The 12 Best Autumn Leaves Photo Spots in Tokyo

Who doesn’t love to experience autumn in Tokyo? It’s a magical time when you can witness leaf colors unfold as they transition into vibrant shades of gold, orange, and red. We love heading outdoors during this season and visiting the most famous parks and gardens to take lots of photos of the fall foliage.

The best time to visit Tokyo and witness autumn beauty this year is mid-November to mid-December. It’s the time of year when you have to empty your phone memory and prepare to shoot the perfect shot for the autumn leaves. Still curious about where you can take the best Insta-worthy photo spots? Continue reading to find out.

By the way, if you want to take gorgeous pictures of you in Tokyo, feel free to hire a professional photographer at Photo Trips! In addition to get a local “guide”, our photographers will take you to the most photogenic locations to get gorgeous photos of you during your trip. Check out the photoshoots we have in store for you here: best photographers in Tokyo!

1. Shinjuku Gyoen

First on the list is a serene nature park where you will see a blend of English, French, and Japanese gardens. Shinjuku Gyeon is the perfect retreat if you’re seeking a peaceful and relaxing getaway. Plus, head to this park during the fall season and admire the beauty of plane and maple trees.

All three gardens feature different yet distinctly unique views. Red Momiji trees are in the Japanese section, while vibrant yellow ginkgo trees are in the English garden. Additionally, beautiful fall foliage awaits at the French garden, combining rose bushes and trees with vibrant gold and orange leaves.

Address: Shinjuku Gyoen

2. Meiji Jingu Gaien

Drive across Meiji Jingu Gaien, a 300-meter-long road surrounded by spectacular autumn foliage on both sides. Take a photo of more than 140 ginkgo trees as you witness the leaves transitioning from usual green to vibrant shades of yellow and gold.

We recommend driving there at sunset if you want the most beautiful photo spot. You will definitely be mesmerized by the glowing golden leaves that blend well with the orange hues in the sky. Since Meiji Jingu Gaien is a public street, you don’t need to pay for any admission ticket.

Address: Meiji Jingu Gaien

3. Ueno Park

Ueno Park just might be one of the most cultural attractions in Tokyo. And you won’t be disappointed if you visit in autumn. Ueno Park in autumn is like a sea of fiery golds and reds blending together, thanks to the combination of ginkgo and maple trees. At the same time, Ueno Park has several temples, museums, and zoos. We really think it’s the best spot to spend one entire afternoon.

After taking the most stunning autumn photos, visit Yanaka, one of the oldest neighborhoods in Tokyo. Here you will find traditional shops and narrow streets like you’re transported to ancient Japanese times.

Address: Ueno Park

4. Rikugien Gardens

Rikugien Gardens is one of the oldest parks in Tokyo. At the same time, it’s also one of the most famous ones during the autumn season. Every corner just looks spectacular, where you can witness the blending of colors of over 400 Momiji and about 600 ginkgo and other maple trees.

We highly recommend visiting Rikugien Gardens at night so you can see the trees illuminated. The view is even more breathtaking because the leaves reflect on the lake waters. Take dramatic photos and elevate your social media feed!

Address: Rikugien Gardens

5. Hibiya Park

If you prefer peace and relaxation but want to capture autumn leaves, head to Hibiya Park. It’s one of the most sought-after nature parks in Central Tokyo because it’s calm and quiet. This area has no crowds, despite being next to Ginza and Nihonbashi.

The autumn colors in Hibiya Park are to die for! You will experience a mixture of vibrant yellow and gold, together with vigorous reds and oranges. Plus, Hibiya Park is set near the tallest skyscrapers in Central Tokyo, so it’s like a hidden urban oasis.

Address: Hibiya Park

6. Yoyogi Park

Yoyogi Park is another famous park in Tokyo known for jogging, picnics, and family adventures. This nature park is an open area that joins Harajuku and Meiji Jingu, so you can meet different groups and introduce yourself to diverse cultures.

During autumn, the Harajuku gate is a favorite photo spot because of the ginkgo and Momiji trees. There are also zelkova trees that add to the vibrant yellow and red hues. Plus, there’s a fountain area in the center, perfect for photoshoots as you surround yourself with beautiful fall foliage.

Thinking of bringing your pet? Yoyoji Park has a special dog park designated for your cute little fluffballs!

Address: Yoyogi Park

7. Mizumoto Park

Next on the list is a unique photo spot because of serene waterfront views. Mizumoto Park features a massive open space, perfect to go to when you want a quick retreat away from central Tokyo. Moreover, did you know that this waterfront destination is Tokyo’s largest park?

Mizumoto Park is most beautiful in autumn, as you witness the unique metasequoia trees changing their leaf colors. Because there’s also a nearby lake, you can see the color transitions being mirrored, reflecting different red and gold coats.

Address: Mizumoto Park

8. Koishikawa Korakuen

Koishikawa Korakuen is another ancient garden in Tokyo, built in the early Edo Period. This garden is entirely circular and centers on a clear pond surrounded by majestic trees that change color, which is also the garden’s most famous spot.

If you head to the pond area, you will see the beautiful leaves’ reflection in the water. It’s a postcard-worthy scene, so make sure your camera is ready! Another notable spot in Koishikawa Korakuen is the Autumn Leaves Forest. Here you can find trees forming a tunnel-like canopy of fall colors.

Address: Koishikawa Korakuen

9. Jindaiji Temple

 

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A day trip to Jindaiji Temple is definitely an excellent idea, especially when you want to explore the quieter parks of Tokyo. Visiting the temple is like stepping back in time. As one of the oldest temples in Japan, you can find ancient architecture with off-the-beaten paths that can also lead to nearby parks. These parks include the Aquatic Gardens and the Jindai Botanical Gardens.

During autumn, Jindaiji Temple bursts in red and orange shades, like watercolors splashing on a painting. We recommend getting immersed in the botanical gardens so you can capture beautiful fall foliage photos. Moreover, winter roses and other seasonal flowers can add drama to your shots.

Address: Jindaiji Temple

10. Hamarikyu Garden

 

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Hamarikyu Garden is like an urban oasis. It’s right in the center of Tokyo, but you can still find it pretty calming to visit one of the city’s best gardens. You will find teahouses and arched bridges that add to the sight’s overall appeal. We suggest a cup of tea inside the teahouse for a pleasurable experience.

For a great photography experience, stand at the garden’s center and take photos of the vibrant Momoji and other trees with varying yellow and gold shades. Hamarikyu Garden is conveniently located, and it’s easy to reach the spot by train or riverboat from Asakusa.

Address: Hamarikyu Garden

11. Inokashira Park

Another quiet park in Western Tokyo is Inokashira Park, famous for its blend of nature and stunning art. It’s the liveliest during the autumn season as you capture warm yet vibrant gold and red shades. Inokashira Park is an excellent destination for families looking to spend their time strolling.

The best photo spots include the peaceful lake surrounded by maple trees. After taking your Instagram-worthy shot, visit Inokashira Benzaiten, the local temple, or Inokashira Zoo. The Ghibli Museum is also nearby, but you need to book your tickets in advance.

Address: Inokashira Park

12. Showa Kinen Park

Showa Kinen Park, also known as Showa Memorial Park, is one of the largest parks in Japan and covers about 180 hectares. This tourist spot has a large number of huge ginkgo trees that turn bright yellow in autumn. Plus, there’s a Canal road, about 200 meters long, that’s also lined with vibrant trees on both sides.

As autumn progresses, you’ll notice the yellow leaves falling and creating a yellow carpet where you walk. Additionally, there are also a few Momiji trees, especially along small cafes and teahouses.

Address: Showa Kinen Park

+1 Mitake

Are you up for a bit of adventure before reaching the best autumn leaves photo spot? Consider Mount Mitake, where you can get panoramic views when you reach the peak! If you don’t want to go hiking, choose from a cable car or a scenic train ride to take you to the sacred Mount Mitake.

Maple trees dominate Mount Mitake, and their leaves turn redder as autumn progresses. The local Musashi-Mitake Shrine adds to the spot’s spiritual touch.

Address: Mitake

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Tokyo isn’t just famous for Shibuya crossing, Disneyland or Disney Sea. This city offers far more tourist spots, including breathtaking photo spots during the autumn season. Let us know if you’re heading to any of the tourist destinations we mentioned in this guide!

For more autumn photo locations in all Japan, make sure you also read our selections of the best autumn photo spots in Kyoto and the best autumn photo spots in Osaka!

You can also discover more photogenic locations in Tokyo in this guide about the most Instagrammable photo spots in Tokyo!