Top 10 Autumn Foliage Spots in Tohoku
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Tohoku, with its rugged landscapes and untamed beauty, transforms into a breathtaking spectacle of color each autumn. The region’s diverse terrain, from towering mountains to peaceful lakes, provides the perfect backdrop for nature’s most vibrant display.
We have analyzed meticulously many different regional rankings to come up with a well-rounded and balanced list that reflects the unique charm of all the prefectures in the region. Stunning riversides, dramatic mountain vistas, Tohoku has it all to show an unparalled autumnal beauty, filled with an explosion of warm colors!
See also: 10 Best Places to See Autumn Leaves in Japan & Japan Autumn Leaves Forecast
1. Oirase Gorge (Aomori Prefecture)
Oirase Gorge (奥入瀬渓流) is a 14-kilometer stretch of natural beauty, featuring a series of waterfalls, crystal-clear streams, and lush forests. In autumn, the entire gorge transforms into a fiery canvas of vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows, creating an immersive experience for nature lovers.
The flat walking trails along the gorge make it an accessible and enjoyable hike for all ages and skill levels. The picturesque scenery is especially captivating near the Choshi Otaki Waterfall, a popular spot for photographers.
Best Time to Visit: Late October to early November
2. Mount Kurikoma (Miyagi and Iwate Prefectures)
Mount Kurikoma (栗駒山) is a must-visit destination for autumn foliage enthusiasts. This mountain, located between Miyagi and Iwate Prefectures, offers some of the most breathtaking autumn views in Tohoku. The hiking trails provide panoramic vistas of the surrounding valleys, covered in a vivid tapestry of red, orange, and yellow leaves.
The contrast between the autumn foliage and the mountain’s rugged terrain creates a dramatic and unforgettable landscape, making it a popular spot for both hikers and photographers.
Best Time to Visit: Late September to mid-October
3. Naruko Gorge (Miyagi Prefecture)
Naruko Gorge (鳴子峡) is one of Tohoku’s most famous autumn spots, known for its dramatic cliffs and vibrant foliage. The gorge is about 2.5 kilometers long and offers several observation points where visitors can marvel at the stunning array of colors.
The deep reds and oranges of the leaves and the sheer rock faces of the gorge is particularly striking. A walk along the trails provides different perspectives of the scenery, making it a favorite destination for leaf-peepers.
Best Time to Visit: Late October to early November
4.Hirosaki Park & Castle (Aomori Prefecture)
Hirosaki Park (弘前公園), home to the historic Hirosaki Castle (弘前城), is a quintessential autumn destination. The castle’s iconic white structure is beautifully framed by fiery red and orange maple leaves, creating a stunning contrast against the clear autumn sky. The park features over 2,600 maple and cherry trees, creating a rich palette of colors.
During the peak season, the castle moat reflects the vibrant foliage, adding to the picturesque scenery. The park also hosts the Hirosaki Castle Chrysanthemum and Autumn Foliage Festival, enhancing the experience with cultural displays and nighttime illuminations.
Best Time to Visit: Late October to early November
 Access |
10-min bus from Chuohirosaki Station |
|---|---|
 Official Website |
https://www.hirosakipark.jp/ |
5. Chusonji Temple (Iwate Prefecture)
Chusonji Temple (中尊寺), a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is set amidst lush forests that turn into a brilliant display of autumn colors. The temple is famous for its Konjikido, a golden hall that gleams against the backdrop of crimson and gold leaves.
Stroll along tranquil pathways lined with ancient trees, exploring the temple’s historic buildings while enjoying the autumn scenery. The sights between the foliage and the temple’s traditional architecture creates a peaceful and spiritual atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for reflective walks and photography.
Best Time to Visit: Early to mid-November
6. Zao Onsen (Yamagata Prefecture)
Zao Onsen (蔵王温泉) is a beloved hot spring resort nestled within the Zao Mountain range, which comes alive with autumn colors during the fall season. Visitors can soak in the rejuvenating hot springs while gazing at the mountains blanketed in rich hues of red, orange, and yellow.
The Zao Ropeway offers a breathtaking aerial view of the autumn landscape, stretching across the rugged terrain. The combination of natural beauty, relaxing hot springs, and panoramic views makes Zao Onsen an ideal destination for an autumn getaway.
Best Time to Visit: Mid-October to early November
7. Bandai-Azuma Skyline (Fukushima Prefecture)
The Bandai-Azuma Skyline (磐梯吾妻スカイライン) is a breathtaking 29-kilometer scenic route that winds through the Azuma Mountain Range. This “Road in the Sky” offers stunning panoramic views of autumn foliage stretching across the mountains.
Along the drive, you’ll encounter several viewpoints, such as the Tsubakuro Valley and Tengu no Niwa, where the vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows of the leaves are on full display. The varying altitudes provide a rich spectrum of colors, making it a must-visit for autumn leaf enthusiasts and photographers.
Best Time to Visit: Late September to mid-October
8. Yamadera (Yamagata Prefecture)
Yamadera (立石寺), also known as Risshakuji, is a scenic and spiritual destination famous for its thousand-step climb to the temple perched on a mountainside. In autumn, the journey up the stone steps is accompanied by views of vibrant foliage that envelops the temple grounds.
The contrast between the stone terrain and the vivid colors of the leaves creates a breathtaking atmosphere. From the top, visitors are rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding valleys, offering a stunning backdrop of autumn colors that stretch as far as the eye can see.
Best Time to Visit: Late October to early November
9. Goshikinuma (Fukushima Prefecture)
Goshikinuma (五色沼湖沼群), known as the “Five Colored Lakes,” is a group of volcanic lakes in the Bandai-Asahi National Park. Each lake boasts its own unique hue, ranging from emerald green to cobalt blue, which becomes even more striking when surrounded by autumn foliage.
The vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows of the trees create a stunning contrast with the lakes’ varied colors, making for a surreal and picturesque setting. The easy walking trails around the lakes allow visitors to fully immerse themselves in this otherworldly landscape.
Best Time to Visit: Mid-October to early November
| Access |
22-min drive from Inawashiro Station |
|---|---|
| Official Website |
https://www.urabandai-inf.com/?page_id=141 |
10. Mount Hachimantai (Akita and Iwate Prefectures)
Mount Hachimantai (八幡平) offers a unique autumn experience with its high-altitude plateaus and volcanic landscapes, providing expansive views of the surrounding areas covered in vibrant fall colors. The mountain straddles the border between Akita and Iwate Prefectures and is part of Towada-Hachimantai National Park.
The region’s geothermal activity adds to the scenery, with fumaroles and hot springs against the colorful autumn foliage. The area is well-known for its variety of hiking trails, which cater to all levels of hikers.
Best Time to Visit: Early to late October
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Written by
Photographer, journalist, and avid urban cyclist, making sense of Japan since 2017. I was born in Caracas and lived for 14 years in Barcelona before moving to Tokyo. Currently working towards my goal of visiting every prefecture in Japan, I hope to share with readers the everlasting joy of discovery and the neverending urge to keep exploring.
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