Japan's autumn leaves are one of the country's most breathtaking sights, and if you're planning to catch the perfect fall colors in 2026, the Japan Autumn Leaves Forecast 2026 map is here to help. In this guide, we'll break down the best times and places to see the stunning autumn colors based on the latest fall foliage map Japan, so you can plan your trip accordingly and make the most of this vibrant autumn season. If you want a stress-free, private guided Japan autumn tour, feel free to contact us anytime!
Table of Contents
1. Japan Autumn Leaves Forecast 2026 Map
2. Japan Fall Foliage Forecast 2025 Map Released by JMC
3. More Reference: 2025 & 2024 Japan Autumn Foliage Forecast By City
4. Best Japan Autumn Leaves Tour Packages for 2026
A Quick Note Before You Plan:
Please keep in mind that the Japan fall foliage forecast map 2026 is just a guide, as the actual dates can vary due to weather conditions like temperature and rainfall. To increase your chances of seeing Japan's stunning foliage at its peak, stay flexible with your travel dates and consider planning a longer trip to visit more cities. Ready to customize your Japan autumn tours below? Get in touch and we'll tailor it just for you.
10 Days Tokyo - Mt.Fuji - Hakone - Nagoya - Nakasendo - Kyoto - Osaka Tour
10 days | From $ 6250
14 Days Tokyo - Nikko - Mt. Fuji - Hakone - Kyoto - Hiroshima - Nara - Osaka Tour
14 days | From $ 7355
7 Days Tokyo - Mt.Fuji - Kyoto - Nara - Osaka Tour
7 days | From $ 3450
11 Days Tokyo - Nikko - Mt.Fuji - Hakone - Kyoto - Nara - Osaka Tour
11 days | From $ 6664
1. Japan Fall Foliage Map 2026
The 2026 foliage map reveals a beautifully staggered progression of autumn colors from north to south, following the classic seasonal shift across Japan. The early foliage is expected in Sapporo around October 28, while the southernmost city, Kagoshima, is forecast to reach its peak around December 15. This spread suggests a generous window of nearly two months for you to enjoy the Japan maple leaf season 2026, depending on the destinations you choose.
Compared to previous years, the autumn schedule Japan 2026 appears slightly earlier in northern areas like Sapporo and Nagano, and slightly later in southern areas such as Kyoto, Osaka, and Kagoshima, giving you extra flexibility for leaf-peeping adventures.
First Impressions on the Fall Foliage Map 2026 Japan
The Japan fall foliage forecast 2026 shows a gradual southward flow of color, typical of Japan's koyo (紅葉) season. Here's what stands out in each region:
Southern Japan (Kyushu and Shikoku)
Fukuoka (12/1)
Kochi (12/2)
Kagoshima (12/15)
Observation: The Kyushu and Shikoku regions are expected to reach their peak in early to mid-December - slightly later than average. Kagoshima, in particular, is forecasted to be among the last in Japan to experience peak foliage, not until mid-December. Therefore, if you head south, it is a rare chance to enjoy the colors well into the final month of the year.
Central Japan (Chubu, Kansai, Tokai)
Nagano (11/12)
Kanazawa (11/24)
Nagoya (11/28)
Kyoto (12/5)
Osaka (12/1)
Wakayama (12/6)
Observation: The central region offers a wide window for viewing autumn foliage. Nagano begins as early as mid-November, while Kyoto and Osaka stretch into early December. The later peak in Kyoto (forecasted for Dec 5) suggests that the best colors will appear during the first week of December, so you will have more time to enjoy the iconic fall scenes at temples and gardens.
Kanto Region (Tokyo Area)
Observation: Tokyo fall foliage is forecast to peak in late November, aligning well with past seasonal averages. This makes the capital city an excellent midpoint destination, especially for those who travel from the north to the south. Urban parks like Shinjuku Gyoen and Rikugien should be glowing by the last week of November.
Northern Japan (Tohoku and Hokkaido)
Sapporo (10/28)
Aomori (11/13)
Sendai (11/21)
Observation: Northern Japan continues to lead the Japan fall season 2026. According to the Japan foliage map, Sapporo kicks off the national foliage wave with a peak forecast of October 28, followed by Aomori and Sendai in mid to late November. These earlier autumn dates Japan reflect the colder climate in the region and offer a great opportunity for early leaf-peeping before the crowds descend further south.
Is 2026 a Normal Momiji Season?
Yes! 2026 is shaping up to be a fairly typical koyo season overall, with no drastic shifts in dates or unusual delays. While some variations (a few days earlier or later) are expected due to weather fluctuations, the national trend aligns closely with historical averages.
That said, Kyoto (Dec 5) and Kagoshima (Dec 15) are forecasted to hit their peak slightly later than usual, likely due to milder autumn temperatures in southern Japan. Still, the Momiji season Japan 2026 remains well within the usual November-early December window for most regions.
2026 Travel Advice Based on the Latest Japan Autumn Leaves Map
The Japan autumn foliage forecast 2026 shows a balanced progression of colors from north to south, giving travelers flexibility to plan around their ideal timing and interests. Check out the best autumn leaves Japan dates and places to visit based on your travel goals:
| Travel Goal | Best Momiji Time in Japan | Recommended Area |
| Early Autumn Colors | October 25 - November 5 | Sapporo, Aomori |
| Classic Foliage Season | November 10 - November 28 | Sendai, Tokyo, Nagano, Kanazawa, Hiroshima |
| Late Season Beauty | November 30 - December 6 | Osaka, Kyoto, Wakayama, Kochi, Fukuoka |
| Final Moments of Koyo | December 10 - December 15 | Kagoshima |
If you're planning an autumn leaves tour Japan 2026, use the Momiji map to strategically plan your route and timing:
Late October - Early November: Head to Hokkaido (Sapporo) and Tohoku (Aomori, Nagano).
Mid to Late November: Ideal for Sendai, Kanazawa, Hiroshima - cities that balance crisp weather and vivid colors.
Late November - Early December: Great time for Tokyo, Nagoya, Osaka, and Fukuoka.
Early to Mid December: Visit Kyoto, Wakayama, Kochi, and Kagoshima for the season's final blaze of color.
As always, consider staying flexible, as local weather patterns (especially typhoons or warm spells) can still influence the best time to see autumn leaves in Japan and the intensity of colors.
Ideal Itinerary Ideas Based on the Japan Autumn Map 2026
To make the most of the maple season in Japan, here are a few itinerary ideas based on the Japan foliage forecast 2026:
Option 1: Classic Autumn Highlights (Nov 20 - 30)
Tokyo → Kanazawa → Kyoto
Experience city parks, historic gardens, and temples with glowing maple leaves in full display.
Option 2: North to South Trail (Oct 28 - Dec 5)
Sapporo → Sendai → Tokyo → Kyoto → Fukuoka
Chase the color change southward as the maple season Japan progresses.
Option 3: Cultural Escape in Peak Kyoto (Dec 1 - 6)
Base yourself in Kyoto and nearby Osaka, where temples like Kiyomizudera and Eikando will be lit up at night and bursting with deep reds and golds.
★Tip: If you're planning a longer trip, consider starting in the Tohoku or Hokkaido regions in late October, then slowly head south to Kyushu by mid-December for a scenic chase of Japan's fall foliage wave.
Where to Go Based on Your Travel Style
Whether you're chasing vivid maple-lined temples, quiet countryside escapes, or bold road trip adventures, autumn in Japan 2026 has the perfect destination for every kind of traveler:
| Type of Trip | Recommended Cities | Why? |
| Classic fall foliage experience | Kyoto, Tokyo, Osaka | Timed for peak colors, with iconic parks, gardens, and temples. |
| Less crowded, tranquil getaway | Kochi, Wakayama, Fukuoka | Later foliage season, laid-back pace, and fewer tourists. |
| Off-the-beaten-path adventure | Aomori, Nagano, Kagoshima | Scenic mountain or southern views, perfect for photographers and hikers. |
| Ultimate koyo road trip | From Sapporo to Kagoshima | Follow the foliage wave from Hokkaido in October to Kyushu in December! |
For Nature Lovers:
Head to Nagano and Aomori - mountainous regions that boast dramatic scenery and hiking trails ablaze with autumn hues.
For Photographers:
Don't miss Kyoto in early December. The iconic combination of red maple leaves and ancient architecture makes for unforgettable shots.
For First-Time Visitors:
Plan around Tokyo, Osaka, and Hiroshima for a balance of foliage and urban sightseeing.
For Culture Seekers:
Kanazawa and Kyoto offer rich cultural experiences with picture-perfect fall backdrops
Pro Travel Tips for Autumn Foliage Japan 2026
Book early: Peak autumn is a popular season in Japan. Reserve your hotels and JR Passes 2-3 months in advance, especially for Kyoto and Tokyo.
Check local foliage updates: Peak colors can shift slightly. Use live reports on websites like Weathernews or the Japan Meteorological Corporation closer to your trip.
Layer up: While early November can be crisp and pleasant, temperatures drop significantly in the evenings by late November and December.
Travel midweek: Popular parks and temples (especially in Kyoto) get very crowded on weekends. Midweek visits offer a more peaceful experience.
If you're traveling with family or elderly members, pair leaf-peeping with hot spring towns like Hakone, Beppu, or Mt. Fuji Onsen for a relaxing seasonal escape during Japan autumn 2026.
2. Fall Foliage Map 2025 Japan – The Facts
If you are planning a fall trip to Japan in 2026 and want a better idea of when the leaves usually turn, the latest official data we can look at is the 2025 Japan autumn leaves forecast from the Japan Meteorological Corporation (JMC). Their 2026 map will not come out until next year, so the 2025 predictions give us a super helpful reference point. I have gone through all three editions of the Japan autumn leaves forecast 2025 map released by the JMC and pulled together the main trends for you.
Think of this section as your "look back before you look forward" guide. So grab a warm drink and let's dive into how Japan fall colors 2025 moved and what that might mean for your 2026 travel plans.
First Things First: How Did the Autumn Leaves Forecast Japan 2025 Shift?
Check out when the release of 2025 autumn foliage forecast by JMC is below:
Each new JMC foliage forecast update reflected the latest temperature swings across Japan. And just like cherry blossom forecasts, the autumn leaves forecast can shift pretty quickly depending on the weather. Warmer-than-usual autumns usually push everything a little later, while sudden cold snaps can speed things up. Let's take a look at how the predicted peak momiji 2025 dates changed across Japan's major cities.
Quick Snapshot: Fall Foliage Forecast Japan 2025 Shifts Across Major Cities
| City | 1st Forecast | 2nd Forecast | 3rd Forecast | Change |
| Sapporo | Nov 7 | Nov 9 | Nov 5 | Slightly earlier |
| Sendai | Nov 26 | Nov 27 | Nov 27 | Very stable |
| Tokyo | Nov 30 | Dec 1 | Dec 2 | Gradually later |
| Nagoya | Dec 3 | Dec 3 | Dec 5 | Later by two days |
| Osaka | Dec 4 | Dec 5 | Dec 7 | Later by three days |
| Fukuoka | Dec 9 | Dec 9 | Dec 12 | Later by three days |
What Changed and Why?
Northern Japan: Mostly steady with one tiny curveball
Sapporo barely budged, shifting by just a few days. The final forecast moved earlier, hinting at a brief cold spell at the start of November. Sendai? Totally calm and predictable. It stayed almost exactly the same through every update.
Central Japan: Running late across the board
Tokyo, Nagoya, and Osaka all saw their peak dates nudged later and later. By the November update, everything slid into early December. This lines up perfectly with Japan's recent warm autumn trend, where the leaves take their time shifting from green to gold.
Southern Japan: The slowest to change (as always)
Fukuoka held steady at first, then slowly inched toward mid December. No surprise here. Kyushu almost always has one of the latest foliage seasons in the country.
Fun Trends from the Autumn Foliage Forecast Japan 2025
Let's see some fun little shifts of the Japan Momiji forecast 2025:
The early forecasts in September and October barely changed at all.
The biggest delays showed up in central Japan once the November update arrived.
Sapporo moved slightly earlier while almost everyone else trended later.
December foliage is becoming more normal for Tokyo, Osaka, and Nagoya.
Warm autumn temperatures continue to be the main reason everything gets pushed back.
It almost feels like the koyo front is drifting south at a relaxed pace while northern Japan gets a quick early snap of color.
What It Means for Your 2026 Autumn Tours Japan
Even though this is last year's data, it is incredibly helpful when planning your 2026 autumn trip to Japan. Here is what the Japan autumn 2025 forecast trends suggest:
Peak foliage can shift by two to seven days depending on temperature changes.
Central Japan continues to peak later in the season, often into early December.
Northern regions like Hokkaido and Tohoku are your best bet for late October to mid-November travel.
If you prefer traveling later in the season, Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and Nagoya still offer amazing colors through early December.
Southern Japan (like Fukuoka) gives you an even longer window extending into mid-December.
Looking back at the Japan red leaves forecast 2025 map helps you understand how the 2026 season may unfold and gives you more confidence when planning your trip.
Bonus Reference: A Quick Look at JMC's 2024 Forecast Maps
If you want an even clearer picture of how much the autumn leaves forecast can shift from one update to the next, here is a quick look at the four prediction maps the JMC released back in 2024. They updated the forecast in early September, early October, late October, and late November, and the changes across those maps tell an interesting story.
Even though these dates are from two seasons ago, they are a great reminder that the koyo forecast is never set in stone. Weather patterns, warm spells, and sudden cold snaps can all nudge the peak a little earlier or later. So when you are planning your 2026 Japan autumn trip, it is always smart to build in a little wiggle room.
Here are the four JMC 2024 maps for quick reference:
They make a great companion to the 2025 Japan fall foliage forecast maps above and help you see the broader trends before looking forward to 2026.
3. Extra Autumn Dates Information for More Details on Japan Fall Foliage Forecast
If the autumn leaves map Japan we shared earlier doesn't give you quite enough detail to plan your ideal trip, don't worry, we've got more helpful info for you! The Japan Meteorological Corporation also released city-by-city fall foliage forecasts for both 2024 and 2025, covering popular destinations from Hokkaido to Kyushu.
Here's a quick look at those past season trends:
Forecasted Japan Autumn Foliage 2025 Dates Summary:
The 2025 season showed noticeable shifts, with many cities turning later than usual, especially Kyoto, Wakayama, and Kochi which peaked about one to two weeks behind their average dates. Northern areas were mixed, with Sapporo running late and Aomori slightly early, while places like Fukuoka stayed right on schedule. Overall, 2025 was a year of clear early and late variations depending on the region.
Forecasted Japan Autumn Foliage 2024 Dates Summary:
The 2024 season showed clear delays across almost all major cities, with places like Tokyo, Nagano, Kanazawa, Kyoto, and Hiroshima turning a full week or more later than their average dates. Northern areas such as Sapporo were also noticeably late, while southern cities like Fukuoka and Kagoshima stayed closer to normal. So, 2024 was a noticeably late season throughout Japan.
You can use these past fall foliage predictions as extra references when planning your 2026 Japan autumn trip. Whether you're chasing golden maple tunnels in Kyoto or crisp mountain scenery in Nagano, keeping these Japan autumn forecasts in mind can help you better align your travel dates with the peak of its breathtaking fall colors. Even small shifts in timing can make a big difference in catching the best views, so it's always smart to look at recent patterns while planning your autumn leaves tour Japan ahead.
4. Recommended Japan Autumn Tours 2026
Thinking about a trip to Japan this fall but still not sure where to start? With fiery maple leaves, golden ginkgo trees, and cozy onsen towns, autumn in Japan is absolutely magical, but choosing the right autumn tours Japan can feel like a lot. No worry! We've put together 4 fun and easy-to-follow tour ideas for different kinds of travelers: families with little kids, those with teens, seniors looking for a slower pace, and anyone who's all about food and hot springs. All our autumn tours can be tailored to your wishes!
7 Days Tokyo - Mt.Fuji - Kyoto - Nara - Osaka Tour
7 days | From $ 3450
10 Days Tokyo - Hakone -Kyoto - Nara - Osaka Tour
10 days | From $ 5389
10 Days Tokyo - Mt.Fuji - Hakone - Nagoya - Nakasendo - Kyoto - Osaka Tour
10 days | From $ 6250
14 Days Tokyo - Nikko - Mt. Fuji - Hakone - Kyoto - Hiroshima - Nara - Osaka Tour
14 days | From $ 7355
Let's take a quick look at these autumn tours Japan for 2026:
| Autumn Leaves Tour Japan 2026 | Duration | Route | Best For |
| Family Tour with Kids | 7 Days | Tokyo – Mt. Fuji – Kyoto – Nara – Osaka | Families with young children |
| Family Tour with Teenagers | 10 Days | Tokyo – Hakone – Kyoto – Nara – Osaka | Active families with teens |
| Senior-Friendly Autumn Journey | 10 Days | Tokyo – Mt. Fuji – Hakone – Nagoya – Nakasendo – Kyoto – Osaka | Seniors, relaxed-paced travelers |
| Onsen & Autumn Gourmet Experience | 14 Days | Tokyo – Nikko – Mt. Fuji – Hakone – Kyoto – Hiroshima – Nara – Osaka | Foodies & onsen lovers |
Tour 1: 7-Day Autumn Trip to Japan with Kids
-Days: 7 (Customizable)
-Route: Tokyo - Mt. Fuji - Kyoto - Nara - Osaka
-Cater for: Families seeking a perfect mix of natural beauty, family-friendly activities, and immersive cultural experiences
Designed for families with kids, this 7-day fun-filled itinerary takes you through Japan's most stunning autumn landscapes and exciting attractions:
Marvel at the vibrant Japan fall colors at iconic spots like Meiji Jingu Gaien Ginkgo Avenue and Lake Kawaguchi Maple Corridor.
Hop on a water bus in Tokyo for a 360° view of the city's scenic waterways and the Port of Tokyo.
Enter the magical world of digital art at TeamLab Borderless Tokyo, where immersive light shows create unforgettable experiences for kids and adults alike.
Savor the flavors of Uji's famous matcha ice cream and discover the ancient art of tea preparation.
Embark on a culinary adventure through Dotonbori, tasting Osaka's famous street foods like takoyaki, cheesecake, and wagyu beef yakitori.
Take a ride on Osaka's Ferris wheel for a bird's eye view of the autumn foliage, followed by sparkling cityscapes at night.
Embrace the world of ninjas! Dress up, train with weapons, and learn martial arts skills like shuriken throwing and blowgun practice.
Tour 2: 10-Day Japan Autumn Family Tour with Teenagers
-Days: 10 (Customizable)
-Route: Tokyo - Hakone - Kyoto - Nara - Osaka
-Cater for: Families with older kids and teens who want a fun, adventure-packed experience combined with cultural exploration
This 10-day Japan autumn tour is packed with activities for teens and parents alike, blending adventure, culture, and fall colors:
Experience the awe-inspiring autumn foliage by joining the Jingu Gaien Ginkgo Festival in Tokyo.
Dive into the world of Pokémon, with exclusive character experiences and themed merchandise in Tokyo.
Take part in exciting ninja-themed fun, from wearing ninja costumes to trying your hand at shuriken throwing at a Ninja Café.
Immerse in the digital art world at TeamLab Borderless, where interactive art exhibits captivate both young and old.
Explore Akihabara, Tokyo's pop culture hub, with manga, anime, and gaming for the whole family.
Enjoy the magic of Tokyo Disneyland and Universal Studios Japan, filled with thrilling rides and character encounters.
Dress up in kimono and participate in a traditional tea ceremony in Kyoto, creating authentic cultural memories.
Ride the Sagano Romantic Train, taking in the stunning autumn scenery of the Arashiyama mountains.
Savor Uji's matcha treats, from ice cream to desserts, on a delicious walk through Matcha Street.
Get creative at the Cup Noodle Museum, where your teens can design their own unique noodles.
Have a family dinner under the stars at Umeda Sky Building, enjoying panoramic views of Osaka's city lights.
Tour 3: 10-Day Senior-Friendly Autumn Journey Through Japan
-Days: 10 (Customizable)
-Route: Tokyo - Mt. Fuji - Hakone - Nagoya - Nakasendo - Kyoto - Osaka
-Cater for: Senior travelers looking for a leisurely pace with a blend of cultural exploration, natural beauty, and historic charm
Tailored for seniors, this 10 days autumn leaves tour Japan provides a comfortable and scenic way to experience the beautiful Japan maple leaf season:
Stroll through the iconic Tsukiji Fish Market in Tokyo, sampling sushi and exploring the lively food scene.
Explore the spiritual Sensoji Temple, walking through the Kaminarimon gate and Nakamise-dori Street, and enjoy the cultural experience of fortune-telling at the temple.
Experience the vibrant flow of people at Shibuya Crossing, the world's busiest pedestrian crossing.
Take a relaxing cable car ride to Kawaguchiko Tenjoyama Park, admiring stunning views of Mt. Fuji and the surrounding autumn foliage.
Visit Owakudani to see the geothermal wonders and try Japan's famous black eggs cooked in volcanic hot springs.
Ride the Shinkansen bullet train to Nagoya, enjoying the fast and comfortable journey through scenic landscapes.
Discover the historical charm of Tsumago-juku and Magome on the Nakasendo, where old wooden houses line the trail amidst autumn-colored mountains.
Enjoy the serene beauty of Arashiyama, where you can admire the vibrant autumn hues along the Katsura River while tasting a traditional Japanese bento lunch on a yakatabune boat.
Take part in a traditional tea ceremony in Kyoto, wearing a kimono and experiencing one of Japan's most cherished customs.
Visit Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine, walking through thousands of red torii gates, one of Kyoto's most iconic sights.
Tour Osaka Castle Park to enjoy the autumn colors and learn about the rich history of this iconic site.
Tour 4: 14-Day Onsen Relaxation & Autumn Gastronomy in Japan
-Days: 14 (Customizable)
-Route: Tokyo - Nikko - Mt. Fuji - Hakone - Kyoto - Hiroshima - Nara - Osaka
-Cater for: Travelers looking to relax in onsens, enjoy stunning autumn landscapes, and savor Japan's rich culinary delights
Perfect for combining autumn beauty and rejuvenating hot spring experiences, this 14 day Japan tour offers the ultimate relaxation and culinary exploration amidst its picturesque autumn landscape:
Visit Meiji Jingu Shrine in Tokyo, where you can enjoy serene walks and witness a traditional Japanese wedding ceremony.
Marvel at the autumn views of Kegon Waterfalls and Lake Chūzenji in Nikko, a top spot for vibrant fall colors.
Unwind at an onsen hotel near Mt. Fuji, soaking in the hot springs while enjoying delicious traditional meals.
Experience the fast-speed Shinkansen to explore the historical and cultural treasures of Kyoto, including stunning autumn foliage in its many gardens.
Savor Kyoto's renowned kaiseki cuisine, experiencing dishes that showcase the best of local autumn ingredients.
Feed the friendly deer in Nara Park, experiencing a unique connection with these gentle creatures in the scenic Park.
Try Hiroshima's famous okonomiyaki, a savory pancake layered with noodles, vegetables, and your choice of toppings.
Take a ferry to Miyajima Island, where you can admire the autumn scenery and the iconic floating torii gate.
Explore the Kuchu Teien Observatory at Umeda Sky Building for stunning views of Osaka's vibrant cityscape.
Wander through Dotonbori, sampling Osaka's best street foods like takoyaki, senbei, and beef rice.
Indulge in a unique dining experience at a fishing restaurant where you can catch your own fish and have it prepared to your liking.
Want More Personalized Japan Autumn Tours 2026?
These 4 autumn tours Japan are just a small taste of what's possible for Japan maple season 2026. If you're looking for something more, like a romantic honeymoon escape under the red maple leaves, a photography-focused foliage tour, a scenic hiking adventure, or a cultural deep dive into quiet mountain towns, we've got you covered. Just let us know your travel style, and we'll craft a fully customized autumn trip that's perfect for you.
What We'd Like to Say
With the 2026 Japan autumn foliage map in hand, you're all set to explore the stunning Japan fall colors. The Momiji map gives you a clear idea of when and where the foliage will be at its best, so you can plan the perfect autumn trip. Just remember, the weather can always have its own mind, so keep your plans flexible and get ready for an unforgettable experience! Want help planning your trip or need more details on personalized itineraries? Contact us now and let us help you create the perfect Japan autumn 2026 adventure!