Daytrips to Enjoy from Tokyo in Autumn

Many consider autumn to be Japan’s most magnificent season. If you ever feel like getting out of the city for a quick getaway, the astonishing showcases of koyo (autumn foliage viewing) and Japan’s indigenous autumn blooms, such as cosmos, are within a mere hour or two away by commute. There are some places that are worth the daytrips just to take in the most breathtaking colors nature has to offer during autumn in Japan.

Check out some places to explore near Tokyo.

Hasedera Temple (Kanagawa)

As one of Japan’s historic ancient capitals, Kamakura offers a plethora of attractions for day trippers from Tokyo. Travelers visiting in autumn should set aside time to explore Hasedera Temple, renowned for its seasonal beauty that includes plum blossoms in winter, cherry blossoms in spring, hydrangeas in summer, and Japanese maples in fall.

Established in the year 736, Hasedera Temple, which shares its name with a temple in Nara, is home to a towering Kannon statue measuring over nine meters in height, numerous jizo statues protecting children, an inari shrine dedicated to fox spirits, and more. If you wish to take a break during your temple visit, consider dining at Kaikoan Restaurant, where you can savor exquisite views along with a variety of curries and pastas, or grab a quick snack at Teraya Cafe.

For a special autumn experience, plan your visit to Hasedera between late November and mid-December when the temple and its foliage are beautifully illuminated after sunset. Stroll through the temple grounds and be captivated by the sight of orange and red trees seemingly aglow against the night sky, their reflections shimmering in the tranquil waters below.”

Hitachi National Seaside Park (Ibaraki)

Hitachi National Seaside Park in Ibaraki Prefecture, easily accessible via a direct highway bus from Tokyo Station as well as by train, presents an excellent choice. Renowned for its expansive floral displays, this park features hills adorned with striking Kokia bushes that transition from vibrant green in the summer to fiery red in the autumn. Amidst fields of pink and white cosmos flowers and autumnal foliage, the park hosts a Kokia Carnival in October, offering delectable fall gourmet treats.

The park also caters to younger visitors with amusement rides and offers less-traveled routes, such as the Hitachinaka Nature Forest and dune area, where you can admire the picturesque Pacific Ocean nearby. To explore the park, you can opt for a leisurely walk, rent bicycles, or take a family-friendly seaside train that completes a 40-minute loop, making stops at nine locations around the park.

Okutama (Yamanashi)

For those yearning to escape the hustle and bustle of Tokyo and immerse themselves in the great outdoors, Okutama could be the perfect solution. Just a quick day trip from the bustling city, Okutama offers the ideal opportunity to reconnect with nature and unwind. Nestled in the western part of Tokyo, Okutama, also known as Oku-Tama-machi, has a wealth of attractions waiting to be explored.

In Okutama, adventure and relaxation go hand in hand. You can embark on invigorating hikes up Mt. Mitake or Mt. Odake, or indulge in a rejuvenating soak in the pristine waters of the nearby river. If you’re feeling peckish, try your hand at fishing along the banks of Akigawa Valley and savor the freshest catch of the day. There are three fishing spots where you can rent equipment and all the essentials for grilling your fresh catch. For those seeking a bit of pampering, the area boasts a selection of onsen (hot spring) retreats for a day of self-indulgence.

Hatonosu Valley boasts awe-inspiring scenery and is renowned as one of the prime locations for witnessing the autumnal splendor in the Okutama region. When the fall foliage is in full bloom, stand on the suspension bridge and marvel at the breathtaking valley and the crystal-clear stream below.