Japan Autumn Photography: Best Foliage Locations
By Tour in Japan editors · Updated
Japan's autumn foliage (紅葉 — kōyō) is spectacular. Here's where and when to capture the best shots.
Japan's autumn foliage (紅葉 — kōyō) is spectacular. Here's where and when to capture the best shots.
When Is Autumn Foliage?
| Location | Peak Season |
|---|---|
| Hokkaido | September–October |
| Tohoku | October–November |
| Nikko | Late October |
| Kyoto | Mid-November–early December |
| Tokyo | Late November–early December |
| Osaka | Late November–early December |
| Hiroshima | Late November |
Top Photography Locations
Kyoto
| Location | What to Shoot |
|---|---|
| Tofuku-ji Temple | Sea of red maples |
| Eikan-do Temple | Night illumination |
| Kitano Tenmangu | Plum and maple |
| Arashiyama | Bamboo + autumn colors |
| Kiyomizu-dera | City view with foliage |
Nikko
| Location | What to Shoot |
|---|---|
| Shinkyo Bridge | Red bridge + autumn colors |
| Tōshōgū Shrine | Ornate shrine + foliage |
| Kegon Falls | Waterfall + autumn |
Hakone
| Location | What to Shoot |
|---|---|
| Hakone Open-Air Museum | Art + autumn |
| Lake Ashi | Autumn colors reflected |
| Owakudani | Volcanic valley + colors |
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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