Japan’s autumn is characterized by enchanting colors and comfortable temperatures, making it the perfect season for viewing maple leaves and cycling. With the cool autumn breeze, you can ride under blue skies and white clouds, through layers of red leaves. It’s just you and your bike, free to go wherever you want and stop whenever you wish, experiencing the most beautiful scenery in the freedom of the wind.
1.Maple Viewing
Shiretoko Five Lakes: Located in northeastern Hokkaido, the Shiretoko Peninsula is often referred to as “the end of the earth”. In autumn, the calm, expansive waters reflect the vibrant red maple leaves and the snow-capped peaks of the Shiretoko mountain range, creating a stunning visual contrast. There are two walking trails around the lakes, allowing you to stroll while enjoying the reflections of the red leaves on the lake and the continuous mountain scenery, as if you were walking in a painting.
Rurikoin Temple: Open to the public for a limited time each year, this breathtaking temple captivates everyone! Nestled at the foot of Mount Hiei, Rurikoin Temple is a hidden and tranquil spot, transformed from a Kyoto aristocrat’s villa. By November, the polished tatami floors inside reflect the surrounding layers of maple leaves, creating a surreal and otherworldly beauty.
Jozankei: Renowned as one of Hokkaido’s top spots for viewing maple leaves, Jozankei is lined with hot spring inns on both sides of the river. The passion of northern Japan’s autumn is fully expressed in the steaming hot springs and the maple leaves that resemble red clouds. Soaking in the hot springs while enjoying the maple leaves offers a warm and colorful visual feast, leaving you feeling completely satisfied.
Kiyomizu-dera: Kiyomizu-dera is a classic destination for viewing maple leaves. From the main hall and stage, you can look out over the surrounding hills covered in red maples. People dressed in kimonos stroll under the layered, varying shades of maple leaves, and the reflection in the Otowa Waterfall seems to dance. The charming autumn scenery of this ancient temple touches the hearts of all visitors.
Rikugien Garden: Rikugien Garden is Tokyo’s premier spot for viewing maple leaves. The garden, infused with waka poetry themes, is a typical strolling-style landscape garden with artificial hills and ponds. In autumn, the maple trees burst into vibrant red and their fiery reflections are mirrored in the central pond, creating a stunning maple scene. Photography enthusiasts, take note—this is a prime location for capturing beautiful images!
Mount Takao: Located in Hachioji City, Tokyo, less than an hour from the city, Mount Takao is an excellent place for hiking and viewing maple leaves. Riding the steepest cable car in Japan, you can enjoy the autumn scenery in all its glory, with panoramic views of the red leaves covering the mountains. The small joys of Tokyo’s outskirts begin at Mount Takao.
2.Cycling
Lake Hamana: Lake Hamana is one of Japan’s famous cycling routes. The bike path along Lake Hamana stretches 48 kilometers from Mikkabi to Bentenjima. Bicycles can be rented at various locations, including Kiga Station, Mikkabi Station, Maisaka Town, Nagisaen, and Kanzanji Onsen. Every spring, a cycling event is held around the lake. While cycling, you can enjoy local delicacies such as Hamamatsu gyoza and honey ice cream, which will surely comfort your stomach and soul.
Hizen Hamashuku: In the vast plains of Saga, a bicycle is a great companion. To experience the traditional culture of Saga, the Hizen Hamashuku route is the best choice. Starting from the famous Yutoku Inari Shrine, you ride through the shopping street and Sakagura-dori Street. The numerous local specialty shops make the cycling journey interesting. This route also passes by the Ariake Sea mudflats, which have unique features throughout the year. Experiencing the grand natural beauty in person is a must.
Hiruzen Plateau: Located in Maniwa City, Okayama Prefecture, Hiruzen Plateau is a famous natural resort area. The Hiruzen Plateau cycling route starts at the sports park and follows a circular path with an easy difficulty level, suitable for everyone. You can enjoy the pastoral scenery between the three peaks of Hiruzen. As autumn begins, the cosmos flower fields become vibrant, making it the perfect season for cycling. The cool highland climate makes the bike trip comfortable and pleasant. Along the way, you can visit Jersey cattle ranches, lavender fields, and the cold springs listed among Japan’s top 100 waters. You can also enjoy delicious ice cream and other dairy products, making the journey fun and rewarding.
Shimanami Kaido: The Shimanami Kaido, located in the Seto Inland Sea, was once rated by CNN as one of Japan’s must-visit places. It consists of several bridges connecting various islands. One end is in Ehime Prefecture, passing through islands such as Shikoku, Innoshima, Ikuchijima, Omishima, Hakatajima, and Oshima, leading to Onomichi City in Hiroshima Prefecture. The bridges have dedicated bicycle lanes, making it a perfect route for cycling enthusiasts. Along the Shimanami Kaido, bike rental services are well-established, allowing you to easily explore the stunning sea views. If you get tired, you can return at any time or rest on the islands. The bike lanes are in excellent condition, making cycling here safe and suitable for all ages.
3.Autumn Travel Tips
As autumn arrives, the weather becomes clear with relatively less rainfall, and both humidity and temperatures begin to drop. While the daytime weather is generally comfortable, the nights can be quite chilly, so it’s advisable to wear extra layers of clothing.
Autumn is the season for viewing maple leaves in Japan, making it a popular time for tourism. Many Japanese people take holidays at the end of September, so remember to plan your trip accordingly to avoid peak travel times. It’s wise to book hotels, attractions, and restaurants in advance.
