Fall Foliage Tours

2026 Japan Fall Foliage Day Tours

There is something deeply peaceful about autumn in Japan. While the spring is all about the delicate pink of the sakura, the Fall Foliage season (Koyo) is a dramatic explosion of fiery reds, deep oranges, and brilliant golds.

If you want to experience the best of Japan’s autumn without getting lost in the "momijigari" (maple hunting) crowds, our 2026 small-group day tours are the answer. Departing from Tokyo, Kyoto, or Osaka, we take you straight to the heart of the scenery—from the iconic maple-framed Mount Fuji to the golden temple paths of Kyoto and Nara.

2026 Autumn Colors Forecast

The 2026 autumn colors last longer than cherry blossoms—usually 2-3 weeks at each location. Our tours follow the "Koyo Front" as it moves from higher mountain elevations down to the historic valleys.

Region	Best Viewing Window	Landscape Highlights
Mt. Fuji	Late Oct – Mid Nov	Snow-capped peaks & Maple Corridor.
Kyoto	Mid Nov – Early Dec	Ancient temples & Zen gardens.
Nara	Mid Nov – Early Dec	Bowing deer & Golden Ginkgo leaves.

🍂 Travel Tips

Early Birds: Visiting in late October? Stick to the Fuji Five Lakes for the earliest colors.
Photography: The "Golden Hour" (1 hour before sunset) creates the most dramatic contrast on red maples.
Crowd Control: Kyoto temples are busiest at midday; our itineraries use strategic timing to avoid the heaviest rushes.

2026 Peak Season

Nov 15 — Dec 5

Kyoto & Nara: The Cultural Palette

Experience the stunning contrast of brilliant red maples against dark wooden temples and mossy gardens. Walking through Arashiyama or Nara Park in late November feels like walking through a living oil painting.

Mt. Fuji: The Grand Scale

If you want scale, Fuji is unmatched. The "Maple Corridor" at Lake Kawaguchiko offers the famous shot of the volcano framed by fiery branches. It’s fresh, crisp, and incredibly panoramic.

Why Choose a Guided Tour in Autumn?

Autumn is one of the busiest times for domestic travel in Japan. A professional day tour is your best way to stay comfortable.

Guaranteed Transport: Avoid the hour-long bus queues in Kyoto and the sardine-packed trains.
Expert Timing: We monitor daily foliage reports to take you to the spots that are currently at their "peak."
Hidden Gems: Beyond the famous corridors, we visit secluded temples in Uji and Fuji that most tour buses skip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Japan offers a wide range of unforgettable experiences, from stunning natural landscapes to iconic cultural landmarks. Some of the top activities and places include:

Exploring Mount Fuji and its surrounding lakes (Lake Kawaguchi, Lake Yamanaka)
Visiting historic shrines and temples such as Fushimi Inari Taisha and Kiyomizu-dera
Walking through picturesque parks like Oishi Park, Arakurayama Sengen Park, and Nara Park.
Discovering unique sights like the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest and Kimono Forest.
Experiencing traditional villages like Saiko Iyashi-no-Sato Nenba.

Japan is perfect for family-friendly adventures. Highlights include:

Hands-on experiences at cultural spots like Nonomiya Shrine or exploring the charming streets of Ninenzaka
Scenic parks and nature walks such as Kawaguchiko Oishi Park and Arashiyama Rilakkuma themed spots
Enjoying iconic views and photo opportunities at Chureito Pagoda, Togetsukyo Bridge, and Mount Fuji