Top 5 Autumn color spots in Tohoku

Don’t forget Tohoku when planning your Autumn colors trip! There are some amazing places to visit, with cheap access and unspoiled views. Be sure to bring a camera with a big memory card, put into panoramic mode, and fire away.

Places in Tohoku can be quite spread out, so if you are traveling here we would recommend getting a train pass or bus pass.

Naruko Gorge

The pièce de résistance of autumn hot spots in Tohoku. What sets this apart from the others is the relaxing train ride (free with a pass of course!) through lovely mountain valleys surrounded autumn colors. Best in end of November to beginning on December.

Kakunodate

Have a stroll around this awesome old samurai town, with the old samurai streets lined with autumn leaved trees. Easy to get around and still not too busy. Best in early November.

Nyuto Onsen

Chill out in one of Japan’s premier hot spring towns while enjoying some autumn colors up in the mountains. Best in mid to late November.

Yamadera

A good choice for those that want to do a bit of light hiking while enjoying the autumn leaves. Nearby Zao Onsen may also be worth checking out. Best towards the end of November.

Iwate Park (盛岡城跡公園)

A local favorite, so you may be the only fortnight travelers here. A stunning traditional Japanese garden, with more than 300 autumn color trees. The park is a short bus ride from Morioka station, which most highway buses and Shinkansen trains pass. Best towards the end of November.

Check out our Autumn Leaves guide for more!