Local Guide
 Yatsugatake, Kiyosato, and Kobuchizawa: 9 Spectacular Autumn Foliage Views to be Found in the Year 2025

The Yatsugatake, Kiyosato, and Kobuchizawa areas, which are surrounded by famous mountains such as Yatsugatake and the Southern Alps, are home to some of the most beautiful autumn foliage in Japan. We will introduce you to some of the best autumn foliage spots, including the beautiful valley view from the Higashisawa Bridge, commonly known as the "Red Bridge," and popular terraces where you can view Yatsugatake, the Southern Alps, and even snow-capped Mount Fuji from the village of clear famous water.

The yellow bridge harmonizes with the colorful valley against the backdrop of the majestic Yatsugatake

This 100-meter-high, 490-meter-long bridge spans the Kawamata River valley on Prefectural Route 28, which connects Nagasaka I.C. on the Chuo Expressway to Kiyosato. This bridge is called the "yellow bridge" in contrast to the Higashisawa Bridge over the Kawamata River, which is commonly known as the "red bridge. It is popular as a scenic spot with a magnificent view of the Yatsugatake mountain range centering on Akadake (Mt. Akadake) to the north, the Southern Alps to the southwest, and Fuji to the south.
During the fall foliage season, larch, white birch, and maple trees turn into a variety of colors, and together with the surrounding background, the scenery is as graceful as a masterpiece painting. Visitors who view the scenery from the parking lot of the observatory on the Kiyosato side of the mountain can enjoy the yellow bridge and the autumn leaves.

Start of color change] Usually from early to mid-October.
Usually from late October to early November.
Kinds of colored leaves: Japanese larch, white birch, maple, etc.

Yatsugatake Highland Bridge
  • Address Higashi-ide, Takane-cho, Hokuto City, Yamanashi MAP
  •  Direction Approximately 12 minutes from JR Kiyosato Station by car.
  • Bus Direction From JR Kiyosato Station, take the Kiyosato Picnic Bus on the Oizumi round trip route (approx. 22 mins), and get off at the Yatsugatake Kogen Ohashi (Yatsugatake Highland Bridge) or Nakamura Farm-mae stop.
    The Kiyosato Picnic Bus operates on limited days and during limited periods .
  •  TEL 0551-30-7866(Hokuto City Tourist Association)
  •  Parking Free of charge

Red arch bridge shining against the autumn leaves in the valley

This is a representative view spot of Kiyosato Kogen, a popular resort at the southern foot of Yatsugatake. The 90-meter-long arch bridge over the Higashisawa Valley of Kawamata River is called the "red bridge" because of its red-painted appearance, and is a popular spot for photography and sketching. The scenery of the red bridge and Yatsugatake, which shows various expressions from season to season, are all magnificent, but the autumn foliage season is especially exceptional. The contrast between the red of the bridge and the majestic Yatsugatake is truly spectacular. There is an observation deck on the Kiyosato side of the bridge, so enjoy the spectacular view while walking on the bridge.
Also recommended is the Doryu Falls, located downstream from the Higashisawa Bridge on the Kawamata River.

Beginning of the changing of colors: Usually from early September to mid-September.
Usually from early October to early November.
Kinds of colored leaves】Karamatsu(larch)、Dakekamba(dake-kamba)、Shirakaba(birkaba)、Momiji, etc.

Higashisawa Bridge
  • Address Oizumi Nishiide, Hokuto City, Yamanashi MAP
  •  Direction 6 minutes drive from JR Kiyosato Station
  •   Direction From JR Kiyosato Station, take the Kiyosato Picnic Bus on the Oizumi Loop Route (approx. 7 min.), and get off at the Higashisawa Ohashi stop.
    The Kiyosato Picnic Bus operates on limited days and during limited periods .
  •  TEL 0551-30-7866(Hokuto City Tourist Association)
  •  Parking Free of charge

Aerial walk amidst a spectacular view dyed in brocade

Mount Irikasa at the northern end of the Southern Alps. Take the 8-seat gondola from the base station of the Fujimi Panorama Resort to the 1,780-meter-high gondola summit station. From there, you can easily trek to Irikasa Marsh and the summit of Mt. Fuji, as well as the Southern, Central, and Northern Alps. During the fall foliage season, visitors can enjoy the "three-tiered fall foliage," in which the colors of the summit, middle, and foot of Yatsugatake change in three stages of red, yellow, and orange.
In addition, on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays from early October to mid-November, the "Premium Unkai Gondola" (from 5:30 a.m.) operates in addition to the regular gondola service. The fantastic view of the sea of clouds, golden in the morning sun from the Yatsugatake Mountains, and Mt. Fuji floating above the clouds is a treat only available during this season.
There is a café just outside the gondola summit station, so be sure to try the soft-serve ice cream made with rhubarb, a specialty vegetable of Fuji, while enjoying the spectacular view.

Beginning of color change: Usually in mid-September.
Usually from mid-October to late October.
Kinds of foliage: Japanese maples, maples, larch, etc.

▼Premium Sea of Clouds Gondola
Period: Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays from October 4 (Sat) to November 24 (Mon), 2025
Time: 5:30 - (Ticket sales from 5:15)
Remarks: https://www.fujimipanorama.com/summer/event/

Mt. Irikasa
  •  Address Fujimi Panorama Resort, 6666-703 Fujimi, Fujimi-cho, Suwa-gun, Nagano MAP
  •  Direction Approx. 8 min. by car from JR Fuji Station *Free shuttle bus service is available from JR Fuji Station.
  •  Hours of Operation Gondola
    Green season: April 25 (Fri) - November 24 (Mon), 2025
    April - October: 8:30 - 16:00 (Mon., last gondola descent: 16:30)
    November - 8:30 - 15:30 (last downhill at 16:00)

    Summit Cafe 9:30-15:30
  •  Admission Fee Gondola round-trip: Adults 2,400 yen/children (elementary school students) 1,200 yen, one-way: Adults 1,600 yen/children 800 yen
  •  TEL 0266-62-5666(Fujimi Panorama Resort)
  •  Parking Free of charge
  •  Memo Gondola operation times are subject to change depending on weather conditions.

A spectacular collaboration of autumn leaves reflected on the surface of the lake and a white bridge

This man-made lake is located at the entrance of Masutomi Radium Hot Spring Village, one of the best radium hot springs in Japan. The lake is surrounded by mountains and is rich in nature. It was built on the Shio River, which joins the Kamase River and the Hontani River, both flowing from Mt.
During the fall foliage season, the white arched Kanarikyo Bridge, which represents Lake Mizugaki, is reflected on the lake in the mountains colored with maple trees, quercus crispula, and poison oak, creating a very mysterious atmosphere. There is a Visitor Center facing the north shore of the lake, where visitors can relax and enjoy the view of the lake and the autumn leaves while having a meal at the Restaurant.
There is also an observatory along the lakeside and "Josher's Hot Spring," a cold mineral spring that springs along the lakeside, and an hour-long walk around the lakeside is also recommended.

Beginning of color change] Usually from mid-October to late October.
Best time to see the leaves: Usually early to mid-November.
Types of autumn foliage: Japanese maples, quercus crispula, poison oak, etc.

Lake Mizugaki
  • Address Hishi, Sudama-cho, Hokuto City, Yamanashi MAP
  •   Direction From JR Nirasaki Station, take a 50 min. bus bound for "Masutomi Hot Spring Village" on the Yamako Town Coach. 10 min. walk from Shiokawa Bus Stop.
  •  TEL 0551-45-0081(Mizugakiko Visitor Center)
  •  Parking Free of charge

Beautiful autumn leaves in the valley in the village of famous water

 ©2014 Hokuto City
©2014 Hokuto City

The Oshira River, which originates from Mt. Kai-komagatake, a famous mountain at the northern end of the Southern Alps, has been selected as one of the "100 best waters" by the Ministry of the Environment and is often used as a location for TV commercials and other media. A walking trail has been developed from the parking lot along the canyon, and as you walk along the trail, you will see many sights, such as the emerald green crystal clear water of Sengafuchi, the three-tiered Jinja Falls, and the powerful Fudo Falls.
The beauty of the area is breathtaking no matter what time of year you visit, but it is especially beautiful during the autumn foliage season. The beech and maple trees turn red and yellow, harmonizing with the emerald green of the waterfall pools, such as Sengafuchi, to create a mysterious landscape that is almost divine. The standard walking course is a three-hour round trip to Shinjebidaki Falls. If you extend the walk to Fudo Falls, it will take an additional hour. You can enjoy the beauty of the unique mountain streams that appear one after another.

The beginning of the changing of colors: Usually from early October to mid-October in the upstream area, and from mid-October to late October in the downstream area.
Upstream: Usually from late October to late November, Downstream: Usually from early November to late November.
Kofu Station, about 30 min. by car from Kofu Station, about 30 min. by car from Kofu Station, about 30 min. by car from Kofu Station

 ©2014 Hokuto City
©2014 Hokuto City
Oshira River Valley
  • Address Hokuto City, Yamanashi MAP
  •  Direction Approx. 30 min. by car from JR Kobuchizawa Station.
  •  TEL 0551-30-7866(Hokuto City Tourist Association)
  •  Parking Free of charge
  •  Memo The trail beyond Sengafuchi is a mountain climbing course. Please bring hiking shoes and climbing gear.
    Please refrain from using the trail for inexperienced climbers, children, and those who are not confident in their physical strength.

Graceful autumn leaves reflected in the valley designated as a national special scenic beauty

It is about 30 minutes by car from Kofu Station, and is a representative sightseeing spot of Yamanashi Prefecture, designated as a national special scenic beauty spot. There are many sights such as Kakuenbo, the main peak of Shosenkyo, and Sengataki Falls, a waterfall carved out of granite over a long period of time, as well as many other oddly shaped rocks and stones, attracting many tourists throughout the four seasons.
During the fall foliage season, the azaleas, maples, and cherry blossoms brighten the valley, and the beauty of the valley is further enhanced by the dynamic, oddly shaped rocks. Because of the difference in elevation, the autumn colors can be seen for more than a month. The area offers a variety of ways to enjoy the autumn colors, such as strolling and trekking along the mountain stream to see the sights, or taking the ropeway to enjoy the spectacular view and power spots.

Beginning of the changing of colors] Usually in mid-October.
Best time to see the leaves: Usually from late October to late November.
Kinds of foliage: azaleas, maples, cherry trees, etc.

Shosenkyo Gorge
  • Address Chichibu-Tama National Park, Kofu City, Yamanashi Prefecture MAP
  •   Direction Approx. 30 minutes from JR Kofu Station by bus bound for Shosenkyo, alight at "Shosenkyo Takigami".
  •  TEL 055-287-2111(Syosenkyo Tourist Association)
  •  Parking Free of charge
  •  Memo For more information on the Shosenkyo Ropeway, please visit the official website.

The graceful silken waterfall flowing through the autumn leaves

Located along the Higashisawa Valley of the Kawamata River at the southern foot of Yatsugatake, the waterfall has a drop of 10 meters and a width of 15 meters. It is named after the waterfall, which flows like a dragon spitting out water. The silken threads of the waterfall, which delicately cascade down in layers as if seeping out from between rocks covered with autumn leaves such as oak, maple, and Japanese maple, is as graceful as a Japanese garden. It is also an easy 10-minute walk from the parking lot.
Along the valley, the Higashisawa Bridge, famous for its "red bridge" over the upstream side of the Ziryu-no-taki Falls, is also recommended.

Beginning of color change] Usually from early October to mid-October.
Usually from late October to mid-November.
Oak trees, maple trees, Nanakamado (Japanese maple), etc.

Toryu Waterfall
  • Address Higashide, Takane-cho, Hokuto City, Yamanashi MAP
  •  Direction 10 minutes drive from JR Kiyosato Station
  •   Direction From JR Kiyosato Station, take the Kiyosato Picnic Bus on the Oizumi Loop Route (approx. 25 min.), get off at "Zyuryu-no-taki Entrance" and walk approx. 25 min.
    The Kiyosato Picnic Bus operates on limited days and during limited periods .
  •  TEL 0551-30-7866(Hokuto City Tourist Association)
  •  Parking Free of charge

Spectacular view of the autumn leaves from a prime location at an elevation of 1,900 meters above sea level

Sun Meadows Kiyosato is popular as a scenic spot overlooking the Kiyosato Plateau during the green season and as a ski resort during the winter season. From the center house at the foot of the mountain, a 10-minute aerial ride on the Panorama Lift, 1,100 meters long with a 300-meter elevation difference, takes you to the summit area where the "Kiyosato Terrace" is located.
From the 1,900-meter Kiyosato Terrace, visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of the Kiyosato Plateau, the Southern Alps, and even Mt. During the fall foliage season, the mountains turn yellow with larch and other coniferous forests, making the scenery even more spectacular. In addition to the regular outdoor terrace seating, there are also premium seats available by reservation only, a second observation deck, and a mountaintop Azumaya. Enjoy a cup of coffee or a parfait and take a stroll around the area for a moment of elegance.

Beginning of color change] Usually in late September.
Best time to see the leaves: Usually from mid-October to late November.
Kind of foliage: Japanese larch, etc.

Kiyosato Terrace
  • Address 8240-1 Nishiide, Oizumi-cho, Hokuto City, Yamanashi MAP
  •  Direction 7 min. drive from JR Kiyosato Station, 10 min. ride on the Panorama Lift from the "Center House" to the top of the mountain.
  •  Hours of Operation Open: May 24 (Sat) - November 3 (Mon), 2025
    Operating hours: Cafe stand: 9:30 - 16:20
    Panorama Lift: 9:00 - 16:30 (last lift up at 16:00)
    Subject to change depending on weather conditions
  •  Admission Fee Panorama Lift: Adults (junior high school students and older) 2,800 yen, elementary school students 2,200 yen, 3 years old and older 2,000 yen
  •  TEL 0551-48-4111(Sun Meadows Kiyosato)
  •  Parking Free of charge

The soothing rural scenery of Yatsugatake with its autumn leaves and thatched waterwheels

This park with a waterwheel and plaza is located in the peaceful countryside of Mukawa-cho, Hokuto City, surrounded by the Southern Alps and the Yatsugatake Mountains. The symbolic thatched waterwheel was built by volunteers in an effort to restore the scenery of their hometown. The scene of the waterwheel slowly turning and the sound of running water have an excellent healing effect.
In the background of the waterwheel hut are the mountains of the Southern Alps, including Mt. In early autumn, the waterwheel and the golden ears of rice swaying in the wind, and when the mountains begin to change color, the autumn leaves and the waterwheel harmonize harmoniously, creating a rich atmosphere.
It is also the season for new rice, so visitors can enjoy eating rare Mukawa rice, which is also known as "phantom rice," at nearby restaurants and eateries, or buying new rice as a souvenir at the nearby "Mukawa Town Agricultural Products Direct Sales Center" and "Hakushu Roadside Station".

Beginning of the changing of colors: Usually from early October to mid-October.
Best time to see them: Usually from late October to early November.

Water Mill Village Park
  • Address 2569 Mifuki, Mukawa-cho, Hokuto City, Yamanashi MAP
  •  Direction 10 min. drive from JR Hinoharu Stn.
  •  TEL 0551-30-7866(Hokuto City Tourist Association)
  •  Parking Free of charge
The information in this article is current as of the date of the update. Please check before visiting as they are subject to change.