Where to See Fall Leaves in Tokyo: 10 Stunning Spots for Autumn Colours
Tokyo's autumn season is one of the nicest times to visit, as the weather is mild and the nature - beautiful. As the city's gardens, parks, and forests burst into colours of red, orange, and yellow, people make the most of the season and stroll around the surprisingly many nature spots to be found in Tokyo.
Both within the very centre of Tokyo and on its outskirts, there are beautiful locations to see the best of Japan's autumn. Here are some must-visit spots in Tokyo for stunning fall leaves.
Shinjuku Gyoen
Shinjuku Gyoen is one of Tokyo's largest parks, originally the gardens of a feudal lord. It's very central, being a 10-minute walk from Shinjuku Station, but when you are there you feel far removed from the chaos of the city outside the park's gates.
Autumn here is a magical time, as the park's hundreds of maple and ginkgo trees create a lovely display of red and golden hues. Visit the Japanese garden section to see Japanese momiji leaves, while the "mother and child forest" section is great for kids to freely roam.
Best time to visit: Late November to early December.
Getting There: A 10-minute walk from Shinjuku Station.
Nearby: It's very central so you can easily get to Shinjuku, Shibuya and Harajuku!
Rikugien Garden
Built during the Edo period, Rikugien is a traditional Japanese landscape garden known for its "miniature scenery" features. In autumn, the garden's maple trees cast a warm glow over the pond, reflecting shades of crimson. The garden is large enough for a 30-60 minute visit and there is a tea house on-site.
If you have free time at night, try their autumn illumination events held every evening from 6pm-8:30pm.
Best time to visit: Late November to early December.
Getting There: A 10-minute walk from Komagome Station.
Nearby: The Sugamo Jizodori Shopping Street is walking distance from here, or 1 stop by train. Check out all the retro shops and buzzy atmosphere of this "Old Ladies' Harajuku".
Showa Kinen Koen
Showa Kinen Park is located in Tachikawa, in west Tokyo. It's about 30 minutes away by the rapid train, but well worth it. Its 165 hectares include a stunning ginkgo avenue and a Japanese garden that bursts with fall colours. The park is so large that you can rent bicycles to get around, or use the park train.
It's also an amazing place to visit with kids, with giant bouncy domes and a huge adventure playground.
Best time to visit: Late November to early December.
Getting There: A 10-minute walk from Tachikawa Station or directly from Nishi-Tachikawa Station.
Nearby: Akishima Onsen Yuranosato is pretty close if you want to try an outdoor bath.
Koishikawa Korakuen
One of Tokyo's oldest gardens, Koishikawa Korakuen presents a classic Japanese landscape. The pond and surrounding maple trees are especially beautiful in autumn. The garden is fairly small so you can allocate about 30 minutes here.
Best time to visit: Late November.
Getting There: A short walk from Iidabashi Station or Korakuen Station.
Nearby: Tokyo Dome City attractions like the rollercoaster, haunted house, baseball dome or the free observatory in the Bunkyo City Office.
Mount Takao
Just outside central Tokyo, Mount Takao is a popular day-trip destination for autumn leaf viewing. The trails, dotted with fiery-coloured trees, offer a scenic escape from the megapolis that is central Tokyo. For panoramic views, take the cable car or hike to the summit. In fall there is usually a long line for the cable car, so if you can it's best to hike. There are lots of paths, from a fully paved path that is for beginners, to more serious but nature-filled paths.
Click here to check out our guided tour of Mt. Takao!
Best time to visit: Late November.
Getting There: A 50-minute ride from Shinjuku Station to Takaosanguchi Station.
Nearby: Hot springs at the base of the mountain.
Meiji Jingu Gaien
Known for its iconic ginkgo avenue, Meiji Jingu Gaien transforms into a golden corridor in autumn. This tree-lined path is a favorite for photo enthusiasts and has nearby cafes for a cozy break. It's not really something to take up a lot of time, but good for a quick visit to get your autumn leaf fill.
If you want a guided tour, we can include the area in our Tokyo highlights tour!
Best time to visit: Late November.
Getting There: A short walk from Aoyama-Ichome Station.
Nearby: Omotesando and Meiji Shrine.
Imperial Palace East Gardens
The East Gardens offer a peaceful retreat, blending history with nature. While the main Edo Castle no longer remains, the moats, walls and gates do.
In autumn, the garden's maples and ginkgo trees are striking against the traditional architecture. The Ninomaru Japanese Garden section is the most beautiful in autumn but remember they are closed on Mondays and Fridays.
If you want a guided tour, we can include the garden in our Tokyo highlights tour!
Best time to visit: Late November.
Getting There: A 10-minute walk from Tokyo Station.
Nearby: Marunouchi's upscale shops and dining which in this season are at their best with evening illuminations and entertainment.
Meguro Institute for Nature Study
The Meguro Institute for Nature Study is right in central Tokyo but offers a serene escape with its proper forest and wetlands, where vibrant fall foliage paints the landscape with vivid reds, oranges, and yellows. Unlike other more manicured Tokyo parks, the natural reserve feel here offers an untouched beauty that's rare in the city. Stroll along the paths lined with Japanese maples and oaks, whose leaves transition to fiery shades, contrasting beautifully with the tall bamboo groves and ponds reflecting the colours. This garden is a great place to have a picnic lunch, and is the perfect place for kids to unwind after being overstimulated by Tokyo's bustle. They can run around here freely in nature.
Getting there: To reach the institute, take the JR Yamanote Line to Meguro Station, then walk about 10 minutes.
Best time to visit: The best time to visit is from mid-November to early December, when the leaves reach their peak.
Nearby: Near the institute, you'll find the Tokyo Metropolitan Teien Art Museum, a charming spot showcasing Art Deco architecture surrounded by lush gardens.
Mizumoto Park
Mizumoto Park is actually Tokyo's biggest park. It's in Katsushika Ward, which most tourists know little about. In the park wide paths wind around ponds, canals, and wetlands, making it a stunning place for autumn leaf viewing. The park's standout feature is its vast groves of metasequoia (dawn redwoods) that turn into a golden tunnel during the peak season. You can also enjoy colourful maples and ginkgo trees, especially around the lake, which beautifully reflects the fall hues, creating a striking mirror-like scene. If you go on weekdays, the park is quiet and playgrounds empty, so a highly recommended spot for kids.
Getting there: To get to Mizumoto Park, take the JR Joban Line to Kanamachi Station, then hop on a bus bound for the park (about 15 minutes).
Best time to visit: The best time to catch the vibrant fall colours is from late November to early December.
Nearby: If you're looking to explore more nearby, Shibamata, a historical district famous for its Edo-period charm and Taishakuten Temple, is just a short train ride away. The area is known for its quaint streets lined with traditional sweets shops and nostalgic vibes.
Inokashira Park
Inokashira Park is beloved for its charming scenery and swan boat lake year-round, but its autumn colours add a special magic to its winding paths, ponds, and iconic wooden bridges. Japanese maples and ginkgo trees frame the lake and you can wander either around the lake, or through the park to the free zoo and fields and playground area. Take a leisurely paddle boat ride to fully immerse yourself in the autumn scenery, or relax by the water's edge, where leaves gently drift onto the lake's surface. The park is also near the famous Ghibli Museum if you want to combine both.
Getting there: The park is accessible from Kichijoji Station (a 5-minute walk from the South Exit on the JR Chuo Line), making it an easy day trip.
Best time to visit: Plan your visit from mid-November to early December for peak colours.
Nearby: After exploring the park, stroll through Kichijoji's vibrant shopping area, packed with boutique shops, cafés, and quirky attractions. Don't miss Harmonica Yokocho, an atmospheric alley of small bars and eateries, perfect for grabbing a bite.
Hikarigaoka Park
Hikarigaoka Park in Nerima Ward has hundreds of gingko trees that turn a vivid yellow in autumn, forming a stunning golden canopy over the wide, open fields. The park has a big playground for kids, and lots of open green space for picnics and playing. The park also features maple trees, whose red and orange leaves provide a brilliant contrast to the ginkgo avenues. Hikarigaoka is perfect for a relaxed day out, especially if you're looking for somewhere less crowded to appreciate the autumn colours.
Getting there: To reach Hikarigaoka Park, take the Toei Oedo Line to Hikarigaoka Station and walk 5 minutes to the park entrance.
Best time to visit: Peak foliage season usually falls between mid-November and early December.
Nearby: Did you know that Tokyo also has a giant Buddha, just like in Kamakura? You can visit the Tokyo Daibutsu from here if you want a 30 minute walk through peaceful neighbourhoods.
Otaguro Park
Otaguro Park is a hidden gem in Tokyo's Suginami Ward, known for its elegant Japanese garden with illuminations in fall. The park's Japanese maples are the star of the show, with fiery reds and oranges surrounding the main pond. Pathways lead visitors through carefully designed rock gardens, over picturesque bridges, and around the beautiful teahouse, offering a peaceful experience for those seeking a quieter fall atmosphere.
Getting there: Take the JR Chuo Line to Ogikubo Station, then walk about 10 minutes to reach Otaguro Park.
Best time to visit: 30 November to 8 December.
Nearby: Omiya Hachiman Shrine and Wadabori Park for more autumn colours during the daytime.
Mitake Gorge
If you have time to go even further than Mt. Takao, Mitake Gorge in Okutama offers breathtaking autumn scenery along the Tama River. It is basically the best spot for nature within Tokyo's greater area.
There are plenty of hiking trails, crystal clear rivers and photographic viewpoints. In autumn Japanese maples, beech, and other trees turn to vivid reds, oranges, and yellows.
You can walk 4km along the Mitake Gorge Promendade, where you'll find not only wonderful views but the Tamado Art Museum, Sawanoi Sake Brewery, and Ozawa Sake Brewery.
Getting there: Take the JR Ome Line to Mitake Station, then take a short bus ride or a 15-minute walk to reach the gorge.
Best time to visit: Mid to late November is the best time to catch the autumn colours in full bloom.
Nearby: Climb up Mt. Mitake while in the area. Mitake is a day trip, you'll need all day for this.
These are some of the many autumn colour spots in Tokyo - which is your favourite? If you want a guided tour of fall leaves in Tokyo, contact us and we can arrange it!
