As autumn deepens, Japan's southern island of Kyushu transforms, showcasing a diverse palette of colors—from historic castle ruins to magnificent gorges. We have carefully selected the seven most acclaimed spots in each prefecture, offering this guide for your peaceful and memorable autumn trip.
1. Fukuoka Prefecture: Akizuki Castle Ruins (Akizuki Jō-ato)
The Autumn of "Little Kyoto" Painted by History
Akizuki, often called the "Little Kyoto of Chikuzen" (an old name for the region), centers around its ancient castle ruins. Typically in late November, the historic stone walls and the atmospheric Kuro-mon (Black Gate) are engulfed in fiery autumn foliage. The red momiji (Japanese maple) leaves blending with the quiet, historical castle town ambiance offer not just simple beauty, but a profound sense of history.
2. Saga Prefecture: Mifuneyama Rakuen
The Ethereal "Reflected Autumn Leaves" on the Water
This expansive garden is set against the dramatic cliff face of Mt. Mifune, the symbol of Takeo City. The momiji leaves reflecting on the garden's central pond create an illusion known as Sakasa Koyo (Reflected Autumn Leaves)—a sight like an ethereal painting. During the limited-time illumination events, you can witness a breathtakingly dramatic nighttime beauty, distinct from the daytime view.
3. Nagasaki Prefecture: Unzen (Nita Pass - Nita Tōge)
A Tapestry of Brocade Viewed from Over 1,000m
Located at an altitude of 1,080 meters (approx. 3,543 feet), Nita Pass is renowned for the magnificent spectacle of the entire face of Mt. Fugen turning crimson. Riding the ropeway and gazing down at the foliage from the air feels like looking upon a rich, brocade tapestry. The contrast of colors spread out beneath you makes this one of Kyushu's greatest mountainous autumn views.
4. Kumamoto Prefecture: Kikuchi Gorge (Kikuchi Keikoku)
A Healing Space Where Clear Streams and Autumn Colors Harmonize
Kikuchi Gorge, selected as one of Japan's "Top 100 Forests for Forest Bathing," offers a stunning contrast between its emerald green, crystal-clear stream and the surrounding red and yellow foliage. In autumn, the transparent water flows in perfect harmony with the stillness of the brightly colored forest, providing deep relaxation and healing to all visitors.
5. Kagoshima Prefecture: Tarumizu Ginkgo Garden (Tarumizu Senbon Ichō-en)
The Overwhelming Scale of a Golden Yellow World
Offering a completely different experience from the maple leaves, this private ginkgo garden unveils a stunning world of gold. The sight of approximately 1,200 ginkgo trees coloring all at once is simply magnificent. Spread across a sloping field, the landscape shimmers brilliantly in the sunlight, presenting a bright and glorious autumn aesthetic.
6. Oita Prefecture: Kusuikei Gorge (Kyūsui-kei)
The Dramatic V-Shaped Beauty of Steep Cliffs
Located at the foot of the Kuju Mountain Range, Kusuikei Gorge is a dynamic valley where steep cliffs stretch for about 2 kilometers (approx. 1.2 miles). The autumn foliage viewed from above fills the deep V-shaped valley with vibrant color, leaving visitors deeply impressed by the sheer power and beauty of nature's design.
7. Miyazaki Prefecture: Takachiho Gorge (Takachiho-kyō)
Mystical Autumn Colors in the Land of Myths
Designated as a National Natural Monument, Takachiho Gorge features a spiritual landscape where columnar joint cliffs, the Manai Falls, and autumn momiji converge. In the silence of the mythical homeland, deep emerald water intersects with burning reds, creating a solemn beauty found nowhere else.
Concluding Your Journey
We invite you to deeply savor the autumn of Kyushu by taking time to feel the history and natural energy held within each of these renowned locations. Before planning your visit, we highly recommend checking the predicted peak viewing period for the foliage, which typically spans early November to early December.
