As the fierce heat of summer gives way to a crisp breeze, Japan prepares for one of its most deeply rooted seasonal spectacles. This is the season of Momijigari—literally translated as “red leaf hunting”—a centuries-old tradition where locals and travellers alike head into nature to witness the dramatic turning of the leaves.

While spring’s cherry blossoms are famously fleeting, the Japanese autumn is a slow, meditative unraveling. Across mountain trails, ancient temple towns, and deep forested valleys, the landscape shifts into vivid gradients of amber, russet, and gold.

For many international travellers, Kyoto is the default destination for autumn foliage. However, the immense popularity of its historic temples often means sharing the view with heavy crowds. For those looking to truly experience the reflective, tranquil spirit of Momijigari, the best views are found on foot along Japan’s quieter, lesser-travelled walking paths.

By slowing the pace and exploring rural routes—such as those curated by guided walking specialists Walk Japan—travellers can immerse themselves in the country’s autumn beauty at a profoundly human scale. Here are three spectacular regions where you can experience the magic of the changing seasons on foot.

Culinary Traditions and Alpine Views: The Kiso Valley

Nestled within Nagano Prefecture, the forested Kiso Valley and the neighbouring Kaida Plateau offer a journey straight back into the Edo period. The area is framed by the dramatic, towering silhouette of the sacred Ontake-san volcano, an active peak long revered by spiritual ascetics.

Walking through this region in autumn feels like stepping into a living ukiyo-e woodblock print. The historic post towns, with their beautifully preserved wooden architecture, are framed by slopes ablaze with amber and crimson.

Because the region’s high altitude shapes a distinct alpine climate, the local food culture is exceptionally rich. A day spent wandering past mountain streams and historic milestones concludes with hearty regional delicacies, locally brewed sake, and a long, therapeutic soak in an onsen (a natural hot spring)—the ultimate reward for a day on the trail.

Coastlines and Volcanoes: The Izu Geo Trail

Southwest of Tokyo lies the Izu Peninsula, a geologically unique region recognised as a UNESCO Global Geopark. Unlike the deep mountain passes of central Japan, the Izu Geo Trail offers a fascinating contrast between rugged volcanic coastlines and dense, quiet woodlands.

In autumn, the peninsula undergoes a stunning transformation. The deep greens of the local cedar forests are punctuated by brilliant pockets of turning deciduous leaves, which cascade right down toward the edge of the Pacific Ocean.

Walking here allows you to explore quiet fishing villages that feel a world away from the capital’s neon lights. The coastal paths offer panoramic ocean views on one side and fiery hillside foliage on the other, creating a unique coastal interpretation of the classic autumn palette.

A Spiritual Journey: The Shikoku Temple Pilgrimage

For those seeking a deeply reflective experience, Japan’s rural island of Shikoku offers an open invitation to step outside of time. Rooted in a 1,200-year-old Buddhist tradition, the island is home to the famed 88-temple route, a path traditionally walked by pilgrims dressed in white.

Walking selected rural sections of this historic trail during autumn is unforgettable. The route winds through mist-shrouded mountain paths, terraced valleys, and ancient temple grounds where the architecture is softened by a canopy of brilliant red maples.

The slower pace of Shikoku encourages a deep connection with the local community, where the spirit of settai (hospitality shown to pilgrims) is still very much alive. Moving through these quiet, forested valleys on foot provides a profound understanding of why Momijigari has captured the Japanese imagination for centuries: it is not just a visual feast, but a lesson in finding peace within the natural cycles of change.