Part of Kurikoma Quasi-National Park and designated a Place of Scenic Beauty by Miyagi Prefecture, Naruko Gorge drops a dramatic 100 m (300 ft) to the river below. Seeing the canyon resplendent in red and yellow autumn colors is truly unforgettable! 

The gorge's most iconic autumn view is the graceful arch of Ofukazawa Bridge framed on all sides by radiant foliage. *Photo courtesy of Miyagi Prefecture Tourism Strategy Division

Nearby, you can soak in the historic hot springs of Naruko Onsen or visit Yubikan, an Edo-period samurai school whose buildings and garden are a National Historic Site and Place of Scenic Beauty. *Photo courtesy of Miyagi Prefecture Tourism Strategy Division

With autumn leaves, hot springs and history all close at hand, you can easily enjoy a bit of everything in one trip. The best time to view the foliage here is typically from late October to early November.

Oirase Gorge in Aomori Prefecture is designated as both a Special Place of Scenic Beauty and a Natural Monument of Japan. A road and a walking trail run alongside the Oirase River for about 14 km (8.7 mi), so you can enjoy the gorge's natural beauty up close, from cascading waterfalls to pristine waterside scenery. 

While spectacular year-round, autumn brings an extra touch of magic. Native beech and oak trees turn the gorge shades of gold, while bright red and orange maples create a striking contrast against the lush green moss that carpets the forest floor.

This beautiful tapestry, woven from the river's crystal-clear waters and gold, red, and orange foliage, is typically best seen from mid-October through early November.

Created by the 1888 eruption of Mount Bandai, the Goshikinuma Ponds are an iconic scenic destination in Fukushima Prefecture’s Urabandai region. Located within Bandai-Asahi National Park, the entire cluster of ponds is designated as a national Special Protection Zone, making it a true treasure trove of nature.

The roughly 30 ponds and marshes of varying sizes exhibit their own unique hues, ranging from emerald green to cobalt blue. In autumn, the colorful waters are complemented by brilliant red and yellow foliage, creating a wonderfully vibrant landscape. 

The Goshikinuma Nature Trail is an easily accessed, relatively flat, and well-maintained path that winds along the most popular ponds. For peak foliage, the 1.5-hour hike is typically best experienced from late October to early November.

One of Niigata Prefecture's premier scenic spots, Kiyotsu Gorge ranks among Japan's Three Great Gorges alongside Kurobe Gorge and Osugidani Valley, and is a nationally designated Place of Scenic Beauty and Natural Monument. In autumn, vibrant foliage brilliantly frames the majestic columnar rock walls and pristine emerald-green river. 

The Kiyotsu Gorge Tunnel, originally built to provide access to the gorge's stunning scenery, was transformed in 2018 into an immersive art installation called the Tunnel of Light. At its far end, a shallow pool on the tunnel floor reflects the magnificent gorge and its autumn foliage, creating a dazzling, mirror-like space!

The vivid color contrast and sophisticated architectural design make it a must-see destination. Peak foliage is typically best experienced from late October to mid-November.

*Ma Yansong / MAD Architects,“Tunnel of Light”(Echigo-Tsumari Art Field)