Autumn comes first to Hokkaido — Japan’s earliest foliage flames into life on the high peaks in September, weeks ahead of the mainland, before sweeping down to the lakes, valleys and city parks through October. The island’s huge wild landscapes make for spectacular koyo: golden birch and larch, crimson maples and mountain ash against volcanic peaks and mirror-still caldera lakes. From the alpine slopes of Daisetsuzan to the gorges of Sounkyo and the onsen valley of Jozankei, Hokkaido’s autumn is a quieter, wilder counterpoint to Kyoto’s crowds.

This guide covers the best spots, the timing and how to get there.

🗓️ Quick Reference
When Mid-Sep (mountains) to late Oct (lowlands)
Top spots Daisetsuzan, Sounkyo, lakes, Jozankei
Highlight Japan’s earliest autumn colours
Good for Hiking, scenic drives, onsen, photography

Best spots & timing

  • Daisetsuzan (Asahidake/Kurodake): Japan’s first colours, from mid-September up high — ride a ropeway into the blaze — see our Daisetsuzan guide .
  • Sounkyo Gorge: dramatic cliffs and waterfalls framed in autumn colour.
  • Caldera lakes (Akan, Mashu, Kussharo, Toya): forests mirrored in still water — see our eastern lakes guide and Lake Toya guide .
  • Jozankei Onsen near Sapporo and city parks colour later, into late October.

Tips

  • Colours move downhill over weeks — high mountains first (mid-Sep), lowlands and Sapporo last (late Oct).
  • Mountain weather is fickle and cold — bring layers and check ropeway/forecast info.
  • A rental car lets you chase the colour across regions; pair with onsen stops.

Combine your visit

Autumn ties together Hokkaido’s nature highlights:

How to get there

  • For the mountains, base in Asahikawa (train from Sapporo ~1.5 hours) and bus/drive to Daisetsuzan/Sounkyo.
  • A rental car is best for the lakes and valleys; near Sapporo, Jozankei is a short bus ride.