Japan autumn is just weeks before the start of its peak from Hokkaido in the north to the highlands of Honshu Island. One such remarkable autumn spots during the most colorful seasons in the country is those found in Toyama Prefecture. While not known compared to Kyoto, Tokyo or those in Kyushu, Toyama’s autumn foliage offers some unique and breathtaking and some of the earliest blooms in the country. Sharing some of the top autumn spots in Toyama.
1. 𝐓𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐲𝐚𝐦𝐚 𝐊𝐮𝐫𝐨𝐛𝐞 𝐀𝐥𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐞 𝐑𝐨𝐮𝐭𝐞
🍂 Autumn Foliage: Mid-September to Late October
📅 Best Time: 2nd–3rd week of October
One of the earliest places to see autumn colors in Japan outside mainland Hokkaido is the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route. Because of its high elevation, autumn arrives earlier here, with foliage starting from mid-September and continuing into late October before the snow arrives.
The peak around Daikanbo and Kurobe Dam is usually from early to late October. Murodo is also unique because its autumn colors come mainly from alpine plants rather than trees.
💡 TIP: In late October, if the snow arrives early, you may be able to experience three seasons at once—snow, autumn foliage, and green vegetation!
If you’re visiting later in November, Shomyo Falls, Japan’s tallest waterfall, and Tateyama Town, which can still have autumn colors in November, are also good options.
🎫 The route is also covered by the JR Alpine-Takayama-Matsumoto Area Tourist Pass.
2. 𝐊𝐮𝐫𝐨𝐛𝐞 𝐆𝐨𝐫𝐠𝐞 – 𝐒𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬𝐞𝐞𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐓𝐫𝐚𝐢𝐧
🍂 Autumn Foliage: Late October to Mid-November
📅 Best Time: 1st–3rd week of November
Another famous autumn destination and unique foliage-viewing experience is the Kurobe Gorge Sightseeing Train.
You’ll ride an open-air trolley train from Unazuki Onsen Station for more than an hour through Kurobe Gorge, one of Japan’s Three Great Gorges.
The experience is unique because the train passes through numerous tunnels and bridges. You can also get off at stations along the route and explore the surrounding areas, including trails and spots near the river.
🍁 The wild autumn foliage here is especially beautiful.
Good news this year: the train service has been extended all the way to Keyakidaira, following the suspension of the section after the earthquake two years ago.
One of the highlights is crossing the iconic red Shin-Yamabiko Bridge.
🎫 JR Pass and JR Regional Pass holders may also be eligible for discounts.
3. 𝐓𝐨𝐲𝐚𝐦𝐚 𝐂𝐢𝐭𝐲 – 𝐇𝐞𝐢𝐰𝐚-𝐃𝐨𝐫𝐢 𝐆𝐢𝐧𝐤𝐠𝐨 𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐞𝐭 & 𝐁𝐚𝐛𝐚 𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐤
🍂 Autumn Foliage: Mid to Late November
📅 Best Time: 3rd–4th week of November
While Tokyo is famous for its many ginkgo-lined streets, Toyama City also has two beautiful ginkgo spots that are easy to access by walking or tram.
Heiwa-dori Street, near Gokoku Shrine, is one of Toyama’s notable ginkgo viewing spots. The view from the shrine is beautiful, and on a clear day, you can even see the Tateyama mountain peaks in the distance.
From Toyama Station, you can take the City Tram bound for Iwasehama and visit Baba Memorial Park, known for its giant ginkgo trees.
🍁 To end the day, head to Kansui Park for even more autumn colors.
🚄 Toyama is accessible by night bus, limited express trains, and direct Shinkansen services from major cities such as Tokyo, Osaka, and Nagoya.
4. 𝐓𝐚𝐤𝐚𝐨𝐤𝐚 𝐊𝐨𝐣𝐨 𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐤
🍂 Autumn Foliage: Mid to Late November
📅 Best Time: Late November
Kojo Park may be more famous for its cherry blossoms in spring, but it is equally beautiful during autumn, especially in late November when the maple trees around the park and its moats turn vibrant colors.
There is also a shrine and a small zoo inside the park.
📍 It’s also very close to Takaoka Daibutsu, one of Japan’s Three Great Buddhas, as well as the Doraemon-related attractions and museum in Takaoka.
5. 𝐊𝐮𝐫𝐞𝐡𝐚𝐲𝐚𝐦𝐚 – 𝐂𝐡𝐨𝐤𝐞𝐢𝐣𝐢 𝐓𝐞𝐦𝐩𝐥𝐞
🍂 Autumn Foliage: Mid to Late November
📅 Best Time: Late November
Not far from Toyama Station, you’ll find Kureha Hill, a scenic viewpoint overlooking Toyama City.
From mid to late November, the area becomes a great spot for autumn foliage.
One of the main attractions is Chokeiji Temple, where you can see more than 500 statues.
After visiting the temple, you can also stop by the nearby tea garden for a tea break or even experience a traditional Japanese tea ceremony.
There are also several museums and cultural attractions nearby, including the Toyama Folkcraft Village.
🍁 To finish your day, head to the observation deck and enjoy the panoramic view of Toyama City and the surrounding mountains.
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