Stunning Views of Autumn! 5 Spots in Tokai Region for Gorgeous Autumn Foliage

1. Korankei

Korankei is a valley that in Toyota, Aichi. At the turn of autumn, the leaves of the approximately 4,000 trees in this area change colors to yellow and red, mesmerizing the many visitors that come for the magnificent view. The area is also lit up at night for about a month, usually starting early November (the detailed schedule of the illumination event for 2017 has yet to be announced). With that, you will be able to marvel at a magical scenery with a vibe that is completely different from the glamorous feel during daytime.

Best time for viewing: Mid-November to late-November

2. Shuzenji

The Shuzenji area in Izu, Shizuoka has many well-known spots for foliage this area, but the most popular places are the grounds of the famous Shuzenji Temple that is covered in red maple, Shuzenji Shizen Koen (Shuzenji Nature Park) that offers a scenic view of the area along Katsura River surrounding Shuzenji Onsen (hot spring) and where several thousands of trees planted on the vast property turn crimson in color, and the maple forest at Shuzenji Niji no Sato. At the peak of autumn, these various spots serve as venues for autumn foliage festivals and illumination events (the detailed schedule of events for 2017 has yet to be announced).

Best time for viewing: Mid-November to early-December

3. Atami Baien

Atami Baien is a plum garden in Atami, Shizuoka. While it is famous for plum trees that bloom early in spring, it is also known as a spot for enjoying beautiful foliage in autumn. The Atami Baien Momiji Festival is usually held here during the peak of the viewing season (the detailed schedule of events for 2017 has yet to be announced). There are various events that take place at this garden that draw in huge crowds, including music shows, photo contests, and nighttime illumination.

Best time for viewing: Mid-November to early-December

4. Yoro Park

Yoro Park in the Yoro district of Gifu has a 40-minute path from Yoro Station to Yoro no Taki (Yoro Falls) at the back of the park, and this road transforms into a beautiful foliage spot in autumn that is visited by throngs of sightseers. You will enjoy the gorgeous contrast of the trees and the various spots here, including the magnificent falls and the famous shrines and temples.

Best time for viewing: Mid-November to early-December

5. Ise Jingu Naiku Shinen

The foliage at Ise Jingu (Ise Grand Shrine), one of the most famous shrines in Japan whose history dates back 2,000 years ago, is known to be magnificent. Ise Jingu strictly refers to the general name of a total of 125 shrines scattered throughout Mie, but the area that is popular for its autumn leaves is the place around Naiku (inner shrine), where the imperial ancestor Amaterasu Omikami is enshrined. Aside from the gorgeous scenery around the shrine, you can also feel the true Japanese atmosphere with the extremely picturesque view of the Isuzu River that flows nearby.

Best time for viewing: Mid-November to early-December

Autumn is the only season when you can marvel at the captivating foliage in stunning colors. Make sure to visit Japan during the best time for viewing the foliage so you will get to experience the true beauty of autumn!