9/04/2011

Best Places in Northern Japan


 Best Places in Northern Japan to Experience Koyo

Posted on August 30, 2011 in Best Of ListsLocal Recommendations.
Koyo (red leaves) spread like a colorful blanket from north to south Japan as the cooler fall weather sets in. Here’s our selection of the best places to experience the full beauty of Koyo in northern Japan.

Hakone in Autumn
Hokkaido:
Furthest north, Hokkaido is one of the first places fall sets in.
Sounkyo Gorge – This area is known for its hot springs, spa hotels, waterfalls and mountains.
Jyozankei Valley – Only 40 minute from Sapporo city in the Shikotsu Toya National Park, this forested valley’s best view is from the suspension bridge.
Onuma Quasi-National Park – A series of small bridges connecting islands surrounded by birch and maple forests.
Northern Honshu:
The foliage here begins to change from October onwards.
Oirase Keiryu Mountain Stream – The virgin forest surrounding this section of the Oirase-gawa river contains white cedar, Japanese beech and maple trees.
Narukokyo Valley – This deep natural ravine has sheer cliffs, a crater lake and a stunning array of fall colors.
Yamadera (Risshakuji Temple) – This ancient temple is surrounded by dense and landscaped foliage.
Around Tokyo:
Further south the leaves begin their transformation from November onwards.
Ryuo-Kyo Valley – Two hours from Tokyo by express train, this stunning valley lies between the Onsen towns of Kawaji and Kinugawa Onsen.
Fukuroda-no-taki Falls – Only 40km from Tokyo in the Ibaraki prefecture, these famous falls have an observation deck, which looks down over the falls from a height of 50 meters.
Mount Takao – Only an hour from Tokyo by express train, this sacred mountain is home to an ancient temple where people have worshipped for over 1,200 years.
Hakone – A popular spa town, you can enjoy the fall colors here via boat, cablecar or ropeway.

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Shuzenji Temple – Amble along the Katsura River at this pretty spa town.
See Best Places in central and southern Japan to experience Koyo for details on where to see the fall colors south of Tokyo.

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