In Japan, the vibrant red maples signify change and passion, while golden yellow ginkgo leaves are tied to longevity and wisdom. This autumnal color change is called Kôyô (紅葉), a natural phenomenon that draws admiration from locals and tourists alike.
Just as Hanami celebrates cherry blossoms in spring, Kôyô invites people to appreciate the breathtaking transformation of nature in the fall. This season offers a reflective, harmonious time to celebrate the fleeting beauty of autumn.
Kôyô, Momiji, and Kaede
When talking about autumn in Japan, you’ll often hear the terms Kôyô, Momiji, and Kaede. Each captures a unique aspect of the fall season:
- Kôyô (紅葉): This word represents the entire spectacle of fall leaves changing color, encompassing both red and yellow hues. It’s a concept deeply rooted in Japanese autumn that doesn’t have a direct English translation.
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Momiji (もみじ): Specifically referring to the red leaves of Japanese maples, Momiji-Gari (紅葉狩り) means “hunting for red leaves.” It’s a beloved tradition where people head to the mountains or parks to marvel at the stunning red foliage.
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Kaede (楓 / かえで): Simply meaning “maple,” Kaede refers to the tree itself, regardless of the season.
Why Visit Japan During Kôyô Season?
If you’ve never visited Japan, autumn is arguably the perfect season for a first experience. Stretching from late October to mid-December, Kôyô transforms Japan’s landscapes into an enchanting mix of red, orange, and yellow.
Less crowded than cherry blossom season, autumn offers a calmer atmosphere, mild temperatures, and ideal conditions for exploring parks, temples, and gardens. Along with nature’s beauty, Japanese fall is also rich with seasonal delicacies, such as momiji manju (もみじ饅頭) – small maple leaf-shaped cakes filled with sweet red bean paste, originally from Miyajima Island near Hiroshima.
When and Where to Experience Kôyô in Japan
Kôyô lasts several weeks, with peak colors varying by region between late October and mid-December. Each year, we publish a forecast calendar on our website to help you plan your trip. Just search for "koyo" at the top of the page.
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Tokyo: Shinjuku Gyoen and the Meiji Jingu Forest are both famed for their autumn colors.
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Kyoto: Kiyomizu-dera Temple, perched on a hill, offers panoramic views, while Tofukuji Temple is a top spot with iconic bridges surrounded by vibrant maples.
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Nara Park: Near Kyoto, Nara Park is well-known for its freely roaming deer that wander among the red maples and golden ginkgo trees.
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Nikko: Just an hour from Tokyo, Nikko is celebrated for its stunning autumn landscapes of red and yellow.
Tips for Enjoying Kôyô Season
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Avoid weekends and holidays: Since Kôyô season is popular with locals and tourists alike, plan visits during the week and start early in the day to experience the scenery in a more tranquil setting.
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Check Kôyô forecasts: Just like cherry blossoms, Kôyô timing can vary each year. Check updated forecasts before planning to make sure you catch the leaves at their peak.