Golden Trails: A Fall Travel Guide to Hokkaido

Hokkaido in fall is absolutely stunning — it’s the first place in Japan where autumn colors arrive (late September to mid-October), thanks to the cooler climate. Here are the best places to visit in Hokkaido during fall :

🍂 Central Hokkaido

• Daisetsuzan National Park — first place in Japan to see autumn leaves (late Sept). Stunning mountain hikes, alpine scenery, hot springs.

• Jozankei Onsen (near Sapporo — hot springs surrounded by autumn foliage in the mountains, very accessible from Sapporo.

🍁 Eastern Hokkaido

• Akan-Mashu National Park — crystal lakes (Mashu, Akan, Kussharo) surrounded by fiery autumn forests.

• Kushiro Marshlands — golden reeds and migratory birds in fall, perfect for peaceful walks or canoeing.

🍂 Northern Hokkaido

• Sounkyo George — dramatic cliffs with waterfalls and brilliant red/yellow foliage. Ropeway views are spectacular.

• Furano & Biei — golden rolling fields, harvest season, and scenic patchwork hills framed by fall colors.

• Asahidake (Daisetsuzan Range) — ropeway to Hokkaido’s highest peak, surrounded by breathtaking fall colors.

🍁 Southern & Western Hokkaido

• Onuma Quasi-National Park (near Hakodate) — lakes and small islands with vibrant autumn colors, perfect for boating.

• Hakodate’s Mount Hakodate — city view framed by autumn leaves.

• Shikotsu-Toya National Park — Lake Shikotsu and Lake Toya surrounded by autumn forests.

Why visit Hokkaido in fall?

• First autumn leaves in Japan (late Sept to Oct).

• Perfect balance of cool weather + beautiful scenery.

• Harvest festivals + seasonal food (pumpkin, potatoes, salmon, chestnuts).

• Fewer crowds compared to summer/winter