Visit Japan hidden Autumn Spots | Hakkoda, Oirase Gorge, Lake Towada & Naruko Gorge Fall Colors

Visit Japan hidden Autumn Spots | Hakkoda, Oirase Gorge, Lake Towada & Naruko Gorge Fall Colors

Tohoku is often called Japan’s hidden 
autumn with quiet mountains, hot springs, and authentic culture, and far fewer crowds 
than Kyoto or Tokyo. One reason it stays less crowded is because it’s harder to reach 
without a private car. But don’t worry, public transportation still connects you to 
the most famous spots. Depending on weather and altitude, most areas reach peak autumn colors 
from late October through early November. Tip: Using a Japan Rail Pass or JR East pass
(Tohoku area) will save a lot on transportation for this 5-day itinerary as it also covers the bus fair along the Todawako – Oirase Gorge route. First stop, Hakkoda Mountain. Take the ropeway up to a lower summit and enjoy the amazing view of the forest changing colors from the base to the summit. If the weather allows, you can hike down to enjoy the 
colors at various altitudes. When I visited at the end of October, the 
summit was covered in snow and very cold. While the base was still glowing with 
autumn colors. Two seasons in one day. This is the shape of Hakkoda Mountain. On my trip to see cherry blossoms in Tohoku in 2017, I caught many views of Hakkoda 
Mountain from Hirosaki Castle and Iwate. In 2025, the summit is expected to peak 
around October 8th and mid-level areas around October 13th. Thanks to the altitude difference, 
Hakkoda offers a longlasting autumn experience. Step onto Jogakura Bridge, Japan’s longest deck arch bridge, spanning the stunning Jogakura Gorge in Hakkoda, and 
be amazed by the gorge below, a river of blue framed by cliffs ablaze with autumn colors. Stroll from Jogakura Shrine to the bridge, especially during golden hour when sunlight transforms every leaf into a fiery masterpiece. Next is Tsutanuma Pond, part of the mystical seven ponds area. The best time to see Tsutanuma Pond in its vivid red reflection is at sunrise when the maple covered hills glow like fire on the still water. Nearby, Tsuta onsen also offers a beautiful view, 
perfect for soaking in the autumn atmosphere. Just a 5-minute walk from Sukayu onsen 
bus stop, you’ll find Jigoku Numa, the hell pond Despite its name, the place feels magical. Sulfuric gas and steaming hot spring water rise from the earth, wrapping the red and yellow autumn trees in mist. At the next bus stop, you’ll find Suiren pond, 
also known as the water lily swamp. It offers a breathtaking view of the northern Hakkoda 
peaks, beautifully mirrored on the calm water. If possible, don’t miss Yachi onsen. It is 
counted among Japan’s three secret onsen. Next, we leave the mountains and head to 
Oirase Gorge and Lake Towada. This 14 km stream is lined with waterfalls, 
mossy rocks, and ancient trees. In autumn, the gorge becomes a fiery wonderland. Golden ginko, red maples, and amber leaves reflecting on the clear water. You can rent a bicycle or enjoy walking through the valley for some spots and use the bus to skip others. Don’t miss getting off at Nenokuchi bus stop where the scenery transitions from mountain streams to the vast Lake Towada. Next, we arrive at Lake Towada, the grand finale 
of Oirase Gorge. In autumn, the surrounding forests blaze with red, orange, and gold, perfectly reflecting on the serene waters. On a clear day, a boat ride offers a breathtaking 
perspective of this Tohoku autumn masterpiece. From Aomori, a three-hour train takes you to Akita. Visit Dakegaeri Gorge, where a vivid blue river flows between fiery cliffs. I caught it still green, but it’s worth the trip. On your way back to Tokyo, stop at Naruko Gorge 
in Miyagi. Take your time to hike under one of Japan’s most spectacular autumn landscapes. With this route, you’ll experience Tohoku’s most beautiful autumn spots. Some things you need to know before visiting Naruko Gorge. The hiking trails inside Naruko Gorge close around 4 to 5:00 p.m. So, do them first before exploring other routes. You can ride a bus to Naruko Gorge from both Naruko Onsen station or Nakayamadaira Onsen station. Normally, the short train ride between Naruko Onen Station and Nakayamadaira Onsen station gives you a beautiful view of the gorge from the window. However, in 2025 this train is suspended. (You can check the official website for updates on when it will operate again.) So the best option is to take the bus directly from Naruko onsen station. The bus to Naroko Gorge operates only during the autumn foliage season. Outside this period, you’ll need to take a taxi. You can reach these autumn attractions into Tohoku by public transportation. If you’re a non-Japanese passport holder, you can buy the JR East pass (Tohoku area) after arriving in Japan. With just your passport, you can purchase it at a JR ticket 
office or a reserved seat ticket vending machine with a passport reader. So, if you have 5 days in Japan between late October and early November, why not grab this pass for unlimited Shinkansen rides 
and easy access to Tohoku’s best autumn spots.

Experience the hidden beauty of Tohoku in autumn — Japan’s best-kept secret for fall foliage.
From the steaming Jigoku Numa (Hell Swamp) and mystical Suiren Pond, to the fiery trails of Hakkoda Mountain, the crystal streams of Oirase Gorge, the vast Lake Towada, and the breathtaking Naruko Gorge, this journey shows you why Tohoku is a paradise for autumn lovers.

🌸 Unlike Kyoto or Tokyo, Tohoku offers quieter landscapes filled with mountains, hot springs, and authentic culture.
🚆 All spots are accessible with a JR EAST Pass (Tohoku area) — making it easy to explore by train and bus. Only non-japanese passport, you can buy Jr East Pass (Tohoku Area) at Japan (No need advance reservation)
👉Autumn in Tōhoku often comes with rain. Check the Yahoo Weather App in advance. Even if it rains, you can still enjoy the autumn colors — just prepare properly (raincoat, umbrella, waterproof shoes).

✨ Highlights in this video:
00:00 Opening. Day 1: Transfer and Aomori City tour
00:57 Day 2: Hakkoda Area
04:07 Day 3: Oirase Gorge & Lake Towada
05:22 Day 4: Dakigaeri Gorge or Kakunodate Samurai Town in Akita Prefecture
05:42 Day 5: Naruko Gorge In Miyagi Prefecture
🌸For Naruko Gorge in Miyagi Prefecture, the train service between Naruko Onsen Station and Nakayamadaira Onsen Station will be temporarily suspended in 2025. The best option for travelers now is to take a bus from Naruko Onsen Station to Naruko Gorge. (Please check the official website for the latest updates.)

📅 Best time: Mid–Late October to early November (depending on altitude & weather).

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