For those planning to visit the Land of the Rising Sun in the following months, you are certainly in for a treat.
Why? As you probably know, or at least imagine, just as the cherry blossoms adorn the spring months – from March to April, autumn is the season of „momiji” or the autumn foliage, which dresses the entire country in yellows, reds and oranges, transforming the view in an incomparable and unforgettable postcard.
Known locally as koyo, or momiji, the changing colors of autumn leaves are highly thought of all over Japan, for their stunning beauty and cultural significance.
Before we talk about the forecasted autumn foliage dates in Japan, we shall note that there are two types of momiji: the yellow foliage and the red foliage. Yellow leaves refer to ginkgo trees, which usually change color from lush green to yellow in mid-November. Red, on the other hand, refers to the leaves created by japanese maple trees from late November to early December.
Thus, we will refer to two different forecasts.
The peak of the season
This year the fall foliage forecast suggests a considerable delay in reaching the peak of its famous Japanese autumn landscape, where most of the trees have already changed colors and, just as the spring breeze blows the petals of cherry blossoms, this season, it would row the dry leaves.
When we talk about the peak of the season, we talk about the moment of utmost interest, when all leaves would have already reddened or yellowened, yet not to panic, the changing process of the leaves is quite lenghty, therefore the charm of the landscape and the autumnal atmosphere can be felt throughout the entirety of the autumn months.
The red maple tree folliage:
The yellow ginko tree folliage:
According to the latest forecast published by the Japan Meteorological Corporation, the peak of the maple tree red foliage would be expected around December 1st in Tokyo, around December 12th in Kyoto, varying by region. Northern regions such as Hokkaido are expected to start showing color in early November, while southern regions may turn out as late as mid-December this year.
Just as the maple leaves, the yellow foliage is expected to be showing up later than usual, with its peak around November 26th in Tokyo, November 28th in Kyoto, in Hokkaido in early November, and in the southern areas of the archipelago around the end of November.
Momijigari and the seasonal celebrations:
Momijigari is the seasonal phenomenon equivalent to „hanami”, which means cherry blossom viewing, except it refers to gazing at the autumn foliage, and is a popular way to celebrate the new season and its perks.
Although it seems that Japan is experiencing a late autumn this year, natural beauty is eagerly awaited by the japanese, just as every year, thus sparking numerous festivals and all kinds of celebrations around them.
Best spots for „momijigari”
Where are the best places to spot the autumn folliage?
Gyoen National Garden
One of the largest and most beautiful parks in Tokyo, Gyoen National Garden offers an oasis of calm in the bustling district of Shinjuku. Originally built as a private residence for a feudal lord during the Edo period, it later became an imperial garden before finally opening to the public in 1949.
Arashiyama
Located in Kyoto and famous for its bamboo forest, the area becomes even more charming in autumn, with the mountains surrounding Arashiyama turning vibrant shades of red and orange.
Kiyomizu-dera
One of Kyoto’s most iconic temples, Kiyomizu-dera offers an incredible view of the city and its surrounding hills, filled with autumnal charm and color.
Nara
Nara, with its famous deers and historical architecture, is also a perfect destination for a walk through the autumn foliage lined paths.
Hokkaido
Although one of the regions with a lower temperature, Hokkaido is a perfect destination for this year precisely because of its climate, being one of the first areas where the autumn foliage is expected to change color. As we mentioned earlier, the forecast predicts that this process would start early in November.
To keep in mind for a potential visit in Japan during the momiji season:
- Early reservations and bookings:
First of all, considering that this season is the second most popular after the „sakura” season to visit Japan, our recommendation would be to check the foliage forecasts early in the planning process of your trip and make early bookings accordingly.
- Stray away from the big cities:
During this time around, natural beauty is prevalent, so our recommendation would be not to shy away from less urban destinations that are closer to nature, to quietly enjoy what a Japanese autumn has to offer. In many rural areas you can even take part in festivals and celebrations, to truly immerse yourself in the experience of Japanese tradition.
- Charge your batteries and do not forget your cameras!
And for a good reason!
Trust us, you will want to show everyone back home what sublime landscapes you witnessed.
After all, the momiji season in remains an unforgettable experience, even in 2024, when the leaves are expected to show up a little later than in previous years, this delay only adding to its charm and teaching us a lesson on the patience of the japanese when it comes to natural rhythm, giving us the chance to enjoy the spectacle of nature in a different light, each time.
Whether you choose to explore the historic temples of Kyoto, the cool landscapes of Sapporo or the tucked away gardens, the fall colors are bound to impress you. In 2024, the momiji season awaits with vibrant landscapes, a special atmosphere and the perfect opportunity to rediscover the beauty of Japan in all its autumnal splendor.
