The forecast for the best time to see autumn leaves and yellow leaves in 2023

On October 3, Japan Weather Co., Ltd. unveiled its second forecast for the optimal period to witness the beautiful autumn foliage and golden leaves in 2023. The predictions encompass the forecast for the best time to see autumn leaves and yellow leaves in 2023, across various cities from Hokkaido to Kagoshima.

Top 10 places to enjoy Autumn leaves in Japan

The forecast for the best time to see autumn leaves and yellow leaves in 2023

Momiji Japan
Momiji (Image: Earth Communication Provider)

Yellow Ginkgo trees (Image: Earth Communication Provider)

This autumn, the country is anticipating higher temperatures. The optimal period for witnessing the fall foliage will either align with the usual timeframe or possibly be slightly delayed nationwide.

In Tokyo

The best time to see the autumn leaves is projected to be approximately around December 1st

In Osaka

The ideal time is predicted to be around December 4th, a time consistent with normal years.

Sapporo and Nagano

However, in certain regions like Sapporo and Nagano, the cherry blossoms are expected to bloom at least 10 days later than usual.

Sapporo: November 8th & Nagoya: November 18th

Northern Japan

Warmer temperatures from September to December. Autumn foliage may be on time or slightly late. In Sapporo, leaves will change color much later than usual.

Best viewing from mid-October to mid-November in the mountains and late October to early December in the plains. Yellowing of leaves may be on time or slightly late, with the best time in plains early November to late November.

East Japan

Above-average temperatures from September to December. Autumn foliage is expected on time or slightly late.

Best viewing from late October to mid-December in the mountains and late November to late December in the plains. Yellowing of leaves expected on time or slightly late, with the best time in plains mid-November to early December.

Western Japan

Warmer temperatures from September to December. Autumn foliage should be on time or slightly late.

Best viewing from early November to early December in the mountains and late November to mid-December in the plains. Yellow leaves are probably on time. The best time in the plains is from mid-November to mid-December.

Detail in Major Cities

Major citiesAutumn leavesYellow leaves
Sapporo11/1211/8
Aomori11/1611/7
Sendai11/2911/30
Tokyo12/111/26
Nagano11/2311/15
Nagoya12/311/18
Kyoto12/1211/27
Osaka12/411/24
Wakayama12/1311/26
Hiroshima11/2911/20
Kouchi12/1011/16
Fukuoka12/1011/27
Kagoshima12/1411/28