Karasawa Cirque Autumn Hiking

The approximately 8km historic Nakasendo Trail connecting Tsumago and Magome post towns in Nagano Prefecture preserves the atmosphere of Edo-period relay stations. Visiting in autumn, hikers can experience authentic historical journeys while walking through forests ablaze with autumn colors along well-preserved stone paths. This perfectly balanced fusion of cultural heritage and seasonal natural beauty has made it increasingly popular as a fall tourism destination.

Spring tourism around Matsumoto Castle, a National Treasure in Matsumoto, Nagano Prefecture. The landscape blending the castle with cherry blossoms attracts hundreds of thousands annually. The Edo-period castle architecture and keep set against the Northern Alps backdrop create one of Japan's finest spring vistas. The early April night illumination events are particularly popular.

Irohazaka's autumn drive, Lake Chuzenji, Kegon Falls, and Senjogahara offer Kanto's finest foliage. World Heritage shrines amid autumn colors condense Japan's autumn beauty.

Autumn foliage along the 14km Oirase stream from Lake Towada is among Japan's finest. The natural beauty of mossy rocks, clear water, and colored trees is called 'Tohoku's jewel.'

The world's most climbed mountain, about 1 hour from Tokyo by train with 3 million annual visitors. Autumn foliage is especially popular, with cable car views offering easy fall excursions from the city.

The Kanto region's premier autumn foliage destination centered on Lake Chuzenji, Kegon Falls, and Irohazaka Winding Road in Nikko, Tochigi Prefecture. Elevation differences allow about one month of autumn colors, with Irohazaka's foliage tunnel being breathtaking. The combination of World Heritage Nikko Toshogu's golden decorations with autumn leaves symbolizes Japan's fall.