Before we know it, the autumn leaves will be arriving from the mountains of Honshu and will soon be ready to be enjoyed in various regions. Due to the high temperatures in Japan and around the world, there was a strong expectation that the autumn leaves would be later than usual, but it seems likely that this will be the case this fall.
Since I was down with the flu this week, I cannot write my usual posts, but I hope this will help those planning to visit Tokyo.
Outline of the autumn leaves 2023
Japan Meteorological Corporation announced the second forecast of autumn leaves at the beginning of October. According to the forecast, the best time to see autumn leaves varies from place to place, but overall it will be a few days to more than ten days later in some locations. Therefore, those who plan to visit this season should check the schedule frequently.
The following map provided by JWA shows the details of locations in Japan. They don't have an English site, but if you use Google Translate, you will get the details in English.
Right now it is difficult to predict if the autumn leaves this year will be beautiful. Generally speaking, the following conditions are required.
Sudden cold temperatures, especially at night, help to produce beautiful colors.
Good direct sunlight: The entire tree or mountain should be exposed to the sun to get beautiful coloring.
Moderate humidity: The air needs to be moderately humid so that the leaves do not wither.
Good balance of tree species.
My recommendations in Tokyo
There are several places that I can recommend in Tokyo. It may be worth trying one of these places. Please note the timing is subject to change. So please be updated when the timing comes closer.
1. Meiji Jingu Gaien(Mid-Nov to early Dec)
It is one of the best spots to see yellow leaves in Tokyo. When the 146 ginkgo trees turn yellow, they turn into a golden tunnel. It is best to go there early in the morning, otherwise, you'll be disturbed by so many photographers.
2. Tokyo Station Marunouchi Exit(Late Nov to mid-Dec)
Many ginkgo trees are planted along the wide streets from Tokyo Station Maruouchi Exit to the Imperial Place. You can stop by while sightseeing at the Imperial Palace.
3. Nezu Shrine(Mid-Nov to early Dec)
Nezu Shrine in downtown Tokyo is famous for its vermilion-lacquered Senbon-torii, or "thousand torii" gates, which are not as large as those at Fushimi Inari in Kyoto but it is well known among foreign tourists. There are magnificent ginkgo trees, where visitors can enjoy the autumn leaves as well as the Senbon-torii gate.
4. Showa Kinen Park(Mid-Nov to early Dec)
It takes about one hour by train to the western suburb of Tokyo from central Tokyo. If you enter the park from the Tachikawa Exit, you will enjoy 106 ginkgo trees, which make the yellow promenade during the season. Many maple trees are in the "Japanese Garden" and they turn red. It costs 450 Yen for an adult and 210 Yen for over 65 years.
5. Mt Takao(Mid-Nov to early Dec)
Takao is always crowded with hikers regardless of autumn leaves. It is easily accessible from Shinjuku by the Keio Line, which takes about one hour. However, the summit of the 599-meter-high mountain is packed with climbers before and after lunch, and the descent is so crowded that there are lines of hikers waiting to get off the mountain. I recommend hiking up along the stream on route No. 6. early in the morning, and come down by any routes before noon.
Summary
The autumn leaves in Tokyo are mostly ginkgo trees planted as street trees. If you want to see the dazzling red maple leaves, it is better to visit a Japanese garden or Mt. Takao. This year's autumn leaves will be as vivid and eye-catching depending on how cold it will get, but if you are in Tokyo from late November to early December, I highly recommend these areas.
Lastly, my apologies that the next post may be postponed due to personal reasons. Take care!!