In the eastern part of central Yamagata is Yamagata City. Here is where you will find the Zao Ropeway, which allows you to enjoy all the beauty of the four seasons from the sky.

In fall, around mid-October, the thick maples and oaks rich in their characteristic foliage make for a breathtaking sight. You will be able to enjoy a 360° panoramic view of autumn foliage ranging from yellow to orange to brick red.

The Zao Echo Line, a popular driving course connecting the prefectures of Miyagi and Yamagata, crosses the Zao Mountain Range.

Both sides along this 26km long mountain road are covered with trees, and the bright red leaves of beech and birch reach their peak in mid-October.

On sunny days, the Zao Echo Line is a place where you can enjoy the clear autumn sky, the pleasant breeze, and the autumn leaves that spread in front of you.

Buses operate it too, making it for a delightful sightseeing ride. However, please note that the road will be closed due to snow from the beginning of November to the end of April.

Ginzan Onsen, one of Yamagata's most famous hot springs villages, is a popular area rich in a traditional atmosphere, lined with century-old wooden ryokan inns.

From late October to early November, the surrounding mountains are dyed with autumn colors. The vibrant foliage, in combination with the traditional look of the town, creates a nostalgic space.

There is a park in the back of the hot spring town, and one of its highlights is Shirogane Falls, a 22m-high drop that can be seen from the walking path. Enjoy the magnificent waterfalls and the murmur of the mountain stream, while enjoying the autumn leaves in their prime.

Risshakuji is said to have been opened by Jikaku Daishi in 860. Called "Yamadera" (mountain temple) by the locals, this is a historical temple complex with buildings scattered in the mountains. If you climb up the 1015 stone steps, you will enjoy a spectacular view of the surrounding landscape.

Showing their best look from late October to early November, the autumn leaves make for a great view themselves. Still, the combination with the historic buildings is terrific. In particular, Nokyou-Dou, a small temple standing on a cliff, makes for a humbling view, and is an excellent spot for pictures. We also recommend seeing the light-up event at night.

The Gassan Hanagasa Line, selected as one of the "100 Best Roads in Japan," is a national road that connects the Dewa Sanzan, three sacred mountains towering in the center of Yamagata Prefecture.

The trees on Mt. Gassan will be at their richest in mid-October, turning the road into a colorful driving course. The autumn foliage that spreads around once you exit the tunnel is absolutely breathtaking. But be careful not to forget that you are driving, since the beauty of the landscape can be that mesmerizing!

Also called "Mother River," the Mogami River is the largest river in Japan that flows through only one prefecture. Mogamikyo is a basin with the best landscape along the river, with magnificent autumn colors on the mountainside, especially around late October.

You can, of course, admire the scenery while driving along the national highway along the river. But to make a unique memory, we recommend the Mogami River Basho Line cruise, which will allow you to experience the dynamic landscape from up close.

In particular, the Shiraito Falls, a drop of 120 meters amid a sea of autumn leaves, honors its title as one of the Top 100 Waterfalls in Japan, and it's truly a must-see.

Plus, Mogamigawa Funauta, the boat ferrymen singing with their beautiful voices, will perform in English and Chinese, so please make a request.

As the name "Momiji Park" suggests (momiji being the word for Japanese maple), this park located in the center of Yamagata City is a famous place for autumn colors.

It was once open to everybody as a temple garden for Houdouji Temple. The temple within the park has a pond called Shinji Pond shaped like the kanji for "heart."

In early November, the garden's maple trees turn red. There is also a tea room inside the park, so you can fully experience the atmosphere of Japan. The access is easy from Yamagata Station, and it's worth visiting even if you don't have much time.

The Yamagata Prefectural General Sports Park is a popular place for sporting activities, as well as recreational activities.

A row of ginkgo trees stretches here for about 250m, and the golden ginkgo tunnel shows its best colors at the end of October.

The calm of the morning and the evening is lovely, and at night, many LED lights illuminate the trees, creating a magical atmosphere.

Around the beginning of November, you can enjoy the golden carpet of the fallen leaves. The park shows a different vibe every time you visit.

Kumano Taisha Shrine boasts a history of 1200 years, and as a spiritual center, it's also known as the "Ise of Tohoku."

The huge ginkgo tree standing in front of the shrine is about 30 meters in height and with roots of 7.7 meters, and it was planted in 1091.

The 900-year-old giant tree, designated as a Natural Monument of Yamagata Prefecture, reaches its best time to see autumn leaves around mid-November, so you should definitely try and enjoy its golden beauty and humbling presence.

The Bonji-gawa Valley is crossed by a 37.5 kilometer-long clear Bonji-gawa River, surrounded by nature. Depending on the season you visit, the valley will show different colors, and in late October, the trees take on vivid autumn foliage.

There are many spots from which to take photos in the surrounding area, but we recommend the view from the Nabirayukitsuri Bridge, from which you can look down on the valley directly below. Capture the beautiful contrast between the autumn colors and the clear stream of water.

To make sure you visit at the best time to see the leaves in all their beauty, check the municipalities' websites and the tourist associations before you visit.

Also, since the temperatures in these areas can vary a lot between night and day, make sure you pack for cold weather just in case.

Text by: Tsubasa Shimoda

(*This article was originally published in July 2022 and updated in September 2024. Please refer to official websites for the latest information.)