Warm colors, crisp air, and the smell of chestnuts and persimmon—autumn in Tokyo is a delight to the senses. With shrines and gardens in the inner city as well as stunning mountains and lakes on the fringes, you don’t need to go very far to find the best fall foliage spots in Japan. The optimal viewing dates depend on the area, but Tokyo’s autumn leaves can be seen from mid-October to early December. Check out the list below for recommendations.
Lake Okutama
Lying on the fringes of outer Tokyo, Okutama is among the perfect spots for a fall hike, which culminates in a spectacular view of Lake Okutama. There are two floating bridges located on the lake: Tozura and Mugiyama. These two bridges are located several stops away from the main viewing area, so make sure to check bus schedules beforehand.
Recommended viewing dates
Also known
Location: Okutama-shi
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Akigawa Valley
For a tranquil escape, Akigawa Valley is unmatched with its breathtaking blend of autumn leaves and crystal-clear waters. You can visit the fall foliage spot as part of a hiking trail which you can cap off with a free footbath or a full soak at Seoto no Yu hotsprings. Read more.
Recommended viewing dates: November to early December
Also known as: Akigawa Keikoku (秋川渓谷, あきがわ けいこく)
Location: Akiruno-shi
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Fuchu Forest Park
A sizeable park in the quiet suburbs of Tokyo, Fuchu Forest Park has a Japanese garden divided into east and west zones. The relaxed atmosphere is perfect for taking a stroll along the pond and gazing at autumn colors. A museum, as well as an art theater, can also be found within the premises of the park.
Recommended viewing dates: November to early December
Also known as: Akigawa Keikoku (秋川渓谷, あきがわ けいこく)
Location: Fuchu
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Rinshi-no-Mori Park
Formerly the research site of studies related to forestry, the park is home to massive trees that display an array of toasty colors come fall. Rinshi-no-Mori also has a pond as well as a playground for children.
Recommended viewing dates: early November to early December
Also known as: Rinshi-no-Mori Kōen (林試の森公園, りんし の もり こうえん)
Location: Shinagawa
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Hikarigaoka Park
One of the areas in Tokyo where you can find a “ginkgo road.” While lesser known than the row of ginkgo trees at Meiji Jingu Gaien, Hikarigaoka nevertheless makes a spectacular sight. If you prefer smaller crowds, you might want to visit this spot instead.
Recommended viewing dates: mid-November to early December
Also known as: Hikarigaoka Kōen (光が丘公園, ひかりがおか こうえん)
Location: Nerima
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Mt. Mitake
Mt. Mitake is loved for its mossy “Rock Garden,” which is especially beautiful in summer, but come autumn and people flock to see the lovely fall hues. The hiking trails are hardly a challenge, but a cable car is also available for those who want to skip the hike. Follow this guide if you’re looking for an easy day hike. Read more.
Recommended viewing dates: early to mid-November
Also known as: Mitake-san (御岳山, みたけさん)
Location: Ome
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Showa Kinen Park
A park for all seasons, Showa Kinen’s autumn attraction is its two rows of ginkgo trees that form a tunnel and a carpet of bright yellow leaves.
Recommended viewing dates: early November to early December
Also known as: Showa Memorial Park, Showa Kinen Kōen (昭和記念公園, しょうわ きねん こうえん)
Location: Tachikawa
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Hatonosu Valley
Red and golden leaves, a suspension bridge and the sound of Tama River rushing past—Hatonosu Valley is ideal for nature lovers. While in the area, make sure to drop by Gallery Poppo for some quiet time at a quaint cafe with a gorgeous view.
Recommended viewing dates: early to late November
Also known as: Hatonosu Canyon, Hatonosu Keikoku (鳩ノ巣渓谷, はとのす けいこく)
Location: Okutama
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Mitake Gorge
Just a few minutes away from Mitake Station on the JR Ome Line, Mitake Gorge is a beloved fall foliage spot. From the bridge, you can take in the view of autumn colors as well as the Tamagawa River, streaming through the rocks below. Read more.
Recommended viewing dates: mid to late November
Also known as Mitake Keikoku (御岳渓谷、みたけ けいこく)
Location: Ome
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Koganei Park
Among the biggest parks in Tokyo, Koganei is ideal for sports, barbecues, and picnics. Ginkgo trees thrive in November and a carpet of yellow leaves can be seen during peak season. The Edo-Tokyo Open Air Museum, where historical Japanese buildings are preserved or replicated, is also located within the park.
Recommended viewing dates: early to late November
Also known as: Koganei Kōen (小金井公園, こがねい こうえん)
Location: Koganei
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Mizumoto Park
Tokyo’s largest water park comes alive in autumn with warm colors. Aside from being a popular birdwatching spot, Mizumoto Park’s “Metasequoia Forest” has the most dawn redwoods in Tokyo.
Recommended viewing dates: mid-November to early December
Also known as: Mizumoto Kōen (水元公園, みずもと こうえん)
Location: Katsushika
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Rikugien
A traditional Japanese garden with elegantly designed ponds and bridges, Rikugien extends its business hours in autumn to showcase autumn leaves lit up at night. The garden is very popular and tends to be crowded even on weekdays.
Recommended viewing dates: mid-November to early December
Also known as: 六義園, りくぎえん
Location: Bunkyo
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Mount Takao
Mt. Takao is a popular weekend getaway among locals because of its relative proximity to the city center and easy trails. Riding the mountain lift is recommended for an exciting viewing experience.
Recommended viewing dates: mid-November to early December
Also known as: Takaosan (高尾山, たかおさん)
Location: Hachioji
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Kyu-Furukawa Gardens
Kyu-Furukawa Gardens is popular for its roses, but its Japanese garden is just as stunning in fall. A bazaar can usually be found within the premises and musical events are hosted every now and then. A quaint, little cafe that serves both a tasty and a hefty slice of carrot cake can also be found within the area.
Recommended viewing dates: mid-November to early December
Also known as: Kyu-Furukawa Teien (旧古河庭園, きゅう ふるかわ ていえん)
Location: Kita
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Hamarikyu Gardens
Hamarikyu Gardens is a green oasis in the midst of a concrete jungle. The park dates back to the Edo period and has two ponds that were formerly used to capture ducks for sport. It also happens to have a duck grave, which is among the interesting things you can find in the park, aside from its beautiful fall foliage.
Recommended viewing dates: mid-November to early December
Also known as: Hamarikyu Onshi Teien (浜離宮恩賜庭園, はまりきゅうおんしていえん)
Location: Chuo
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Akigawa Valley
Akigawa Valley is blessed with several autumn foliage viewing spots, but among the favorites is the view you get when you walk the length of the suspension bridge. The hot spring “Seoto no Yu” is also in the area, where you can enjoy a free foot bath or a good soak for ¥900.
Recommended viewing dates: mid-November to early December
Also known as Akigawa Keikoku (秋川渓谷, あきがわ けいこく)
Location: Akiruno
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Inokashira Park
Quite possibly the loveliest park in Tokyo, Inokashira Park has a big pond where people can row boats. Inokashira Park Zoo is also located within the premises, as well as the beloved Ghibli Museum. The park is located in Kichijoji where you can find plenty of cozy restaurants and animal cafes, so it’s easy to plan a full-day itinerary within the area.
Recommended viewing dates: mid-November to mid-December
Also known as: Inokashira Kōen (井の頭公園, いのかしら こうえん)
Location: Musashino
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Jingu Gaien Ginkgo Avenue
One of, if not the most popular spot in Tokyo where a tunnel and a carpet of ginkgo leaves can be seen. The sight is undeniably arresting, but the place also tends to be crowded, especially on weekends. There are also plenty of cafes and restaurants in the area, but booking in advance is recommended during peak season.
Recommended viewing dates: mid-November to early December
Also known as: Jingu Gaien Ichō Namiki (神宮外苑いちょう並木, じんぐがいえんいちょうなみき)
Location: Minato
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Jindai Botanical Gardens
If you’re looking to spend a day with fall foliage, a retro town and an onsen dip in the itinerary, this area makes a perfect candidate. For more information, see this post.
Recommended viewing dates: late November to early December
Also known as: Jindai Shokubutsu Kōen (神代植物公園, じんだい しょくぶつ こうえん)
Location: Chofu
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Hibiya Park
Opened in 1903, Hibiya Park has the 3rd oldest fountain in the city. Its S-shaped pathway is lined with ginkgo trees, but maple leaves can also be found in abundance. The park is close to several shops, cinemas, and malls, including the recently opened Tokyo Midtown Hibiya. It’s among the most accessible fall foliage spots in Tokyo.
Recommended viewing dates: late November to early December
Also known as: Hibiya Kōen (日比谷公園、ひびや こうえん)
Location: Chiyoda
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Yasukuni Shrine
As controversial as Yasukuni Shrine is, its autumn beauty is undeniable. The tall ginkgo trees lined neatly in two rows are a striking sight, and you don’t have to go in the shrine to see them. I’d recommend visiting the place and see what the buzz is about for yourself. The shrine is practically harmless; it’s the museum that makes people uncomfortable.
Recommended viewing dates: late November to early December
Also known as: Yasukuni Jinja (靖国神社, やすくに じんじゃ)
Location: Chiyoda
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University of Tokyo Hongo Campus
The ginkgo leaf is the University of Tokyo’s symbol, so it’s not surprising that the campus has a so-called ginkgo avenue that turns into a stunning yellow come fall. The university also has a small pond where maple leaves can be seen. The Hongo campus also happens to be adjacent to Yayoi campus, where the statue of Hachiko reunited with his master stands.
Recommended viewing dates: late November to early December
Also known as: Tokyo Daigaku Hongo Kyanpasu (とうきょう だいがく ほんごう キャンパス)
Location: Bunkyo
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Shiba Park
The best place to see Tokyo Tower and autumn colors. I recommend taking an afternoon stroll in the area followed by dinner at TANGO. The Italian restaurant has an open terrace on the second floor where you can dine while gazing at Tokyo Tower.
Recommended viewing dates: late November to early December
Also known as: Shiba Kōen (芝公園, しば こうえん)
Location: Minato
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Tokyo Metropolitan Teien Art Museum
This lovely Art Deco building was the former residence of Prince Asaka, a member of the imperial family. Other than its cultural exhibits and gorgeous interior decor, the art museum also has a Japanese garden with maple trees that turn red and orange in autumn.
Recommended viewing dates: late November to early December
Also known as: Tokyo-to Teien Bijutsukan (東京都庭園美術館, とうきょうとていえんびじゅつかん)
Location: Minato
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Koishikawa Korakuen Gardens
Originally a property of the Mito Tokugawa Clan, Koishikawa Korakuen is both a historic and a scenic spot. The Japanese garden was designed to allude to several well-loved areas in China and Japan. Red spider lilies or higanbana can also be seen in early October.
Recommended viewing dates: late November to early December
Also known as: 小石川後楽園, こいしかわこうらくえん
Location: Bunkyo
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Kinuta Park
Formerly a golf course, Kinuta Park has vast stretches of manicured lawn. The park is known for its cherry blossoms, but you can also see zelkova, maple, and ginkgo leaves in autumn.
Recommended viewing dates: late November to mid-December
Also known as: Kinuta Kōen (砧公園、きぬたこうえん)
Location: Setagaya
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Yoyogi Park
One of the busiest parks in the city, Yoyogi Park has around 1,300 trees that paint the area red, gold, and orange in autumn. Events are usually held all year round.
Recommended viewing dates: late November to early December
Also known as: Yoyogi Kōen (代々木公園, よよぎこうえん)
Location: Shibuya
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Tonogayato Garden
It takes about an hour to fully walk the length of Tonogayato Garden, the footpath of which is intelligently designed to follow the slopes of the landscape. As a result, it feels as if people are exploring a variety of small gardens rather than one, big park. Tonogayato has a small bamboo grove, an idyllic pond, and a wooden resting area that frames the lovely fall foliage as if it were a painting.
Recommended viewing dates: late November to early December
Also known as: Tonogayato Teien (殿ヶ谷戸庭園, とのがやとていえん)
Location: Kokubunji
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