The short answer

• In central Tokyo, the leaves usually start turning in mid-November and peak from late November to early December.
• Mt. Takao and other spots on the outskirts turn a little earlier.
• Timing changes every year. Check the autumn leaf forecasts published each fall.

Koyo: Japan's autumn colors

In Japan, the turning of leaves to red and yellow in autumn is called koyo, and going out to see them is called momijigari, "maple hunting". In Tokyo you can enjoy both red maples and yellow ginkgo. The ginkgo is the symbol tree of Tokyo and lines streets all over the city.

Autumn leaves in central Tokyo

Jingu Gaien Ginkgo Avenue (Aoyama)

Tokyo's signature avenue, with 146 ginkgo trees lining about 300 m of road. Both sides turn gold.

• A ginkgo festival is usually held around peak season (it varies by year).
• Fallen ginkgo leaves turn the sidewalks into a yellow carpet.

Rikugien (Komagome)

A Japanese garden built by a feudal lord in the Edo period. The maples around the pond turn deep red.

• In autumn the garden usually holds a night light-up, turning it into a magical scene.
• The special night viewing is very popular, and lines can form at the entrance.

Shinjuku Gyoen (Shinjuku)

A vast garden within walking distance of Shinjuku Station, with maples in the Japanese garden, a row of huge plane trees and much more.

• Different trees change color at different times, so the season lasts relatively long.
• Alcohol is not allowed.

Koishikawa Korakuen (Iidabashi and Korakuen)

An early Edo-period feudal lord's garden right next to Tokyo Dome. The maples around the red Tsutenkyo bridge are stunning.

A little farther out

Showa Kinen Park (Tachikawa)

A huge park with a ginkgo avenue reflected in the water and a Japanese garden. About 40 minutes by train from Shinjuku.

Mt. Takao (Hachioji)

A mountain about an hour from Shinjuku on the Keio Line. With a cable car and chairlift, it's an easy autumn hike.

• Weekends in leaf season are extremely crowded, with long lines for the cable car. Go on a weekday or early in the morning.
• It's colder at the top than in the city, so bring a jacket and wear good walking shoes.

Tips for leaf viewing

• Sunny mornings are best: the light shines through the leaves and the colors glow.
• Popular spots are packed on weekends, so weekday mornings are ideal.
• Many gardens close fairly early, so allow plenty of time.
• Night light-ups get chilly. Bring a jacket and scarf.

Frequently asked questions

When is the best time to see autumn leaves in Tokyo?

In central Tokyo, the peak is usually late November to early December. On the outskirts, Mt. Takao and Showa Kinen Park usually peak in mid- to late November. Timing varies by year, so check the forecasts.

What's the most famous autumn leaf spot in Tokyo?

Jingu Gaien Ginkgo Avenue, lined with golden ginkgo trees, is Tokyo's signature autumn sight. For autumn colors in a Japanese garden, Rikugien and its light-up are popular.

Where can I see autumn leaves at night?

Japanese gardens such as Rikugien usually hold night light-ups during leaf season. Dates and times are announced every year, so check the official sites.

Where can I see autumn leaves for free?

Jingu Gaien Ginkgo Avenue is a public street, so it's free. Mt. Takao has no entry fee if you hike up.

Can I still see autumn leaves in Tokyo in December?

In early December, many spots in central Tokyo are still colorful. After mid-December, many trees have lost their leaves.

Official websites

• Meiji Jingu Gaien (Japanese)
• Rikugien
• Shinjuku Gyoen
• Koishikawa Korakuen
• Showa Kinen Park
• Takao Tozan Railway (cable car and chairlift, Japanese)