Autumn in Tokyo is Simply Stunning! 🍁
Autumn foliage spots in Tokyo range from golden ginkgo-lined avenues glowing between skyscrapers to historic gardens and even vibrant mountain scenery. In this guide, we’ll introduce 7 must-visit autumn foliage spots in Tokyo, complete with access tips so you can easily plan your trip. 🙌
- Ginkgo Avenue near Akasaka-Mitsuke Station｜A Golden Tunnel in the Heart of the City
- Marunouchi Area near Tokyo Station｜The Scenic Road to the Imperial Palace
- Ueno Park｜Where Art Meets Autumn Colors
- Meiji Jingu Gaien Ginkgo Avenue｜Tokyo’s Most Iconic Autumn Walk
- Rikugien Garden｜A Daimyo Garden Illuminated in Red
- Koishikawa Korakuen｜A Hidden Gem Beside Tokyo Dome
- Mount Takao｜A Natural Autumn Escape Just an Hour from Tokyo
- Conclusion｜Experience the Many Faces of Autumn in Tokyo
Ginkgo Avenue near Akasaka-Mitsuke Station｜A Golden Tunnel in the Heart of the City
Near Akasaka-Mitsuke Station, around Toyokawa Inari Tokyo Betsuin and Sotobori-dori Avenue, the streets transform into a brilliant golden tunnel every autumn. The sight of glowing leaves framed by tall buildings feels like a true urban oasis. Perfect for photos!
You’ll also find the Akasaka Palace (State Guest House) nearby, where you can enjoy autumn leaves alongside historic architecture.
👉 Check out our full guide on Akasaka Palace here!
📍 Access: From Tokyo Station, take the Marunouchi Line to Akasaka-Mitsuke (about 10 minutes). The ginkgo avenue begins right outside the station.
Marunouchi Area near Tokyo Station｜The Scenic Road to the Imperial Palace
From Tokyo Station’s Marunouchi Exit, a beautiful avenue lined with golden ginkgo trees leads straight toward the Imperial Palace. The contrast between sleek modern buildings and brilliant yellow leaves captures the essence of autumn in the city. At night, illuminations create a magical atmosphere worth experiencing.
📍 Access: Just a short walk from Tokyo Station Marunouchi Exit. Easy to fit into your sightseeing or shopping itinerary!
Ueno Park｜Where Art Meets Autumn Colors
Famous for cherry blossoms in spring, Ueno Park bursts into fiery reds and golden yellows in autumn. Around Shinobazu Pond, the reflection of colorful leaves on the water makes for a picture-perfect scene. Pair your foliage walk with a visit to the museums or Ueno Zoo for a full cultural experience.
📍 Access: From Tokyo Station, take the JR Yamanote Line to Ueno (about 8 minutes). The park is just steps from the station.
Meiji Jingu Gaien Ginkgo Avenue｜Tokyo’s Most Iconic Autumn Walk
Stretching about 300 meters, this avenue of 146 ginkgo trees forms a glowing golden tunnel in late November to early December. The annual Jingu Gaien Ginkgo Festival brings food stalls, events, and a festive vibe. If you want to see a postcard-perfect autumn view in Tokyo, this is it!
📍 Access: From Tokyo Station, take the JR Chuo Line to Yotsuya (10 minutes), then walk 15 minutes.
Rikugien Garden｜A Daimyo Garden Illuminated in Red
Built in the Edo period, Rikugien Garden showcases a breathtaking mix of maple trees, ponds, and traditional landscaping. The special nighttime illuminations transform the garden into a glowing dreamscape, making it one of Tokyo’s most romantic autumn spots. No wonder it’s becoming a favorite among international visitors!
📍 Access: From Tokyo Station, take the JR Yamanote Line to Komagome (20 minutes), then walk 7 minutes.
Koishikawa Korakuen｜A Hidden Gem Beside Tokyo Dome
Right next to Tokyo Dome lies Koishikawa Korakuen, a peaceful strolling garden where you can escape the crowds. The mix of red, yellow, and green foliage feels like stepping into a Japanese painting. It’s the perfect place for those who want to enjoy autumn colors quietly, in the middle of the city.
📍 Access: From Tokyo Station, take the Marunouchi Line to Korakuen Station (10 minutes), then walk 5 minutes.
Mount Takao｜A Natural Autumn Escape Just an Hour from Tokyo
For travelers who want both hiking and autumn foliage, Mount Takao is the ultimate destination. From early November to early December, the entire mountain glows with reds and yellows. Ride the cable car or lift for sweeping views, then hike the trails for a deeper connection with nature. It’s the perfect active day trip from Tokyo!
📍 Access: From Tokyo Station, take the JR Chuo Line to Takao Station (50 minutes), then transfer to the Keio Line for Takaosanguchi Station (5 minutes).
Conclusion｜Experience the Many Faces of Autumn in Tokyo
Tokyo’s autumn offers something for every traveler: urban ginkgo avenues, historic gardens, and even mountain escapes just outside the city. You can stop by during shopping breaks, or dedicate a full day to leaf-peeping adventures.
This fall, choose the autumn foliage spots that match your travel style and soak up the magic of Japanese autumn. 🍂✨
