Best Viewing in Late October! Discover Autumn Foliage Spots Delayed This Year | Focus # 331
As October 2024 reaches its end, the autumn foliage season, which started slightly later than usual, has finally reached its peak. This year's weather has been mild nationwide, allowing for potentially longer enjoyment of the autumn leaves at some spots.
This time, we introduce four of Japan's top autumn foliage spots to visit with your camera. Capture the unique beauty of each area and embrace the colors of autumn.
Nikko (Tochigi Prefecture)
Nikko is renowned as one of Japan's top spots for autumn foliage, with colors starting from Oku-Nikko. The fusion of history and nature at locations like Nikko Toshogu Shrine and Kegon Falls is captivating. The area around Lake Chuzenji is expected to reach its peak around late October.
Recommended photography spots include the lakeside scenery around Lake Chuzenji, where the reflection of red and yellow leaves on the clear blue water creates a magical image. Especially at sunset, the soft light allows for dramatic photos.
Kamikochi (Nagano Prefecture)
Kamikochi, with its grand scenery of the Northern Alps, also reaches the peak of autumn foliage in late October. For photography enthusiasts, every step offers a perfect shutter chance. The famous Kappa Bridge area has already started to change colors, with the peak expected by the end of the month.
Walking along the Azusa River, the reflection of the surrounding mountains and autumn leaves on the water is a highlight. By using a slow shutter speed to capture the flow of the water, you can emphasize the contrast between the smooth movement and the vibrant trees.
Lake Kussharo (Hokkaido)
While the autumn foliage in eastern Hokkaido starts earlier than in other regions, Lake Kussharo is one of the few spots where you can still enjoy its beauty in late October. The colorful trees surrounding the lake and the clear blue sky create a stunning scene, best captured with a wide-angle lens.
Particularly, the misty morning scenery is enchanting, allowing you to take photos that resemble watercolor paintings. Aim for a shot that captures the grandeur of nature.
Lake Towada (Aomori Prefecture)
Located on the border of Aomori and Akita Prefectures, Lake Towada also reaches its peak autumn foliage season from mid to late October. This year, the colors have changed later than usual, with only about half of the leaves having turned, so there's still time for photography.
The mountains surrounding the lake are vividly colored, and the walking paths along the Oirase Stream offer breathtaking views that make it hard to put down your camera. Use the contrast between the flowing stream and the autumn leaves to capture a photo that blends movement and tranquility.