Japan takes pride in its four distinct seasons, each offering its own unique natural wonders. As September trickles into October and November, many visitors flock to the city to see the beautiful 紅葉 (kouyou), Japan’s autumn foliage. Where are the best places to see the changing leaves in Tokyo? Read more to find out!

Mount Takao

If you’re really looking for that wilderness nature experience, without actually having to leave the city, Mt. Takao is a great choice. The mountain has trails even for the most inexperienced climbers, and visitors can enjoy the breathtaking red, orange and yellow leaves from the top. Earn your view and get in your steps by hiking up or take a relaxing cable car.

Access: (From Tokyo Station)

- Take the Chuo Line Rapid straight to Takao Station.
- Transfer to the Keio Line and go one station over to Takaosanguchi Station. (This terminal station is located at the foot of the mountain).

Tokyo Travel: Takaosan (Mount Takao)

Rikugien

Tokyo has many beautiful parks, but Rikugien is extremely popular during kouyou season. Edo-inspired with traditional greenery, many visitors enjoy the tranquil atmosphere that accompanies the beautiful surrounding nature. A mere 300 yen gives you access to the park all day. A great place for a cheap fall date!

Access: (From Tokyo Station)

- Take the Yamanote Line Inner Loop bound Osaki
- Get off at Komagome Station.

Tokyo Travel: Rikugien Garden

Icho Namiki (Ginkgo Avenue)

Get lost in the golden wonderland of Ginkgo Avenue. A more city-side view of the kouyou experience, visitors walk along the street and dine at one of the many sidewalk cafes. The best time to see the leaves in full glory is during mid-November. This avenue is located in Meiji Jingu Gaien Park, which is also a great area to explore while you’re there!

Access: (From Tokyo Station)

- Take the Tokyo Metro Marunochi Line bound for Nakano-Fujimicho Station
- Get off at Akasaka-Mitsuke and switch to the Ginza Line bound for Shibuya Station.
- Get off at Aoyama-Itchome Station.

The Gingko Avenue of Jingugaien | MustLoveJapan

Showa Memorial Park

If you are looking for an active weekend, this is a great area lined with bicycle trails and walking paths. Within the park are several gardens, seasonal flowers, sports facilities, fountains and museums. Make a day of it by visiting them all!

Access: (From Tokyo Station)
- Take the Chuo/Ome Rapid Line bound for Ome.
- Get off at Tachikawa Station.

SHOWA KINEN PARK Web Site

Koishikawa Korakuen

One of the top spots in Tokyo for fall foliage viewing, this is another traditional Japanese garden with gorgeous landscapes and colorful, natural beauty. This area is especially known for its red and orange leaves from late November to early December. Enjoy walking around the garden’s three ponds that create beautiful autumn scenes.

Access: (From Tokyo Station)
- Take the Tokyo Metro Marunochi Line bound for Ikebukuro Station.
- Get off at Korakuen Station.

Tokyo Travel: Koishikawa Korakuen




These are just a few of the amazing places where you can appreciate Tokyo’s seasonal wonders. If you liked this article, check out more fall foliage spots a bit farther off the beaten path in our new article: “Kouyou Day Trips from Tokyo”!