Among Japan’s most captivating sights are those that change beautifully with each season—and autumn foliage is one of the most cherished.maple and ginkgo leaves harmonize perfectly with Japan’s lush nature and its historic shrines and temples, leaving a lasting impression on all who visit.
Surrounded by rich natural beauty, this area offers countless places perfect for autumn trips or day drives .tranquil charm of nature , where brilliant autumn leaves signal the arrival of fall—and moments of peace await amid Japan’s timeless scenery.
Contents
What Is the Southern Area? Located in the southwestern part of Yamanashi Prefecture , the Southern Area is a region blessed with rich natural landscapes , surrounded by the Fuji River basin and the Southern Japanese Alps .
Traditional crafts such as washi papermaking , hanko seal engraving , and fireworks production are still practiced here today, preserving the region’s deep-rooted local culture and craftsmanship.
For those seeking to escape the bustle of the city and experience the essence of Japan’s rustic charm and the aesthetic of “wabi-sabi,” this area is the perfect destination.
In recent years, the Southern Area has been gaining attention as a hidden gem where visitors can enjoy both natural beauty and cultural heritage in a peaceful setting.
Minobu Town
Home to Kuonji Temple , the head temple of the Nichiren Buddhist sect, and the Minobu-san Ropeway , this town is one of the most famous autumn foliage destinations in Yamanashi.historic temple architecture and the brilliantly colored mountains creates an unforgettable landscape. Visitors can enjoy both spiritual visits and scenic strolls through the autumn leaves.
Hayakawa Town
Known as Japan’s least populated town , Hayakawa offers untouched nature and serene mountain valleys surrounded by the Southern Alps.quiet, healing autumn scenery and the tranquil beauty of Japan’s rural wilderness.
Nanbu Town
This peaceful area along the Fuji River is known for its mountain and riverside foliage spots .calm, unhurried atmosphere —perfect for those who wish to savor the slow rhythm of nature.
Fujikawa Town
As its name suggests, Fujikawa Town offers spectacular views of the Fuji River and the surrounding mountains , all adorned in vibrant autumn hues.scenic driving route , where travelers can admire colorful forests and mountain slopes directly from their car windows.
Ichikawa-Misato Town
Famous for its fireworks craftsmanship , Ichikawa-Misato transforms into a beautifully colored town in autumn.lesser-known foliage spots that offer a nostalgic, heartwarming glimpse of Japan’s rural life—an experience that urban visitors find especially memorable.
When Is the Best Time to See Autumn Leaves? In Southern Yamanashi, visitors can enjoy a wide variety of autumn scenery—from mountain ranges to river valleys —thanks to its diverse landscapes and elevation differences that create a long foliage season .
Typically, the mountainous areas of Hayakawa Town and Nanbu Town begin to show colors around mid-October , with the autumn hues gradually descending toward the countryside and lowlands of Fujikawa Town and Ichikawa-Misato Town .
This means you can enjoy the vibrant foliage for over a month, from mid-October through late November , with different landscapes depending on when you visit.
The peak viewing period generally falls between early and mid-November , when shades of red and gold shine most vividly across the region.temples and shrines, mountain gorges, and rural landscapes creates a deeply atmospheric and serene expression of Japan’s autumn spirit , unique to this part of Yamanashi.
Fall Foliage Spots in Minobu Town Mount Minobu & Kuonji Temple Known as one of Japan’s most powerful spiritual sites , Kuonji Temple and the surrounding Mount Minobu area are especially stunning in autumn, when the temple grounds and nearby mountains are painted in brilliant shades of red and gold.Minobu Ropeway , which connects Kuonji Temple with the mountain summit, to enjoy a breathtaking aerial view of Mt. Fuji and the Southern Japanese Alps .
Best viewing season Mid-November to late November Address 3567 Minobu, Minobu Town, Minamikoma District, Yamanashi 409-2593
READ MORE A Winter Wonderland: Stunning Snowy Spots to Visit in Yamanashi For many travelers visiting Japan in winter, the dream is simple—to experience magical snowy scenery. However, not all regions in Japan receive heavy snowfal… Koshu Irohazaka Road quote：https://www.instagram.com/p/Ck3PwlFJKCN/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link A scenic mountain road leading toward Lake Motosuko , famous for its continuous curves lined with vibrant autumn foliage.driving routes , where you’ll want to pull over for photos again and again as golden and crimson leaves surround your path.autumn road trip through the southern region of Yamanashi.
Best viewing season Late October to early November Address Nakanokura, Minobu Town, Minamikoma District, Yamanashi 409-3104
READ MORE
Fall Foliage Spots in Hayakawa Town Hagoromo Shiraito Falls Named for its resemblance to white silk threads cascading gracefully down the rocks , this waterfall is a sacred site where waterfall meditation and spiritual practices are still held today.frozen waterfall (icefall) creates a mesmerizing, otherworldly scene—making it a destination that offers unique beauty in every season .
Best viewing season Early November to late November Address Hayakawa Town, Minamikoma District, Yamanashi 409-2733
Kenjin Falls With a 55-meter drop and a powerful flow of water, Kenjin Falls is one of the most spectacular waterfalls in the region.legendary tale —it is said that “gold lies hidden beneath its depths.” sheer cliffs and rugged terrain , adding a sense of mystery and romance to the site.nature, legends, and a touch of adventure .
Best viewing season Early November to late November Address Amehata, Hayakawa Town, Minamikoma District, Yamanashi 409-2734
READ MORE
Fall Foliage Spots in Nanbu Town Fukushigawa Valley A scenic valley famous for its brilliant maple and Japanese maple leaves that can be admired from the suspension bridge.Nanatsugama Falls , where a series of cascading pools create a dynamic landscape of water and color.hot springs and campgrounds , this is the perfect destination to combine leaf viewing and outdoor relaxation in the heart of nature.
Best viewing season Late October to late November Address Fukushi, Nanbu Town, Minamikoma District, Yamanashi 409-2102
Mori-no-Oasis Park quote：https://maps.app.goo.gl/9zqzCGf2QTAdZTg87 Nestled in a peaceful mountain setting, this park features well-maintained lawns and open green spaces , offering visitors a place to enjoy the seasonal beauty of nature at a leisurely pace.quiet walks and picnics , surrounded by calm mountain air.hidden gorges and scenic viewpoints , making it a beloved secret retreat for those who appreciate Yamanashi’s understated natural charm.
Best viewing season Late October to late November Address Fukushi, Nanbu Town, Minamikoma District, Yamanashi 409-2102
READ MORE
Fall Foliage Spots in Fujikawa Town Oyanagawa Valley A scenic valley famous for its series of ten suspension bridges and numerous waterfalls , including the breathtaking Nanatsugama Falls .trekking course for beginners , while offering magnificent views throughout the seasons—fresh greenery in spring, vibrant foliage in autumn, and shimmering icicles in winter .negative ions and crisp mountain air is a refreshing experience for both mind and body.
Best viewing season Early November to mid-November Address Jutani, Fujikawa Town, Minamikoma District, Yamanashi 400-0606
Mount Kushigata Selected as one of Yamanashi’s Top 100 Mountains and one of the “Top 100 Scenic Views of Mt. Fuji in the Kanto Region,” Mount Kushigata is a popular destination for nature lovers.panoramic views of Mt. Fuji and the Shirane Three Peaks .Japanese larch trees , creating one of the most spectacular landscapes in Southern Yamanashi.
Best viewing season Late October to mid-November Address Hirabayashi, Fujikawa Town, Minamikoma District, Yamanashi 400-0514
READ MORE
Fall Foliage Spots in Ichikawa-Misato Town Lake Shibireko A tranquil lake surrounded by forests that burst into color each autumn, with reflections of red and gold leaves mirrored beautifully on the surface of the water —a view so picturesque it looks like a painting.SUP (Stand-Up Paddleboarding) and lake cruises , making it a popular autumn leisure destination where you can experience both scenic beauty and outdoor adventure .
Best viewing season Early November to late November Address Yamaho, Ichikawa-Misato Town, Nishiyatsushiro District, Yamanashi 409-3602
Ichikawa Park MTB Field A thrilling mountain biking field where riders can speed through trails lined with vibrant autumn foliage.multiple courses tailored to different skill levels , so everyone—from beginners to experienced riders—can enjoy the excitement of cycling through nature’s seasonal colors.
Best viewing season Early November to late November Address 947-3 Inzawa, Ichikawa-Misato Town, Nishiyatsushiro District, Yamanashi 409-3607
READ MORE
Summary In this guide, we introduced some of the most charming autumn foliage spots in Southern Yamanashi Prefecture .quiet lakeside trails to scenic driving routes framed by brilliant colors , the area offers a nostalgic glimpse of Japan’s timeless countryside beauty .
Whether you’re planning a family outing, a romantic getaway, or a solo journey , Southern Yamanashi invites you to experience the peaceful rhythm of nature and the breathtaking sights that only autumn can offer.magnificent fall scenery —a season that truly captures the heart of Japan.
Recommended for You! Featured Articles You May Also Like
