Best Autumn Leaves in Tokyo: Where and When
By Tour in Japan editors · Updated
Tokyo's autumn foliage is stunning — temples, gardens, and parks transformed by red and gold leaves. Here's where and when to see them.
Tokyo's autumn foliage is stunning — temples, gardens, and parks transformed by red and gold leaves. Here's where and when to see them.
When Is Autumn Foliage in Tokyo?
| Timing | Details |
|---|---|
| Peak | Late November–early December |
| Early | Mid-November |
| Late | Early–mid December |
Best Spots
Temples & Shrines
| Spot | Why It's Great | Best Time |
|---|---|---|
| Rikugien Garden | Weeping cherry + autumn leaves | Late Nov |
| Koishikawa Korakuen | Traditional garden | Late Nov |
| Meiji Shrine | Forest setting | Late Nov |
| Senso-ji Temple | Pagoda + red leaves | Late Nov |
| Todoroki Valley | Hidden gorge | Late Nov |
Parks & Gardens
| Spot | Why It's Great | Best Time |
|---|---|---|
| Shinjuku Gyoen | 1,000+ trees, peaceful | Late Nov |
| Yoyogi Park | Picnic under leaves | Late Nov |
| Hamarikyu Gardens | Tea house + foliage | Late Nov |
| Mt. Takao | Hiking + leaves | Early Dec |
Day Trips
| Destination | Distance | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Nikko | 2 hours | UNESCO temples + foliage |
| Kamakura | 1 hour | Temples + beach |
| Hakone | 1.5 hours | Hot springs + Fuji views |
Camera Settings
| Setting | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Aperture | f/5.6–f/11 (sharp throughout) |
| ISO | 100–400 |
| White balance | Cloudy or shade (warm tones) |
| Mode | Aperture priority |
Tips
- Check forecasts — JMA issues daily updates
- Arrive early — fewer crowds, better light
- Use polarizer — enhances colors
- Shoot golden hour — warm light amplifies colors
- Include context — temples, rivers, people
- Shoot details — individual leaves, reflections
- Be patient — wait for wind to die down
- Respect the trees — don't break branches
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