[2025 Latest] 14 Top Autumn Foliage Spots in Yamanashi! Introducing the Best Viewing Times & Recommended Hidden Gems! Also Great for Dates!

[2025 Latest] 14 Autumn Foliage Spots in Yamanashi! Introducing Recommended Spots, Famous Sites, and Hidden Gems! Also Recommended for Dates!

Yamanashi Prefecture, blessed with abundant nature, is a treasure trove of spectacular autumn foliage spots.

The peak viewing season for autumn leaves is typically from late October to late November, and it's charming how the season varies slightly depending on the area and elevation.

This article introduces the latest recommended autumn foliage spots for 2025, ranging from classic popular destinations to hidden gems for a more relaxed experience, and evening light-up events.

2025's Latest! Introducing the Best Time to See Autumn Leaves in Yamanashi

The peak viewing season for autumn leaves in Yamanashi Prefecture varies greatly depending on altitude and location.

Every year, the foliage begins to change color around mid-October in higher altitude areas such as Yatsugatake and the Southern Alps, and by late October to mid-November, it reaches its peak beauty at many spots like Shosenkyo Gorge and Lake Kawaguchiko.

In lowland areas, the peak is often from mid to late November.

It is recommended to check the altitude of the spot you wish to visit in advance and research the best time to see it before planning your outing.

[Classic] 5 Must-Visit Yamanashi Autumn Foliage Spots with Breathtaking Views

Yamanashi Prefecture boasts numerous scenic spots where you can enjoy breathtaking views created by the interplay of Mt. Fuji, lakes, valleys, and autumn foliage.

Among these, the recommended spots that can be enjoyed alongside sightseeing are all popular locations that are bustling with people every year. The scenery created by vibrant autumn leaves and majestic nature is a beauty that you'll want to visit at least once.

Here we introduce five representative autumn foliage spots in Yamanashi.

Passing through a tunnel of vividly colored maple leaves, feel the arrival of autumn at the "Lake Kawaguchiko Maple Corridor."

The "Momiji Corridor," commonly known as such on Kawaguchiko Museum Street in Fujikawaguchiko Town, Yamanashi Prefecture, is a maple tunnel stretching approximately 150 meters along the northern shore of Lake Kawaguchiko. In its peak season, around 60 maple trees blaze with color, captivating visitors. Walking through the Momiji Corridor allows you to experience the arrival of autumn with all five senses.

The best time to view the autumn leaves is typically from early to late November. The Momiji Corridor, in particular, is densely planted with many maple trees, and the contrast between the reflection of Mt. Fuji on the lake surface and the vibrant autumn foliage is breathtakingly beautiful. It's also a very popular spot for photography, attracting many people eager to capture stunning, social media-worthy photos.

Every autumn, the Fuji Kawaguchiko Autumn Leaves Festival is held, with various events taking place primarily around the surrounding facilities. In the Autumn Leaves Corridor, a magical illumination event is held, allowing you to enjoy the autumn foliage with a completely different appearance than during the day. With warm drinks and street food to enjoy as you stroll, it's also a great attraction to savor autumn flavors alongside your autumn leaf viewing.

Recommended for those who want to enjoy the superb views of Mt. Fuji and autumn leaves at once, couples who want to experience a romantic atmosphere on a date, and those who want to take beautiful photographs.

Additionally, there are many museums and cafes in the surrounding area, making it a good place to stop before or after viewing the autumn leaves. If you stay until nightfall, you can enjoy a luxurious moment of simultaneously experiencing the starry sky, the autumn foliage, and the enchanting illuminated scenery in the crisp air.

"Shosenkyo" where you can experience nature's art while strolling through a mysterious valley.

Shosenkyo Gorge, designated as a National Place of Scenic Beauty, is a gorge located in the northern part of Kofu City and is known as Yamanashi Prefecture's premier autumn foliage destination. A walking path has been developed along the gorge, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the majestic natural scenery while strolling leisurely along the approximately 4km path.

The greatest charm of Shosenkyo Gorge is the contrast between the granite boulders and strangely shaped rocks, including Kakuenbo, and the autumn leaves. Kakuenbo, boasting a height of approximately 180 meters, is the symbol of Shosenkyo, and its combination with the surrounding autumn foliage creates an unforgettable spectacular view.

Additionally, at Sengawa Falls, you can enjoy the 30-meter-high waterfall and the autumn foliage simultaneously, fully immersing yourself in a refreshing, negative-ion-rich atmosphere while leaf-peeping. Souvenir shops and eateries are scattered throughout the valley, making it appealing to take a break while savoring Yamanashi's specialty, houtou noodles, and local wines.

The best time to see the foliage is typically from mid-October to late November. It's also maintained as a hiking course, and for those with confidence in their physical strength, we recommend enjoying the autumn leaves by walking along the valley.

Additionally, if you take the Shosenkyo Ropeway, located upstream from Sengatari Falls, you can reach the panoramic observation deck at the summit in about 5 minutes. From there, you can enjoy a breathtaking view of Mount Fuji and the Southern Alps, as well as the autumn leaves, making it an accessible and enjoyable experience even for families with young children.

This is a classic spot recommended for a wide range of people, from those who enjoy nature walks to those who want to easily enjoy spectacular views.

The "Nishizawa Valley," where the emerald green clear stream and autumn leaves create a beautiful contrast.

Nishizawa Valley, a nationally designated scenic spot located within Chichibu-Tama-Kai National Park, is known as a representative autumn foliage destination in Yamanashi Prefecture. Particularly famous is the Nanatsugama Godan Falls, with a drop of approximately 60 meters, which has also been selected as one of Japan's Top 100 Waterfalls. The view, created by the dynamic cascade and the colorful autumn leaves, is breathtaking. Many hiking and photography enthusiasts visit every year to catch a glimpse of its beauty.

Along the valley, a promenade approximately 10km in length has been developed, allowing visitors to enjoy the various-sized waterfalls and streams on a roughly 4-hour circuit. The path features elevation changes, making it a genuine hiking course. A major attraction is the healing experience of observing the gradually changing autumn foliage and listening to the sound of the clear stream flowing down the rocky cliffs as you walk.

The contrast between the emerald green, sparkling clear stream and the trees dyed red and yellow is a sight to behold, and the autumn leaves reflected on the water's surface create a fantastically beautiful scene, like a painting.

The peak autumn foliage season is generally from mid-October to early November, and due to the higher elevation, the colors begin to change relatively early within Yamanashi Prefecture. Therefore, it is also an excellent place for those who want to experience the beginning of autumn as soon as possible.

This is especially recommended for those who want to enjoy active hiking in nature and those who want to be healed by the sounds of waterfalls and clear streams. Additionally, there are hot spring facilities scattered around the area, which is a great bonus for relaxing and recovering from fatigue after your hike.

"Yatsugatake Highland Line" - A collaboration of the grand panorama of the Yatsugatake and Southern Alps with autumn leaves.

The Yatsugatake Kogen Line is the popular name for Prefectural Route 141, which runs from Kiyosato Plateau to Nobeyama Plateau. It is a driving course that traverses a highland area above 1,000 meters in elevation. You can enjoy a drive of about 20 km while admiring the majestic Yatsugatake mountain range, the grand panorama of the Southern Alps, and the gradient of autumn colors from your car window.

The best viewing period is typically from mid-October to early November, when the larch trees along the roadside turn golden, forming a beautiful tunnel of autumn leaves. The larch's autumn foliage has a unique, soft, and warm hue that is different from that of other trees. Due to the high elevation, you can enjoy the autumn colors relatively early compared to other parts of Yamanashi Prefecture.

Along the road, there are also scenic viewpoints and rest areas, allowing you to stop your car and capture the breathtaking scenery. The view from the Mitsu-ga-mori Observatory is particularly stunning, offering a panoramic vista of the Yatsugatake mountains, the spreading autumn leaves, and Mount Fuji in the distance.

Also, we recommend stopping by stylish cafes and shops like Kiyosato Terrace and Moe no Ki Village during your drive. You can relax and enjoy the fresh Yatsugatake air.

The Yatsugatake Kogen Line is recommended for those who want to enjoy autumn foliage while driving and for those who want to easily admire spectacular views. Since access by car is essential, it is a perfect autumn foliage spot for car enthusiasts.

Cross the suspension bridge and experience thrills and magnificent views at "Oyanagigawa Gorge."

Oyanagigawa Valley is a hidden gem for autumn foliage, known only to those in the know, nestled quietly in Hayakawa Town, Yamanashi Prefecture. Surrounded by the rich nature of the Southern Alps, the valley boasts untouched primeval forests, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty of autumn leaves.

The peak of the autumn foliage is typically from mid-October to early November, and the colors created by deciduous trees such as beech, maple, and rowan are spectacular. Vivid gradients of red, yellow, and orange paint the valley, enchanting visitors.

Along the valley, a walking path has been developed, and one of the charms is being able to enjoy a stroll enveloped in autumn leaves while listening to the murmur of the clear stream and the sound of waterfalls. The combination of various-sized waterfalls and autumn foliage is impressive, allowing you to experience the magnificent scenery woven by nature up close.

Furthermore, several suspension bridges span the valley, offering a luxurious experience where you can simultaneously enjoy thrilling views and the beauty of autumn leaves. It is also known as a prime spot for stream fishing, making it popular with outdoor enthusiasts who want to combine autumn foliage viewing with fishing in the fall.

Its charm lies in its calm atmosphere due to the lack of extensive tourism development, making it especially recommended for those who want to enjoy autumn foliage in a quiet environment or for photographers seeking authentic shots.

Located in a mountainous area, the temperature fluctuates dramatically, so it is recommended to take thorough cold-weather precautions when visiting for peace of mind. It is truly an adult's hidden gem for autumn foliage, where you can savor both tranquility and powerful nature.

[Hidden Gems] 3 Spots to Quietly Enjoy Autumn Leaves While Avoiding Crowds

These hidden gems scattered throughout Yamanashi Prefecture are perfect for those who want to enjoy the autumn foliage in peace, away from the crowds.

Unlike popular tourist attractions bustling with visitors, the charm here lies in the ability to connect with nature in a tranquil atmosphere. We will introduce three recommended autumn foliage spots where you can enjoy healing scenery such as lakeshores and valleys.

"Shibireko Lake," where you can view the autumn foliage adorning the lake from a canoe or boat.

Shibireko is a small mountain lake with a circumference of approximately 1.2 km, located in Ichikawamisato Town. Situated at an altitude of about 850 meters, it is a hidden gem for autumn foliage viewing. There are various theories about the origin of the unusual name "Shibireko," but the most plausible explanation is that it was named after the lake's shape, which resembles a dragon with four tails.

The best viewing period is typically from early to late November. The virgin forests of beech and maple trees surrounding the lake are beautifully colored red and yellow in the autumn. On windless days, the trees along the lake are reflected perfectly on the water's surface, creating a picturesque scene like a painting.

Because its fame as a tourist destination isn't that high, a big draw is being able to enjoy the autumn leaves in a relatively quiet environment even on weekends. A walking path is maintained along the lake, and you can leisurely walk around it in about an hour.

You can also enjoy canoeing and boating on the lake, and we recommend the autumn foliage viewed from the water, which offers a different kind of charm. The lake surface in the early morning can be covered in mist, creating a mystical atmosphere that makes photography and strolling an even more special experience.

As this is a mountainous area, there are places where mobile phone signals can be unstable, so it's reassuring to prepare a map and check your route in advance.

This spot is especially recommended for those who want to connect with nature in a quiet environment, for those who want to enjoy photography at their own pace, and for those who dislike crowds.

A special place surrounded by 360-degree autumn foliage, "Koyodai."

Koyodai, located on the northern slopes of Mt. Fuji, is a hidden gem famous for its autumn foliage, as its name suggests. From the observation deck at an elevation of 1,164 meters, you can admire the breathtaking spectacle of the Aokigahara sea of trees spreading out below, the vibrant autumn leaves, and the majestic Mt. Fuji. It's a luxurious experience where you can feel as though you have the stunning view of Mt. Fuji and the autumn colors all to yourself.

The best time to see the foliage is typically from late October to early November. On clear days, you can see the vast Aokigahara forest, the towering Mt. Fuji beyond it, and the contrast of the autumn leaves spreading out before it, as well as scenic spots around Mt. Fuji such as Lake Motosu and Lake Sai, which are overwhelming to behold.

Especially in the morning, the contrast between Mount Fuji illuminated by the morning sun and the autumn leaves is beautiful, attracting many photography enthusiasts who enjoy early morning shoots. In the evening, you can also enjoy a fantastical scene woven by the silhouette of the autumn leaves and the sun setting behind Mount Fuji.

A hiking trail is well-maintained up to the observatory, and you can enjoy a trek of about two hours via Sankodai. Even those who lack confidence in their physical fitness can reach the spot relatively quickly from the car accessible parking lot, making it an enjoyable destination for a wide range of ages.

Recommended for those who want to enjoy Mt. Fuji and autumn leaves at the same time, those who want to take spectacular photos, and active individuals who want to fully enjoy the autumn foliage while hiking. It's also perfect for those who want to avoid crowds and slowly admire the scenery.

"Mizugaki Lake," a stunning combination of autumn leaves and a dam lake.

Mizugaki Lake is an artificial lake located in Sudama-cho, Hokuto City, and is a quiet spot for autumn foliage at the foot of Mount Mizugaki. It is a beautiful lake surrounded by mountains, and because it is located at a high altitude of approximately 1,000 meters, you can enjoy the autumn leaves relatively early in the season.

The best viewing period is typically from early to mid-November, and it's known as a hidden gem in Yamanashi Prefecture where you can enjoy autumn colors early. A walking trail around the lake has been developed, allowing you to circle the entire lake in about 30 minutes. The autumn foliage reflected on the lake's surface, along with the rocky peaks of Mount Mizugaki rising behind it, create a unique spectacle that can only be seen here and is highly recommended for photography.

Furthermore, since you can walk it with a light hiking feel, even those who are not confident in their physical strength can enjoy nature with peace of mind. Benches are also installed along the lake, so if you get tired from walking, you can sit down and spend a relaxing time.

The surrounding area features Mizugakiyama Nature Park and campsites, making it a recommended spot to enjoy in combination with outdoor activities. Furthermore, hot spring facilities are dotted throughout the neighborhood, allowing you to warm up in an onsen after a stroll amidst the autumn leaves.

This is the perfect spot for those who want to enjoy the early autumn foliage, for those who want to spend quiet time by the lake, and for outdoor enthusiasts who want to combine autumn leaf viewing with hiking and climbing.

For those who want to avoid crowds and savor a tranquil atmosphere, Mizugaki Lake is truly a hidden gem known only to those in the know.

Enjoying the autumn leaves at night too! Beautiful illuminated event information

While the vibrant autumn leaves during the day are also appealing, you can experience a magical atmosphere at the nighttime illumination events.

The autumn leaves, illuminated in golden light, show a completely different face than during the day, captivating visitors. Here are two recommended autumn leaf light-up events unique to Yamanashi.

"Fujikawaguchiko Autumn Leaves Festival": Immerse yourself in a magical world, different from the daytime.

The Fuji Kawaguchiko Autumn Leaves Festival is a major autumn event representing the Kawaguchiko area, attracting many tourists every year. At the main venue, Momiji Corridor, the maple trees lining approximately 1.5km turn a brilliant color, offering an experience as if you are walking through a tunnel of autumn leaves.

The event is scheduled to be held from November 1st to November 30th, 2025, coinciding with the prime viewing season around Mt. Fuji, making the collaboration of Mt. Fuji and autumn foliage a major attraction.

What we especially want to highlight is the nighttime illumination. From sunset until 9:30 PM, approximately 400 to 500 maple trees are lit up with golden and vermillion lights, creating a magical spectacle different from daytime. The fiery autumn leaves emerging in the dark night are as beautiful as a painting, making it a very popular spot for dates and photography.

During the autumn foliage festival, you can enjoy local flavors at the "Maple Corridor Marche" and various food stalls, allowing you to savor Yamanashi's gourmet offerings between strolls. Many accommodation plans are also available in combination with hot spring inns, offering a luxurious time where you can simultaneously enjoy the spectacular views of Lake Kawaguchiko, hot springs, and the illuminated autumn leaves.

This event is highly recommended for those who want to enjoy autumn foliage that shows a different face by day and night, couples planning a romantic night view date, and those who want to take fantastical photos.

Enjoy the spectacular view of autumn leaves dyed in the sunset and Mt. Fuji at the "Lake Yamanaka Sunset Shore Autumn Leaves Festival."

Source:Yamanakako Lake Sunset Beach Autumn Colors Festival

The Yamanakako Sunset Shore Autumn Foliage Festival is an annual autumn event held at Lake Yamanaka, which boasts the largest area among the Fuji Five Lakes. In fiscal year 2025, it is scheduled to take place from October 31st to November 16th, with approximately 1,000 meters of autumn foliage illuminated around the Asahioka Lakeside Greenery Park along the lake. Lake Yamanaka is known as the closest lake to Mt. Fuji, and its greatest appeal is the ability to enjoy the vibrant autumn colors and the majestic figure of Mt. Fuji all at once.

At "Yuyake no Nagisa" (Sunset Shore), mentioned in the event name, you can enjoy a dramatic spectacle woven by the reflections of autumn leaves and the silhouette of Mt. Fuji on the lake surface at dusk. The moment the sun sets, the overlapping orange sky and the red of the autumn leaves create a breathtaking beauty. Furthermore, at night, the illuminated autumn leaves shimmer on the lake, creating a fantastical atmosphere completely different from that of the daytime.

Additionally, during this period, local specialty products are sold and various events are held, allowing you to fully enjoy the unique charm of Lake Yamanaka along with autumn foliage viewing. Hot spring facilities and resort hotels are also abundant in the surrounding area, making a more luxurious stay possible when combined with accommodation. It's accessible by car in about 5 minutes from the Yamanakako IC on the Higashi-Fuji Five Lakes Expressway, making it ideal for a day trip from the city center.

This event is especially recommended for those who want to enjoy the harmonious pairing of Mt. Fuji and autumn leaves, those who want to capture a stunning sunset view with their camera, and couples or families looking to spend romantic time by the quiet lakeside.

Summary

Yamanashi Prefecture's appeal lies in its ability to offer autumn foliage viewing for an extended period due to its significant elevation changes. The collaboration between natural landscapes, including Mount Fuji, and the vibrant autumn colors creates a breathtaking spectacle that can only be experienced here.

At popular autumn foliage spots, you can enjoy sightseeing and dining, while at hidden gems, you can avoid crowds and savor a quiet time.

This year, why not spend some time enjoying autumn in Yamanashi?