[2025 Latest] 14 Autumn Foliage Spots in Gunma! Introducing Best Viewing Times and Recommended Hidden Gems! Also Recommended for Dates!

[2025 Latest] 12 Recommended Spots and Hidden Gems for Autumn Leaves in Gifu! Introducing Recommended Spots, Famous Places, and Hidden Gems! Also Recommended for Dates!

Gunma Prefecture, with its significant elevation differences, is an area where you can enjoy beautiful autumn foliage for an extended period. From mountains like the Jo-mo Sanzan to hot spring resorts, Gunma Prefecture is dotted with a wide variety of tourist attractions. Be sure to check the best viewing times and recommended spots in advance, and find your favorite place.

[2025 Latest] Explaining the Best Time to See Autumn Leaves in Gunma

In Gunma Prefecture, the autumn foliage in 2025 is expected to be at its best from mid-October to late November, as is typical for the season.

It is characterized by the coloring that begins in early October in the high-altitude valleys of Mt. Tanigawa, Mt. Akagi, and Mt. Haruna. After that, the best viewing season arrives from early to mid-November in the plains, hot spring towns, and around lakes.

The appeal of Gunma is that you can enjoy the autumn leaves for a long period of about two months, as they remain until early December in the higher elevations.

10 Recommended Autumn Foliage Spots in Gunma

Gunma Prefecture is packed with captivating autumn foliage spots. We'll introduce a wide range of recommended locations, from top-ranked tourist attractions to hidden gems known only to a select few.

The stunning scenery created by the autumn leaves of the lake and mountains, "Mount Akagi"

Mount Akagi is a representative mountain in Gunma, counted among the Jomo Sanzan (Three Mountains of Jomo) and selected as one of Japan's Top 100 Mountains. You can enjoy it in various ways, not just for hiking, but also for camping, hill climbing on its mountain roads by road bike, and hot springs.

Mount Akagi is characterized by its long autumn foliage season, which lasts from late September to early November, with mountain ash, mizunara oak, and maples painting the entire mountain in vibrant shades of orange.

The charm of Mt. Akagi lies, above all, in the beauty of the autumn leaves reflected on the surface of "Onuma," a caldera lake surrounded by primeval forests. The sight of red and yellow trees reflected on the mirror-like surface of the lake is said to be like a work of art created by nature.

If you climb to Mt. Kurohino, the highest peak of Mt. Akagi, you can get a panoramic view of the colorful autumn leaves surrounding Onuma and Konuma from above. At Torii Pass, located beyond Mt. Kurohino, you might be lucky enough to witness a sea of clouds, offering a spectacular view where you can enjoy both autumn foliage and the sea of clouds simultaneously.

At Kakumanbuchi, a marshland located at an altitude of 1,360 meters, you can also enjoy the autumn foliage of the grasslands, known as "kusa momiji" (grass momiji). Kakumanbuchi has a walking trail that takes about 40 minutes to complete, allowing you to enjoy a leisurely stroll through the autumn colors while hiking.

Recommended for mountain climbing and hiking enthusiasts, and for those who want to enjoy autumn foliage of both lakes and mountains at once. Check the latest autumn foliage information before visiting and set out.

Peak viewing period: Early October to late October

Business Hours: None

Fee: Free

Access: Take a bus from JR Maebashi Station to Fujimi Onsen bus stop, transfer to another bus, and alight at Akaghiroba-mae bus stop.

"Mt. Haruna and Lake Haruna," where you can easily enjoy spectacular views by ropeway.

Mount Haruna in Gunma Prefecture is one of the Jomo Sanzan mountains, known for Lake Haruna, a caldera lake, and Mount Haruna Fuji. The area around Lake Haruna, located at an altitude of approximately 1100 meters, is well-equipped with hot springs and leisure spots, and continues to be loved by many tourists. It's also easily accessible from Tokyo, making it a popular tourist destination visited by many people throughout the year.

At Mount Haruna, maple trees, cherries, and larches reach their peak in late October to early November, enveloping the entire mountain in vibrant colors.

A great advantage of Mt. Haruna and Lake Haruna is the ease with which you can reach the summit via ropeway or lift. The view from the summit of Mt. Haruna Fuji is exceptional, offering a panorama of Lake Haruna reflecting autumn foliage to the west, and the distant Tanigawa mountain range, Mt. Asama, and the Kanto Plain. On a clear day, you can even see Mt. Fuji in the distance.

On calm days, "Reverse Haruna Fuji," with Haruna Fuji reflected on the lake's surface, appears. You can enjoy the autumn foliage reflected in the lake throughout the entire Haruna Lakeside, so a leisurely stroll along the shore is also recommended.

After descending the mountain, you can enjoy a day trip to a natural hot spring by the shores of Lake Haruna, which will refresh both your body and mind. It's a perfect spot for couples and families who want to easily enjoy spectacular views by car or ropeway.

Best viewing period: Late October to early November

Business Hours: 24 hours

Cost: Free

Access: [By Train] Take a bus from JR Takasaki Station and get off at Haruna-ko bus stop. [By Car] Approximately 40 minutes from Shibukawa-Ikaho IC on the Kan-Etsu Expressway.

"Myogi-san" offers a rare combination of peculiar rock formations and autumn foliage.

Mount Myogi is a mountain famous for its rugged rock faces, known as one of Japan's Three Great Scenic Wonders. It is a collective term for Mount Shirakumo, Mount Kindō, and Mount Kinkei, and along with Mount Akagi, it is one of the Three Great Mountains of Jōmō. Mount Myogi offers a wide range of climbing routes, from those for general hikers to those for advanced climbers, making it a popular mountain visited by many.

At Mt. Myogi, the autumn leaves will be at their peak from early to late November. The contrast between the trees, painted in oranges and reds, and the rock faces is magnificent, so much so that it's described in the Jomo Karuta as "Mt. Myogi shining in autumn colors."

At the foot of Mount Myogi, there is the "Myogi Fureai Plaza," and at "Myogi Onsen Momiji no Yu" (Myogi Hot Spring Maple Bath), you can soak in the hot springs while admiring the autumn leaves. Additionally, at the Myogi Mountain Visitor Center, located very close to the Fureai Plaza, it is said that you can enjoy local delicacies such as Tomioka Crepes while taking in views of Mount Myogi.

At Mount Myogi, you can enjoy various activities such as driving, hiking, and sketching. With the nearby "Myogi Shrine" and "Michi-no-Eki Myogi" (a roadside station), you can have fun all day long. If you're looking to capture the unique collaboration of bizarre rock formations and autumn leaves in photos, or if you're searching for a place to enjoy yourself for a full day, be sure to visit.

Best viewing period: Early November to late November

Opening Hours: 24 Hours

Cost: Free

Access: [By Train] Approx. 10 minutes by taxi from JR Matsuida Station [By Car] Approx. 5 minutes from Matsuida-Myogi IC on the Joshin-etsu Expressway

"Fukiware Falls," a captivating natural beauty of roaring waterfalls and autumn foliage

Fukiware Falls, with a height of 7 meters and a width of 30 meters, is known as the "Niagara of the East." It is located in the valley of the Katashina River, designated as a Natural Monument and Place of Scenic Beauty, and is cherished as one of Numata's famous waterfalls due to the spectacular sight of water plunging from fissures in the rock.

At Fukiyagawa Falls, the trees surrounding the waterfall turn red and yellow from late October to early November. The highlight is the contrast between the white spray of water cascading powerfully from the rock face and the red and yellow foliage. It's said to be breathtakingly beautiful, allowing you to feel both the power and delicacy of nature simultaneously.

A pleasant point is that you can leisurely stroll along the well-maintained walking paths and observation decks in the surrounding area and fully enjoy the beauty. The area around "Masutobi no Taki" (Trout Leap Falls), located downstream from Fukinuki Falls, is also colored with autumn leaves, so be sure to visit it as well.

Around noon on sunny days, rainbows occasionally appear, and you might witness a spectacular view where the four elements of nature—rainbow, autumn leaves, sky, and clear stream—converge. While listening to the powerful roar of the waterfall, you can have a special experience feeling the changing seasons.

This is a recommended spot for nature lovers who want to enjoy a magnificent waterfall and autumn leaves at the same time.

Best viewing period: Late October to early November

Business Hours: Sunrise to sunset (road closed at night)

Cost: Free

Access: [By Train] Approximately 70 minutes by bus from JR Jomokogen Station, alight at Fukiware-no-Taki bus stop and walk 10 minutes. [By Car] Approximately 25 minutes from Numata IC on the Kan-Etsu Expressway.

"Kiryu River Upper Reaches" where you can experience authentic forest bathing

Source:Walker Plus

The upper reaches of the Kiryu River in Kiryu City are a nature-rich area selected as one of Japan's Top 100 Forests for Forest Bathing and one of the Top 100 Forests for Water Resources. Despite not being far from the urban area, the riverside of the Kiryu River offers a natural landscape where one can feel a sense of charm.

In the upper reaches of the Kiryu River, from early to mid-November, the trees are painted in shades of red and yellow, and the valley is filled with colorful Japanese maples.

The charm of the upper reaches of the Kiryu River lies in the way autumn leaves spread out, enveloping the river flowing through the great outdoors. The trees, dyed red and yellow, reflect on the river's surface, giving you the sensation of walking through a natural tunnel. While listening to the pleasant murmur of the Kiryu River, you can experience a truly authentic forest bath, surrounded by the scent of trees in the clear air.

The upper reaches of the Kiryu River are also an area where many photographers visit in search of beautiful autumn leaves, and it becomes quite lively during the autumn foliage season. However, the autumn leaves are spread over a wide area from Nemotosawa to Umeda Lake, so you can avoid the crowds and find your own hidden gem for autumn foliage viewing.

Beautiful autumn foliage can also be seen near Umeda Furusato Center and Ishikamo Tenmangu Shrine, and you can also enjoy hiking there.

This mountain stream, full of natural beauty, is a special space that makes you forget the hustle and bustle of the city. It's a highly recommended spot for nature lovers who want to enjoy forest bathing and autumn foliage at the same time.

Best viewing period: Early November to mid-November

Opening Hours: 24 Hours

Cost: Free

Access: [By Train] Approximately 30 minutes by taxi from JR Kiryu Station. [By Car] Approximately 50 minutes from Ota-Kiryu Interchange on the Kita-Kanto Expressway.

The luxurious combination of hot springs and autumn foliage is the allure of "Ikaho Onsen."

Ikaho Onsen is a representative hot spring resort in Gunma Prefecture, famous for its 365 stone steps. As a hot spring town with the Ishidangai (stone-paved street) and Ikaho Shrine, both boasting 400 years of history, it attracts many tourists. The stone steps, imbued with the wish "to be lively 365 days a year," also have the poem "Ikaho no Machi" by the poet Akiko Yosano carved into them.

At Ikaho Onsen, from late October to early November, Japanese maples, maples, daimyo oaks, and lacquer trees turn vibrant colors, enveloping the hot spring town in a warm atmosphere. The area around Kajikabashi bridge, located at the source of the hot springs, is particularly known for its dramatic temperature fluctuations, which are said to result in exceptionally deep and brilliant autumn foliage.

Taking the ropeway from Ishidan-gai to Uenoyama Park offers a panoramic view of the hot spring town and the autumn foliage of the mountains spread out below. From Uenoyama Park's Tokimeki Deck, you can fully enjoy the vibrant autumn colors blanketing the city.

From late October to mid-November, there are plans for autumn foliage light-ups, offering a completely different atmosphere from daytime with their mystical presentations. It's especially recommended for couples and families who want to enjoy the autumn colors while relaxing in the hot springs.

Best viewing time: Late October to early November

Business hours: 24 hours

Cost: Free

Access: [By Train] Approximately 25 minutes by bus from JR Shibukawa Station [By Car] Approximately 20 minutes from Shibukawa-Ikaho IC on the Kan-Etsu Expressway

"Hōtoku-ji Temple," the only place in Japan where you can enjoy a "floor momiji" (autumn foliage viewed from beneath).

Hōtoku-ji Temple is a Zen Buddhist temple in Kiryu City, renowned for its nationally rare "floor foliage" display. It is a historic temple established during the Muromachi period by Kōsei Kiryu, and its main hall, built in the Zen Buddhist Hōjō style, is a rare sight, found in only a few temples in the Kanto region. The temple exudes a solemn and sophisticated atmosphere, as if you have stepped into another world.

At Hōtoku-ji Temple, over 100 maple trees on the temple grounds turn color from mid-November to early December.

The highlight of the autumn foliage at Hōtoku-ji Temple is the "Yuka Momiji" (floor foliage), which is rare throughout the country. Vibrant maple leaves reflect on the lacquered floor, which measures 28 tatami mats in size, creating a fantastical scene as if autumn foliage is blooming within a mirror.

From late October, a nighttime illumination event will be held where you can admire the autumn leaves on the floor. The autumn foliage illuminated in the darkness is artistically beautiful, creating a more mystical atmosphere.

The atmosphere of Yuka Momiji is completely different between daytime and nighttime, so if you have time, please visit during both periods. Reservations are not required, but it can get crowded around 5 PM, so we recommend visiting at a different time.

This is a spot especially recommended for those seeking autumn foliage that's perfect for social media.

Best viewing period: Mid-November to early December

Business Hours: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Price: 1200 yen

Access: [By train] 25 minutes by bus from JR Ryomo Line "Kiryu Station" [By car] 30 minutes from Ota-Kiryu IC on the Kitakanto Expressway

Tokumeien, where you can enjoy different autumn foliage beauty in four areas

Source:Gunlabo!

Tokumeien is a 90-year-old Japanese garden, boasting the largest scale in northern Kanto. It is a distinctive spot with significant elevation changes, as it was created by piling up soil excavated during the construction of "Cave Kannon," a pilgrimage site completed entirely by human labor.

Tokumeien is composed of four areas: an ikenobō style pond garden, a karesansui (dry landscape) garden, a moss garden, and a stone garden. In each area, large rocks of Sanpa-ishi, a renowned stone from Gunma, and Japanese maples are displayed. A notable feature is that the autumn foliage progresses from lower to higher elevations within the four areas, typically from early to late November.

The entire garden's autumn foliage harmoniously surrounds a Japanese-style mansion situated at its center, creating a magnificent spectacle. Photography combining the stone statues scattered throughout the garden with the autumn leaves is particularly popular, allowing visitors to enjoy a unique scene not found elsewhere.

Tokumeien will be holding evening illuminations on weekends in November (information for 2024). The atmosphere becomes solemn and completely different from the daytime scenery, with autumn leaves dyed golden creating a magical world. Also in November, a cafe will be set up on the veranda of the traditional Japanese house in the center of the garden where you can enjoy matcha, so why not try to enjoy both?

This park is recommended for adults who want to enjoy the beauty of a Japanese garden and the autumn foliage at the same time.

Best viewing period: Early November to late November

Business Hours: [October & December 1-15] Weekdays 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM, Saturdays, Sundays, and Holidays until 4:00 PM. [November] Weekdays 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM *Hours differ on illumination event days.

Admission: Combined ticket for Cave Kannon, garden, and Santoku Memorial Hall: Adults ¥800, Children ¥400, Toddlers free

Access: [By Train] Take a bus from JR Takasaki Station to the Dokutsu Kannon Entrance bus stop, then walk 3 minutes. [By Car] Approximately 20 minutes from Takasaki IC on the Kan-Etsu Expressway.

Sakurayama Park, where you can witness the rare collaboration of autumn leaves and winter cherry blossoms.

Sakurayama Park is a vast 47-hectare park located at the summit of Sakurayama, which stands 591 meters above sea level. It's a popular tourist spot in Fujioka City, featuring approximately 7,000 "winter cherry trees," which have the rare characteristic of blooming twice a year, in spring and in autumn/winter.

At Sakurayama Park, the autumn leaves reach their peak from late October to mid-November. A unique spectacle awaits visitors: the chance to see winter cherry blossoms and autumn foliage adorning the mountain simultaneously, a sight you won't find elsewhere. By mid-November, the mountain is blanketed in a breathtaking panorama of trees colored in reds and yellows, alongside the pale pink hues of winter cherry blossoms, creating a scene that is truly a work of art crafted by nature.

The Japanese garden within the park features a large pond made with 1,500 tons of rock, and the reflection of autumn leaves and cherry blossoms on its surface creates a beautiful, mirror-like effect. It's a space where you can feel the quintessential Japanese aesthetic.

From near the Winter Cherry Blossom Observation Deck within the park, you can overlook the surrounding mountains and enjoy a panoramic, superb view. Since the walking paths are well-maintained, even those unaccustomed to hiking can stroll around as if on a casual walk.

Additionally, from the end of October, the area is illuminated at night, allowing you to admire the magical autumn leaves and winter cherry blossoms, which are different from their daytime appearance. This is a recommended spot for those who want to enjoy the rare combination of autumn leaves and cherry blossoms.

Best viewing period: Late October to mid-November

Business hours: 24 hours

Charge: Free

Access: [By Train] Take a bus from JR Honjo Station (bound for Kanamizusansougoshi-sho-mae) and get off at Oniishi Post Office-mae. Approximately 15 minutes by taxi from the bus stop. [By Car] Approximately 40 minutes from Honjo Kodama IC on the Kan-etsu Expressway.

The unique collaboration of Daruma and autumn leaves is captivating at "Shōrinzan Daruma-ji Temple."

Shōrinzan Daruma Temple in Takasaki City, Gunma Prefecture, is a Zen temple founded in 1697 by the Chinese Zen master Shin'etsu. It is a representative tourist spot in Takasaki City, known for protecting the rear of Maebashi Castle and for being a temple warding off evil spirits by enshrining the Big Dipper.

At Shorinzan Daruma Temple, amidst its spacious grounds spanning 56,000 square meters, vibrant red maple leaves, yellow ginkgo, euonymus, azaleas, and other foliage put on a colorful display from mid-November to early December.

The charm of Daruma-ji Temple on Shorinzan lies in the unique collaboration between the beautiful red and yellow autumn leaves and the vibrant red daruma dolls. Inside the main hall, daruma dolls that have fulfilled their purpose are stacked. They vary in face and size, making it enjoyable just to look at them. This is a scene unique to the temple where daruma originated, so be sure to enjoy taking photos as well.

One of the highlights is the autumn leaf art created in front of the main hall and the Kannon-do hall, which has the oldest thatched roof. The autumn leaf art exhibition and demonstration takes place from late November to early December, featuring designs such as the North Star, hearts, and daruma dolls. You can watch the staff creating these artworks up close.

This is a recommended spot for those who want to take unique photos or are interested in Japanese traditional culture.

Best viewing period: mid-November to early December

Opening Hours: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Price: Free

Access: [Train] 18 minutes on foot from JR Gunma-Yawata Station [Car] 25 minutes from Kan-Etsu Expressway "Maebashi IC"

The autumn leaves at night are also magical! Two spots with beautiful illuminations

While the autumn leaves are beautiful during the day, the illuminated autumn leaves at night, which show a completely different face, are also a must-see. The vibrant autumn leaves glowing in the darkness create a fantastical world that you can't experience during the day.

Kajika Bridge (Ikaho Onsen) where you can enjoy the world of Ghibli

Kajikabashi Bridge is a vermillion-lacquered drum bridge said to be the model for the red suspension bridge that appears in the Studio Ghibli film "Spirited Away." Located on Yumoto-dori, a five-minute walk from Ikaho Shrine, it is a symbolic landmark of Ikaho Onsen, beloved by many tourists. After visiting Ikaho Shrine, the standard route is to walk down Yumoto-dori from behind the shrine towards Kajikabashi Bridge.

Around Kajikabashi bridge, maple and momiji trees turn vibrant colors from late October to early November. Because this area experiences significant temperature fluctuations, you can enjoy intensely colored autumn foliage.

The highlight of Kajikabashi Bridge is the atmospheric scenery where the vermilion bridge and autumn leaves blend together. The vibrant vermilion bridge, which stands out among the trees, is incredibly popular for taking photogenic pictures.

At night, illuminations are held, and it bustles with many tourists. The atmosphere is completely different from daytime, creating a magical scene where the vermilion bridge and colorful autumn leaves floating in the darkness give visitors the feeling of looking at a painting.

If you visit Kajikabashi, be sure to also visit the nearby Ikaho Open-Air Bath. You can relax and enjoy the hot springs surrounded by maple trees.

If you'd like to enjoy romantic autumn foliage along with a stroll through the hot spring town, definitely give this place a try.

Best viewing period: Late October to early November

Opening Hours: 24 Hours

Fee: Free

Access: [Train] Approx. 15-minute walk from the "Ikaho Onsen" bus stop. [Car] Approx. 20 minutes from the Shibukawa-Ikaho IC on the Kan-Etsu Expressway.

Enjoy the spectacular views from your car window! Two recommended courses for a fall foliage drive

One of Gunma's charms is also its driving courses, where you can enjoy beautiful autumn foliage from the car window. We will introduce two recommended courses where you can enjoy a drive while gazing at the ever-changing scenery.

The "Akagiyama Panorama Road," where you can enjoy spectacular driving with views of the Jomo Sanzan mountains.

Akagisan Panorama Road is a famous driving course in Gunma Prefecture connecting the Jomo Sanzan (Mt. Akagi, Mt. Myogi, Mt. Haruna). With excellent access, about 100km from the Tokyo metropolitan area, it is loved by many drivers.

Along the Akagiyama Panorama Road, you can enjoy the sight of the mountain, with its 1000m elevation difference, gradually changing colors from early to late October. The spectacle of various autumn foliage colors, including the reds of azaleas and maples, and the yellows of mizunara, birch, and dakekanba, dyeing the mountains is truly breathtaking.

The best time to see the autumn leaves is around mid-October near the summit and early November at the foot of the mountain, making it a great place to enjoy the vibrant colors for a relatively long period. In addition to the autumn foliage, the swaying pampas grass along the lake is also beautiful.

If you're driving the Akagiyama Panorama Road, it's also recommended to stop by nearby tourist spots like the Miharashiyama Observation Deck and Akagi Shirakaba Ranch. Additionally, at the hot springs along the valley at the foot of the mountain, you can enjoy open-air baths surrounded by autumn leaves while listening to the babbling of the stream. Soaking in the hot springs will help you relieve the fatigue from your drive.

This course is recommended for those who want to enjoy the magnificent mountain autumn leaves while driving.

Best viewing time: Early October to late October

Business hours: None

Price: Free

Access: [Car] Approximately 60 minutes from Akagi IC on the Kan-Etsu Expressway.

The "Shiga-Kusatsu-Kogen Route" where you can enjoy autumn foliage with an elevation difference of 800m.

The Shiga-Kusatsu-Kogen Route is a driving route through Shiga Highlands in Nagano Prefecture, with an elevation ranging from 1300 to 2300 meters. It runs through a highland region surrounded by mountains such as Mt. Shiga, Mt. Yokote, and Mt. Kasaga-dake, dotted with marshes, ponds, and bogs.

The Shiga-Kusatsu-Kogen Route is known as one of the premier autumn foliage viewing spots in Nagano Prefecture, and it's said to be a popular area that attracts photographers from all over the country. The autumn colors can be enjoyed from late September to early November, and they gradually progress due to the difference in elevation.

The highlight of the Shiga Kusatsu Kogen Route is enjoying autumn foliage that offers different atmospheres depending on the altitude. The sight of leaves that begin to change color at higher elevations gradually descending towards the villages is truly photogenic. At higher altitudes, snow may accumulate, creating a surreal scene where autumn colors spread across the foothills.

If you want to see the autumn leaves on the Shiga-Kusatsu-Kogen Route, "Shibutoge" is the perfect viewing spot. From the observation deck, you can enjoy a collaboration of a 107-meter waterfall and the colorful autumn mountains.

Since it's also an access route to Kusatsu Onsen, you can refresh yourself in the hot springs after a autumn foliage drive.

In mid-October, you can also enjoy events such as the "Okushiga Kogen Autumn Foliage Festa" and the "Golden Autumn Craft Fair in Shiga Kogen," so be sure to check them out. This is a recommended course for those who want to enjoy the autumn leaves while driving in the refreshing mountain air.

Best viewing period: Early October to late October

Business Hours: None

Cost: Free

Access: [By Car] Approximately 40 minutes from the Shinshu-Nakano IC on the Joshinetsu Expressway via the Shiga-Nakano Toll Road and Route 292.

Summary

This article provides a detailed introduction to autumn foliage spots in Gunma Prefecture. From famous locations like the Jo-mo Sanzan mountains to hot spring resorts and gardens, there are many attractive spots with different peak viewing times and ways to enjoy them.

This autumn, why not create unforgettable beautiful memories with a fall foliage viewing trip in Gunma?

The power spots in the Kanto area are introduced in the following article! Please check it out.