Autumn Leaves 2026 / December 2026

Autumn Leaves in Japan: December 2026

30 koyo spots typically peaking in December 2026, across Japan. Windows are re-checked against official sources.

Travelling in Japan in December 2026

Illuminations are at their fullest, and late autumn colour lingers in the far south and in warm city gardens into the first half of the month. From about December 29 to January 3 much of the country closes for the New Year holidays — museums, restaurants and small businesses included.

Autumn leaves in December 2026: common questions

Which autumn leaf spots are on in Japan in December 2026?
This page lists 30 autumn leaf spots falling in December 2026, spread across 6 regions — Kansai, Kanto, Tokai, Kyushu, Chugoku and Shikoku. Highlights include Nara Park Autumn Leaves, Hakone Autumn Leaves (Lake Ashi & Sengokuhara) and Sumata Gorge Autumn Leaves (Dream Suspension Bridge). Every date is re-checked against the official source for that event.
When exactly do they run?
Across the 30 listed here, the season starts as early as Oct 25 and as late as Nov 25, with the last of them running until about Dec 10. Individual dates are on each event's page; windows shift by a week or more from year to year with the weather.
Are there any public holidays in Japan in December 2026?
No Japanese public holidays fall in December 2026, so crowds at the spots on this page are heaviest on ordinary weekends.

See the full koyo calendar →