems: less crowded options include Ikaho Onsen, Mt. Daisetsuzan, Ozegahara Marshland, Takachiho Gorge, the Japanese Alps, Mt. Hiei, and Okutama.
• Planning ahead: autumn is Japan’s second busiest season after cherry blossoms. Book accommodation and flights in advance.

When Will the Leaves Change Colour?

Before speaking about dates for fall foliage in Japan, we must note that there are two types of koyo (autumn foliage) in Japan: yellow and red foliage. Yellow leaves refer to ginkgo trees, which typically change colour from lush green to vibrant yellow in mid-November to late November. Red, on the other hand, refers to the blazing red and orange autumn leaves in Japan, created by the Japanese maple trees around late November to early December. Thus, there are two different forecasts we will introduce.

2026 Autumn Foliage Forecast Map

The latest forecast was released on 2 September 2026, which is the first forecast for 2026. Below, you can find the peak dates of autumn foliage for 2026.  

The forecast peak date marks when colours are at their most vibrant, but you'll likely have a 2-4 week viewing window before and after that date. Leaves start showing noticeable colour about 1-2 weeks before peak, and if weather cooperates, you can enjoy peak conditions for more than 2 weeks afterward. 

Red Maple Leaves Forecast 2026

According to the latest autumn foliage forecast for 2026 from the Japan Meteorological Corporation, the “Red”, or maple leaves autumn foliage is expected to be peaking around 29 November in Tokyo. In Kyoto, the fiery fall foliage is anticipated to peak around 11 December. The timing varies by region, with northern areas like Hokkaido seeing the first signs of colour changes around early November, and southern regions like Kyushu experiencing it later, around mid-December.

Yellow Ginkgo Leaves Forecast 2026

According to the latest autumn foliage forecast for 2026 from the Japan Meteorological Corporation, the “Yellow”, or ginkgo leaves autumn foliage is expected to peak around 26 November in Tokyo. In Kyoto, the vibrant yellow foliage is anticipated to peak around 27 November. The timing of the golden leaves varies by region, with the northern areas like Hokkaido seeing the first signs of colour changes as early as early November, and southern regions like Kyushu experiencing it later, around late November.

Where Are the Best Places to View the Autumn Foliage?

Japan offers countless locations where you can admire the breathtaking beauty of the autumn leaves. In our The Ultimate Guide to Autumn in Japan article, we list an extensive selection of locations for enjoying autumn leaves, along with autumn travel tips, so be sure to check it out if you are heading to Japan soon.

Enjoying a walk under the vibrant canopy of autumn leaves, a practice known as momijigari (autumn leaf viewing) is a popular way to celebrate autumn in Japan. In Tokyo, some of the top spots for autumn colours include Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, Inokashira Park, Mt. Takao, Meiji Jingu Gaien (especially for golden ginkgo trees), and beautiful Japanese landscape gardens like Rikugien Garden.

In Kyoto, famous locations like the Arashiyama area, the panoramic maple tree views from Kiyomizu-dera Temple, the Japanese maple tree heaven Nanzen-ji Temple, the charming village of Ohara, and hiking destinations like Mt. Hiei provide picturesque autumn scenery.

Other regions worth visiting in autumn are Lake Kawaguchi near Mount Fuji, Nikko, Shirakawa-go village, Hakone, and Miyajima Island. These are easy additions to connect to the usual Tokyo – Kyoto – Osaka trip.

The more remote, and less crowded hidden gems include Biei and Mt. Daisetsuzan in Hokkaido, Shirakami Sanchi in Aomori and Akita, hot spring towns like Kusatsu Onsen and Ikaho Onsen, and vast marshlands like Ozegahara Marshland. For mountain lovers, we recommend exploring alpine treasures like Mt. Kisokoma in the Japanese Alps, or the waterfalls of Oirase Gorge, Takachiho Gorge, and Akame Falls. All of these locations offer stunning autumn landscapes, especially if you catch them in the right timing.

See our Autumn in Japan blog for the full list of recommended autumn spots.

What Should You Keep in Mind When Planning a Trip?

Since the autumn foliage season is the second most popular travel time to Japan after cherry blossoms (sakura) season, it’s important to plan your trip well in advance – ideally, about six months ahead. Accommodations, transportation, and popular viewing spots can fill up quickly, so be sure to secure your bookings early. Be prepared for crowds, especially in well-known locations. Additionally, keep an eye on the weather forecasts, as the timing and intensity of the foliage can vary depending on temperature and other environmental factors.

To make the most of your autumn trip to Japan, we recommend you engage in local festivals and traditions, such as Tsukimi and momiji light-ups, to immerse yourself in Japanese culture. Our consultants at Japanspecialist recommend venturing beyond major cities like Tokyo and Kyoto and exploring the hidden gems of Japan’s stunning countryside where you can enjoy unique experiences and autumn leaves at your own pace.

Planning Your 2026 Autumn Foliage Trip

If you’re planning to visit Japan in autumn 2026, make sure to include autumn foliage viewing in your itinerary. With the latest forecast indicating prime viewing periods and a wide variety of locations to explore, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience.

Here at Japanspecialist, we offer guided tours to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of Japan’s autumn season, accompanied by our expert guides. If you’d rather customise your trip to fit your personal preferences, just remember to plan ahead, be prepared for crowds, and take full advantage of the unique experiences that Japan has to offer.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to see autumn leaves in Japan in 2026?

The best time depends on where you travel. Tokyo’s red maples peak around 29 November, while Kyoto’s peak is around 11 December. Yellow ginkgo leaves peak slightly earlier – late November in both cities. Northern Japan sees colours from early November, while southern Japan’s season lasts into mid-December.

Where are the top places to enjoy autumn foliage?

In Tokyo, favourites include Shinjuku Gyoen, Rikugien Garden, and Mt. Takao. In Kyoto, head to Arashiyama, Kiyomizu-dera, and Mt. Hiei. For less crowds, explore countryside gems like onsen towns (Ikaho and Kusatsu), waterfalls (Akame Falls and Oirase Gorge), or mountains in the Japanese Alps and Hokkaido.

How long do the colourful leaves last?

Leaves usually start showing noticeable colour about 1-2 weeks before peak, and last more than 2 weeks after the peak, so you have more than 4 weeks in total to enjoy the autumn colours. Mild weather conditions extend the window, while sudden cold snaps, heavy rain, or strong winds can dramatically shorten it. Mountain areas hold colours longer than urban lowlands, and northern regions like Hokkaido generally maintain colours longer than southern areas. We recommend booking your trip for 1-2 weeks before your target peak date, to maximise your viewing window.

Do the leaves change colour at the same time everywhere?

No – Japan’s long north–south geography means leaf season rolls down the country over six weeks. Hokkaido starts in early November, central Japan peaks in late November to early December, and Kyushu is last. This staggered timing means you can chase the colours across regions.

How crowded is Japan during autumn foliage season?

Autumn is the second busiest travel season after cherry blossoms. Expect crowds at popular spots, especially on weekends. To avoid this, book accommodations early and consider off-the-beaten-path regions where the scenery is just as beautiful but with fewer visitors.

Where can I see fewer tourists but still enjoy great foliage?

Hidden gems include Biei in Hokkaido, Shirakami Sanchi in Aomori, Ozegahara Marshland in Gunma, and Takachiho Gorge in Kyushu. These spots combine natural beauty with more relaxed atmospheres. Our consultants can create a personalised itinerary to balance famous highlights with peaceful escapes.

What festivals or traditions can I enjoy during koyo season?

Autumn in Japan isn’t just about scenery – it’s cultural, too. Try momiji light-ups in Japanese gardens and temples, join a tea ceremony, or enjoy seasonal foods like roasted chestnuts and sweet potatoes sold at temple fairs.

Where should I start planning my Japan autumn 2026 holiday?

First, check the weather forecast for your chosen destinations, then plan your accommodation and transport around your specific needs and travel dates. While the maple leaves appear their most spectacular during the peak red foliage timings, there are countless other superb autumn views and experiences to discover throughout the whole season, depending on where you go. Our Japan experts can provide personalised advice and custom itineraries to help you get the most out of your trip at the perfect time for you.