01/09/2026
đ Everyone talks about Japan in spring. But what about autumn?
Cherry blossom season might get most of the attention, understandably so, but autumn transforms Japan in a completely different way
As temperatures cool, the endless forests, gardens and temple grounds gradually turn incredible shades of red, orange and gold, creating some of the most magical scenery all the way from the mountains right into the heart of Japanâs cities
Imagine wandering through Kyotoâs ancient temples framed by fiery maple trees, seeing Mount Fuji surrounded by autumn colour, or exploring the immaculate gardens of Kanazawa as the seasons change
And thereâs so much more to the Japanese autumn than just the scenery
October and November generally bring cooler, more comfortable conditions for exploring, while seasonal ingredients like chestnuts and kabocha (Japanese pumpkins) start appearing on menus across the country. Itâs a brilliant time to mix the energy of Tokyo with historic cities, peaceful countryside and maybe even a traditional ryokan stay, where an evening soaking in a steaming onsen feels especially inviting as the temperature starts to drop đ
Japan isnât a destination weâd ever suggest rushing. Give it time, head beyond the obvious stops and youâll discover so many different sides that are there waiting to be experienced
Thinking about Japan for 2026 or 2027? Get in touch and weâll help create a unique itinerary built around exactly what you want to see and experience