Off-the-Beaten-Path Spots to See Autumn Foliage in Japan

When autumn sweeps across Japan, the country transforms into a canvas of fiery reds, golden yellows, and deep ambers. While the famous spots are stunning, they are often packed with travelers. This blog will focus primarily on Shizuoka Prefecture, located in the Chūbu region, while also highlighting some of the off-the-beaten-path places to see autumn foliage across all eight regions of Japan.

Japan’s eight regions are known as:

• Hokkaidō
• Tōhoku
• Kantō
• Chūbu
• Kansai
• Chūgoku
• Shikoku
• Kyūshū

If you are craving breathtaking views without all the hustle and bustle, this guide is for you. We have curated some of Japan’s hidden gems, organized by region, so you can soak in the magic of fall at your own pace. Let’s start by highlighting some off-the-beaten-path spots in Shizuoka Prefecture, Chūbu region, that are perfect for experiencing Japan’s autumn foliage!

Chūbu

Nihondaira Plateau

A scenic plateau in Shimizu-ku, Shizuoka City, offering sweeping views of Mt. Fuji, the Southern Alps, the Izu Peninsula, and Suruga Bay itself. While not a classic leaf-peeping spot, its vistas beautifully incorporate autumn hues across its landscapes and rolling hills.

Address: Kusanagi, Shimizu Ward, Shizuoka, 424-0886, Japan

Open Hours: 9 am – 5 pm, 7 days a week

Phone Number: +81543342828

Website: https://nihondairakankou.jp/

Sumata Pass and Yume no Tsuribashi

Nestled in the northern part of Shizuoka Prefecture, Sumata Gorge is a serene destination accessible via the charming steam trains of the Oigawa Railway’s Ikawa Line. The 3 km “Sumata-kyo Promenade” hiking trail meanders through lush forests, leading to the iconic Yume no Tsuribashi (Bridge of Dreams). This 90-meter-long bridge spans the gorge, offering panoramic views of the emerald waters below, making it a perfect spot for capturing the vibrant autumn colors and creating lasting memories.

Sumata Pass

Address: Inuma, Kawanehon, Haibara District, Shizuoka 428-0402, Japan

Yume no Tsuribashi

Address: Japan, 〒428-0411 Shizuoka, Haibara District, Kawanehon, Senzu, 寸又峡温泉

Open Hours: Sunday – Friday, 7 am – 5 pm. Saturday, 7:30 am – 5 pm

Phone Number: +81547592746

Website: https://yumenotsuribashi-sumatakyo.com/

Mt. Amagi

Part of Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, Amagi offers beginner-friendly hikes amid dense beech forests covered in autumn’s fiery palette. On clear days, Mt. Fuji graces the background. The hiking routes (8–15 km) reward you with spectacular views and crisp seasonal air.

Address: Okawa, Higashiizu, Kamo District, Shizuoka 413-0301, Japan

Lake Tanuki (Asagiri Plateau)

Lake Tanuki on the Asagiri Plateau is a serene getaway where Mt. Fuji’s reflection shimmers on the water, framed by dazzling autumn foliage. A 3.3 km cycling path loops around the lake, inviting you to glide through a tunnel of fiery seasonal colors. For those who love the outdoors, nearby campsites let you wake up to the crisp mountain air and sunrise views over Fuji. It’s the perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable scenery.

Address (observation deck): 2929-9 Inokashira, Fujinomiya, Shizuoka 418-0108, Japan

Open Hours: 24/7

Website: https://tanukiko.com/

Okuni Shrine

Tucked away in the Shuchi District, this historic shrine (1,460 years old) is surrounded by about 1,000 maple trees. The walking path along the Miyagawa River and around Kotomachi Pond becomes a painted dreamland in the autumn seasons, offering a peaceful and reflective escape from the usual tourist flow.

Address: 3956-1 Ichimiya, Mori, Shuchi District, Shizuoka 437-0226, Japan

Open Hours: 24/7

Phone Number: +81538897302

Website: http://www.okunijinja.or.jp/

Hokkaidō

Lake Onnetō (Akan-Mashu National Park)

A secluded volcanic lake near Lake Akan, famous for its emerald waters that reflect the fiery autumn forests. Misty mornings here feel almost otherworldly, and crowds are minimal compared to the popular Daisetsuzan area.

Address: Moashoro, Ashoro, Ashoro District, Hokkaido 089-3964, Japan

Tōhoku

Shirakami-Sanchi

This ancient UNESCO-listed beech forest glows with shades of yellow and orange come Autumn, featuring hiking trails that seem untouched by time. It is located in the Aomori and Akita Prefectures of northern Japan.

Address: Kanda-61-1 Tashiro, Nishimeya, Nakatsugaru District, Aomori 036-1411, Japan

Open Hours: 8:30 am – 5 pm, 7 days a week

Phone Number: +81172852810

Website: http://www.shirakami-visitor.jp/

Kantō

Nakagawa Town

In Tochigi Prefecture, a quiet river valley features paths lined with maples along the Nakagawa River. You can enjoy riverside onsens while gazing at autumn colors reflected in the water, all without the heavy crowds of Nikko.

Address: Nasu District, Tochigi, Japan

Mt. Mitake

Also known as Mitakesan, this hiking area is located in the Tokyo area. While it is less famous than Kyoto’s temples, it is filled with vibrant maples, rustic mountain shrines, and peaceful trails, perfect for an autumn adventure.

Address: Mitakesan, Ome, Tokyo 198-0175, Japan

Kansai

Maruyama Park

Maruyama Park is a hidden treasure where fiery Japanese maples and towering zelkova trees create a breathtaking natural canvas. Nestled against dramatic mountain scenery, the park feels like stepping into a living painting. Gentle waterfalls trickle through the landscape, adding a soothing soundtrack to your stroll. With winding walking trails leading to picture-perfect views, it’s a must-visit escape for anyone seeking beauty and serenity in Japan.

Address: Maruyamacho, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0071, Japan

Open Hours: 24/7

Phone Number: +81755611778

Website: https://kyoto-maruyama-park.jp/

Hasedera Temple

Located in Nara Prefecture, Hasedera Temple, known as the “Temple of Flowers,” bursts into color in autumn, with a five-story pagoda framed by fiery leaves. It remains far less visited than Kyoto’s famous temples.

Address: 731-1 Hase, Sakurai, Nara 633-0112, Japan

Open Hours: 8:30 am – 5 pm, 7 days a week

Phone Number: +81744477001

Website: http://www.hasedera.or.jp/

Chūgoku

Mitaki-dera Temple

Located in Hiroshima Prefecture, a hidden hillside temple complex is surrounded by waterfalls and dense forests. The autumn reds here create a spiritual and peaceful atmosphere, far from the city crowds.

Address: 411 Mitakiyama, Nishi Ward, Hiroshima, 733-0805, Japan

Open Hours: 8 am – 5 pm, 7 days a week

Phone Number: +81822370811

Shikoku

Unpenji Temple

Located in Tokushima Prefecture, this is the highest temple on Shikoku’s 88-pilgrimage trail that can be reached by Japan’s longest ropeway. From the mountaintop, fiery forests stretch endlessly below during the fall months.

Address: Norochi-763 Ikedacho Hakuchi, Miyoshi, Tokushima 778-5251, Japan

Open Hours: 8 am – 5 pm, 7 days a week

Phone Number: +81883740066

Website: https://88shikokuhenro.jp/66unpenji/

Iya Valley

One of Japan’s three hidden valleys, with vine bridges suspended over rivers and dramatic mountainsides blazing with autumn colors.

Address: Nishiiyayamamura Ichiu, Miyoshi, Tokushima 778-0101, Japan

Kyūshū

Lake Kinrin

A serene crater lake on Mt. Aso in Kumamoto Prefecture, Lake Kinrin is ringed with maple and ginkgo trees. The contrast of autumn colors against the volcanic landscapes is breathtaking.

Address: 1561-1 Yufuincho Kawakami, Yufu, Oita 879-5102, Japan

Open Hours: 24/7

Phone Number: +81977843111

Website: https://www.city.yufu.oita.jp/kankou/kankou-2/kankou_cate1_1/kinrinko

Unzen Onsen

A historic hot spring town in Nagasaki Prefecture, Unzen Onsen is surrounded by volcanic peaks that turn crimson in autumn. You can enjoy rotenburo (outdoor hot spring baths) while gazing at the fiery forests.

Address: Obamacho Unzen, Unzen, Nagasaki 854-0621, Japan

Why These Spots Are Worth It

You get all the beauty without the crowds, and each destination carries its own unique charm, whether it is the quiet serenity of a hidden shrine tucked in the forest, soaking in a hot spring surrounded by fiery leaves, or standing on a mountain ridge with endless skies above. These are the kinds of places that make you slow down, breathe a little deeper, and feel like the moment belongs entirely to you.

Tips for Enjoying Autumn Leaves in Japan

• Timing matters: most places hit peak colors from mid-October to early December.
• If you can, rent a car. Some of these gems aren’t easy to reach by train or bus.
• Early mornings are magical: softer light, fewer people, and the air is crisp.
• Dress in layers: Fall in Japan can be warm by day and chilly at night.

Japan’s autumn colors are famous for a reason, but you don’t have to stick to the usual temples and crowded gardens to enjoy them. Whether you’re crossing the Bridge of Dreams at Sumata Pass, cycling around Lake Tanuki, or gazing out over Suruga Bay from Nihondaira, there are plenty of places where fall feels personal and unforgettable. So grab your camera, pack some snacks, and set out to find your own hidden autumn adventure in Japan!

Featured Photo Credit: Satoshi Hirayama

Looking for more hidden autumn adventures in Japan? Check out our top recommended tours here and experience the season in style!