Autumn

Autumn

Follow me into Japan’s ember-bright corners; spider lilies, mountain temples, and quiet towns glowing between summer and snow.

Historic Japanese gate tower on stone wall in Izuhara under cloudy sky Some hiking
Autumn

Tsushima Island: Beyond Ghost of Tsushima

Tsushima. The name alone evokes images of history and mystery, especially for fans of samurai and breathtaking scenery.

Quiet
2 days (good for a short getaway); minimum 1 full day if rushing
Pile of deer skulls with antlers in dark shrine, moody ritual bone photography Hard hike
Autumn

Shishi Gongen: The Sanctuary of Skulls

Explore Shishi Gongen, the mysterious Skull Sanctuary in Usuki. Discover a unique temple where adventure and ancient tradition intertwine.

Quiet
Half day (allow extra time for a slow, careful hike and the chain climb); full day if coming from Oita City and returning the same day
Stunning red azalea forest oasis Vibrant
Autumn

Kinchakuda’s Spider Lilies

For a few days in early autumn, a sea of scarlet-red flowers stretches as far as the eye can see. Welcome to Kinchakuda Park!

Spider Lily Peak
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Shōrinzan Daruma-ji Temple Easy walk
Autumn

Shōrinzan Daruma: Birthplace of Red Figurines

Shorinzan, tucked away on Takasaki Mountain, is known as the Daruma Temple. A visit is reputed to bring good fortune.

Some crowds
2–3 hours (half-day if you also explore Takasaki’s Daruma-related shops/areas)
Weathered Urban Alleys Industrial Remnants Easy walk
Autumn

In the Maze of Kinkotsu Meguri

Stroll through this district of sprawling alleyways ... at your own risk!

Quiet
2–3 hours (up to half day if you want to wander slowly and take photos)
Historic Japanese post town street scene Easy walk
Autumn

Narai: at the Heart of Nakasendo

Nestling in the mountains on the Nakasendo route, the picturesque village of Narai takes you back in time ...

Some crowds
Half day (2–4 hours) to stroll the main street and visit a few historic buildings; full day if combining with other Kiso Valley/Nakasendo spots
Picturesque Japanese village street, wooden buildings, mountains Gentle
Autumn

Okawachiyama: Pottery Village

The little village of Okawachiyama, in the remote mountains of Saga prefecture, was one of the cradles of Japanese ceramics. Founded by a samurai clan, its manufacturing secrets were well guarded!

Wind Chime Festival
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Snowy Magome-juku: Preserved Japanese Post Town Charm Easy walk
Autumn

Magome for All Tastes

Discover the picturesque little village of Magome at all seasons. Whatever the weather, this place isn’t lacking in charm!

Some crowds
Half day (2–4 hours) for the village; full day if pairing with a Nakasendo walk (e.g., toward nearby post towns).
Exploring Uchikos Historic Charm: Step Back in Time Easy walk
Autumn

The Village of Yokaichi

The charming village of Yokaichi, in the countryside of Shikoku island, takes you back to the Meiji era. Its beautiful wooden houses are worth a lingering look.

Quiet
Half day (3–5 hours) for the Yokaichi district, Kamihaga Residence/Wax Museum, and Uchiko-za; full day if you explore more of Uchiko at a slow pace