The Best Spots to See Autumn Foliage in Hokkaido, Japan

Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost island, is famous for its breathtaking natural landscapes, and autumn is the perfect time to experience them in all their glory. The crisp air and vibrant colors create a picturesque setting that draws visitors from all over the world. If you’re planning to visit Hokkaido during the fall, here are the best places to catch the stunning autumn foliage.

1. Sounkyo Gorge - 層雲峡

Source: activityjapan

Nestled in the heart of Daisetsuzan National Park, Sounkyo Gorge is famed for its towering cliffs and dramatic waterfalls, all surrounded by a sea of colorful autumn leaves. The area is a paradise for hikers and nature lovers alike.

• Best Time to Visit: Late September to early October
• Address: Sounkyo, Kamikawa-machi, Kamikawa-gun, Hokkaido
• How to get there:

・About 40 minutes by car from JR Kamikawa Station. 

・Take a bus from JR Kamikawa Station and get off at Sounkyo

Source: voyagejapon

Don’t miss the Kurodake Ropeway, which offers stunning aerial views of the autumn foliage, and consider a hike up Kurodake Mountain for a more immersive experience.

Detailed information about Kurodake Ropeway

• Opening hours: 6:00 to 18:00 (may vary depending on the season )
• Closed on: No closing days
• Admission: 2,600 yen for adults and 1,300 yen for children (Round Trip Ticket)
• Phone: 01658-2-1811 (Sounkyo Tourism Association)
• Parking: Free of charge
• Note: Before going, please check the operating status of the ropeway on the Kurodake website

2.  Jozankei Onsen - 定山渓温泉

Source: Klook

Jozankei Osen, a part of Shikotsu-Toya National Park, is a forested hot spring area in Sapporo, blessed with abundant natural hot water. Due to its easy accessibility, being less than an hour's drive from downtown Sapporo, it attracts a large number of local residents and tourists throughout the year. It is also known as one of the most beautiful places in the country to admire autumn leaves.

• Best Time to Visit: Mid to late October
• Address: Jozankei, Minami, Sapporo, Hokkaido
• How to get there: 

・About 50 minutes by car from JR Sapporo Station.

・Take bus number 26 or 27 from Hokuren Building bus stop and get off at Jozankei Shrine.

• Phone: 011-598-2012 
• Parking: Free of charge (Jozankei Sports public parking spot)
• Website: https://jozankei.jp/ 

Source: 星野

The unique perspective from the Futami Suspension Bridge, just a short walk from the hot spring town, is a fantastic photo spot.

3. Hokkaido University - 北海道大学

Source: 星野

Located in the heart of Sapporo, Hokkaido University’s sprawling campus is one of the best places in the city to enjoy the autumn colors. The iconic Gingko Avenue, lined with towering ginkgo trees, turns a brilliant yellow in the fall, creating a picture-perfect scene.

• Best Time to Visit: Late October to early November
• Address: Kita 13-jo Nishi 5-7-chome, Kita-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido
• How to get there: About 6 minutes walk from Kita-Jūni-Jō Station
• Parking: None (use nearby paid parking lot)
• Website: http://www.hokudai.ac.jp/ 

4. Noboribetsu Onsen - 登別温泉

Source: 星野

Known as the "Hell Valley" of Hokkaido, Noboribetsu Onsen is famous for its geothermal activity and therapeutic hot springs. The surrounding hills come alive with autumn colors, offering a striking contrast to the steaming volcanic landscape.

• Best Time to Visit: Mid-October to late October.
• Address: Noboribetsu Onsen, Noboribetsu, Hokkaido.
• How to get there: 

　　 ・About 12 minutes by car from JR Noboribetsu Station. 

　　 ・Take a bus from JR Noboribetsu Station and get off at Noboribetsu Onsen.

• Parking: 500 yen, use Jigokudani parking lot
• Phone: 0143-84-3311
• Website: https://noboribetsu-spa.jp/ 

Source: Tripadvisor. 

Nestled in the heart of the Noboribetsu Onsen area, Oyunuma Pond offers a uniquely calming experience that combines the therapeutic benefits of geothermal waters with the soothing beauty of a forested landscape.

5. Takino Suzuran Hillside National Government Park - 国営滝野すずらん丘陵公園

Source: 星野

Located on the outskirts of Sapporo, Takino Suzuran Park is a hidden gem for foliage lovers. The park’s rolling hills and wide-open spaces are dotted with vibrant maple and birch trees, creating a serene setting for an autumn stroll.

• Best Time to Visit: Late October
• Address: 247 Takino, Minami-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido
• How to get there:  

・About 17 minutes by car from Makomanai Subway Station

・Take a bus from Makomanai Subway Station and get off at Keiryuguchi or Chuoguchi.

• Opening hours: 9:00-17:00 (may vary depending on the season )
• Closed on: From November 11th to December 22nd, from April 1st to April 19th

          ＊Open if April 19th and December 22nd are Sundays

• Admission:  450 yen for adults, free for children under 15 years old
• Phone: 011-592-3333 (Takino Park Information Center)
• Parking: Free of charge
• Web: https://www.takinopark.com/ 

Source: 星野

There are so many great spots for photos here, and Ashiribetsu Falls is definitely one you shouldn’t miss. It’s been voted one of Japan’s top 100 waterfalls, and it’s easy to see why—its stunning cascades and beautiful surroundings make it a truly magical place!

6. Onuma Quasi-National Park- 大沼国定公園 

Source: 星野

Just a short trip from Hakodate, Onuma Quasi-National Park is known for its picturesque lakes and small islands, all surrounded by dense forests that glow with autumn colors. The reflection of the foliage in the calm waters of Lake Onuma is a sight to behold.

Source: エキテン

Rent a canoe or take a boat cruise to fully appreciate the autumn scenery from the water, and consider a hike along the park’s trails for up-close views of the vibrant foliage.

Hokkaido’s autumn season is a true feast for the eyes, offering a diverse range of landscapes and experiences. Whether you’re soaking in a hot spring, exploring university grounds, or taking a scenic drive, the colors of fall in Hokkaido are sure to leave you mesmerized. So, get out there and immerse yourself in the beauty of Japan’s northernmost island this autumn—you won’t be disappointed!

Don’t forget to follow GoEMON Global on our official Facebook for the latest updates on life in Japan via this link right here: https://www.facebook.com/GoEMONGlobal 

Source: Hoshinoresorts