There aren't many countries in the world where you can enjoy autumn leaves as widely as in Japan. In fact, it's mostly limited to parts of the U.S., Europe, and East Asia. This is why many tourists visit Japan specifically to enjoy the beautiful foliage.
In this article, we’ve carefully selected 10 of the best spots in the Kyushu region to view the autumn colors. Why not use this guide and set off on a scenic autumn journey during the fall season?
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When is the Best Time to See Autumn Leaves in Kyushu? What is the Peak Season?
The best season varies depending on the area, but nationwide, the best time to see it is from mid-September to mid-December. The best season in the Kyushu region is a little later than in other regions, around mid to late November.
When is the Peak Season for Autumn Leaves in Kyushu?
The best time to view the autumn leaves varies by location, but nationwide, the season typically spans from mid-September to mid-December. In Kyushu, the peak season tends to arrive slightly later, around mid- to late November.
1. Raizan Sennyoji Daihiouin Temple | Fukuoka Prefecture
Located about a 20-minute drive from JR Chikuzen-Maebaru Station in Fukuoka, Raizan Sennyoji Daihiouin Temple is home to a 400-year-old maple tree, a natural monument designated by the prefecture. This magnificent maple attracts many visitors, especially during the fall. The temple is renowned for its vibrant autumn leaves, and during the peak season from early to mid-November, both ginkgo and maple trees paint the temple in vivid colors.
The reflection of the autumn leaves on the surface of the pond in the temple garden is particularly stunning, offering different views during the day and night. Even after the leaves have fallen, you can still enjoy a unique scene, as the ground looks like it's covered in a crimson carpet. So, even if you miss the peak season, there is still beauty to experience.
- Address: 626 Raizan, Itoshima City, Fukuoka Prefecture
- Opening Hours: 9:00 to 16:30
- Best Viewing Time: Early to Mid-November
2. Nyorinji Temple|Fukuoka Prefecture
Nyorinji Temple, with over 1,000 years of history, is also known as the "Frog Temple" for its more than 10,000 frog figurines scattered throughout the grounds. During the autumn season, the temple is surrounded by vibrant red foliage, offering a breathtaking view. It’s a popular spot for taking memorable photos with the frog statues against the colorful backdrop of autumn leaves, making it a perfect spot for your social media posts.
- Address: 1729 Yokokuma, Ogori City, Fukuoka Prefecture
- Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Best Viewing Time: Early to Late November
3. Autumnal Forest|Fukuoka Prefecture
Located at the base of Mount Fukuchi, Autumnal Forest (Momiji-no-Mori) gradually begins to change colors from early November, reaching its peak in mid-November. Around 300 maple trees and enkianthus shrubs turn the park into a vibrant display of autumn hues. The lush green of spring and summer is just as stunning as the autumn colors.
- Address: 1604-1 Eimanji, Nogata City, Fukuoka Prefecture
- Opening Hours: 24 hours
- Best Viewing Time: Early to Mid-November
4. Kawakami Gorge|Saga Prefecture
Located about a 30-minute drive from Saga Station, Kawakami Gorge is one of Saga’s top scenic spots. Often referred to as the "Arashiyama of Kyushu," it’s a well-loved location in the prefecture. During the autumn season, from mid- to late November, the ginkgo trees turn golden, creating a serene atmosphere perfect for a leisurely stroll where you can fully appreciate nature. There are also traditional riverboats available, offering a unique perspective on the autumn scenery.
- Address: Kawakami, Yamato Town, Saga City, Saga Prefecture
- Opening Hours: 24 hours
- Best Viewing Time: Mid- to Late November
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5. Jufukuji Temple|Nagasaki Prefecture
About 60 minutes by bus from JR Sasebo Station, Jufukuji Temple in Sasebo City, Nagasaki, is famous for its "upside-down autumn leaves." This unique spot at Jufukuji allows you to see the autumn foliage reflected upside-down by replacing part of the tatami mats in the hall with acrylic panels. This special view is available only during the autumn season, attracting many visitors from both inside and outside the prefecture.
- Address: 276 Nagasaka, Emukae Town, Sasebo City, Nagasaki Prefecture
- Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Best Viewing Time: Mid- to Late November
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6. Yabakei Gorge|Oita Prefecture
Yabakei Gorge is one of the most popular autumn foliage spots in Kyushu. During the beautiful foliage season from early to late November, Yabakei’s autumn colors are considered one of Japan’s "Three Great Autumn Foliage Spots," alongside Nikko in Tochigi and Arashiyama in Kyoto. Visitors can also enjoy trekking while admiring the leaves, allowing them to fully experience nature.
To appreciate the changing colors, there is an annual light-up of the maple trees from mid-October to mid-November in the evenings. Additionally, the Yabakei Autumn Festival is held in late November, so be sure to check the schedule before planning your visit.
- Address: Shin-Yabakei, Yabakei Town, Nakatsu City, Oita Prefecture
- Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Best Viewing Time: Early to Late November
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7. Sarutobi Sentsubo Gorge|Oita Prefecture
At Sarutobi Sentsubo Gorge, you can enjoy the natural scenery throughout the seasons, from the fresh greenery of spring to the vibrant autumn foliage. The well-maintained walking paths make it an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll. As you descend through this national natural monument, you'll come across other scenic spots such as Marinkyō and Nembutsu Bridge, both of which are also renowned for their autumn colors.
- Address: Kusamoto, Yamakuni Town, Nakatsu City, Oita Prefecture
- Opening Hours: 24 hours
- Best Viewing Time: Mid- to Late November
8. Shishigawa Gorge|Miyazaki Prefecture
Stretching about 2 kilometers, Shishigawa Gorge offers breathtaking views, especially during the peak autumn foliage season from late October, when the maple trees gradually change color. Walking along the scenic trails, you can enjoy a one-of-a-kind experience amidst the vibrant autumn hues.
- Address: Kitakata Town, Nobeoka City, Miyazaki Prefecture
- Opening Hours: 24 hours
- Best Viewing Time: Late October to Mid-November
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9. Gokanosho|Kumamoto Prefecture
Gokanosho, located in Kumamoto Prefecture, is a secluded area consisting of five villages: Shiibaru, Nitao, Momigi, Hagi, and Kureko. During the peak autumn season, from late October to late November, maple and Japanese maple trees color the mountains in vibrant shades. The view from the suspension bridges is particularly popular, making it a perfect photo spot and a must-visit for social media enthusiasts.
- Address: Momigi, Izumi Town, Yatsushiro City, Kumamoto Prefecture
- Business Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM (Hours may vary by season, please check the official website)
- Best Viewing Time: Late October to Mid-November
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10. Yusuikyo Gorge|Kumamoto Prefecture
Yusuikyo Gorge is located about 40 minutes by car from Fukuoka and 30 minutes from Oita. It’s a popular retreat in the spring and summer, with visitors enjoying camping and river activities. In autumn, the gorge is transformed by stunning autumn foliage, with maple and zelkova trees starting to change color from late October. The peak viewing period occurs in early November, when the leaves are at their most vibrant.
- Address: 4837-3 Shimojo, Takinoe, Oguni Town, Aso District, Kumamoto Prefecture
- Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Best Viewing Time: Late October to Early November
Let's Go See the Autumn Leaves!
We’ve selected and introduced 10 autumn foliage spots in the Kyushu area. Each location offers unique photo spots and viewing points, taking full advantage of the natural landscape and environment. Why not plan a trip to experience these one-of-a-kind locations during the autumn season?
Many spots also offer special events and illuminations during the autumn season, allowing you to enjoy a different side of the foliage that you wouldn’t see during the day. The autumn season varies by region, so make sure to find the best viewing time for each location and immerse yourself in the beauty of Kyushu’s autumn colors.
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