Momijigari: Where to enjoy the red autumn leaves in Tokyo

One of the most visible reminders of autumn’s progress is the gradual change in the colours around us. Tokyo is treated to an incredible natural show at this time of year as trees right across the city turn every shade of brown, orange, red and yellow.

Just as the slow march of the sakura cherry blossom front across Japan is closely watched and even mentioned on the evening news in spring, so the autumn leaves forecast is a daily conversation topic here as the weather turns cooler.

Tokyo has some truly spectacular autumn sights with parks, gardens, temples and shrines all garlanded in bright autumn colours. Some of the more popular destinations even extend their opening hours and illuminate the trees to give visitors a striking experience of autumn in Tokyo.

For those who make a trip further out of the city, the stunning natural vistas more than make the journey worth it. There are some beautiful lakes, rivers and mountains, just an hour or so from downtown Tokyo where you can really immerse yourself in autumn.

Here are some places in Tokyo where one can enjoy the autumn leaves this season:

Rikugien Gardens

Hama-rikyu Gardens

Koishikawa Korakuen Gardens

Ninomaru Gardens

Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

Meiji Jingu Gaien

Mt. Takao

Lake Okutama

Yoyogi Park

Ueno Park

Showa Kinen Park

Inokashira Park