Though Tokyo is often viewed as a concrete jungle, there are plenty of places where the effects of the changing seasons on nature can be seen and appreciated. This guide contains some of the best locations, both in the city centre and outside, to find an impressive display of autumn leaves.
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Meiji-jingu Outer Garden
The streets of the Meiji Jingu Outer Garden are lined with cherry, gingko and keyaki trees, making it a great spot for an autumn walk or jog. Every year a Gingko (Maidenhair) Festival is held with stalls selling items from across Japan and street performances.
Best time to visit: mid-November to early December
For more info check out our venue page.| Website: Meiji-jingu Outer Garden |
Shinjuku-Gyoen National Garden
| Website: Shinjuku-Gyoen National Garden |
For a modest entry fee you can enjoy Shinjuku Gyoen’s expansive grounds, which in autumn offer impressive momiji (maple) and gingko trees, and many others.
Best time: mid-October to early December
For more info check out our venue page.Rikugi-en
| Website: Rikugi-en |
This landscape garden in central Tokyo is beautiful all year round, but during autumn leaf season, illuminations enhance the viewing experience.
Best time: late November to early December
For more info check out our venue page.Koishikawa Korakuen Garden
This Chinese-influenced garden in central Tokyo features maple, cherry and keyaki trees.
Best time: late November to early December
For more info check out our venue page.| Website: Koishikawa Korakuen Garden |
Akigawa Gorge
An hour and a half’s ride from central Tokyo, this picturesque valley offers some great photo opportunities in autumn.
Best time: mid-November to early December
| 15 min. by bus from Musashi-Itsukaichi sta. (Get off at Jurigi) |
| Website: Akigawa Gorge (website in Japanese only) |
Mt. Takao
This mountain in western Tokyo turns gold and crimson in autumn, and offers a great view of the surrounding countryside.
Best time: mid-November to early December
For more info check out our dedicated page.| Website: Mt. Takao |
