Top 10 Autumn Color Spots in Tokyo

Tokyo has some great places, most free, to see the autumn colors.

Unless otherwise mentioned, the time to come for autumn leaves is mid November to early December.

1. Showa Memorial Park

This former military base was turned into a huge park many years ago, with so many areas to visit. There is also a traditional Japanese garden with autumn leaves. 

2. Inokashira Park

Right next to Kichijoji station, this park is a more casual affair, with performers and sellers entertaining you alongside the beautiful red and golden leaves.

3. Meiji Jingu Gaien (明治神宮外苑)

Have a lovely walk down the road leading to the royal palace.

The closest station is Gaienmae on the Metro Ginza line.

4. Mount Takao (高尾山)

Take a relaxing hike or cable car up this mountain for some of the best Autumn leaves in Honshu.

Mount Takao guide and pics here.

When: November

5. Chinzanso Garden

This free to enter garden in central Tokyo is a stunningly landscaped area with some very photogenic autumn color trees. Great in the evening as well.

6. Takahata-Fudoson Temple

This place caught us by surprise! Really did not expect this place to be so good, but it really is worth the journey to get here and walk up the little mountain full of autumn leaves, with a view of the massive temple below.

7. Rikugien Garden

A classic place to see the colors in Tokyo, this place does get crowded, but as this is Japan the crowds are well organized and friendly! Night time illuminations as well.

8. Yoyogi Park

Grab yourself a bento or beer and head out to this park for some fun and relaxation under the trees.

9. Former Yasuda Garden

Another free garden, this very traditional one next to the Edo-Tokyo Museum has a lovely small lake surrounded by trees.

10. Heirin Temple

Never seen this in other travel guides, and don’t know why not! Very popular with locals, this is a good spot if you want to be away from the tour buses.