Looking for the ultimate Japan Autumn bucket list?
You’re in for something special.
The weather turns crisp, the trees explode with colour, and even everyday places start to feel magical.
Autumn here isn’t just pretty. It changes how everything feels.
A simple walk becomes a photo you’ll want to frame.
A quiet park suddenly feels like a movie scene.
This list shows you 10 of the best places to add to your Japan Autumn Bucket List .
Whether you like busy cities or peaceful nature, these spots will help you make the most of the season.
🍁 Experience some Japan Autumn bucket list places for yourself:
Autumn – My Favourite Season
After 25 years living in Japan, Autumn has long been my favourite season.
Summer, which is incredibly humid wears off by it still remains warm.
New foods and dishes come into season and just the overall vibe, at least for me,
It’s just a fantastic time of year and while it can get busy, if you know where to go, you can avoid some of the crowds.
1) Korankei Valley, Aichi Prefecture
Korankei Valley is in the mountains near Nagoya.
It’s one of the best places in Japan to see autumn colours, but not many people outside Japan know about it.
Over 4,000 maple trees turn bright red and gold in November.
It’s a great spot for a quiet walk with beautiful views.
The Tomoe River flows through the valley and reflects the colours of the trees.
There are walking paths and small bridges where you can stop to take photos.
You can also visit Kojakuji Temple, which has been there since the 1400s.
At night, lights shine on the trees and the whole place looks magical.
2) Sagano Romantic Train Ride
Want a front-row seat to Kyoto’s autumn colors?
Hop on the Sagano Romantic Train for a 7.3 km ride between Saga Torokko and Kameoka Torokko Stations.
The train glides along the Hozu River and through the Hozukyo Ravine.
Huge windows let you soak in the gold and crimson leaves as you roll by.
The ride only takes about 25 minutes.
It’s easy to fit into your day, even if you’re short on time.
3) Nara Park for autumn colours
Nara Park just might be the perfect place for autumn leaves in Japan.
Wide paths wind through maples and ginkgo trees, all bursting with color.
Deer wander everywhere, sometimes coming right up to say hello.
The mix of friendly animals and vivid scenery makes for some pretty memorable photos.
Mid-October to late November is the sweet spot to visit.
4) Mount Fuji autumn views
Mount Fuji puts on a show in autumn.
Around the Fuji Five Lakes, trees explode in reds, oranges, and yellows.
Lake Kawaguchi is especially famous for its autumn views, with Fuji in the background.
November brings festivals and evening light-ups that make the whole area feel festive.
You’ll find plenty of photo ops and tasty local snacks.
There’s just something about autumn here that sticks with you.
5) Kenrokuen Garden, Kanazawa
Kenrokuen Garden in Kanazawa is a must if you love classic Japanese gardens.
In autumn, the place glows with warm reds, oranges, and yellows.
Keep an eye out for maple, cherry, and zelkova trees.
Early to late November is usually the best time to catch the colors.
It’s a quick bus ride from Kanazawa Station.
Wander past ponds, stone bridges, and views that never get old.
6) Oze National Park, Nikko
Nature lovers shouldn’t skip Oze National Park in autumn.
The Ozegahara Marsh transforms into a sea of gold, surrounded by colorful mountain foliage.
Wooden boardwalks let you wander right through the wetlands.
October is prime time for photos.
7) Nachi Falls, Wakayama
Nachi Falls in Wakayama is surrounded by thick forest and autumn leaves.
The waterfall drops 133 meters, making it one of Japan’s tallest.
Bright red and gold trees frame the roaring white water.
Kumano Nachi Taisha, a famous shrine, is just a short walk away.
8) Kaga Onsen hot springs
Kaga Onsen is the place to unwind in autumn.
Four historic hot spring towns each offer their own style and warm welcome.
Soak in a steamy bath while autumn leaves drift past outside.
You can browse tiny shops for local pottery or stroll along the river for a bit of peace.
The area’s known for fresh food and quiet gardens.
If you’re after a slower pace, Kaga Onsen is a pretty great pick for fall.
9) Tokyo’s Rikugien Garden
You’ll find Rikugien Garden tucked away in Bunkyo, Tokyo.
It stands as one of the city’s oldest and most famous landscape gardens, designed during the Edo Period.
Visit in autumn and you’ll see winding paths covered in red and orange maple leaves.
If you show up in the evening, special illuminations light up the whole place and make it feel almost magical.
People often come just to admire the pond or wander the little hills, which were inspired by classic poems.
It’s a calm spot and perfect for autumn strolls or snapping a few photos if you’re into that.
10) Oidaira Park, Gifu Prefecture
If you want a peaceful place with real autumn charm and no big crowds, head to Oidaira Park in Gifu.
Tucked deep in the hills, this quiet park comes alive in November with bright reds, warm yellows, and deep orange leaves.
You won’t find tour buses or gift shops here.
Just a forested path, a calm stream, and the crunch of leaves under your feet.
There’s a wooden bridge that gives you a great view of the trees reflected in the water.
Benches are dotted along the path, so you can sit and take it all in without rush.
It’s a simple place, but that’s what makes it special.
Sometimes, the quiet ones leave the biggest impression.
If you drive, they have free parking but it can get busy at certain times.
