In the shadow of Mount Fuji and extending down the scenic Izu Peninsula, Shizuoka Prefecture boasts some of central Japan’s most captivating autumn landscapes.

Shiraito Falls (Shiraito no Taki)

Fed by snowmelt from Mount Fuji that filters underground, Shiraito Falls cascades down a 20-metre-high curved cliff in hundreds of silk-like threads. In mid-to-late November, the surrounding forest glows in shades of crimson and gold, framing the delicate waterfalls and the distant snow-capped peak of Mount Fuji.

Shuzenji Onsen

Shuzenji Onsen is one of Japan's oldest and most historic hot spring towns, where autumn transforms the town's charming riverside walks, traditional ryokan inns, and famous bamboo forest paths into a picturesque retreat. Visitors can walk along colourful bridges spanning the Katsura River, visit the historic Shuzenji Temple, and stroll through the nearby Shuzenji Maple Forest (Shuzenji Momiji-bayashi), which features around 1,000 maple trees.

Ibaraki Prefecture: The New Hitachinokuni Long Trail

Less than two hours from Tokyo by train, northern Ibaraki Prefecture offers one of Japan's most exciting destinations for autumn walkers. Six years in the making, the Hitachinokuni Long Trail is now fully open as Japan’s longest loop trail. Spanning roughly 350km across six municipalities, the route connects quiet countryside with dramatic coastal vistas. Designed as a flexible "walking journey" rather than a single through-hike, the trail allows hikers to customise their ideal itinerary by opting for relaxed out-and-back journeys or breaking longer routes into comfortable, scenic segments. To fully savour the countryside, visitors are encouraged to set a well-calculated pace that respects their personal comfort and physical limits.

Highlights include Fukuroda Falls, framed by colourful autumn foliage, Mount Yamizo (Ibaraki’s highest peak at 1,022 metres) and the craggy ridge of Namase Fuji (known locally as "Ibaraki's Gendarme").

Toyama Prefecture: Railways, Dramatic Gorges and Seasonal Feasts

Between the Sea of Japan and the dramatic Northern Alps sits Toyama Prefecture, where foliage and culinary experiences are at their best in the autumn.

The Kurobe Gorge Railway

Featured on the BBC’s Great Japanese Railway Journeys, the Kurobe Gorge Railway provides one of Japan’s most visually stunning scenic journeys. Known affectionately as the Trolley Train, this open-air train crosses the Kurobe River and through steep canyon walls blanketed in brilliant autumnal foliage. Passengers take in sweeping vistas as the train crosses tall bridges above the Kurobe River, waterfalls, rugged cliffs and mountain scenery along the route. For timetables, visit the official Kurobe Tetsudo Website.

A Culinary Celebration at Shinminato Fisherman's Wharf

September in Toyama signals the official start of the red snow crab fishing season. Along with delicate white shrimp and highly prized nodoguro (blackthroat seaperch), local markets showcase the region's sea offerings.

At Shinminato Fisherman's Wharf, visitors can watch the lively midday crab auctions before enjoying a fresh kaisendon (seafood rice bowl) at the waterside. Pre-booking is required at nearby Shinminato Kittokito Market.

Discover more at https://www.japan.travel/en/destinations/hokuriku-shinetsu/toyama/.

Saga Prefecture: Sacred Shrines and Tranquil Moss Gardens

Located on the island of Kyushu, Saga Prefecture offers a quieter, deeply atmospheric autumn retreat centred around the historic town of Kanzaki.

Niiyama Shrine

Surrounded by maple trees, Niiyama Shrine offers a serene backdrop where scarlet leaves frame historic shrine structures. Guests can spot the shrine's famous stone monkey carvings, including the traditional three wise monkeys depicting "see no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil."

Kunenan Gardens

Adjacent to the shrine grounds lies Kunenan Gardens , designated a National Place of Scenic Beauty. Renowned for its velvet-like moss gardens and elegant, thatched-roof villa, the property opens to the public for a brief period each autumn (from 14 to 29 November in 2026). The contrast of brilliant red maple leaves resting against deep green moss creates one of Kyushu's most celebrated seasonal views.

Discover more at https://www.japan.travel/en/destinations/kyushu/saga/.

Tochigi Prefecture: Highland Views and Hot Springs in Nasu

Situated in northern Tochigi Prefecture, the highland resort town of Nasu offers sweeping mountain vistas, geothermal hot springs, and vibrant autumn foliage set against volcanic slopes.

Mount Nasu & The Nasu Ropeway

Dominating the region's skyline, the volcanic peaks of Mount Nasu provides one of Kanto's earliest displays of seasonal colour. Visitors can board the Nasu Ropeway to glide up the slopes of Mount Chausu, enjoying panoramic views over a carpet of fiery red and deep gold maples. Well-maintained hiking trails lead from the upper ropeway station toward the summit, providing sweeping views of the surrounding vast Kanto Plain on a clear day.

Nasu Yumoto Onsen

After exploring the outdoors, travellers can unwind at Nasu Yumoto Onsen, an ancient hot spring district famous for Shika-no-yu ("Deer Bath"), a historic sulphur bathhouse whose waters are said to have been discovered in the 7th century.

Discover more at https://www.japan.travel/en/destinations/kanto/tochigi/.