Japan’s koyo season is one of the most beautiful natural phenomena on earth. From late October through early December, maple trees ignite in crimson and ginkgos turn electric gold. Autumn in Japan is not a backdrop. It’s an event.
When Does Koyo Happen?
| Region | Peak Timing |
|---|---|
| Hokkaido | Late Sep – Mid Oct |
| Tohoku (Oirase) | Mid–Late Oct |
| Tokyo, Kyoto | Mid–Late Nov |
| Hiroshima, Shikoku | Late Nov – Early Dec |
5 Best Autumn Leaf Spots
1. Metasequoia Avenue — Lake Biwa, Shiga
A 2.4km avenue creating a cathedral tunnel of amber and rust. Trees reach 25–30 meters.
Peak: Mid–Late November.
2. Kyoto Maple Season — Eikan-do, Tofuku-ji, Arashiyama
Eikan-do’s pond reflects blazing maple color. Tofuku-ji’s Tsutenkyo Bridge is surrounded by a sea of red and orange. Go at opening (8:30am) to beat tour groups.
3. Oirase Gorge — Aomori
A mountain stream runs 14km through old-growth forest. In October, waterfalls cascade through curtains of gold and crimson.
Peak: Mid–Late October.
4. Hidden Maple Spots — Northern Kyoto
Small streets and canal paths where autumn color appears without the crowds.
5. Japanese Maple Close-Up — Anywhere
Individual momiji leaves span 4–5 colors simultaneously. Shoot at f/1.8–2.8 for beautiful bokeh.
The Philosophy of Koyo
The leaves were admired because they would fall. Find a spot. Sit down. Look up.
Follow @komorebi_japan_official for real-time koyo updates.