Japan's famous autumn foliage season is just around the corner, and the first official forecast for 2025 has been released as of September 2nd. This year, due to lingering summer heat, the leaves are expected to reach their peak around average or slightly later than usual.
For visitors planning a trip, this means the best viewing times will stretch from late October in northern Japan to early December in central and western regions.
Key Forecast Highlights for 2025
Forecast projections come in two key varieties: yellow leaves (ginkgo) and red leaves (maple). A summary of the initial results released as of September 2nd can be found below.
Regional Outlook for Travelers
Hokkaido & Northern Japan
When to go: Late October – late November
Best for: Early autumn colors, mountain landscapes
Highlights: Daisetsuzan National Park, Lake Towada.
Eastern Japan (Tokyo, Nikko, Nagano, Fuji area)
When to go: Late November – mid-December
Best for: Cultural sites surrounded by autumn hues, winding drives
Highlights: Nikko's shrines (be sure to check out the Nikko Toshogu Shrine Autumn Grand Festival), Mt. Takao near Tokyo, Nagano's Zenkoji Temple, Irohazaka Winding Route.
Western Japan (Kyoto, Osaka, Hiroshima, Kyushu)
When to go: Late November – mid-December
Best for: Historic temples and gardens framed by red maples
Highlights: Kyoto's Arashiyama, Osaka Castle Park, Miyajima.
Why the leaves are changing later this year
Japan's autumn colors depend on falling temperatures, and warmer-than-usual weather is delaying the color shift projections in many regions. Generally, ginkgo trees turn golden earlier, while maples reach their fiery red peaks a little later*. Travelers visiting late in the season can expect to enjoy both at the same time.
*Sendai seems to be an exception to this for 2025!
Checking for foliage updates during your trip
Travelers can follow the Autumn Leaves Navigator for updated forecasts across Japan. The site provides free information for major spots, plus detailed mountain forecasts (a subscription is required for the latter).
Bottom line: If you're visiting Japan in autumn 2025, expect slightly later foliage in some regions, but plenty of opportunities to catch the changing colors across the country. With Tokyo peaking around November 30th and Kyoto in early December, late November through early December will be the prime travel window for many visitors.
