5 Things To Do In Japan In Autumn

Japan is beautiful and different each season, but there is something magical about autumn. The dramatic colors, showcasing vibrant reds and yellows among the foliage found throughout the country is quite striking. If you happen to visit Japan in the fall, here are 5 things to do in Japan in autumn.

Yoyogi Park

An enjoyable park year-round, Yoyogi is particularly beautiful in the autumn months. The park, which is adjacent to the Meiji Shrine is free and easy to access, and a great place for families, or to enjoy a leisure walk, picnic or bike ride. Popular among locals and tourists, a stroll through Yoyogi Park is one the best things to do in Japan in autumn and is sure to inspire.

Meiji Jingu Gaien Ginkgo Festival

One of the most exciting ways to admire and take in the many colors of autumn and the changing leaves is at the Meiji Jingu Gaien Ginkgo Festival. The area is well known for the many Ginkgo trees which line the famous street for some 300 meters, making it one of the best places to visit and watch not only as the leaves change color but as they gracefully fall from the trees. The festival takes place usually in mid-November, at the peak of the season. However, a visit to this area which can be reached via Shibuya is enjoyable but must be visited before all the leaves have fallen.

Hiking in Japan in autumn

Japan is known for it’s hiking trails, from the famous Mount Fuji to the northern region of Hokkaido, hiking in Japan is world-famous. Autumn is notably one of the best seasons for hiking given the temperate weather and conditions. Whether you are looking for a relaxing and easy afternoon hike or looking for more lengthy hikes including camping, there are many options to choose from. There is plenty of beautiful scenery and natural beauty to satiate and inspire and kind of hiker visiting Japan. Regardless of hiking fitness, a hike through nature is certainly one of the best things to do in Japan in autumn.

Kyoho Picking

Japan is known for fruit-picking, with each season yielding different produce and a variety of places throughout the country to enjoy freshly picked fruit. Autumn in Japan is the season for Kyocho grapes and the optimal time to enjoy picking them. Both the Yamanashi and Katsunuma Prefectures are famous for the grapes in the region. Kyoho grapes are quite large in size and dark in color and are harvested twice a year. If you are looking for something to do in Japan in autumn, picking Kyoho grapes is a great option, or at least making sure to purchase some from the grocery store to enjoy their sweet, fresh taste.

Visit Lake Kawaguchi

A unique vantage point of Mount Fuji, Lake Kawaguchi is one of the five lakes surrounding the volcanic peak. During autumn, the lake becomes even more beautiful with the brightly colored foliage. You can enjoy a relaxing walk around the lake or take in the sites and the view from the observation deck of Mount Tenjo.

Trees to look out for specifically in autumn in Japan

It is worth taking note of the many maple trees which are found all throughout Japan, both in parks and gardens as well as near temples. Maple trees change through yellows, greens, and reds and depending at which point of the season are always beautiful to admire. Gingko trees tend to turn to a bright yellow and are hard to miss. Even the cherry blossom trees (sakura) will change in the fall, turning to an orangey red color. All mixed together, the hues of autumn in Japan are breathtaking and bring out the natural beauty of the country.