Japan’s koyo (autumn leaves) run roughly September–December—cooler years and higher latitudes turn first.

Region sketch

  • Hokkaido — Jozankei, Daisetsuzan, Noboribetsu Hell Valley
  • Tohoku — early colour relative to Kansai
  • Kanto / Kansai / Kyushu — later peaks; check weekly forecast sites

Pair famous temples and gorges with weekday visits; keep an eye on typhoon leftovers and mountain road closures.