The Tohoku region, consisting of six prefectures—Aomori, Iwate, Akita, Yamagata, Miyagi, and Fukushima—is home to many beautiful autumn foliage spots. This article introduces some of the most famous places to enjoy the vibrant colors of autumn in Tohoku. During the autumn season, use this guide as inspiration for your autumn leaf-viewing trips!
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Best Season for Autumn Leaves in the Tohoku Region
The autumn leaf season starts in Hokkaido and gradually moves south. Since the leaves begin to change color in colder areas first, the best time to view autumn foliage varies depending on the region.
When is the best season for autumn leaves in Tohoku?
The prime time for autumn leaves differs across regions. Nationwide, the best viewing period typically falls between mid-September and mid-December. However, in the Tohoku region, the peak season arrives slightly earlier, from late September to late November.
1. Oirase Gorge|Aomori Prefecture
Oirase Gorge is a renowned spot for its fresh greenery and autumn leaves. The 14-kilometer stretch along the river offers stunning views of nature that are rarely seen elsewhere. Although it's tempting to explore by car or bus due to the distance, walking the trail is a fantastic way to fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty. The experience of being surrounded by such rich, untouched nature is truly unique.
From early to late October, tourists flock to the gorge to witness the breathtaking scenery. The combination of rivers, waterfalls, moss, and autumn leaves creates a picturesque scene, perfect for social media photos.
- Address: Okuse 60, Towada City, Aomori Prefecture
- Hours: 24 hours
- Best Viewing Time: Mid-October to Early November
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2. Mt. Hakkoda|Aomori Prefecture
Located in southern Aomori, Mount Hakkoda is part of the "100 Famous Japanese Mountains" and consists of 18 peaks. Regardless of the season—whether it's fresh greenery or autumn leaves—the view from the ropeway is breathtaking. On clear days, you can enjoy a stunning 360° panoramic view that stretches as far as Hokkaido. During the autumn foliage season, from late September to late October, the leaves start changing colors at the summit and peak around mid-October. This is a popular time to visit, so be prepared for large crowds.
- Address: Kansuizawa Arakawa, , Aomori City, Aomori Prefecture
- Hours:March to early November: 9:00 AM to 4:20 PM, Mid-November to February: 9:00 AM to 3:40 PM
- *Hours may vary depending on the season, so please check in advance.
- Best Viewing Time: Late September to Late October
3. Geibikei Gorge|Iwate Prefecture
The best way to enjoy the autumn foliage at Geibikei Gorge is by taking a boat ride. You’ll be treated to a panoramic view of the vibrant autumn colors as you glide through the water. The gorge is surrounded by cliffs that are around 100 meters high, and the yellow and red maple leaves create a striking contrast against the rocky landscape. Known as one of Japan’s "100 Famous Views," Geibikei gets particularly crowded during the autumn peak from late October to early November, so plan accordingly.
- Address: Higashiyama-cho, Nagasaka, Ichinoseki City, Iwate Prefecture
- Hours: 8:30 AM – 4:00 PM
- Best Viewing Time: Late October to Early November
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4. Morioka Castle Ruins Park|Iwate Prefecture
Located about a 15-minute walk from Morioka Station, Morioka Castle is one of Japan’s "100 Famous Castles" and boasts a rich historical background. The castle grounds have been transformed into a park, offering beautiful scenery throughout the year. However, the park is particularly stunning during the autumn foliage season from late October to mid-November. During this time, over 400 trees, including maple and Japanese maple, change colors, creating a breathtaking spectacle that attracts many visitors.
- Address: 1-37 Uchimaru, Morioka City, Iwate Prefecture
- Hours: Open 24 hours
- Best Viewing Time: Late October to Mid-November
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5. Senshu Park|Akita Prefecture
Located about a 10-minute walk from Akita Station, Senshu Park is home to many historical buildings, such as the Satake Historical Museum and the Kubota Castle Front Gate, making it a great spot for a leisurely stroll. During the autumn season, the park is filled with colorful maple and Japanese oak trees. The area around the Kubota Castle Front Gate is a particularly popular photo spot for autumn foliage.
- Address: 1 Senshu Park, Akita City, Akita Prefecture
- Hours: Open 24 hours
- Best Time to Visit: Mid-October to early November
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6. Ginyama Onsen|Yamagata Prefecture
Ginzan Onsen gained fame as a setting for an anime and has become a popular destination. At the back of the hot spring town lies the iconic Shirogane Waterfall, surrounded by Shirogane Park. The park offers several walking trails, ranging from 20 to 90 minutes in length, making it easy for visitors to enjoy the vibrant autumn foliage while taking a peaceful walk. The trails are not too difficult, making them a perfect choice during the fall season.
- Address: Shinhata, Ginzan, Obanazawa City, Yamagata Prefecture
- Hours: Open 24 hours
- Best Time to Visit: Late October to early November
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7. Zuihoden|Miyagi Prefecture
Zuihoden, located in Sendai, Miyagi Prefecture, was destroyed during the war but has since been rebuilt and remains a popular tourist destination. During mid-to-late November, the vibrant red and yellow maple leaves make it an exceptional spot for viewing autumn foliage. Additionally, during this time, there is a special light-up event, and the closing time is extended on weekends and holidays.
- Address: 23-2 Otamayashita, Aoba Ward, Sendai, Miyagi Prefecture
- Hours: 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM
- Best Time to Visit: Mid-November to late November
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8. Naruko Gorge|Miyagi Prefecture
About a 10-minute drive from JR Naruko Onsen Station, Naruko Gorge is located within Kurikoma Quasi-National Park. Known as one of the top spots for autumn foliage in the Tohoku region, it attracts visitors from all over during the peak season from late October to early November. The breathtaking sight of the autumn colors against the backdrop of 100-meter-high cliffs stretching over 2.5 kilometers is truly awe-inspiring.
- Address: Hoshinuma, Naruko Onsen, Osaki City, Miyagi Prefecture
- Hours: Open 24 hours
- Best Time to Visit: Late October to early November
9. Fukumankokūzō Bosatsu Enzōji Temple|Fukushima Prefecture
Located about a 10-minute walk from Aizu-Yanaizu Station on the JR Tadami Line, Fukumankokūzō Bosatsu Enzōji Temple is one of Japan's three great Kōzō Bosatsu Temples. During the autumn foliage season, the vibrant red maple trees create a stunning scene. The best time to visit is from late October to early November, when tourists flock to enjoy the beautiful autumn colors.
- Address: Yanaizu Town, Kawanuma District, Fukushima Prefecture
- Hours: 8:00 AM to 3:45 PM
- Best Time to Visit: Late October to early November
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10. Goshikinuma Ponds|Fukushima Prefecture
Goshikinuma, which includes ponds like Akanuma, Yanaginuma, Bentennuma, Bishamonnuma, and Aonuma, offers a scenic 3.6 km hiking course where visitors can admire the colorful autumn foliage reflecting on the waters. The vibrant hues of the trees make the landscape even more spectacular during the peak season from mid-October to early November.
- Address: Yudairayama, Hibara, Kitashiobara Village, Yama Gun, Fukushima Prefecture
- Hours: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
- Best Time to Visit: Mid-October to early November
Explore Autumn Colors in Tohoku!
We have introduced 10 stunning autumn foliage spots across the Tohoku region. Known for experiencing fall colors earlier than other parts of Japan, Tohoku offers numerous well-known locations to enjoy the season. Many places also host special events during the autumn season, making it an excellent time to visit.
Autumn is a time when you can witness a unique and breathtaking side of each location, so why not explore different spots this year? You’re sure to have a special experience in this extraordinary seasonal atmosphere.
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