Seasonal News: Autumn Foliage Forecast
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A weather forecaster tells us! Best timing for autumn foliage viewing.

In every year, Japan Weather Association (JWA) announces forecasts for the best time for autumn foliage and its viewing spots throughout Japan from September to November. Information on autumn foliage for the 775 spots* nationwide is provided on the JWA’s dedicated weather forecasting site tenki.jp.

What is Autumn Foliage?

Autumn foliage (Kōyō in Japanese) is a phenomenon in which the leaves of trees change color to red or yellow in autumn. In Japan, the change starts around September in Hokkaido and the high-altitude areas of Honshu. Autumn foliage makes its way from north to south and can be enjoyed until December in areas between Kanto and Kyushu. The maples turn red, and the ginkgoes turn yellow.

Forecast period for Autumn Foliage Viewing

The forecasts are released about three times a year.
Announced season is within September to November period.

Data Used in the Forecast

The following types of data are used to forecast the best times for foliage viewing:

• Past autumn foliage and temperature data observed by Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA)
• Past foliage data at target spots by cooperative organizations
• Temperature data of each spot forecast by JWA

Please note that although JMA has past observation data for both maples and ginkgoes, JWA targets maples for which there is more past data.

How to access the forecast information

Information on autumn foliage for the 775 spots* is provided free of charge on our dedicated site tenki.jp .
For PCs: Here
For tablets and smartphones: Here

Corporate use of the forecast information

Autumn foliage is a seasonal phenomenon in Japan that we believe people all over the world will enjoy. For corporate organizations that wish to use the forecast data, contact us by filling out the inquiry form and our staff will be in touch immediately.

*The locations and the number of autumn foliage spots we announce are subject to change each year.