Koya Pond, located at an altitude of around 2,100m, was selected as one of the 31 most beautiful places in Japan by CNN. The spectacular view of autumn leaves that extends from here to Mt. Hiuchi, one of Japan’s 100 Famous Mountains, and the grand panoramic view of the summit is one of the most spectacular autumn sights in Japan.

The Sasagamine Plateau, which stretches over 1,300 meters above sea level, has promenades around the farm, Sennin Pond, and Yumemidaira, making it perfect for hiking while admiring the autumn leaves. In addition to maples, you can also see beech, oak, birch, and rowan.

The combination of the dynamic 55m waterfall known as “Earthquake Falls” and the autumn leaves of maples and oaks that extend from the promenade is a must-see. From the parking lot to the observation deck near the basin of the waterfall, walk for 15 to 20 minutes along a promenade with stairs and a forest path.

On the promenade built near the summit station, you can enjoy the autumn leaves of the primeval forest dotted with giant trees such as linden trees, beech trees, and birch trees, as well as views of Lake Nojiri and the mountains of northern Shinano.
Gondola business days in 2023: October 7th (Sat) – November 5th (Sun)

There is a barrier-free promenade that takes about 20 minutes to walk around, so anyone can easily enjoy a stroll through the autumn leaves. On sunny days with no wind, the beautifully colored Mt. Myoko is clearly reflected on the surface of Imori Pond, making it one of Myoko’s most representative photo spots.

Enjoy an 11-minute walk in the fresh air with a panoramic view of the broad-leaved trees, Lake Nojiri, and Mt. Madarao. Around the summit station, which is approximately 1,300m above sea level, there is a trekking course that follows the virgin beech forest, and you can also use the terrace cafe, which is popular for its hotel-made sweets and drinks.

Last business day of 2023 green season: November 5th (Sunday)

The Otagirigawa Valley around Tsubame Onsen is one of the most unexplored spots in the Myoko area with spectacular views and autumn leaves. Sou Waterfall, which has a drop of 80 meters and is one of Japan’s top 100 waterfalls, can be seen from the observation deck, which is about a 15-minute walk from the parking lot. Enjoy the golden beauty of the valley from the open-air bath Ougon-no-Yu.

Note: Due to the collapse of the suspension bridge due to heavy snowfall in 2022, “Kawara no Yu” is not be accessible.

Fudo Falls, which has a drop of 20 meters in a valley near Seki Onsen, is a famous autumn foliage spot that only those in the know know. You can see it from around Fudo Bridge, which is a 15-minute walk from the Seki Onsen parking lot. We recommend walking for about 30 minutes from Akakura Onsen, or renting a bicycle from the tourist information center.

Note: There is no parking area around Fudo bridge. Please use the public parking lot at Seki Onsen or Akakura Onsen. Additionally, Route 396 is narrow and has many parts with poor visibility, so please be careful when driving.