As summer says goodbye and autumn greets you, the autumn leaves in Hokkaido turn into a magnificent sea of red, yellow and brown. The Hokkaido autumn season is pure magic, with the island having some of the best fall foliage sightseeing spots you’ll ever see such as Daisetsuzan National Park, Blue Pond, Futami Suspension Bridge and Hoheikyo Dam.
Whether you’re walking along the streets littered with autumn leaves at Hokkaido University Gingko Avenue, soaking up the autumn colours at Nakajima Park or gazing out at the breathtaking view of Lake Akan, your Hokkaido autumn will be full of colourful autumn adventures. So grab your camera and let’s get started with Pelago by Singapore Airlines' guide to 7 of the most beautiful fall foliage locations that you must add to your Hokkaido autumn itinerary!
When to Visit Hokkaido for Autumn
Mid-October: The Peak of Autumn Foliage
If you’re planning an autumn trip to Hokkaido, be sure to circle mid-October on your calendar—multiple times! This is when the vibrant autumn colours are at their most dazzling, turning the island into a breathtaking canvas of red, orange, and gold. While you can catch the first hints of fall colours in late September to early October and even enjoy some lingering hues during late October to early November, mid-October truly steals the show. The foliage is in full bloom, making mid to late October the peak season for visiting Hokkaido. So, if you want to experience autumn in all its glory, remember that mid-October is the perfect time to be there and to avoid the period from mid-September to late September till early November.
Top Autumn Destinations in Hokkaido
Panoramic Views
Mount Hakodate: A Scenic Viewpoint
The star-shaped park at Mount Hakodate offers a unique and picturesque experience, making it an ideal destination for photographers during the fall season as it is engulfed by vivid autumn colours.
To get to Mt. Hakodate from Hakodate Station, there are plenty of options of travellers. You could board either a Route 2 or Route 5 tram headed toward Yachigashira or Hakodate-Dokkumae before alighting at Jujigai (D/Y 20) and taking a 7-minute walk to the Mt. Hakodate Ropeway. While some may opt to walk or take a bus or taxi all the way to the top of the mountain, most prefer to use the Mt. Hakodate Ropeway, a gondola that whisks passengers up to the Mt. Hakodate Observation Deck in 3 minutes.
From the Mount Hakodate Observation Deck, you can see Lake Biwa, Japan's largest freshwater lake located in Shiga Prefecture. Be captivated by the views around Lake Biwa that include top attractions in Japan such as the “Niji-no-Curtain” (Rainbow Curtain) and the “Furin Yoshi-Komichi” (Pathway of Wind Chimes). Beat the crowds by getting your Biwako Mt. Hakodate Admission Advance Sale Ticket before your visit!
Pro tip: Visit the Sapporo TV Tower to see how Sapporo city and downtown Sapporo are painted in the rich tones of fall. Alternatively, take the gondola up to Sapporo International Ski Resort for more panoramic fall views.
Address | Hakodateyama, Hakodate, Hokkaido 040-0000, Japan (map) |
Scenic Spots
Jozankei Onsen: Relax in a Hot Spring Surrounded by Autumn Leaves
Conveniently connected by hotel shuttle bus services from Sapporo Station or Makomanai Subway Station, Jozankei Onsen is the place to be for relaxation and autumn scenery! This spot has everything for leaf-peepers and relaxation seekers in Hokkaido. Canoe, trek, fruit pick while soaking in the Jozankei autumn colours - take your pick!
For those seeking to relax, take a bus to explore gorgeous viewing spots around Jozankei or unwind in the region's public foot baths and hot spring surrounded by pretty autumn leaves. Adrenaline junkies can opt for the Jozankei Toyohira River Canoe Paddling Experience instead to cross the canyon, listen to the sounds of nature and admire the beauty of fall all around you.
Pro-tip: For hot springs lovers, consider visiting Noboribetsu Hell Valley Onsen and Sounkyo Onsen too if you enjoy soaking in lovely fall views as you see the steam rising around you.
Address | Minami Ward, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan (map) |
Shikisai-no-Oka: Take in the Breathtaking Views
Shikisai-no-Oka is a flower park famous for its seasonal flowers from spring to autumn. In autumn, the park is a kaleidoscope of autumn hues. After taking in the views, relax in the hot springs nearby and have the ultimate autumn experience.
Another reason for its appeal is its accessibility - simply hop on the JR Furano Line to Biei Station and take a 12-minute taxi ride to reach your destination.
Want to explore more of the area during the fall season? Book a Furano 1-Day Tour to visit Shirogane Blue Pond, Shikisai-no-Oka Four Seasons Hill, & Farm Tomita today.
Address | Japan, 〒071-0473 Hokkaido, Kamikawa District, Biei, Shinsei, 第３(map) |
Eniwa Valley: A Hidden Gem for Fall Foliage
Eniwa Valley is a must-see when you visit Hokkaido during the fall season with the foliage creating a breathtaking backdrop for these cascading wonders. With three distinct waterfalls, Shiraoi Falls, Rarumanai Falls, and Sandan Falls, this hidden gem offers some of the most stunning sights in Hokkaido during fall. Simply take a 25-minute drive via Road No. 117 (Eniwadake Park Route) toward Lake Shikotsu from downtown Eniwa and you'll be there.
Pro-tip: If you love chasing waterfalls, why not enjoy the surrounding autumn scenery at the same time by visiting Ryusei Falls and Ginga Falls?
Address | Banjiri, Eniwa, Hokkaido 061-1422, Japan (map) |
Takinoue Park: A Popular Spot for Autumn Colors
A 7-minute journey from Takinoue Station and right beside the valley of the Yūbari River, Takinoue Park in Yubari City is a must-visit during fall. Wander through the park to admire the autumn foliage and scenic views that make Takinoue Park a hidden gem for fall enthusiasts. Look out in particular for how the rugged rock faces are overtaken by red and yellow hues when fall begins.
Pro-tip: Take a day trip to parks such as Daisetsuzan National Park, Odori Park, Nakajima Park, Maruyama Park, Miharashi Park and Moerenuma Park to enjoy the best of both worlds - insane fall scenery and a chance to unwind. It's a walk in the park!
Address | 5 Takinoue, Yubari, Hokkaido 068-0756, Japan (map) |
Lakes and Gorges
Lake Onneto: A Scenic Spot for Autumn Reflections
A 20-minute car ride from Lake Akan Bus Terminal, Lake Onneto in Akan National Park, is famous for its changing colours, shifting with the season and time of day.
In the fall, the colours around the lake are beautiful, with the foliage's colours reflected on the water. You can relax, take in the view and take some great photos.
Pro-tip: Looking for more top things to do in Hokkaido? If you enjoy seeing the beautiful autumn colors mirrored on the water's surface, consider visiting Lake Onuma and Lake Toya too.
Address | Moashoro, Ashoro, Ashoro District, Hokkaido 089-3964, Japan (map) |
Sounkyo Gorge: A Gorge-ous Location for Hiking in the Fall
Sounkyo Gorge is a great place to hike, especially in the fall. The gorge is famous for its dramatic cliffs with columnar jointing and epic waterfalls. As you hike through the area, you'll be surrounded by beautiful scenery peppered in fall hues, presenting you with sights that will take your breath away. After some physical exercise, rest your tired bodies with a visit to Sounkyo Onsen in the village centre.
Can't wait to get to Sounkyo Gorge already? Take a 30 minute ride on the Dohoku Bus bound for Sounkyo from Kamikawa Station on JR Sekihoku Main Line and you'll be on your way to see all that it has to offer.
Address | Sounkyo, Kamikawa, Kamikawa District, Hokkaido 078-1701, Japan (map) |
Getting Around Hokkaido
Transportation Options
When you’re in Hokkaido, you have several options to get around different areas such as Southern Hokkaido, Eastern Hokkaido and Central Hokkaido. Renting a car is a great way to create your own Hokkaido self-drive itinerary in autumn. All you need is a valid driver’s license. For a smooth ride, consider renting a hybrid or diesel car with multi-language navigation. Book your Hokkaido Car Rental (Chitose Airport Pick-Up) today and hit the road with ease!
For those who prefer public transport, the express train at JR Sapporo Station connects you to the popular locations in Hokkaido through stops at Hakodate Station, Kushiro Station, Obihiro and Asahikawa so you can travel between destinations easily.
Buses are also available for more remote areas so be sure to check the schedule before you go. Plus, you can enjoy the free shuttle bus services from New Chitose Airport and key spots in Chitose city.
Tips and Essentials
What to Wear and Pack
When heading to Hokkaido in autumn, it’s a good idea to pack a jacket or sweater because temperatures can drop to around 10°C. For extra cosiness, consider bringing scarves and gloves. And, of course, don’t forget your camera—you’ll want to capture the beautiful autumn foliage!
Unforgettable Autumn Adventures
Before your Hokkaido trip comes to an end, be sure to pop into JR Sapporo Station to grab some last minute souvenirs. If you’re near Hokkaido University, take a stroll down Gingko Avenue, where the golden gingko trees create a tunnel of red, gold and orange. And if you have time, make a detour to Lake Toya to see the fall colours reflected on the lake one last time.
Don't forget to pop by the Sapporo Autumn Festival too! At the end of September, you can enjoy a feast for your eyes and tummy as you walk amongst the fall foliage at Odori Park in Sapporo while munching on the best gourmet creations from Central Hokkaido. With the ginkgo trees at Hokkaido University and the Sapporo Autumn Festival fresh in your mind, your autumn trip will be one to cherish even as the first snow arrives! And when the snow starts to fall, be sure to check out our guide to the best ski resorts in Hokkaido to keep your adventure going through winter.