AUTUMN
Approx. September to November
In autumn, Sapporo’s natural landscape transforms into a stunning tapestry of lush greens and vibrant autumn hues—it feels like stepping into a painting. Not only is it a feast for the eyes, but your tastebuds will also be delighted, as this season brings the richest abundance of fresh produce from Hokkaido.
Admire autumn leaves amid city streets
Japan’s brightly colored autumn foliage is world famous. In Sapporo, where nature blends with the urban landscape, you’ll find plenty of spots to see these colorful leaves dotted around the city center. Mid-October to early November is the best time to catch the city’s autumn foliage, with breathtaking scenery found in spots, such as the expansive Hokkaido University campus.
Nakajima Park
The autumn leaves reflected off the surface of the Iris Pond is a sight to behold
Hiraoka Greenery Center
Magnificent scenery created by pathways lined with vivid red Nomura maples
Get the most out of Sapporo’s autumn at nature-rich Jozankei
Jozankei, nestled in Shikotsu-Toya National Park and just an hour’s drive from the city center, is a premier destination for autumn foliage viewing where trees transform the valley into a canvas of brilliant red hues. There are many activities to enjoy, from canoeing along the river while admiring the stunning leaves to picking fresh seasonal fruit. As one of Hokkaido’s leading hot spring resorts, Jozankei offers the unforgettable experience of soaking in an open-air bath with breathtaking views of the vibrant landscape.
Must-try Sapporo cuisine in autumn
If you’re visiting Sapporo for the cuisine, autumn is the perfect season to indulge. This is when Hokkaido reveals its true colors as a treasure trove of food, with an abundant harvest of seafood, vegetables, fruits, and more, all converging in Sapporo. The culmination of this harvest can be savored at the Sapporo Autumn Fest, held in Odori Park, where you can take your taste buds on a journey across the various flavors this island has to offer.
Sapporo Autumn Fest
Held across seven venues in Odori Park, this popular foodie event features a total of 300 food stalls offering cuisine using seasonal ingredients and specialties of Hokkaido. In an average year, the festival attracts more than 2 million visitors.
Autumn attractions in Hokkaido
Noboribetsu
October is the best time to see the autumn leaves at Noboribetsu, one of Hokkaido’s leading hot spring spots.
The bubbling and simmering volcanic crater—Jigokudani (Hell Valley)—is an abundant source of hot spring water and a mesmerizing natural wonder, which should not be missed when visiting Hokkaido. The autumn leaves in Noboribetsu gradually change color, beginning at the base of Jigokudani and Lake Oyunuma, creating an exquisite contrast between red and green foliage.
Mt. Asahi-dake
Located in Daisetsuzan National Park, the largest national park in Japan, Mt. Asahi-dake is the highest mountain in Hokkaido at 2,291 m above sea level. The area around the peaks of the Daisetsuzan Volcanic Group begins to change color in late August, making it the earliest place in Japan to enjoy the autumn foliage.
There’s a ropeway to the 1,600 m elevation point, meaning that everyone from hardcore hikers to casual sightseers can easily access breathtaking scenery.
Access: Noboribetsu:
Approx. 1 hour and 10 minutes from Sapporo by JR train, followed by approx. 15 minutes by bus
Approx. 1 hour and 40 minutes from Sapporo by car (via the Do-O Expressway and Noboribetsu Higashi Interchange)
Mt. Asahi-dake:
Approx. 3 hours from Sapporo by JR train, followed by approx. 1 hour and 30 minutes by bus
Approx. 3 hours and 30 minutes from Sapporo by car (vis the Do-O Expressway and Asahikawa-Monbetsu Expressway)