Crimson leaves and perfect weather make autumn a prime time for travel in Japan.
As summer transitions to autumn, Japan begins to cool down, offering temperate weather that’s perfect for outdoor walks. From late October to early December, the trees turn vivid hues of red, orange, and yellow. It’s this combination of cool weather and striking sights that make fall a great season for traveling to Japan.
Bold autumn colours and seasonal flower blooms
As the summer heat wanes and a winter chill begins to set in, Japan’s dense forests begin turning hues of vivid orange, yellow, and red. Traditional gardens and parks showcase these autumn colors and attract crowds of visitors eager to see the changing leaves.
In addition to the striking transformation of the maple and ginkgo trees, there are also several varieties of flower that bloom at this time, with chrysanthemum, spider lily, and cosmos flowers colorfully displayed across the country.
The changing colors and temperate weather also make autumn an ideal time for traditional festivals and events.
Regardless of location, visitors to Japan are sure to encounter numerous local festivities, each boasting centuries of rich history and traditions.
Japan Holidays Autumn Tours
Japan Holidays currently has THREE fully-escorted tours running this coming Autumn in Japan from late October to early December
1. Autumn Alps and Nakasendo Tour | 14th-27th October 2025
A small-group tour – limited to 6-10 people, lead by an experienced tour leader, with expert local guides at each location.
Enjoy dynamic Kyushu, walking the famed Nakasendo Trail, that same paths used during the Edo-period by samurai and feudal lords. Stay in traditional inns, feast on multi-course dinners , ride the shinkansen bullet train, soak in soothing onsen spas and experience the beauty of spectacular ,unspoilt Japanese autumn scenery.
…………………………
2. Tour of Spectacular Kyushu | 19th- 26th October 2025
Travel into the heart of Kyushu – Japan’s southernmost major island – and off the typical tourist trail – for a unique cultural, historic and culinary experience to remember for the rest of your life.
This is a small tour limited to 4-8 people- indulge yourself in chauffeur driven vehicles, and enjoy panoramic scenery, visiting shrines, castles, and historical landmarks. Stay in traditional inns, feast on multi-course dinners and mingle with local people who have passed on their heritage for centuries. You will also have chance to enjoy soothing Onsen spas. A special feature of this tour is a visit to Mr. Genrokuro Matsunaga, a renowned Japanese swordsmith, and experience traditional sword cutting.
…………………………
3. Classic Autumn Tour | 22nd November – 5th December 2025
For first-time visitors to Japan, Japan Holidays recommends the Classic Autumn Tour which covers all the must-see places including: Tokyo, Hakone and Mt Fuji, Kanazawa and Kyoto.
Ride the Shinksansen Bullet train and scenic train rides, visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites and wonderful cities, indulge in unforgettable shopping, sumptuous dining experiences, and relax in traditional Japanese onsen baths — the Classic Autumn Tour has it all.
………………………….
Japan Holidays also organise customised tours for travellers who don’t wish to join one of the escorted group tours – please call our dedicated and experienced consultants to discuss what suits you best.
