[2025 Latest] 19 Best Autumn Foliage Spots in Kansai! Introducing Best Viewing Times & Recommended Hidden Gems! Also Great for Dates!

[2025 Latest] 19 Recommended Autumn Foliage Spots and Hidden Gems in Kansai! Introducing Recommended Spots, Famous Places, and Hidden Gems! Also Recommended for Dates

Kansai is filled with many autumn foliage spots where you can fully enjoy the fall of 2025. We've picked up the latest popular spots, from classic famous sites to hidden gems, matched to their peak viewing times.

With numerous famous drive courses enjoyable for a day trip and abundant night illumination spots showcasing beautiful light-ups, it's recommended not only for outings with family and friends but also for dates.

[Kyoto Prefecture] 5 Recommended Spots Where the Ancient Capital's Streets are Dyed in Autumn Colors

In Kyoto, where old townscapes remain, you can enjoy scenery created by historic buildings and autumn leaves. Here are five recommended autumn foliage spots unique to Kyoto, adorned with historic temples and gardens.

The beauty of the inverted autumn leaves is breathtaking! "Eikando (Zenrin-ji)"

Eikan-do (Zenrin-ji Temple) is a famous autumn foliage spot in Kyoto, affectionately known as "Eikan-do of the Maple Leaves" since ancient times. Founded in the early Heian period, Eikan-do boasts approximately 3,000 Iroha maple trees planted within its grounds that begin to brilliantly change color from mid-November.

The main highlight is the "reflected autumn leaves" visible in the Hōjō Pond in the center. The true crimson of the maple leaves reflected in the water's mirror overlaps with the actual autumn leaves spread across the sky, creating a mystical scene as if the boundary between top and bottom has vanished. On days when the wind is calm, the surface of the pond becomes as still as a mirror, reflecting the autumn leaves even more vividly.

The Tahōtō (pagoda) towering in the depths of the temple grounds is another point not to be missed. Located on the mountainside, the Tahōtō, in autumn, surrounded by the surrounding mountain forests, offers a deeply impressive sight, as if peeking out from amidst the autumn leaves.

The autumn foliage along the stone walls, known as "Iwagaki Momiji," is also one of the highlights. The sight of bright red leaves contrasting with the natural rock face is like a work of art created by nature itself, offering picturesque scenes that beg to be photographed.

Those who wish to experience the charm of Kyoto, or those who want to photograph the rare autumn foliage reflected in the pond, should definitely visit.

Best viewing period: Mid-to-late November

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

Admission Fee: General viewing ¥600 (Temple Treasures Exhibition from 11/11 to 12/10: ¥1000, Night Illumination from 11/15 to 12/10: ¥700)

Access: Approximately 15 minutes walk from Keage Station on the Tozai Subway Line.

Arashiyama, where you can enjoy a superb collaboration of the Togetsukyo Bridge and the autumn foliage of Mount Momiji.

Arashiyama is a representative tourist destination in Kyoto, famous nationwide, and a superb view spot selected as one of the 100 best autumn foliage viewing locations. The scenery of Togetsukyo Bridge spanning across mountains dyed red and yellow can be said to symbolize Kyoto in autumn.

When photographing the scenery of Togetsukyo Bridge and the autumn leaves, an angle that places the bridge in the foreground and the colorful Arashiyama in the background is recommended. Especially in the evening, the autumn leaves illuminated by the setting sun glow golden, and their beauty reflects on the river's surface. Benches are installed along the riverbank, allowing you to enjoy the autumn foliage in a relaxed and tranquil setting.

When visiting Arashiyama, the "Sogenchi Garden" at Tenryu-ji Temple is another must-see spot. It's a World Cultural Heritage site and is said to have maintained its appearance for 680 years. Visiting early in the morning, the rising sun illuminates the garden's autumn leaves vividly, offering a truly breathtaking beauty.

Deeper in the garden, there is a place called the "Autumn Foliage Tunnel." The trees, dyed a vivid red, canopy the sky, allowing you to experience walking as if you were inside autumn leaves.

This is especially recommended for those who want to visit popular autumn foliage spots in Kyoto or take photos that will look great on social media.

Best viewing time: Mid- to late November

Business Hours: Varies by spot

Price: Varies by spot

Access: Immediately upon disembarking at JR Sagano Line "Saga-Arashiyama" Station

"Tofuku-ji Temple" with a sea of autumn leaves stretching out before it

Tofuku-ji is a prestigious Zen Buddhist temple ranked fourth among Kyoto's Five Mountains. Its vast grounds feature many highlights, including the magnificent Sanmon gate, designated a National Treasure, and a beautiful garden where black and white stones create a checkerboard pattern.

Among these, the Tsutenkyo Bridge, spanning the "Sengyokkan" valley within the temple grounds, is Tofuku-ji's most impressive sight. Looking down from the 27-meter-long bridge reveals a panorama of autumn foliage created by approximately 2,000 maple trees.

The sight of maple leaves dyed red, orange, and yellow swaying in the wind, appearing as if clouds are drifting by, is said to be why it's called the "sea of clouds of autumn leaves."

Don't miss Tofuku-ji's unique "Tsuten Momiji" (Heavenly Reaching Maple) as well. Tofuku-ji has a rare variety, found nowhere else, where the leaves split into three and turn golden. There are only a few dozen of them, so be sure to find one and capture it in a photo.

When you visit Tofuku-ji Temple, don't miss Komyo-in Temple and Shorin-ji Temple, which are open for viewing only during the autumn foliage season. At Komyo-in, you can enjoy a dry landscape garden called "Hashin no Niwa" (Garden of the Heart of Waves). The contrast between the deep green of the moss and the vibrant red of the autumn leaves is beautiful. Also, the maple trees on both sides of Shorin-ji's main hall are called "Kichijyo Momiji" (Auspicious Maple) and are said to bring good fortune in finding a partner.

This is recommended for those who want to easily visit a genuine autumn foliage spot with good access from Kyoto Station, or those who want to see rare types of autumn leaves that cannot be seen elsewhere.

Best viewing time: Mid to late November

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

Admission Fee: [Tsuten-kyo Bridge, Kaisan-do Hall, and Main Hall Garden Joint Ticket] Adults | ¥1,000, Elementary, Junior High, and High School Students | ¥500

Access: Approximately a 10-minute walk from JR or Keihan "Tofukuji" Station.

"Sagano Scenic Railway": a charming journey through the valley's beauty by trolley

The Sagano Romantic Train is a sightseeing train that connects Arashiyama and Kameoka. It travels at a leisurely pace of 25 kilometers per hour along a route of approximately 2.4 kilometers, allowing passengers to enjoy the beautiful gorge scenery along the Hozugawa River.

The Sagano Scenic Railway's most recommended carriage is Car No. 5, the "Rich." The Rich carriage is an open-type car with no windows, allowing you to feel the cool breeze while enjoying autumn foliage so close you feel you could almost touch it. You can also hear the sound of the clear Hozugawa River, making it a captivating experience where you can enjoy nature with all five senses.

The train passes through a total of eight tunnels. The moment you emerge from a dark tunnel, the sight of bright autumn foliage spreading out before your eyes is breathtakingly beautiful. The ceiling is also made of glass, so you can enjoy the view of autumn leaves covering the sky when you look up.

At night, a special light-up is also held as the "Illuminated Fantasy Train." The lights installed along the route illuminate the valleys and mountains, allowing you to enjoy a romantic and mystical view of the autumn leaves from the train window, completely different from the daytime scenery. There are also illuminations, creating a feeling as if you are traveling through a world of light.

If you're looking for a unique experience beyond the usual autumn foliage viewing, be sure to check this out.

Best viewing period: Mid-November to early December

Business hours: Vary by season and day

Price: General, 880 yen, 440 yen

Access: Adjacent to JR Sagano Line Saga-Arashiyama Station (Torokko Saga Station)

Kifune Shrine, where you can enjoy early autumn foliage and matchmaking.

Kifune Shrine is a shrine dedicated to the god of water, built along the Kifune River, the source of the Kamo River. The Kifune area, known as "Kyoto's inner parlor," is cooler than downtown Kyoto, so you can enjoy the autumn foliage as early as the beginning of November. This historic tourist spot, where the Heian period female poet Izumi Shikibu is said to have visited, is now also popular as a power spot for matchmaking.

Kifune Shrine is a photo spot where the entire shrine grounds are enveloped in maple trees, creating postcard-perfect scenery no matter where you look. As befits a shrine dedicated to the god of water, the collaboration between the flow of the Kifune River and the autumn leaves is beautiful, making you feel as though your heart has been cleansed.

A notable feature is the many stone lanterns lining the path connecting the main shrine, sub-shrine, and inner shrine. At night, the autumn leaves illuminated by the warm glow of the lanterns create a magical atmosphere, making you feel as if you've wandered into another world.

This is a must-visit spot for those who want to enjoy autumn foliage early in the season, couples who want to enjoy leaf-peeping together, and those seeking a quiet and mystical night atmosphere.

Best viewing time: Early November

Opening Hours: 6:00 AM - 8:00 PM

Fee: Free

Access: Take Eizan Railway to Kibune-guchi Station, then walk 30 minutes / Take Kyoto Bus to Kibune stop, then walk 5 minutes

[Osaka Prefecture] 3 Autumn Foliage Spots Easily Accessible from the City Center

Osaka has several recommended autumn foliage viewing spots that you can easily visit from the city center. Here are three locations where you can fully enjoy the autumn colors even with a short visit.

"Minō Waterfall," with its spectacular collaboration of a waterfall and autumn leaves.

Minoo Falls is a magnificent waterfall with a drop of 33 meters, the only one in Osaka Prefecture to be selected as one of Japan's "Top 100 Waterfalls." Its name originates from the resemblance of the falling water to the agricultural tool "mino" (a straw cape), and it is a famous spot said to have been visited by Oda Nobunaga and Matsuo Basho. The roar of the water as it powerfully plunges from a height of 33 meters and the sight of the pure white spray create a truly awe-inspiring spectacle.

The charm of Minoo Waterfall in autumn lies in the contrast between the white cascade and the vibrant red foliage. Japanese maple and mountain maple trees turn brilliant red from mid-November to early December, spreading their colorful leaves as if to embrace the waterfall. Around the waterfall basin, you can admire the autumn leaves while looking up and being enveloped in negative ions, which is truly breathtaking.

The Takimichi, which stretches for about 2.8 kilometers from Hankyu Mino Station, is another highlight. The promenade, which overlooks the Mino River, becomes like a tunnel of autumn leaves all the way, providing a sense of healing. Along the way, you can also taste Mino's specialty, "Momiji no Tempura" (maple leaf tempura), and the world-renowned "Mino Beer."

For those looking for a nature spot easily accessible from Osaka city, or who wish to enjoy autumn foliage surrounded by nature, we highly recommend a visit.

Best viewing period: Mid-November to early December

Business Hours: 24 Hours

Cost: Free

Access: 40-minute walk from Minoh Station on the Hankyu Mino Line

"Osaka Castle Park" Rich with History and Its Keep

Osaka Castle Park is an urban park centered around the castle tower and 13 Important Cultural Properties. It's a popular spot, attracting tourists from both Japan and abroad as a symbol of Osaka.

At Osaka Castle Park, cherry, ginkgo, and zelkova trees turn color from early November to early December, creating a special, atmospheric scene where historical structures blend with nature.

A particular highlight is the gingko tree-lined avenue that stretches for about one kilometer along the east side of the park. The path, where yellow continues as far as the eye can see, will bring peace to your mind just by taking a leisurely stroll. Especially on sunny days, the contrast between the yellow gingko trees and the blue sky is beautiful, making it incredibly photogenic.

Don't miss the giant ginkgo tree in front of the castle tower, estimated to be 300 years old. The powerfully standing ginkgo tree creates an atmosphere that allows you to feel the majesty of Osaka Castle Park, so be sure to check it out.

This is especially recommended for those who want to easily enjoy a autumn foliage stroll in Osaka's urban areas, or for those who want to see the collaboration of historical buildings and autumn colors.

Best viewing period: early November to early December

Opening Hours: Open 24 hours for free exploration (excluding some facilities)

Cost: Free

Access: A short walk from JR Osakajokoen Station or Morinomiya Station

"Nishikori Park," a hidden gem where you can enjoy autumn in the satoyama landscape.

Source:Walker Plus

Nishikiori Park is a park developed while preserving its natural hilly terrain. It's a hidden autumn foliage spot that recreates the traditional rural landscape of the Kawachi region.

The vast grounds are planted with various types of trees such as Japanese maple, sawtooth oak, Japanese andromeda, and dawn redwood, creating a gradient of reds and yellows throughout the park from early November to early December.

Around Junsai Pond, you can enjoy the reflection of the maple leaves on the water's surface. On calm, windless days, sunlight reflects off the pond, creating a mirror-like image of the autumn foliage. The sight of the gently swaying leaves is mystical and will surely be a soothing experience.

Deep within Nishinokyo Park, there is also a waterfall, and you can witness a collaboration between the sound of the crashing water and the autumn leaves. It is a precious spot in Osaka Prefecture where you can enjoy both a waterfall and autumn leaves simultaneously, making it a perfect spot for photography.

The park is also equipped with walking paths and large playground equipment, making it possible to enjoy a full day combining leaf-peeping with a picnic. This spot is recommended for those seeking a hidden gem for autumn foliage or for families who want to enjoy both admiring the autumn colors and playing with their children.

Best viewing period: Early November to early December

Opening Hours: 24 hours

Fee: Free

Access: Approximately 20 minutes on foot from Nankai Koya Line stations "Kongō" or "Takidani".

[Nara Prefecture] Three Autumn Foliage Spots Where History and Nature Harmonize

Nara, an ancient capital, is brimming with places where historic cultural assets and beautiful nature are combined. Here, we introduce three charming autumn foliage spots unique to Nara.

"Nara Park," a photogenic spectacle of deer and autumn leaves.

Nara Park is a vast park of approximately 5.11 million square meters, inhabited by wild deer designated as a national natural monument. It's said that you can enjoy interacting with the deer if you take a stroll while holding "shika senbei" (deer crackers).

Historical buildings such as Kasuga Taisha Shrine, Kofuku-ji Temple, and Todai-ji Temple are located adjacent to each other, attracting tourists from both Japan and abroad as a symbol of Nara.

Within the park, you can enjoy the autumn foliage of cherry blossoms, maple trees, and ginkgo trees. What's particularly nice is that the viewing period is long: cherry blossoms and ginkgo trees start changing color from late October, and maple trees reach their peak from mid-November onwards. Seeing deer leisurely walking amongst the autumn leaves is a unique experience only found at Nara Park.

Also, if you view it from an angle with the Daibutsudake Pond in front and the Daibutsuden in the background, the red of the maple leaves and the yellow of the ginkgo create a picturesque beauty. If you're particular about photography, please do check it out.

Perfect for those who want to enjoy the history and nature of the ancient capital simultaneously, and for those seeking a Nara-like experience that includes interacting with deer.

Best viewing period: Late October to early December

Business hours: 24 hours

Fee: Free

Access: 5-minute walk from Kintetsu Nara Station on the Kintetsu Line

Enjoy a sky-high stroll on Japan's oldest ropeway at "Mount Yoshino."

Yoshinoyama is a mountain spreading across a ridge that extends about 8 kilometers south from the northern end of the Omine mountain range. It's famous for its 30,000 cherry trees that bloom in spring, but in autumn, their leaves turn red and offer a landscape of "sakura momiji" (cherry autumn foliage). Because of the difference in altitude, it's captivating to observe the gradual coloring from the mountain peak down to the base.

At Mt. Yoshino, the areas are divided from lower to higher elevations in order to signify that "thousands of cherry trees can be seen," hence Shimo Senbon, Naka Senbon, Kami Senbon, and Oku Senbon, each presenting a different aspect.

We recommend enjoying the scenery from Shimosenbon to Kamisenbon via the "Yoshino Omine Cable," Japan's oldest ropeway. This 12-minute aerial journey, ascending approximately 300 meters, allows you to look down upon the mountainside painted with a gradation of autumn colors. It's a breathtaking view, like gazing down upon a carpet of autumn leaves from the sky.

From the "Hanayagura Observation Deck," a popular viewpoint within Mount Yoshino, you can overlook the entire mountain and enjoy a panoramic view of the autumn-colored mountains and the Nara Basin. On mornings following days with significant temperature differences between day and night, there's a chance to witness a fantastical scene of the sea of clouds and autumn foliage collaborating.

Recommended for those who want to experience a sky walk by ropeway, or for those who want to see special sights such as the sea of clouds in the early morning.

Best viewing period: Early November to late November

Business hours: 24 hours

Price: Free

Access: 3-minute walk from Kintetsu Yoshino Station

"Mitarai Valley," featuring emerald green clear streams and beautiful autumn foliage

Mitaraibayashi Gorge is one of the premier autumn foliage viewing spots in the Kinki region, characterized by its numerous waterfalls of various sizes, massive rocks, and emerald green water that is so clear you can see to the bottom. A walking path has been built along the river, making it a welcome feature that anyone can easily enjoy the autumn colors.

By mid-November, various types of trees like Japanese maples, large maples, and maples begin to change color from the mountaintop. The scene, a combination of emerald green water viewed from the suspension bridge, colorful autumn leaves, and a waterfall, is truly like a work of art created by nature. The reflection of the autumn foliage on the water's surface is vibrant, possessing a beauty that makes you want to gaze at it forever.

The riverside promenade is also maintained as a hiking course, taking about two and a half hours, so you can enjoy autumn foliage while getting some exercise. If you want to avoid crowds, early morning is recommended. You can leisurely enjoy the autumn leaves in the quiet mountainous area.

This is the perfect spot for those who want to spend time actively outdoors or enjoy the beauty of a valley. After hiking, you can also relax and soothe your fatigue at a nearby hot spring.

Peak viewing season: Mid-November

Business hours: 24 hours

Fee: Free

Access: Approximately 60 minutes by Nara Kotsu bus from Kintetsu Shimoichiguchi Station (bound for Dorogawa Onsen or Nakaanzu).

[Hyogo Prefecture] Three Top Autumn Leaf Viewing Spots Offering Diverse Scenery

Hyogo Prefecture boasts a variety of autumn foliage viewing spots, from hot spring towns to castle towns. Here are some recommended locations, each with its own unique charm.

"Zuhoji Park," a historic spot for enjoying autumn foliage, beloved by Toyotomi Hideyoshi himself.

Zuikoji Park is one of Hyogo Prefecture's foremost autumn foliage viewing spots in the Arima Onsen area. It is also known as "Higurashi no Niwa" (The Garden of All Day Long) because Toyotomi Hideyoshi praised it, saying he wouldn't get tired of looking at it all day. In 1951, Kobe City developed the site of Zuikoji Temple, which was abolished in the early Meiji period, into a park. It remains a spot rich in historical romance, where Hideyoshi's favorite stone go board can still be seen.

In Zuhoji Park, where 2,500 maple trees put on a colorful display from early to late November, fallen leaves spread out like a carpet, creating a Japanese garden atmosphere that can be fully enjoyed when combined with the stone paths, pond, and moss-covered rocks. Along the autumn foliage walking path, where sunlight filters through the trees, you can enjoy a stroll as if passing through a tunnel of red leaves, with beautiful scenery from every angle.

The quaint gate of the former Zuikoji Temple, relocated from Fushimi Castle, is another highlight. The especially beautiful scenery can be enjoyed in the afternoon when the autumn sunlight filters through.

The "Momiji Chaya" (Maple Teahouse), open for a limited time from early to late November, allows you to take a break while admiring the beautiful autumn foliage. Combining a visit with Arima Onsen allows you to enjoy both autumn leaf viewing and hot springs simultaneously, providing relaxation for both mind and body.

This temple ruin park is recommended for those who want to combine Arima Onsen tourism with autumn foliage, or for those who want to enjoy autumn colors while feeling the romance of history.

Best viewing period: Early November to late November

Business Hours: 24 Hours

Fee: Free

Access: 15-minute walk from Arima Onsen Station on the Kobe Electric Railway Arima Line

The "Rokko Arima Ropeway" where you can enjoy autumn foliage that changes with elevation from the sky

Source:Rokkō Maya Sky Promenade

The Rokko Arima Ropeway is a gondola lift that connects the top of Mount Rokko and Arima Onsen in 12 minutes one way. It ascends a steep 29-degree slope, offering aerial panoramic views centered around the highest peak of Mount Rokko.

The new gondola, introduced in 2020, offers dynamic panoramic views through its large glass windows. From early to late November, you can experience the gradient of yellow beech trees near the summit and the red maple trees around Arima Onsen all at once. In particular, the view of the intensely red maple trees spreading out below to the west shortly after departing Arima Onsen Station, dyeing the entire valley, is breathtakingly beautiful.

From around September, there will be more opportunities to see the sea of clouds of the Tamba Mountains in the depths of Yubosogaya, and you may witness a miraculous collaboration between the sea of clouds and autumn leaves.

Being able to fully enjoy the autumn colors of various trees such as maple, beech, and lacquer from high above is a unique and captivating charm of the ropeway.

On Mt. Rokko, you can also enjoy facilities such as the Alpine Botanical Garden and Garden Terrace, allowing for a fulfilling day that combines Arima Onsen with leisure activities.

Perfect for those who want to experience autumn leaves from the sky or enjoy them along with sightseeing.

Best viewing time: Early November to late November

Business hours: 9:30 AM - 5:10 PM

Fare: One-way adult ¥1,400, child ¥700; Round-trip adult ¥2,520, child ¥1,260

Access: Approximately 15 minutes on foot from Arima Onsen Station on the Kobe Electric Railway to Arima Onsen Station on the Rokko Arima Ropeway.

"Koko-en," where the World Heritage site Himeji Castle harmonizes with garden beauty.

Koko-en Garden is a 10,000-tsubo stroll garden with a pond, built on the site of the Nishin-oyashiki (Western Palace) ruins of the World Heritage Himeji Castle. It is composed of nine gardens, each with a different atmosphere, based on the layout of the mansion ruins confirmed through excavation. It is a spot full of Edo charm, also used as a filming location for historical dramas and TV series.

From mid to late November, the autumn leaves reach their peak, allowing you to enjoy a collaboration with Himeji Castle. The changing scenery of the autumn foliage with each gate and wall you pass through evokes an atmosphere reminiscent of the Edo period daimyo gardens.

During a limited-time autumn foliage light-up event, the park is illuminated in a dreamlike fashion. It reveals a different face than during the day, offering a more atmospheric experience than daylight hours.

At the Katsuiken restaurant within the park, you can savor your meal while admiring the autumn foliage in the garden. A great feature is that you can spend a relaxing, luxurious time while experiencing the Edo period's charm. The entrance fee is also reasonable, making it perfect for those who want to enjoy sightseeing without breaking the bank.

This park is recommended for those who want to enjoy the autumn foliage of Japanese gardens alongside a visit to Himeji Castle, or for those who want to experience the atmosphere of the Edo period and the world of samurai dramas.

Best viewing time: Mid-November to late November

Opening Hours: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (Last entry 4:30 PM)

Fees: Adults (18 years and over) ¥310, Elementary, junior high, and high school students ¥150

Access: Approximately 15 minutes on foot north from Himeji Station on the JR and Sanyo Electric Railway, along Otemae-dori Street.

[Shiga Prefecture] 3 Grand Autumn Foliage Spots with Views of Lake Biwa

Shiga Prefecture, home to Lake Biwa, is dotted with beautiful autumn foliage areas set against a majestic natural backdrop. Here are some charming spots unique to Shiga that you can enjoy alongside the spectacular views of Lake Biwa.

The "Metasequoia Avenue," a charming, cinematic tree-lined road.

The Metasequoia Avenue is a spot where approximately 500 metasequoia trees line a roughly 2.4-kilometer stretch from Makino Pick Land to Makino Highland in Takashima City, Shiga Prefecture. Selected for both the "New 100 Best Street Trees in Japan" and the "100 Best Autumn Foliage Spots in Japan," it offers a truly cinematic scene.

The best time to view them is from late November to early December, and the sight of over 500 metasequoias dyed in gradients of yellow and reddish-brown is breathtaking. The straight tree-lined road creates a mystical atmosphere, like the entrance to a tunnel to another world.

It's also said to be "the place in Shiga where you can see the most beautiful autumn leaves," and it's apparently very popular as an Instagrammable photo spot.

Once the autumn leaves have passed their peak, the leaves of the trees fall, creating a scene that looks like an orange carpet has been laid out on the road. Each step you take creates a pleasant rustling sound underfoot, allowing you to enjoy a leisurely stroll.

After enjoying the tree-lined avenue, we recommend relaxing at a nearby cafe. You can spend a leisurely time gazing at the beautiful metasequoia trees through the window. This is recommended for those who want to take Instagrammable photos or simply enjoy the autumn foliage at a relaxed pace.

Best viewing time: Late November to early December

Business Hours: None

Price: Free

Access: Get off at Makino Station on the JR Kosei Line, then get off at the Makino Highland Line bus stop "Makino Pic Land" for immediate access.

Hikone Castle, where you can enjoy the National Treasure's main keep and the scenery of the Lake Biwa region.

Hikone Castle is known for its white castle keep, designated a National Treasure, which was built in the early Edo period. It remains a valuable cultural heritage site, preserving its original appearance to this day.

Approximately 1,000 maple and ginkgo trees are planted within the castle grounds, and they turn a vibrant color around late November.

Hikone Castle's main attractions are undoubtedly the stunning combination of the castle keep and the autumn foliage. The walking paths along the stone walls transform into a "maple corridor," allowing you to experience historical romance and natural beauty simultaneously. The panoramic view of Lake Biwa and the vibrant autumn leaves from the Honmaru (main keep area) is especially a must-see spectacle unique to Shiga.

Don't miss Gengyoen Garden, located northeast of Hikone Castle. This early Edo period stroll garden, featuring a pond and surrounding paths, offers a beautiful reflection of autumn leaves on the water's surface. The combination of the castle keep and the colorful foliage viewed from the tea house "Hoshodai" within the garden perfectly embodies the essence of Japanese autumn. During nighttime illuminations, you can also enjoy a different, fantastical scenery compared to the daytime.

Nearby "Yume Kyobashi Castle Road" also offers plenty of local gourmet food and souvenirs, allowing you to enjoy your day around Hikone Castle. This is a must-visit spot for history buffs and those who want to fully enjoy autumn leaf viewing along with the spectacular views of Lake Biwa.

Best viewing period: Late November to early December

Business hours: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM (Last entry at 4:30 PM)

Admission: Adults ¥400, elementary and junior high school students ¥150

Access: Approximately a 15-minute walk west from Hikone Station on the JR Biwako Line.

"Eigendō-ji," a premier autumn foliage spot in the prefecture.

Eigendai-ji is an ancient temple, the head temple of the Rinzai school's Eigendai-ji sect, founded about 650 years ago, and is also affectionately known as the "Village of Momiji" (maple trees). It is rich with attractions, including the prefectural designated cultural property of the Sanmon gate and the "Maple Tree Planted by the Founder."

At Ecoming-ji Temple, from mid to late November, trees, mainly Japanese maples, vividly color the temple grounds.

The stone steps leading up to the shrine, especially those looking down on the Aichigawa River, are said to create a beautiful tunnel-like scene with the autumn foliage. Many maple trees are planted throughout the approach, and the sixteen Rakan stone statues are enshrined on the cliff to your left, allowing you to stroll while experiencing both history and nature.

On the back path, there is also a maple tree called the "Golden Maple." It is said that when it is lit up at night, you can enjoy a mysterious atmosphere different from daytime.

The way the trees each turn a different color is also one of the charms, transitioning from autumn to winter.

This is a recommended spot for those who want to quietly enjoy the beautiful autumn leaves in the solemn atmosphere of a Zen temple, or for those who want to calm their minds at a historic temple.

Best viewing time: Mid-November to late November

Business Hours: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM (8:00 AM - 5:00 PM in November only)

Admission fee: Adults ¥500 (¥600 in November only), Junior high school students ¥200, Elementary school students and younger are free.

Access: Get off at Omi Railway Yokaichi Station, then take Omi Bus for approximately 35 minutes.

[Wakayama Prefecture] Two Autumn Foliage Spots Embraced by Nature

Wakayama Prefecture is packed with autumn foliage spots nestled amidst magnificent natural landscapes. We'll introduce you to places where you can enjoy the beautiful autumn colors unique to mountainous regions, including sacred World Heritage sites and historic temples.

Experience Sacred Autumn Foliage in the Holy Land of a World Heritage Site: Koyasan

Koyasan is a sacred site of Japanese Buddhism founded by Kobo Daishi at the beginning of the Heian period. It is registered as a World Heritage site as part of the "Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes of the Kii Mountain Range," and the entire mountain is considered a single sacred precinct, envisioned as the head temple Kongobu-ji.

Due to its high elevation and cool climate, the characteristic feature of Koyasan is that the trees across the entire mountain begin to change color around late October, which is relatively early for the Kansai region. The autumn foliage at Koyasan is primarily composed of deciduous trees such as Japanese maples, maples, beeches, and oaks, creating a vibrant gradation of reds, yellows, and oranges that colors the entire mountain.

Koyasan's most impressive sight is the Jajakuro, which leads from Kongobuji Temple to the Danjo Garan. Ancient cedars, hundreds of years old, line both sides of the approach to Okunoin, and during the autumn foliage season, maple and momiji trees add vibrant color to the path, peeking through the branches.

Every year, from late October to early November, the sky is said to become completely filled, creating a tunnel of autumn leaves. The contrast between the ancient, towering cedar trees and the vibrant autumn foliage offers a mystical beauty that cannot be found anywhere else. At night, the serpentine path is illuminated, allowing you to enjoy a fantastic spectacle completely different from its daytime appearance.

This is a must-visit spot for those who want to experience the solemn atmosphere unique to a sacred Buddhist site or for those who want a special autumn foliage experience within a World Heritage site.

Best viewing time: Late October to early November

Business Hours: Kongobuji Temple 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM (Last admission 4:30 PM)

Fee: Free

Access: Immediately adjacent to the Nankai Koya Line Cable Car "Koyasan Station"

"Kōkokuji Temple," a place that evokes history at the birthplace of Kinzanji miso

Kōkokuji Temple is a historic Zen temple founded during the Kamakura period, renowned as a venerable and distinguished temple, known as the birthplace of Kinzanji miso. Although much of it was destroyed during Toyotomi Hideyoshi's subjugation of Kii in the 13th year of the Tenshō era, it also has a history of being rebuilt in the 6th year of the Keichō era by Asano Yoshinaga with a wish for peace.

The autumn leaves, spreading from the approach to the temple gate, are at their best from late November to early December, and it's a popular spot for beautiful autumn foliage in Wakayama Prefecture. The charm of Gokoku-ji lies in the beautiful combination of the stone steps leading to the temple gate and the autumn leaves. The maple trees planted on both sides of the stone steps turn color, and the fallen leaves that carpet the steps create a wonderfully atmospheric scene.

When you visit Kokoku-ji Temple, you won't want to miss the "Tengu-do" (Tengu Hall). During its reconstruction, villagers believed that the temple was built by tengu, leading it to be known as the "Tengu Temple." Today, a powerful, large tengu statue is enshrined there. The "Tengu Myokon-seki," a strange stone resembling a turtle's shell, is also popular as a power spot and can be enjoyed alongside the autumn foliage.

It is also famous as the birthplace of Kinzanji miso, and is said to be a very important place for Japanese food culture. There is also a shop inside the temple where you can buy Kinzanji miso and other products, so be sure to check it out.

This is a spot highly recommended for those who wish to find peace at a quiet temple in the mountains or visit a hidden gem of Wakayama.

Best viewing time: Late November

Business Hours: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Fee: Free

Access: 10-minute walk from JR Kinokuni Line "Kii-Yura Station"

Before planning your autumn foliage viewing trip! Clothing and convenient item checklist

To comfortably enjoy the autumn foliage, advance preparation is important. In particular, be sure to make thorough plans for your clothing and what to bring. If you prepare well, you can fully enjoy viewing the autumn leaves without worrying about the cold.

Since the mountainous areas get cold, prepare clothing that makes it easy to adjust your body temperature.

In mountainous areas, the temperature is lower than in plains, so be sure to pack clothing that allows for easy adjustment to your body temperature. In particular, the temperature often drops sharply in the mornings and evenings, and it's characterized by a large temperature difference between day and night.

Recommendations include cardigans and hoodies that are easy to put on and take off, as well as lightweight down jackets. For your inner layers, choose materials that absorb sweat and dry easily, and for outerwear, opt for windproof options for peace of mind. Since your feet can also get cold easily, choose thick socks and shoes that cover your ankles.

Comfortable shoes that are easy to walk in are essential for enjoying the autumn foliage.

When going leaf-peeping, wear comfortable shoes that fit your feet well. Avoid shoes with heels or sandals, and choose shoes you're used to wearing. Trekking shoes or sneakers that provide good ankle support are highly recommended.

If you plan on walking for a long time, it's reassuring to check beforehand if your shoes fit your feet well.

Summary

We introduced 19 beautiful autumn foliage spots in the Kansai region. From historic temples to renowned autumn leaf viewing spots in urban areas and magnificent natural landscapes, Kansai is dotted with charming autumn foliage destinations.

Each spot has its own unique charm, with different peak viewing times and access methods. Why not use this article as a guide and head out in search of the beautiful autumn foliage of Kansai?

We introduce power spots in the Kansai area in the following article! Please check it out.