GetJRPass home
    Back to articles

    Seasonal

    JR Pass for autumn leaves season in Japan

    Late October to early December turns Japan into a sea of red and gold. A JR Pass is the easiest way to follow the koyo front from Tohoku down to Kyushu without paying for each shinkansen ride.

    01

    When does koyo peak

    • Hokkaido and northern Tohoku: late September to mid October.
    • Nikko, Hakone and Tohoku: mid October to early November.
    • Tokyo and Kyoto: mid November to early December.
    • Kyushu and southern Honshu: late November to mid December.
    02

    Best momiji spots reached with a JR Pass

    • Nikko: Tobu line gets the credit but the JR Nikko line from Utsunomiya is fully covered.
    • Kyoto: Tofukuji and Arashiyama are a short JR ride from Kyoto Station.
    • Hakone area: stop at Odawara on the Tokaido shinkansen.
    • Tohoku: Naruko Gorge from Sendai and Oirase Stream from Aomori.
    • Kyushu: Yufuin and Beppu via the Yufu limited express from Hakata.
    03

    Suggested 7 day autumn route

    Start in Tokyo for the first colours in the city parks, then take the Tohoku shinkansen to Sendai for Naruko Gorge. Continue south on the Tokaido shinkansen to Kyoto for peak momiji at Tofukuji and Arashiyama, finishing with a side trip to Nara. A 7 day JR Pass covers every shinkansen leg.

    04

    Practical tips

    • Reserve shinkansen seats early, autumn weekends fill quickly.
    • Carry a light jacket, mornings drop near 5 degrees in the north.
    • Combine with the Hakone Free Pass or local bus passes for non JR areas.

    Frequently asked questions

    Quick answers to common questions.

    Is the JR Pass worth it in autumn?

    Yes if you plan to visit two or more regions. Chasing the koyo front rewards passholders since shinkansen tickets between cities add up quickly.

    When is the best week for koyo in Kyoto?

    The last ten days of November are usually peak, with Tofukuji and Arashiyama at their best.

    Are autumn leaves crowded?

    Yes at famous temples. Visit early morning or on weekdays to avoid the worst crowds.

    Related articles

    Keep exploring Japan Rail Pass topics relevant to your trip.

    Order your Japan Rail Pass with GetJRPass

    Worldwide shipping, official exchange voucher, support in your language. Order in minutes and pick up your pass in Japan.