In addition to gourmet food and hot springs, the Kyushu area, with its many World Heritage Sites, also has a lot of breathtaking scenery in the fall. Fukuoka, Oita, Kumamoto, Saga, Nagasaki, Miyazaki, and Kagoshima all have many great spots to enjoy the Kyushu autumn leaves. Among these, the Fukuoka autumn foliage is highly recommended. Read our guide to Fukuoka autumn leaves 2024 here before embarking on your Japan tour to enjoy Kyushu fall.
Table of Contents
1. Fukuoka Autumn Leaves Forecast 2024
2. 7 Popular Spots to See Autumn Leaves in Fukuoka 2024
3. 5 Less-Crowded Places to View Fukuoka Autumn Foliage
4. What to Do in Fukuoka Autumn 2024
5. How to Get from Tokyo to Fukuoka
1. Fukuoka Fall Foliage 2024 Forecast
Autumn foliage viewing is one of the best things to do and see in Japan if you are a nature lover. Just like the "cherry blossom season Japan forecast map" for Sakura viewing in the spring, every fall Nippon Television releases the "autumn leaves forecast", which updates the time when the maple leaves in various parts of Japan turn red. The autumn leaf season Japan is the opposite of the cherry blossom season, as fall foliage in Japan turns red from north to south, so the earliest region to enter the autumn leaves season is Hokkaido, and the latest in Kyushu. This line of advancement from north to south is the "Japan autumn foliage forecast map". From mid-September, the autumn leaves turn red from Hokkaido all the way south to Kyushu, and from the beginning of November, the red leaves can be enjoyed in Kirishima.
The autumn leaves season Japan lasts for 3 months, with different levels of green, light yellow, brick red, and reddish brown alternating together, to showcase the charm of Japan in autumn. According to our autumn leaves forecast Japan 2024, the best time to see Fukuoka fall foliage 2024 is around early November to late November (early December in some Fukuoka autumn spots).
■If you don't know how to plan a tour to enjoy Fukuoka autumn 2024, we'd like to share with you the best Japan tour packages (with Fukuoka included in the itinerary). And just leave us a message if you have any special requests for a private trip to Fukuoka.
7 Days Fukuoka - Nagasaki - Kumamoto - Takachiho - Mt.Aso - Kurokawa - Yufuin - Beppu Tour
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20 Days Tokyo - Mt.fuji - Matsumoto - Nagano - Takatama - Kanazawa - Kyoto - Himeji - Hiroshima - Fukuoka - Nagasaki - Kumamoto - Tour
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2. 7 Favorite Places to View Fukuoka Autumn Foliage 2024
Fukuoka, located in the northern part of Kyushu, has always been known for its beautiful natural environment, warm-hearted people, and delicious food. If you want to enjoy the Fukuoka autumn 2024, don't miss the red leaves there as it is also one of the best places to view autumn leaves in Japan. The maple leaves do not start to turn red until early November and can be seen as late as early December. But where to view autumn leaves in Fukuoka? Now, we'd like to introduce some of the most recommended spots to admire fall foliage in and around Fukuoka.
Yusentei Park
Best time to view Fukuoka autumn leaves 2024 at Yusentei Park: Mid-November to mid-December
Yusentei Park was built as a villa by the sixth lord of Fukuoka, Kuroda Tsugutaka, and is Japan's first Japanese garden in the style of a pond and spring. There are about 150 maple trees planted in the vast park, which will be colored red during the maple leaves season in autumn Fukuoka 2024. The walkway extends around the central pond, providing a picturesque 360-degree view of the beautiful red leaves reflecting in the pond, giving you the feeling that you are invited to another world. You can also enjoy a cup of green tea and a piece of wagashi in this quiet space.
Address: 1-46 Yusentei, Jonan Ward, Fukuoka, 814-0122, Japan
Access: Take the Nishitetsu bus (No. 12) from Hakata Station (Hakata BT 1F) for 45 minutes (310 yen), get off at "Yusen-tei", and walk for 5 minutes.
Hours: Opens 9 am
Phone: +81 92-711-0415
Shiranoe Botanical Garden
Best time to see Fukuoka fall foliage 2024 at Shiranoe Botanical Garden: Late November to Early December
Shiranoe Botanical Park, which takes about 30 minutes to an hour to walk through, has about 800 maple trees to turn red during autumn in Fukuoka 2024. On the 30-minute route, you can enjoy the "Forest of Fallen Leaves" which is made of red maples, and on the 60-minute "circle route", you can see not only the red leaves but also camellias, which come into bloom in November. After the walk, you can also take a break in the teahouse in the garden and taste some delicious Japanese sweets.
Address: 2 Chome-7 Shiranoe, Moji Ward, Kitakyushu, Fukuoka 801-0802, Japan
Hours: 9:00-17:00
Phone: +81 93-341-8111
Kamado Shrine
Best time to enjoy Fukuoka autumn foliage 2024 at Kamado Shrine: Mid-November to Early December
Kamado Shrine is located at the foot of Mount Hōman, which is worshipped as the mountain where the gods reside and is visited by locals to seek marriage. During the best time to enjoy autumn leaves in Fukuoka, about 300 trees on the mountain are covered with beautiful colors. The passageway to the shrine becomes a tunnel of red leaves, filled with layers of red leaves. There is autumn illumination during the maple leaves season, so you can enjoy the stunning view of fall foliage not only during the day but also at night. If you want to visit Kamado Shrine, you can leave from Dazaifu Station and visit Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine, the most representative shrine in Fukuoka, on the way.
Address: 883 Uchiyama, Dazaifu, Fukuoka 818-0115, Japan
Hours: 9:00-17:00
Phone: +81 92-922-4106
Komyozen-ji
Best time to appreciate Komyozen-ji red leaves during autumn in Fukuoka 2024: Mid-November to Early December
Komyozenji Temple, located in Dazaifu, Fukuda Prefecture, was founded in 1273 during the Kamakura period and is a temple built according to the teachings of Tenjin and Zen Buddhism and combined with the inheritance of Tenjin from Song (Tang). The two gardens in the temple are very famous. The front garden is the only stone garden in Kyushu, with 15 stones assembled to form the "Buddha Light Stone Garden". The inner garden is called "Ittekikaitei" and is a dry landscape garden with moss representing the mainland and islands and white sand representing the sea. In Fukuoka autumn 2024, you can enjoy the red leaves in these famous gardens, which is also one of the best things to see in Japan in December.
Address: 2 Chome-16-1 Saifu, Dazaifu, Fukuoka 818-0117, Japan
Momiji Hachimangu
Best time to enjoy Fukuoka autumn colors 2024 at Momiji Hachimangu: Mid to late November
Momiji Hachimangu is the general shrine of the Nishijin and Fujisaki areas west of Fukuoka City and has many devotees. The history of this shrine dates back to 1482, and it was moved to its present location in 1913. The shrine is a veritable viewing spot to enjoy Fukuoka maple leaves, with dense and beautiful red leaves on the shrine grounds, and many people come here to worship in autumn. On November 23rd and 24th, the Momiji Hachimangu will hold a red leaf festival with light sculptures projected on the stage of the main hall and lanterns lit up at night. The shrine will be illuminated by about a thousand paper lanterns, bringing two special days for you to enjoy the colorful autumn in Fukuoka.
Address: 1 Chome-26-55 Takatori, Sawara Ward, Fukuoka, 814-0011, Japan
Hours: Opens 9 am
Phone: +81 92-821-2049
Maizuru Park
Best time to enjoy Maizuru Park autumn 2024: Early to Late November
Maizuru Park is a park centered on the Fukuoka Castle Ruins. Fukuoka Castle was built in the Edo period, and there are still stone walls and archery towers that remind you of the past. Although Fukuoka Maizuru Park is famous for cherry blossom viewing, it is also worthwhile to visit during fall in Fukuoka when the ginkgo trees and maple trees are covered with autumn colors. It is conveniently located about 10 minutes by subway from Hakata, the center of Fukuoka.
Access: Get off at the subway "Akasaka" or "Oho Park" station, and walk for 8 minutes.
Address: 1 Jonai, Chuo Ward, Fukuoka, 810-0043, Japan
Hours: Open 24 hours
Phone: +81 92-781-2153
Ohori Park
Best time to appreciate Fukuoka fall colors 2024 at Ohori Park: Mid-November to the End of November
The Japanese Garden in Ohori Park was built for the 50th anniversary of the park's opening. It is a place where you can fully experience the beauty of Japan, including a large lake representing the sea, three waterfalls of various sizes cascading down the rockery, and a dry landscape garden that expresses the beauty of wabi-sabi. In autumn Fukuoka 2024, you can enjoy the maple leaves in the Japanese garden of Ohori Park and the red leaves of the Japanese zelkova in the park.
Address: Japan, 〒810-0051 Fukuoka, Chuo Ward, Ohorikoen, 公園管理事務所
Access: 10-minute walk from Ohori Park subway station.
Hours: Open 24 hours
Phone: +81 92-741-2004
3. 5 Best Spots to View Fall Foliage in Fukuoka 2024 to Avoid Crowds
Fukuoka is a hot destination during autumn in Kyushu 2024, which means that there will be a large number of crowds in those popular autumn leaves viewing spots. Therefore, if you hope to enjoy the autumn leaves Fukuoka quietly, we strongly recommend the following less-crowded places.
Akizuki Castle Ruins
Best time to enjoy Fukuoka autumn 2024 at Akizuki Castle Ruins: Mid-November to the end of November
It is a bit troublesome to transfer from Fukuoka to the Akizuki Castle Ruins in Asakura, which makes it a great spot to enjoy autumn Fukuoka 2024 with few crowds. This place was originally called "Little Kyoto", and its former prosperity is evident. In this basin with an altitude of more than 800 meters and surrounded by mountains on three sides, the ancient castle no longer exists, only the stone walls and the gates remain. The black gate of Akizuki Castle is famous as a scenic spot to enjoy Fukuoka autumn leaves. The contrast between the black gate and the red leaves is very beautiful. When you are going up the steps, the red leaves form an arch, the sun penetrates through the leaves, and your hair seems to be dyed red. When you come to see the Fukuoka fall foliage 2024 here, don't miss the local persimmons, which are crispy, sweet, and delicious.
Address: Japan, 〒838-0011 Fukuoka, Asakura, Akizukinotori, ６６３
Hours: Open 24 hours
Phone: +81 946-52-1428
Tickets: Free
Raizansennyoji Taihioin
Best time to view autumn foliage Fukuoka 2024 at Raizansennyoji Taihioin: Late November
Raizansennyoji Taihioin is a temple located in the city of Fukuoka, Japan, also known as Raizan Kannon Temple. This temple is 1,000 years old and is surrounded by greenery and pleasant scenery, giving people a quiet and exquisite feeling. The temple is located halfway up the mountain, and there is a large maple tree in the courtyard that is over 400 years old. During the fall in Fukuoka, the tree full of red leaves makes the temple's scenery even more beautiful. However, it may be a bit cold on the mountain, so you need to keep warm during your visit. When you enter the temple, you can feel the beauty of the Japanese temple's courtyard and hear the chanting of the monks. Here, you can purify the mind. In addition, there is a statue of Kannon inside the temple, attracting many people coming to admire and look up to it.
Address: 626 Raizan, Itoshima, Fukuoka 819-1145, Japan
Hours: Opens 9 am
Phone: +81 92-323-3547
Hyugami Gorge
Best time to see Fukuoka Red Leaves 2024 at Hyugami Gorge: Mid-November
The Hinokami Reservoir, built in 1962, is located in the Hyugami Gorge in the upper reaches of the Yabe River. The gorge was formed by the erosion of volcanic rocks, and the strange rocks and cliffs towering over the landscape are the ultimate visual treat. There is a very special heart-shaped rock in the gorge, which makes it a popular photo spot for young people in Japan. Thanks to the construction of the reservoir, Hyugami Gorge has become a famous tourist attraction in the Kyushu area and is crowded with campers, canoeists, and hikers. The fall foliage here is so stunning. In Fukuoka fall, forests and mountains in the Hyugami Gorge are all dyed red by the enchanting maple leaves. I would also like to remind you that Hyugami Gorge is also a famous place to enjoy cherry blossom in spring.
Address: Yabemura Kitayabe, Yame, Fukuoka 834-1401, Japan
Phone: +81 943-42-1111
Mount Hiko
Best time to enjoy fall in Fukuoka 2024 at Mount Hiko: Late to End of November
Mount Hiko has been a place for monks to practice in seclusion since ancient times, and monks still practice here today. When Fukuoka autumn 2024 comes, the maple trees gradually turn red from the top of the mountain to the hillside. You can walk slowly along the path to the Hikosan Jingu in Mount Hiko and enjoy the red leaves along the way.
Address: Mount Hiko 1, Soeda-cho, Tagawa-gun, Fukuoka Prefecture
Nanzoin
Best time to enjoy Fukuoka in fall 2024 at Nanzoin: Late November to Early December
Nanzoin in Fukuoka Prefecture, Kyushu, is home to the world's largest reclining Buddha statue of Sakyamuni, and the process of creating this statue is rich in history and culture. At the main entrance of Nanzoin is the statue of Fudō Myōō. During the grand festival, there will be a long queue here to pray for blessings. The Fudo Waterfall on the side is said to be a place where bhikkhunis are practiced. In autumn Fukuoka 2024, it will be covered with red leaves that tilt down from above. The Sakyamuni Reclining Buddha at the Nanzoin is the world's largest bronze Buddha statue, measuring 41 meters long, 11 meters high, and weighing 300 tons. At the bottom of the reclining Buddha's feet, there are golden patterns. Don't forget to touch the patterns on the soles of the feet to receive blessings.
Address: 1035 Sasaguri, Kasuya District, Fukuoka 811-2405, Japan
Hours: Opens 9 am
Phone: +81 92-947-7195
●Get to Know More Best Places for Autumn Leaves in Japan:
>>>Best Places to View Kyoto Maple Leaves
>>>Best Places to Admire Mt Fuji Fall Foliage
>>>Best Places to See Nikko Autumn Leaves
>>>Best Places to Enjoy Osaka Autumn Foliage
>>>Best Places to Appreciate Tokyo Red Leaves
>>>Best Places to Experience Autumn Leaves in Hakone
4. Things to Do During Your Fukuoka Autumn Itinerary 2024
Fukuoka, Japan, offers a rich tapestry of experiences in autumn, blending cultural charm, culinary delights, and natural beauty. Here's our curated list of things to do during your autumn trip to Fukuoka 2024 in addition to admiring vibrant maple and ginkgo trees at the best viewing spots recommended above.
Indulge in Hakata Ramen: Warm up with a steaming bowl of Hakata ramen, a local specialty known for its rich pork broth and thin, chewy noodles. Visit one of the many ramen stalls or restaurants in the city to savor this comforting dish.
Attend Autumn Festivals: Immerse yourself in Fukuoka's vibrant festival scene by attending events like the Kurume City Furusato Mizuma Festival held in early November or the Kirin Beer Park Cosmos Festival held from mid-October to early November. Experience traditional performances, street food, and lively parades to fully enjoy the fall in Fukuoka.
Visit Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine: Pay a visit to Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine, dedicated to Sugawara no Michizane, the deity of learning. Admire the beautiful architecture, stroll through the serene gardens, and enjoy the colorful fall foliage during the Momiji Matsuri (Maple Festival).
Relax in Onsen: Unwind in a traditional Japanese hot spring (onsen) at places like Beppu or Kurokawa Onsen, both easily accessible from Fukuoka. Soak in mineral-rich waters surrounded by stunning autumn scenery, offering relaxation for both body and soul.
Discover Fukuoka's Culinary Scene: Sample an array of local delicacies at street food stalls (yatai) or izakayas (Japanese pubs). Don't miss out on trying mentaiko (spicy cod roe), motsunabe (offal hot pot), or fresh seafood from the Yanagibashi Market.
Explore Fukuoka Castle Ruins: Discover the history of Fukuoka at the ruins of Fukuoka Castle. Climb to the top of the reconstructed castle keep for panoramic views of the city, and admire the surrounding Fukuoka autumn foliage.
Enjoy Fukuoka Tower Illuminations: Conclude your day by visiting Fukuoka Tower and witnessing its mesmerizing illuminations against the backdrop of the autumn night sky. Capture panoramic views of the cityscape from the observation deck.
Experience Yanagawa's Canal Cruises: Take a day trip to Yanagawa, known as the "City of Waterways" and embark on a scenic canal cruise. Drift past historic buildings, traditional homes, and picturesque landscapes adorned with autumn colors.
Shop at Tenjin Underground Mall: Escape the autumn chill by exploring the bustling underground shopping malls beneath Tenjin. Browse through a variety of shops selling fashion, souvenirs, and local delicacies.
No matter what you are going to explore Fukuoka in the fall, our private tailored trip to Fukuoka promises an unforgettable autumn getaway filled with memorable experiences. If you are interested, you can also read more guides to fall foliage tours before planning your tips for Japan autumn 2024.
5. How to Get to Fukuoka from Tokyo
You may wonder some questions like how far from Tokyo to Fukuoka, how to get to Fukuoka from Tokyo, or how many hours from Tokyo to Fukuoka. Check out the answers in the following before planning your Fukuoka autumn itinerary 2024.
How far is Fukuoka from Tokyo?
The distance between Tokyo and Fukuoka, two major cities in Japan, is approximately 1,000 kilometers (about 620 miles) when traveling in a straight line. However, the actual distance traveled may vary depending on the mode of transportation and the specific route taken.
How to get from Tokyo to Fukuoka?
There are several ways to travel from Tokyo to Fukuoka, each with its own advantages. Here are the most common options:
●Shinkansen (Bullet Train):
This is the fastest and most popular way to travel between Tokyo and Fukuoka.
You can catch the Shinkansen from Tokyo Station or Shinagawa Station in Tokyo.
Take the Tokaido/Sanyo Shinkansen line towards Hakata Station in Fukuoka.
The journey takes around 5 to 6 hours on the fastest trains (Nozomi and Sakura).
●Domestic Flights:
Fukuoka Airport (FUK) is the main airport serving Fukuoka.
Several airlines operate domestic flights from Tokyo's Haneda Airport (HND) or Narita International Airport (NRT) to Fukuoka.
Flight duration is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.
Fukuoka Airport is located about 3 kilometers east of the city center.
●Highway Bus:
Highway buses offer a more budget-friendly option for traveling between Tokyo and Fukuoka.
Buses depart from various locations in Tokyo, including major bus terminals like Shinjuku, Tokyo Station, and Shibuya.
The journey takes longer than the Shinkansen or flights, typically around 11 to 14 hours, depending on traffic and stops.
●Driving:
Renting a car and driving from Tokyo to Fukuoka is an option if you prefer flexibility and want to explore other areas along the way.
The journey by car takes approximately 10 to 12 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.
The expressway tolls and parking fees should be taken into consideration.
Each option has its own pros and cons, so choose the one that best fits your preferences, budget, and schedule. If you prioritize speed and convenience, the Shinkansen or domestic flights are recommended. If you're looking for a more economical option or prefer to enjoy the scenery along the way, highway buses or driving could be suitable alternatives.
How long is bullet train from Tokyo to Fukuoka?
The duration of a bullet train (Shinkansen) journey from Tokyo to Fukuoka depends on the type of Shinkansen service you take and whether it's a direct or connecting route. The fastest trains offer quicker travel times.
Direct Trains (Nozomi and Sakura): These are the fastest Shinkansen services between Tokyo and Fukuoka. They typically take around 5 to 6 hours to cover the approximately 1,000-kilometer (620-mile) distance.
Connecting Trains: If you're taking a train other than the Nozomi or Sakura, such as the Hikari or Kodama, which may require transfers along the route, the travel time may be longer.
How much is the bullet train from Tokyo to Fukuoka?
The cost of a bullet train (Shinkansen) ticket from Tokyo to Fukuoka can vary depending on several factors, including the type of train, class of service, and whether you purchase a reserved or non-reserved seat.
For the fastest Shinkansen services like the Nozomi or Sakura trains, which connect Tokyo to Fukuoka, prices for a one-way ticket typically range from around 20,000 to 30,000 yen (roughly $180 to $270 USD) for standard class (reserved seat). Prices may be higher during peak travel times or if you choose to travel in Green Car (first class) or Gran Class (premium first class).
If you opt for non-reserved seating, the cost may be slightly lower, but availability is not guaranteed, especially during busy periods.
Warm Tips: Our private trip features a private car and private guide to avoid any troublesome transportation during your itinerary. Enjoy it now!
Conclusion
One of the most important reasons why Japanese people love maple leaves is their color. Red and yellow are the colors from which humans can best perceive warmth, and red leaves need to go through the process of turning from yellow to red. In the bleak autumn, they are like a cup of chicken soup for the soul with white smoke, which can give the Japanese people the strength to face the cold winter. Autumn in Fukuoka 2024 is a comfortable season to enjoy a scenic tour. Contact our travel experts to create your Fukuoka autumn itinerary now.