Japan Autumn Itinerary: Best Places to Visit and Things to Do for a Perfect Fall Trip to Japan

Looking for the perfect Japan autumn itinerary? No matter how long you’re planning to stay in the country, we put together the ultimate guide to planning a perfect fall trip to Japan!

Autumn is one of the best times to visit Japan, as the leaves turn vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow, creating a stunning backdrop for your travels.

Reasons to Visit Japan in Autumn

Japan is a beautiful country with a rich culture and history. While it’s a great place to visit at any time of year, autumn is a particularly special time to experience all that Japan has to offer.

Here are some reasons why you should consider visiting Japan in the fall:

• Stunning Scenery: Japan is known for its picturesque landscapes and stunning natural beauty, and autumn is no exception. The leaves on the trees turn vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow, creating a breathtaking backdrop for your travels. Some of the best places to see the fall foliage include Kyoto, Nikko, and Hokkaido.
• Mild Weather: Unlike the hot and humid summers or cold and snowy winters, autumn in Japan offers mild and comfortable weather. You can expect temperatures to range from the mid-60s to low 70s (Fahrenheit), making it the perfect time to explore the outdoors without worrying about extreme temperatures.

• Festivals and Events: Japan is known for its lively festivals and events, and autumn is no exception. Some of the most popular festivals during this time of year include the Jidai Matsuri in Kyoto, the Takayama Autumn Festival, and the Tokyo International Film Festival. These events offer a unique opportunity to experience Japan’s culture and traditions up close.
• Seasonal Foods: Japan is famous for its delicious cuisine, and autumn brings a whole new range of autumn food in Japan to try. Some of the must-try dishes include chestnuts, sweet potatoes, and matsutake mushrooms. You can also enjoy traditional Japanese sweets like mochi and wagashi, which are often made with seasonal ingredients.

Destinations to include on your Japan autumn itinerary

1. Tokyo

Tokyo should definitely be on your Japan autumn itinerary – you’ll probably fly into Tokyo anyway, but make sure you plan at least a few days here!

The city offers a unique blend of modernity and tradition, with plenty of sights and experiences to enjoy.

Fall Foliage Spots in tokyo

One of the highlights of autumn in Tokyo is the stunning fall foliage. Some popular spots to see the changing leaves include:

• Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden: This spacious park is home to over 1,000 trees, including maple, ginkgo, and cherry, which turn vibrant shades of red, orange, and gold in the autumn.
• Meiji Jingu Gaien: This avenue is lined with over 140 ginkgo trees, which create a stunning golden tunnel in the autumn.
• Rikugien Garden: This traditional Japanese garden is particularly beautiful in the autumn, when the maple trees turn fiery shades of red and orange.

Autumn Festivals in Tokyo

Tokyo also hosts a number of autumn festivals, which are a great way to experience the city’s culture and traditions. Some festivals to check out include:

• Tokyo Grand Tea Ceremony: This annual event takes place in October and November, and offers visitors the chance to participate in a traditional Japanese tea ceremony.
• Tokyo Ramen Show: This popular food festival takes place in November, and features over 30 different types of ramen from all over Japan.
• Tokyo International Film Festival: This event takes place in late October, and showcases a wide range of films from around the world.

2. Kyoto

With its beautiful temples, gardens, and streets, Kyoto offers a unique cultural experience that you won’t find anywhere else.

Here are some of the best things to do in Kyoto during autumn:

Fall Foliage Spots in Kyoto

Kyoto is famous for its vibrant autumn colors. The best time to see the fall foliage is from mid-November to early December. Here are some of the best spots to enjoy the autumn leaves in Kyoto:

• Tofukuji Temple: This temple is known for its spectacular autumn colors. The best time to visit is in late November when the maple trees turn red and yellow.
• Kiyomizudera Temple: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is stunning year-round, but it’s particularly beautiful during autumn. The temple’s wooden stage offers a panoramic view of the city and the surrounding mountains.
• Arashiyama Bamboo Grove: This famous bamboo grove is beautiful year-round, but it’s especially enchanting during autumn when the leaves turn golden.

Autumn Festivals in Kyoto

Kyoto hosts several festivals during autumn, which are worth checking out. Here are some of the most popular ones:

• Jidai Matsuri: This festival takes place on October 22nd and celebrates Kyoto’s history and culture. You can see a parade of people dressed in traditional costumes from different eras.
• Kurama no Hi Matsuri: This festival takes place on October 22nd and celebrates the Kurama Fire Festival. You can see a procession of torches and fireworks.
• Mitarashi Matsuri: This festival takes place in September at Shimogamo Shrine. People wade through the shallow stream to pray for good health and fortune.

3. Hokkaido

If you’re looking for a peaceful destination to include on your Japan autumn itinerary, Hokkaido is the perfect destination for you.

This northernmost island of Japan is known for its stunning natural beauty, especially during the autumn season.

Fall Foliage Spots in Hokkaido

Hokkaido is home to a variety of beautiful fall foliage spots. One of the most popular spots is Daisetsuzan National Park, which boasts a stunning array of colorful leaves.

You can take a cable car up to the top of the mountain to get a bird’s-eye view of the landscape.

Another must-visit spot is the Shiretoko Peninsula, where you can take a boat tour to see the colorful leaves and the local wildlife, including brown bears.

Autumn Festivals in Hokkaido

One of the most famous festivals held in Hokkaido is the Sapporo Autumn Fest, which takes place in late September.

The festival features local food and drinks, as well as live music and entertainment.

Another popular festival is the Biei Autumn Fest, which takes place in early October. This festival is known for its beautiful flower fields and local food stalls.

You may also like:

• Japan Winter Itinerary

4. Osaka

This bustling city offers a unique blend of traditional and modern attractions, making it the perfect destination for any type of traveler.

During the fall, the entire city gets blanketed with gorgeous autumn colors, which makes visiting a real treat!

Fall Foliage Spots in Osaka

Osaka has plenty of beautiful spots to witness the colorful autumn foliage.

One of the most popular places is the Osaka Castle Park. This historic site is surrounded by a moat and features over 4,000 trees, including maple and ginkgo trees.

Another great spot is the Minoo Park, which is located just outside of the city.

This park offers a scenic hiking trail that leads to a stunning waterfall and is surrounded by beautiful autumn leaves.

Autumn Festivals in Osaka

One of the most famous festivals to include on your Japan autumn itinerary is the Kishiwada Danjiri Matsuri, which takes place in September.

This festival features large wooden carts that are pulled through the streets by teams of men.

Another popular festival is the Namba Yasaka Shrine Festival, which takes place in October. This festival features a procession of people in traditional costumes and a large portable shrine that is carried through the streets.

5. Hiroshima

This city is not only a symbol of peace but also a great destination to explore the country’s history and culture.

Here are some activities you can do during your visit to Hiroshima:

• Visit the Peace Memorial Park: This park is a tribute to the victims of the atomic bombing in 1945. It is a tranquil and beautiful place to reflect on the horrors of war and the importance of peace. You can also visit the museum to learn more about the events that took place during that time.
• Take a ferry to Miyajima Island: This island is known for its iconic Torii gate that appears to float in the water during high tide. You can also hike to the top of Mount Misen for stunning views of the surrounding area. Don’t forget to try some local delicacies like oysters and maple leaf-shaped cakes.
• Explore Hiroshima Castle: This castle was built in the 16th century and is a great example of Japanese architecture. You can walk around the castle grounds and admire the beautiful gardens or climb to the top of the castle for panoramic views of the city.
• Try some Hiroshima-style Okonomiyaki: This savory pancake is a specialty of Hiroshima and is made with layers of noodles, cabbage, and meat or seafood. It is cooked on a griddle and topped with a variety of sauces and toppings. It’s a delicious and filling meal that you won’t want to miss.

6. Okinawa

This tropical paradise is located in the southernmost part of Japan and offers a different experience from the traditional autumn foliage of the mainland.

One of the must-see attractions in Okinawa is the Churaumi Aquarium, which is home to a variety of marine life including whale sharks.

You can also visit the Okinawa World theme park, which has a cave tour and cultural village.

For beach lovers, Okinawa has some of the most beautiful beaches in Japan. Some of the popular ones include Emerald Beach, Sunset Beach, and Nishihama Beach. You can also try out water activities such as snorkeling, diving, and kayaking.

If you’re interested in history, Okinawa has a rich culture and heritage. You can visit Shuri Castle, which was the former royal palace of the Ryukyu Kingdom. The castle has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is a great place to learn about the history of Okinawa.

7. Nara

Located in the Kansai region, Nara was once the capital of Japan and is home to some of the country’s most important temples and shrines.

One of the most popular attractions in Nara is the Todai-ji temple, which houses the world’s largest bronze statue of Buddha. The temple is also home to a number of other important cultural artifacts, including ancient statues and paintings.

Another must-visit destination in Nara is the Nara Park, which is famous for its friendly and photogenic deer.

These deer are considered sacred and are believed to be messengers of the gods. You can buy special deer crackers to feed them, but be careful – they can be quite aggressive!

If you’re interested in traditional Japanese architecture, be sure to visit the Kasuga-taisha shrine. This beautiful shrine is known for its stunning vermilion-colored buildings and is surrounded by a peaceful forest.

Moreover, no trip to Nara would be complete without a visit to the Nara National Museum. Here, you can learn more about the history and culture of Japan through a variety of exhibits, including ancient pottery, textiles, and paintings.

8. Yokohama

If you’re looking for a more laid-back and relaxed atmosphere to include on your Japan autumn itinerary, Yokohama is a city known for its stunning waterfront views, delicious food, and unique attractions.

One of the must-visit spots in Yokohama is the Yokohama Chinatown. This is the largest Chinatown in Japan and is known for its vibrant atmosphere, colorful lanterns, and delicious street food.

You can spend hours wandering around the streets, trying different foods, and shopping for souvenirs.

Another popular attraction in Yokohama is the Cup Noodles Museum. This museum is dedicated to the history of instant noodles and allows you to create your own custom cup of noodles. It’s a fun and unique experience that’s perfect for all ages.

If you’re looking for a more relaxing activity, head to Yamashita Park. This park is located along the waterfront and offers stunning views of the Yokohama Bay.

You can take a leisurely stroll, have a picnic, or simply sit and enjoy the scenery.

Must-visit Places on your Japan autumn itinerary for fall foliage:

If seeing Japan covered in stunning fall foliage is on your bucket list, here are a few places you should include on your Japan autumn itinerary:

1. Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Kyoto: This stunning bamboo forest turns golden in autumn, making for a picturesque stroll.
2. Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Kyoto: This historic temple, dating back to 798, offers stunning views of the autumn foliage from its balcony.
3. Tofukuji Temple, Kyoto: This Zen temple is known for its stunning autumn colors, particularly the maple trees lining its Tsutenkyo Bridge.
4. Eikando Temple, Kyoto: This temple is famous for its stunning display of autumn leaves, particularly at night when the trees are illuminated.
5. Mount Takao, Tokyo: This mountain, located just outside of Tokyo, offers stunning views of the autumn foliage from its hiking trails.
6. Nikko National Park, Tochigi: This national park is known for its stunning autumn colors, particularly around Lake Chuzenji and the Kegon Falls.
7. Oirase Gorge, Aomori: This stunning gorge is known for its vibrant autumn foliage, particularly the maple trees that line the river.
8. Daisetsuzan National Park, Hokkaido: This national park is known for its stunning autumn colors, particularly around the Sounkyo Gorge and the Kurodake Ropeway.
9. Jozankei Onsen, Hokkaido: This hot spring resort is known for its stunning autumn foliage, particularly around the nearby Mount Moiwa.
10. Ginzan Onsen, Yamagata: This charming hot spring town is known for its stunning autumn foliage, particularly around the Ginzan River.
11. Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route, Toyama: This scenic route offers stunning views of the autumn foliage, particularly around the Murodo Plateau.
12. Shosenkyo Gorge, Yamanashi: This stunning gorge is known for its vibrant autumn foliage, particularly the maple trees that line the river.
13. Takao-san Yakuo-in Temple, Tokyo: This temple, located on Mount Takao, offers stunning views of the autumn foliage from its observation deck.
14. Hakone, Kanagawa: This hot spring resort is known for its stunning autumn foliage, particularly around Lake Ashinoko and the Hakone Open-Air Museum.

Must-Try Autumn Foods in Japan

When visiting Japan in the autumn, you’ll be treated to a variety of delicious seasonal foods. Here are some must-try dishes:

• Sanma: This is a type of Pacific saury, a fish that is in season during the autumn months. It’s often grilled and served with grated daikon and soy sauce.
• Matsutake: These are highly prized mushrooms that are only available during the autumn season. They have a unique aroma and are often used in soups and rice dishes.
• Sweet potatoes: Autumn is the time for sweet potatoes in Japan. They’re often roasted and sold by street vendors, and they make a perfect snack on a chilly day.
• Chestnuts: Another popular autumn snack, chestnuts are roasted and sold by vendors throughout Japan. They’re also used in a variety of dishes, including rice cakes and soups.

In addition to these seasonal treats, there are also many traditional Japanese dishes that are perfect for the autumn season. Here are a few to try:

• Nabe: This is a type of hot pot that’s perfect for chilly autumn evenings. It’s made with a variety of ingredients, including meat, vegetables, and tofu.
• Oden: Another warming dish, oden is a type of stew that’s made with fish cakes, daikon, and other ingredients. It’s often served with mustard for added flavor.
• Kuri gohan: This is a type of rice dish that’s made with chestnuts. It’s a popular autumn dish in Japan and is often served with grilled fish or other seafood.

Japan autumn itinerary samples

To make planning easier, we put together several Japan autumn itinerary samples for various trip lengths. Click here to skip:

• 5-Day Japan Autumn Itinerary
• 6-Day Japan Autumn Itinerary
• 7-Day Japan Autumn Itinerary
• 8-Day Japan Autumn Itinerary
• 10-Day Japan Autumn Itinerary
• Two Week Japan Autumn Itinerary

5-Day Japan Autumn Itinerary

Day 1: Tokyo

• Visit the Meiji Shrine and Yoyogi Park to see the autumn foliage.
• Explore the trendy neighborhoods of Shibuya and Harajuku.
• Enjoy a traditional Japanese dinner in the lively Shinjuku area.

Day 2: Kyoto

• Take the bullet train to Kyoto and visit the Tofukuji Temple and Eikando Temple to see the autumn foliage.
• Explore the historic Higashiyama district and visit the beautiful Kiyomizu-dera Temple.

Day 3: Arashiyama, Kyoto

• Visit the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and Tenryuji Temple to see the autumn foliage.
• Take a scenic train ride to the Hozugawa River and enjoy a relaxing boat ride.

Day 4: Nikko National Park, Tochigi

• Take a day trip to Nikko National Park and visit the Kegon Falls and Lake Chuzenji to see the autumn colors.
• Visit the Toshogu Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Day 5: Tokyo

• Visit the Tsukiji Fish Market for a sushi breakfast.
• Spend the day shopping in the trendy neighborhoods of Omotesando and Ginza.
• Enjoy a farewell dinner in the vibrant Roppongi district.

6-Day Japan Autumn Itinerary

Day 1: Tokyo

• Visit the Meiji Shrine and Yoyogi Park to see the autumn foliage.
• Explore the trendy neighborhoods of Shibuya and Harajuku.
• Enjoy a traditional Japanese dinner in the lively Shinjuku area.

Day 2: Kyoto

• Take the bullet train to Kyoto and visit the Tofukuji Temple and Eikando Temple to see the autumn foliage.
• Explore the historic Higashiyama district and visit the beautiful Kiyomizu-dera Temple.

Day 3: Arashiyama, Kyoto

• Visit the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and Tenryuji Temple to see the autumn foliage.
• Take a scenic train ride to the Hozugawa River and enjoy a relaxing boat ride.

Day 4: Nikko National Park, Tochigi

• Take a day trip to Nikko National Park and visit the Kegon Falls and Lake Chuzenji to see the autumn colors.
• Visit the Toshogu Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Day 5: Tokyo

• Visit the Imperial Palace East Gardens to see the autumn foliage.
• Explore the trendy neighborhoods of Asakusa and Akihabara.
• Enjoy a traditional Japanese dinner in the lively Shinjuku area.

Day 6: Hakone, Kanagawa

• Take a day trip to Hakone and visit the Hakone Open-Air Museum and Lake Ashinoko to see the autumn colors.
• Take a relaxing soak in one of Hakone’s many onsens.

7-Day Japan Autumn Itinerary

Day 1: Tokyo

• Visit the Meiji Shrine and Yoyogi Park to see the autumn foliage.
• Explore the trendy neighborhoods of Shibuya and Harajuku.
• Enjoy a traditional Japanese dinner in the lively Shinjuku area.

Day 2: Tokyo

• Visit the Tsukiji Fish Market for a sushi breakfast.
• Visit the Imperial Palace East Gardens to see the autumn foliage.
• Explore the trendy neighborhoods of Asakusa and Akihabara.

Day 3: Kyoto

• Take the bullet train to Kyoto and visit the Tofukuji Temple and Eikando Temple to see the autumn foliage.
• Explore the historic Higashiyama district and visit the beautiful Kiyomizu-dera Temple.

Day 4: Arashiyama, Kyoto

• Visit the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and Tenryuji Temple to see the autumn foliage.
• Take a scenic train ride to the Hozugawa River and enjoy a relaxing boat ride.

Day 5: Nara

• Take a day trip to Nara and visit the Todaiji Temple and Kasuga Taisha Shrine to see the autumn colors.
• Explore the charming streets of Nara Park and feed the friendly deer.

Day 6: Hiroshima and Miyajima Island

• Take the bullet train to Hiroshima and visit the Peace Memorial Park and Museum.
• Visit the iconic Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima Island to see the autumn colors.
• Enjoy a traditional Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki dinner.

Day 7: Tokyo

• Spend the day shopping in the trendy neighborhoods of Omotesando and Ginza.
• Enjoy a farewell dinner in the vibrant Roppongi district.

8-Day Japan Autumn Itinerary

Day 1: Tokyo

• Visit the Meiji Shrine and Yoyogi Park to see the autumn foliage.
• Explore the trendy neighborhoods of Shibuya and Harajuku.
• Enjoy a traditional Japanese dinner in the lively Shinjuku area.

Day 2: Tokyo

• Visit the Tsukiji Fish Market for a sushi breakfast.
• Visit the Imperial Palace East Gardens to see the autumn foliage.
• Explore the trendy neighborhoods of Asakusa and Akihabara.

Day 3: Nikko National Park, Tochigi

• Take a day trip to Nikko National Park and visit the Kegon Falls and Lake Chuzenji to see the autumn colors.
• Visit the Toshogu Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Day 4: Hakone, Kanagawa

• Take a day trip to Hakone and visit the Hakone Open-Air Museum and Lake Ashinoko to see the autumn colors.
• Take a relaxing soak in one of Hakone’s many onsens.

Day 5: Kyoto

• Take the bullet train to Kyoto and visit the Tofukuji Temple and Eikando Temple to see the autumn foliage.
• Explore the historic Higashiyama district and visit the beautiful Kiyomizu-dera Temple.

Day 6: Arashiyama, Kyoto

• Visit the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and Tenryuji Temple to see the autumn foliage.
• Take a scenic train ride to the Hozugawa River and enjoy a relaxing boat ride.

Day 7: Hiroshima and Miyajima Island

• Take the bullet train to Hiroshima and visit the Peace Memorial Park and Museum.
• Visit the iconic Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima Island to see the autumn colors.
• Enjoy a traditional Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki dinner.

Day 8: Tokyo

• Spend the day shopping in the trendy neighborhoods of Omotesando and Ginza.
• Enjoy a farewell dinner in the vibrant Roppongi district.

10-Day Japan Autumn Itinerary

Day 1: Tokyo

• Visit the Meiji Shrine and Yoyogi Park to see the autumn foliage.
• Explore the trendy neighborhoods of Shibuya and Harajuku.
• Enjoy a traditional Japanese dinner in the lively Shinjuku area.

Day 2: Tokyo

• Visit the Tsukiji Fish Market for a sushi breakfast.
• Visit the Imperial Palace East Gardens to see the autumn foliage.
• Explore the trendy neighborhoods of Asakusa and Akihabara.

Day 3: Nikko National Park, Tochigi

• Take a day trip to Nikko National Park and visit the Kegon Falls and Lake Chuz.
• Visit the Toshogu Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Day 4: Hakone, Kanagawa

• Take a day trip to Hakone and visit the Hakone Open-Air Museum and Lake Ashinoko to see the autumn colors.
• Take a relaxing soak in one of Hakone’s many onsens.

Day 5: Kyoto

• Take the bullet train to Kyoto and visit the Tofukuji Temple and Eikando Temple to see the autumn foliage.
• Explore the historic Higashiyama district and visit the beautiful Kiyomizu-dera Temple.

Day 6: Arashiyama, Kyoto

• Visit the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and Tenryuji Temple to see the autumn foliage.
• Take a scenic train ride to the Hozugawa River and enjoy a relaxing boat ride.

Day 7: Nara

• Take a day trip to Nara and visit the Todaiji Temple and Kasuga Taisha Shrine to see the autumn colors.
• Explore the charming streets of Nara Park and feed the friendly deer.

Day 8: Hiroshima and Miyajima Island

• Take the bullet train to Hiroshima and visit the Peace Memorial Park and Museum.
• Visit the iconic Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima Island to see the autumn colors.
• Enjoy a traditional Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki dinner.

Day 9: Takayama

• Take a scenic train ride to Takayama and explore the charming old town, known for its traditional wooden houses and sake breweries.
• Visit the Hida Folk Village to see traditional thatched-roof houses and learn about local culture.
• Enjoy a relaxing soak in a hot spring at one of Takayama’s many onsens.

Day 10: Tokyo

• Spend the day shopping in the trendy neighborhoods of Omotesando and Ginza.
• Enjoy a farewell dinner in the vibrant Roppongi district.

Two Week Japan Autumn Itinerary

Day 1-3: Tokyo

• Spend the first few days exploring Tokyo and its many attractions, including the Meiji Shrine, Yoyogi Park, Tsukiji Fish Market, Imperial Palace East Gardens, and trendy neighborhoods like Shibuya, Harajuku, Asakusa, and Akihabara.

Day 4-5: Nikko National Park, Tochigi

• Take a day trip to Nikko National Park and visit the Kegon Falls, Lake Chuzenji, and Toshogu Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Day 6-7: Hakone, Kanagawa

• Take a day trip to Hakone and visit the Hakone Open-Air Museum, Lake Ashinoko, and relax in one of the many onsens.

Day 8-10: Kyoto

• Take the bullet train to Kyoto and spend several days exploring the city’s many temples, shrines, and historic districts, including the Tofukuji Temple, Eikando Temple, Higashiyama district, Kiyomizu-dera Temple, and Arashiyama Bamboo Grove.

Day 11-12: Nara

• Take a day trip to Nara and visit the Todaiji Temple, Kasuga Taisha Shrine, and Nara Park to see the friendly deer.

Day 13-14: Hiroshima and Miyajima Island

• Take the bullet train to Hiroshima and visit the Peace Memorial Park and Museum, then take a ferry to Miyajima Island to see the iconic Itsukushima Shrine and enjoy traditional Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki.

Day 15-16: Takayama

• Take a scenic train ride to Takayama and explore the charming old town, Hida Folk Village, and enjoy relaxing in one of the many onsens.

Day 17-18: Kanazawa

• Visit the Kenrokuen Garden, Kanazawa Castle, and the Higashi Chaya district.

Day 19-20: Tokyo

• Return to Tokyo for some final sightseeing and shopping in trendy neighborhoods like Omotesando and Ginza before enjoying a farewell dinner

Packing Tips for Autumn

When packing for your autumn trip to Japan, it’s important to consider the weather and the activities you plan to do. Here are some tips to help you pack efficiently:

Clothing

Autumn in Japan can be chilly, so make sure to bring warm clothes such as sweaters, jackets, and pants. Layers are also a good idea, as the temperature can fluctuate throughout the day. Don’t forget to pack a waterproof jacket and shoes, as it can rain frequently during this season.

Footwear

Comfortable shoes are a must when exploring Japan’s cities and countryside. Sneakers or walking shoes are ideal for sightseeing, while hiking boots are recommended for those planning to do some hiking or trekking.

Accessories

Don’t forget to bring accessories to keep you warm and comfortable. Scarves, gloves, and hats are essential to protect you from the cold weather. Sunglasses are also recommended, as the sun can still be bright during autumn.

Technology

Make sure to bring a universal adapter like this one to be able to charge your electronics as Japan uses a different type of plug than many other countries.

Travel Tips for Visiting Japan in Autumn

Autumn is a popular season to visit Japan because of its mild weather and beautiful foliage. Here are some travel tips to help you make the most of your trip:

• Pack for the weather: Autumn weather in Japan can be unpredictable. It can be warm during the day and chilly at night, so make sure to pack layers. Bring a light jacket or sweater, and a waterproof jacket or umbrella in case of rain.
• Book accommodations early: Autumn is a busy season for tourism in Japan, so it’s best to book your accommodations early. Consider staying in a traditional ryokan or a capsule hotel for a unique experience.
• Plan your itinerary around the foliage: The autumn foliage in Japan is breathtaking, so plan your itinerary around the best viewing spots. Some popular spots include Kyoto’s Arashiyama district, Tokyo’s Yoyogi Park, and Hokkaido’s Daisetsuzan National Park.
• Try seasonal foods: Autumn is the season for delicious foods in Japan. Try dishes like chestnut rice, sweet potato tempura, and persimmon desserts. Don’t forget to try some sake or hot tea to warm up on chilly nights.
• Attend a festival: Autumn is also a season for festivals in Japan. Some popular festivals include the Jidai Matsuri in Kyoto, the Takayama Autumn Festival in Takayama, and the Yokohama Oktoberfest in Yokohama. Check the festival schedule and plan accordingly.
• Respect the culture: Japan has a rich culture and traditions, so it’s important to respect them during your visit. Learn some basic Japanese phrases, take off your shoes when entering a home or temple, and follow the rules when using public transportation.

What is the Best Time to Plan a Japan Autumn Itinerary for Fall Foliage?

If you are planning a trip to Japan and want to experience the stunning fall foliage, it’s important to plan your itinerary around the best time to see the autumn leaves.

In general, the best time to visit Japan for fall foliage is from mid-October to early December, depending on the region.

In Hokkaido, the northernmost island of Japan, the autumn leaves start to change color from mid-September to early October.

On the other hand, in Tokyo and Kyoto, the best time to see fall foliage is from late November to early December.

To help you plan your Japan autumn itinerary, here’s a breakdown of the best time to visit different regions:

• Hokkaido: Mid-September to early October
• Tohoku (northeast Japan): Late October to early November
• Tokyo: Late November to early December
• Kyoto: Late November to early December
• Osaka: Late November to early December
• Hiroshima: Late November to early December
• Fukuoka: Late November to early December

Keep in mind that the peak time for fall foliage can vary from year to year, depending on weather conditions.

It’s always a good idea to check the local weather forecast and foliage reports before planning your trip.

Travel Insurance for Your Autumn Trip to Japan

Don’t forget to add travel insurance to your itinerary!

While you may be mesmerized by the beautiful foliage and cultural experiences, unexpected situations can still arise.

From flight cancellations to medical emergencies, travel insurance can help protect you from financial losses and give you peace of mind during your trip.

We recommend using Safety Wing for travel insurance. They offer comprehensive coverage for medical expenses, emergency medical evacuation, trip cancellations, and more for a very affordable price. Check them out here.

Japan Autumn Itinerary FAQs

What are some of the best places to visit in Japan during autumn?

Japan is home to many beautiful autumn destinations, but some of the best places to visit during this season include Kyoto, Nikko, and Hokkaido.

In Kyoto, you can witness the stunning fall foliage at popular spots such as Tofukuji Temple and Arashiyama Bamboo Grove.

Nikko is known for its colorful leaves and stunning waterfalls, while Hokkaido offers visitors the chance to see the autumn leaves against a backdrop of mountains and lakes.

What is the recommended length for a Japan autumn itinerary?

The recommended length for a Japan autumn itinerary is typically around 10-14 days.

This will give you enough time to visit multiple destinations and experience the beauty of the fall foliage season.

However, if you have more time, you can certainly extend your trip and explore more of Japan.

What are some family-friendly activities to include in a two-week Japan itinerary for autumn?

Japan has many family-friendly activities to offer during the autumn season.

Some popular options include visiting amusement parks such as Tokyo Disneyland and Universal Studios Japan, exploring the Tokyo National Museum, and taking a scenic train ride through the countryside.

For a more immersive experience, you can also try making traditional Japanese crafts or taking a cooking class.

What is the Japan autumn leaves forecast for 2023?

The Japan autumn leaves forecast for 2023 has not been released yet. However, you can typically expect the peak foliage season to occur in late October to early December, depending on the location.

When is the best time to visit Japan for autumn?

The best time to visit Japan for autumn is typically from mid-October to early December. This is when the fall foliage is at its peak and the weather is generally mild and pleasant.

What are some must-see destinations in Japan for a 10-day autumn itinerary?

If you have 10 days to spend in Japan during the autumn season, some must-see destinations include Tokyo, Kyoto, Nara, and Hiroshima.

In Tokyo, you can visit popular landmarks such as the Tokyo Tower and the Meiji Shrine.

In Kyoto, you can witness the stunning fall foliage at Tofukuji Temple and explore the historic district of Gion. Nara is known for its ancient temples and friendly deer, while Hiroshima offers visitors a chance to learn about Japan’s history and culture.

Japan Autumn Itinerary: Conclusion

We hope that this Japan autumn itinerary has inspired you to plan your own trip to this amazing country.

And remember, while these are just a few of the many incredible places to visit in Japan during the fall, there’s no wrong way to experience this beautiful season.

With so many incredible things to see and experiences to be had, there’s no better time to visit this stunning country.