Mt Fuji Autumn Leaves 2026: Peak Foliage & Festival Guide
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posted by WANGKIRA
Planning to see autumn leaves around Mount Fuji? Early to mid-November is your best bet for Lake Kawaguchiko. The higher parts of the mountain turn first, with autumn color appearing around the 5th Station in October. By November, the color has reached the lakeside, where the maples around Kawaguchiko create the classic red-and-gold scenery with Mt. Fuji in the background.
The Momiji Corridor on the north shore of Lake Kawaguchiko is the place most visitors have in mind when they picture Mt. Fuji in autumn. Come during the day for the maple-lined path and lake views, or stay until evening when the trees are illuminated during the autumn leaves festival.
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Top 10 Spots for Mount Fuji Autumn Leaves
If you'd like to explore beyond the main festival area, the Fuji Five Lakes region has plenty of other foliage spots, from lakeside parks and viewpoints to quieter nature trails.
1. Lake Kawaguchiko Maple Corridor (Momiji Kairo)
If you only have time for one autumn foliage stop around Mount Fuji, go to Lake Kawaguchi. The maple-lined path follows the Nashigawa River and becomes especially atmospheric after dark when the trees are illuminated.
2. Arakurayama Sengen Park & Chureito Pagoda
Chureito Pagoda offers one of the most recognizable Mount Fuji views, but autumn adds another layer to the scene. From the observation area, you can photograph the five-story pagoda with red and orange foliage and Mt. Fuji in the background.
4. Momiji Tunnel
Momiji Tunnel is a small roadside maple-viewing spot near Lake Kawaguchiko, where maple trees create a natural frame for Mount Fuji. It is less developed than the main Momiji Corridor and works well as a short photo stop.
If you're already visiting Oishi Park, you can add Momiji Tunnel to the same northern-shore itinerary.
3. Oishi Park
Oishi Park is a much easier stop than Chureito Pagoda or Koyodai. There is no climb involved, and you can enjoy views of Lake Kawaguchiko and Mount Fuji directly from the lakeside.
It works particularly well as part of a northern-shore itinerary, especially when combined with nearby cafés, the lakeside walking path and Momiji Tunnel.
5. Lake Yamanakako
If Kawaguchiko feels too busy, Lake Yamanakako is worth considering. The atmosphere is generally quieter, and the wider lake creates beautiful reflections when the weather is calm.
For the best experience, combine Panorama-dai with a lakeside stop rather than treating the lake as a single attraction. This area is particularly enjoyable for visitors driving around the Fuji Five Lakes.
¥490.00
¥336.00
6. Mt. Fuji Panoramic Ropeway
The ropeway is less about walking among autumn leaves and more about seeing the wider landscape from above. The short ride takes you up Mount Tenjo, where Lake Kawaguchiko and the surrounding mountains open up below.
Because the lower station is close to the busiest part of Kawaguchiko, queues can become long during weekends and the peak foliage period. Going earlier in the day is usually the easiest option.
¥538.00
¥336.00
7. Saiko Iyashi no Sato Nenba
Saiko Iyashi no Sato offers a completely different setting from the lakeside viewpoints around Kawaguchiko. The reconstructed thatched-roof village gives you traditional architecture surrounded by seasonal colors.
It's a particularly good choice if you've already visited the major Kawaguchiko attractions and want something quieter and more distinctive. Allow enough time to walk through the village rather than treating it as a quick photo stop.
¥445.00
¥343.00
8. Koyodai Observatory
Koyodai is a better choice for visitors who want a little walking and a broader view of the Fuji Five Lakes landscape. Instead of focusing on a single maple-lined path, the reward here is the view over the surrounding forest.
This isn't the easiest stop on the list, but it is one of the better options if you prefer nature and panoramic scenery over major tourist attractions.
9. Oshino Hakkai
Oshino Hakkai is best known for its clear spring ponds, but autumn makes the village especially photogenic. Seasonal foliage adds color around the water, creating a softer and more traditional atmosphere than the large lakes.
It can get busy with tour groups, so visiting earlier in the morning makes the experience much more enjoyable.
10. Kaneyama Waterfall
Kaneyama Waterfall is a quieter alternative to the major foliage spots around Lake Kawaguchiko. The setting is smaller and more intimate, with water flowing through a forested area that takes on autumn color.
It's best added to a driving itinerary around the Fuji Five Lakes rather than making a special trip from Kawaguchiko just for the waterfall.
Fuji-Kawaguchiko Autumn Leaves Festival 2026
The 2026 festival is scheduled to run from November 7 to November 29 around the Momiji Corridor. Entry is free, and the area is at its busiest in mid-November, when the autumn colors are usually at their best.
Evening Illuminations
After sunset, the maple trees along the Nashigawa River are illuminated, giving the area a different atmosphere from the daytime. If you plan to stay after dark, bring warm clothing and check your return transportation in advance.
Food Stalls and Local Specialties
Temporary stalls around the festival area usually sell local food, drinks and souvenirs. It's also a good chance to try hoto, a regional noodle dish from Yamanashi.
If you're visiting from Tokyo, see our guide to planning a Mt. Fuji day trip from Tokyo.
¥4,800.00
¥3,360.00
How to Get to Mt. Fuji from Tokyo in Autumn
Getting from Tokyo to the Mt. Fuji area is straightforward, with direct trains, highway buses, and guided day tours available.
| Transport | Best For | Typical Journey |
|---|---|---|
| Fuji Excursion | Fast, direct travel | Around 2 hours |
| Highway Bus | Budget travelers | Around 2–2.5 hours |
| Guided Day Tour | Easy sightseeing | Full day |
For detailed routes, fares, departure points, and booking information, see our complete guide: How to Get to Mt Fuji from Tokyo.
For current Mt Fuji visibility, check our guide to When is Mt. Fuji Visible before setting out.
If you're choosing between destinations based on the weather, our guide to Hakone vs. Kawaguchiko can help you decide which area better fits your trip.
What to Wear for Mt. Fuji in Fall
The easiest approach is to dress in layers. Bring a warm jacket or down coat, a long-sleeve or thermal base layer, and comfortable shoes for walking. For evening visits, a hat, scarf, and gloves can also make a big difference.
If you're visiting in October, lighter layers may be enough during the day. By November, especially in the morning or after sunset, you'll want warmer clothing.
For a more detailed Japan packing checklist, see our Japan Packing List.
FAQs About Mt. Fuji Autumn Leaves
Can you see Mount Fuji and autumn leaves on the same day?
Yes, but a clear view of Mount Fuji depends on the weather. Start early for your best chance of seeing both.
How many days do you need to visit Mt. Fuji in autumn?
One full day is enough for the main spots around Lake Kawaguchiko. An overnight stay gives you more flexibility for the evening illumination and changing weather.
Is Kawaguchiko or Hakone better for autumn leaves?
Choose Kawaguchiko for classic views of Mt. Fuji with autumn foliage. Hakone is better if you want a wider variety of scenery, including lakes, mountains and hot springs.
Can you see autumn leaves around Mt. Fuji without a car?
Yes. Major spots around Lake Kawaguchiko are accessible by train and local buses, although public transport can be crowded during peak season.
Is it worth visiting before or after peak foliage?
Yes. You may see earlier color at higher elevations or fewer crowds after the peak, even if the leaves are not at their best.
