Autumn

Autumn

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

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)
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
Serene Bamboo Pathway in Arashiyama, Kyoto, Japan Easy walk
Autumn

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Sagano, better known as Arashiyama, is a vast area in Ukyo-ku district, northwest of Kyoto city, encircled by Mounts Ogura and Atago and the Katsura river.

Busy
2–3 hours (half day if also visiting Tenryu-ji, Togetsukyo Bridge, and nearby shrines/temples)
Inamura Rock: Majestic autumn landscape with vibrant foliage and peaceful village in Japan. Some hiking
Autumn

Nippara: Where The Samurai Came To Find Peace

Chance discoveries are often the most amazing. It was on the road to Nippara limestone caves that I found this village of little interest yet total surprise.

Quiet
Half day (allow extra time if you plan a longer nature walk and photo stops)
Historic Japanese town Takeharas traditional architecture. Easy walk
Autumn

Takehara : Staggering between the whisky and the sake

When I arrived in Takehara one evening, I was expecting a little village wedged between a calm, silky sea on one side and mountains verdant with bamboo on the other.

Quiet
Half day (3–5 hours) for the old town stroll + drinks; full day if adding seaside/sunset viewing and brewery/whisky-related stops
Tomonoura: Picturesque Japanese Coastal Town Harbor Easy walk
Autumn

Tomonoura : The Village of Ponyo

I’m going round in circles. Where on earth is it? After searching far and wide for the way up, a steep flight of steps appears in front of me.

Some crowds
Half day (3–5 hours) for the port, narrow streets, shops/food; full day if you explore slowly and stay overnight in a minshuku.
Abandoned Wagakawa Hydro Plant in Japan: A Stunning Autumn Oasis. Off the map
Autumn

The Abandoned Wakagawa Power Plant

Let's go discover this very special haikyo with a man who is equally special, or maybe not.

Difficulty
Risk
Enchanting Graceful Beauty Forest: Elegant trees, warm sunlight, inviting exploration of majestic natural beauty. Easy walk
Autumn

Bijin Bayashi: The Forest of Pretty Women

Where are these pretty women? In the forest of Bijin Bayashi! And they’re everywhere! Above, below, and all around you.

Some crowds
Morning visit / about 2–3 hours (the forest is compact; the ‘photo-spot game’ section can be done in ~20 minutes).