Hokkaido in Autumn: Where to See the Most Stunning Fall Foliage
TLDR
Hokkaido is Japan’s first region to welcome autumn, with leaves peaking from late September to late October.
Best foliage spots: Daisetsuzan National Park, Jozankei Onsen, Lake Akan, Shiretoko, and the Blue Pond in Biei.
Combine leaf-viewing with onsen visits, hikes, and scenic drives.
Autumn offers fewer crowds, mild weather, and brilliant landscapes — ideal for photographers and road trippers.
Why Visit Hokkaido in Autumn?
While spring blossoms and winter snow steal the spotlight, Hokkaido’s autumn might be its most underrated season. Crisp air, fewer tourists, and hillsides painted red, orange, and gold make it a dream destination for photographers and nature lovers. Because of its northern latitude, Hokkaido’s leaves peak earlier than the rest of Japan, making it perfect for travelers who want to experience fall foliage ahead of Tokyo or Kyoto.
1. Daisetsuzan National Park — Japan’s Earliest Autumn Colours
As Japan’s largest national park and home to rugged peaks, Daisetsuzan is the first place in the country where leaves turn, usually in mid to late September. Hiking trails like Mount Asahidake and Mount Kurodake offer panoramic views of fiery red rowan trees and golden birch.
Travel Tip: Take the Asahidake Ropeway for sweeping views without a strenuous climb.
2. Jozankei Onsen — Foliage Meets Hot Springs
Only 40 minutes from Sapporo, Jozankei combines autumn colors with soothing hot spring baths. The Toyohira River gorge is framed by brilliant foliage, making rotenburo (outdoor baths) feel even more magical.
Best Time: Early to mid-October.
3. The Blue Pond, Biei — A Contrast of Colours
The famous Blue Pond in Biei is a year-round attraction, but autumn adds a surreal dimension. The cobalt-blue waters mirror yellow birch leaves and create striking photographs.
Travel Tip: Combine with a drive through Biei’s rolling hills for sweeping rural autumn landscapes.
4. Lake Akan & Eastern Hokkaido — Reflections of Gold
Lake Akan in eastern Hokkaido is surrounded by forests that turn brilliant shades of gold and crimson. The lake is also famous for marimo moss balls, making it a cultural as well as natural highlight.
Best Time: Mid to late October.
5. Shiretoko Peninsula — Untamed Autumn Beauty
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Shiretoko offers dramatic coastal cliffs, waterfalls, and mountain backdrops all cloaked in autumn foliage. It’s remote but rewards travelers with some of Hokkaido’s most untouched scenery.
Best Time: Late September to early October.
6. Scenic Autumn Drives — The Romance of the Road
Autumn in Hokkaido is tailor-made for road trips. Some of the most stunning drives include:
Shikisai-no-Oka (Biei) — Rolling farmland landscapes framed in gold.
Onneto Lake — A hidden gem near Akan, with mirror-like reflections.
Sounkyo Gorge — A dramatic canyon in Daisetsuzan, where waterfalls tumble among red cliffs.
When to See Autumn Foliage in Hokkaido
Late September: Daisetsuzan National Park begins to turn.
Early to Mid-October: Jozankei, Sounkyo Gorge, and Shiretoko reach peak colors.
Mid to Late October: Biei, Blue Pond, and Lake Akan show their best hues.
Why Autumn in Hokkaido is Special
Autumn in Hokkaido is not just about leaves. It’s the season of harvest, when local markets brim with fresh corn, potatoes, and pumpkins. It’s also one of the best times for outdoor onsens, hikes, and road trips. Less crowded than summer and gentler than winter, autumn is the season where Hokkaido feels most like a hidden paradise.
References:
Japan Guide. “Daisetsuzan National Park.” https://www.japan-guide.com/e/e6775.html
Japan Guide. “Jozankei Onsen.” https://www.japan-guide.com/e/e6747.html
Japan Guide. “Biei Blue Pond.” https://www.japan-guide.com/e/e6826.html
Japan Guide. “Lake Akan.” https://www.japan-guide.com/e/e6800.html
Japan Guide. “Shiretoko National Park.” https://www.japan-guide.com/e/e6850.html
Hokkaido Treasure Island Travel. “Best Autumn Leaves Spots in Hokkaido.” https://hokkaido-treasure.com/column/082/
