Ultimate Guide to Japan's Fall Colors: Fall Foliage Forecast 2024

The temperature shifts from sweltering hot to mild and pleasant, the sweet smell of yaki-imo (baked sweet potatoes) wafts through the air, onsen getaways are on the horizon, and seasonal treats dominate supermarkets, cafes, restaurants and convenience stores.

Oh, and Japan's landscape transforms into a tapestry of red, orange and yellow leaves. No big deal.

Just kidding — we're screaming about Japan's fall colors and think you might be too! Japan's 2024 fall foliage forecast has landed; from foliage varieties to regional hot spots and autumnal activities, we're here to run you through it all, showing you the best places for momijigari (fall leaf viewing).

Check out byFood's roundup of seasonal experiences and restaurants with limited-time offers for more ways to make the most of the season.

As the summer heat wanes and the days grow shorter, Japan switches from summer shades to an autumnal color palette. Fall foliage, known as koyo in Japanese, is a breathtaking natural spectacle that draws visitors from all four corners of the world.

Nature enthusiasts, photographers and wanderers eagerly anticipate the foliage forecast each year, predicting when and where the country's fall colors will be at their most brilliant. When it comes to Japan's seasons, this is one of the most anticipated, right up there with the cherry blossoms of spring.

Let's dive into Japan's 2024 fall foliage forecast and discover the best places to experience the vibrant kaleidoscope of colors.

Japan boasts a rich variety of trees contributing to its stunning fall foliage. Four prominent species dominate the landscape during the fall season.

The iconic Japanese maple leaves, or momiji, turn a vibrant red in the fall, casting a warm, fiery glow across the country. These delicate leaves are the stars of the show in many Japanese gardens and parks.

Ginkgo trees provide a striking contrast with their brilliant yellow leaves. Known for their fan-shaped foliage, ginkgo trees create golden tunnels along city streets and can be found in numerous urban areas.

Japanese zelkova, or kaede, offers a distinct take on fall foliage. Its leaves turn a vibrant yellow-green color, reminiscent of fresh spring growth. This foliage type is often seen in the countryside, providing a refreshing contrast to the fiery reds and yellows of other species. 

Japanese oak, or koyo, is responsible for some of Japan's fall foliage's deeper, earthier tones. Its leaves transition to rich shades of burgundy and rusty red, casting a warm and inviting ambiance. These trees are often found in wooded areas, creating lush, multi-colored forests that are a delight to explore during this time of year.

According to the Japan Meteorogical Agency, this is Japan's forecast for fall foliage in 2024, split between red momiji leaves and yellow ginkgo leaves:

Japan's northernmost island, Hokkaido, experiences fall foliage early in the season. Popular spots include Daisetsuzan National Park and Lake Toya. 

Sapporo: November 4 (Yellow) | November 7 (Red) 

The northeastern Tohoku region offers breathtaking foliage, particularly in places like Aomori and Sendai. The Naruko Gorge and Towada-Hachimantai National Park are prime viewing spots.

Sendai: November 27 (Red) | November 30 (Yellow)

Tokyo and its surrounding areas, including Nikko and Chichibu, start to don their fall colors. The Imperial Palace East Gardens are a must-visit in Tokyo.

Tokyo: November 26 (Yellow) | December 1 (Red)

Read more: Fall in Tokyo 2024: Experience Autumn Colors and Fall Foliage

Chubu is set to dazzle leaf enthusiasts with its peak foliage expected in late mid-late November. Top spots like Kenrokuen Garden in Kanazawa, Gero Onsen in Gifu, and Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route in Toyama will be awash in vibrant fall colors.

Nagano: November 17 (Yellow) | November 25 (Red)

Kanazawa: November 12 (Yellow) | December 1 (Red)

Nagoya: November 19 (Yellow) | December 4 (Red)

Kyoto and Osaka reach their peak foliage later in the season. Don't miss the iconic temples like Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) and Tofukuji in Kyoto.

Osaka: November 24 (Yellow) | December 4 (Red)

Kyoto: November 28 (Yellow) | December 12 (Red)

Read more: Fall in Kyoto 2024: Enjoy Autumn Colors and Fall Foliage

Hiroshima, Okayama, and Shikoku islands are popular destinations during this period. Miyajima Island and the Shikoku Pilgrimage Trail are top foliage-spotting destinations.

Hiroshima: November 21 (Yellow) | November 29 (Red)

The southernmost region experiences fall foliage toward the end of the season. Consider visiting Nagasaki and the beautiful Kumamoto Castle to see the leaves in all their glory.

Fukuoka: November 28 (Yellow) | December 10 (Red)

Kagoshima: November 28 (Yellow) | December 14 (Red)

Even the subtropical Okinawa islands offer a glimpse of fall colors. The Yambaru Forest and Nakijin Castle are great places to explore.

Remember that the timing of the foliage can change slightly from year to year due to weather conditions, so it's a good idea to check local forecasts as your Japan travel dates approach.

Need more recommendations? See our curated list of the best places to see fall colors in Japan.

• Plan ahead: Research the peak foliage times for your chosen destination and book accommodations well in advance, especially in popular areas like Kyoto and Tokyo.
• Visit gardens and parks: Japanese gardens, like Rikugien in Tokyo or Korakuen in Okayama, are meticulously designed to showcase fall colors.
• Try local cuisine: Fall is an excellent time to savor Japan's seasonal dishes like chestnut rice and hot pots made with fall vegetables.
• Hiking and nature walks: Explore hiking trails and nature reserves for a more immersive experience, putting your in the center of the leaves changing over the peak season.
• Timing is key: Arrive early in the day or during the week to avoid crowds at popular viewing spots.

As you plan your autumnal adventures for the season, be prepared to witness nature's breathtaking artistry. The radiant reds, golden yellows and fiery oranges will create unforgettable memories.

Fall got you feeling a little bit chilly? Warm up with a few bowls of ramen on this ramen tasting tour!

If you're visiting Japan in the fall, be sure to sample staple Japanese fall foods and work your way through Japan's best spots for viewing fall foliage!

According to the Japanese fall leaves forecast 2024 from the Japan Meteorological Agency, fall leaves are forecasted as:

Starting from early-November, the Hokkaido autumn foliage 2024 will be the first to turn red and yellow, and then go all the way south to Kyushu, like the palette of nature, dyeing the entire Japan into a sea of red.

Japan is a beautiful country and travel destination no matter when you visit, but spring and fall are highly debated as the two most beautiful seasons. In spring, Japan turns into a vision of pink and fluttering petals, while in fall it bursts into backdrops of reds, oranges and yellows.

Although there is no best season to visit Japan, it could be said that fall is slightly less crowded than cherry blossom season, when prices and tourism peaks.