The table below summarizes when you can enjoy autumn leaves in each prefecture in 2025, according to the Japan Meteorological Association as of September 2, 2025.

As you can see, the first place to see autumn colors is Nara Prefecture, which is at its peak in late November. Most of the other areas are concentrated in early December.

Autumn in Osaka is incredible. And Osaka Castle Park is a spot where you can feel the soothing seasonal colors, but without straying far from the city center. The combination of colorful trees and towering castle in between makes for postcard-perfect photos that'll make you the envy of all your Instagram followers.

・Best time to see autumn leaves: Around November 21

Minoh Park, located in Osaka's Minoh City, is a long 8.8-hectare park located in the corner of the Meiji-no-mori Minoh Quasi-National Park. If you walk about 2.8km on the well-maintained promenade, you'll reach Minoh Park, which cascades from a majestic height of 33 meters. You can see the autumn leaves right near here, too. On the way, you can see shops selling fried maple leaves, which are sweet in flavor - a must-try when you visit Kansai in autumn. Read more about Minoh Park here.

・Best time to see autumn leaves: Around November 29

Bishamon-do Temple is one of the five monzeki temples of the Tendai sect, a historic site of great prestige. Perched on the hillside overlooking the Yamashina Basin, it is famed for its brilliant autumn colors, from blazing maples to clusters of enkianthus. The stone steps, lined with vibrant foliage, lead to temple halls filled with atmosphere, while the quiet Imperial Envoys’ Slope carpeted in fallen leaves offers a truly enchanting sight.

In spring, Bishamon-do is also celebrated as one of Kyoto’s famous cherry blossom spots. Inside the Shinden, visitors can admire the renowned sliding door paintings, created using a unique reverse perspective technique that gives the illusion the artwork is moving. Along with these “moving fusuma-e,” the temple boasts 116 barrier paintings, cedar door panels, and a striking ceiling dragon — all of which, combined with the seasonal scenery, make Bishamon-do a must-see in Kansai during autumn.

・Best time to see autumn leaves: Around November 24

Arashiyama is one of Kyoto’s most celebrated sightseeing areas, renowned for its breathtaking seasonal scenery. The colors of the trees mirrored on the Katsura River never lose their charm, no matter how many times you visit.

For an unforgettable journey, take the Hozugawa Kudari, a traditional boat ride from Kameoka that winds gently downstream through scenic gorges before arriving in Arashiyama. The experience combines thrilling rapids with quiet stretches where you can soak in the beauty of the valley.

Another option is the Sagano Romantic Train, a charming retro-style railway that runs along the Hozugawa River. With its wide windows and leisurely pace, it offers spectacular views of the forested mountainsides, especially brilliant when draped in autumn colors.

・Best time to see autumn leaves: Around November 27

Genkyu-En Garden is located in the northern part of Hikone Castle in Shiga Prefecture. In the autumnal season, it is lit up at night, creating a fantastic atmosphere. The trees and rocks around the pond are mimicking the eight scenes of Omi (Old Name of Shiga Prefecture).

・Light up period: November 22 to December 7, 2025 from 6-9 PM (admission: 900 yen for adults; 450 yen for children)
・Best time to see autumn leaves: Around November 29

In Kobe, you can see the autumn leaves from the mountain on the ropeway. The panoramic view of the autumn leaves in front of you during the aerial walk of 1,460m in height and 330m in height is fascinating. At the summit station, you'll find Japan's largest herb garden, from which you can see the impressive panorama.

・Best time to see autumn leaves: Around November 28

Nara Park (also known as Deer Park), situated on a vast 511-hectare land area, is a place where rich natural scenery prevails. The red leaves are beautiful, but the golden ginkgo trees behind the Great Buddha are well worth seeing. The combination with the deer, which have been regarded as messengers of the gods since ancient times, creates a space where you can feel a deeply mysterious autumnal mood. The colorful trees reflected in the Daibutsu Pond are also spectacular.

・Best time to see autumn leaves: Around November 26

The Momijidani Garden, located north of Wakayama Castle's tower, is a garden created by the moat of the castle and the ups and downs of Mount Torafusu. You can feel the changes of the four seasons all year round here, but the most beautiful is the maple season. It is combined with the formative beauty of the building floating on the pond, creating an indescribable elegant atmosphere.

・Best time to see autumn leaves: Around December 3