Autumn

Autumn

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

Yellow polka dot pumpkin sculpture on Naoshima Island overlooking the Seto Inland Sea Easy walk
Autumn

Naoshima on Acid

Naoshima, the Japanese island where art, cats, and the sea meet in a unique, enchanting atmosphere. Sculptures sprout like mushrooms, cats pose for visitors, and art emerges in the most unexpected places.

Busy
Full day (overnight recommended if visiting multiple museums and Art House Project sites)
Moss-covered rakan statue with red maple leaf at Otagi Nenbutsu-ji, Kyoto
Autumn

Otagi Nenbutsu-ji: 1,200 Faces, Zero Filter

A quiet, magnificent Kyoto temple where 1,200 moss-covered rakan statues watch you in silence, each carved by a different amateur hand. And one face you'd rather not spot.

Fukiware Falls in Japan, river rushing through curved rock gorge amid autumn forest. Easy walk
Autumn

Fukiware Falls: The Echoes of Water

Tucked in Gunma's countryside, the "Niagara of Japan." A powerful story of water carving rock, with local snake legends to discover.

Quiet
2–3 hours for the falls and walking trails; half day if combining with Oigami Onsen (or longer if you plan to bathe and relax).
Takachiho Gorge
Autumn

Takachiho Gorge: Boats, Gods and Volcanic Walls

Kyushu's most photographed gorge: rowboats under the Manai waterfall, 100-metre volcanic walls, gods, a demon, and noodles that race down a bamboo flume.

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
JFMAMJJASOND
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)