The first signs of autumn are officially on the horizon in Japan, with the Japan Meteorological Corporation (JMC) releasing its first forecast for the 2026 fall foliage season on September 2.
The forecast covers around 700 popular foliage-viewing locations across Japan, from Hokkaido all the way down to Kagoshima. JMC also provides forecasts for around 3,000 mountains, with predictions taking altitude into account, which can be particularly useful for travelers hoping to catch the changing colors at higher elevations.
Red and Yellow
There are actually two different foliage forecasts to keep an eye on: red leaves, primarily maple trees, and yellow leaves, including ginkgo trees. The two don't necessarily peak at the same time, so knowing both can help when planning an autumn itinerary.
According to the first 2026 forecast, red maple leaves are expected to reach their viewing peak in Tokyo around November 29, Kyoto around December 11, Osaka around December 4, and Fukuoka around December 7.
For yellow ginkgo leaves, the forecast is slightly earlier, with Tokyo expected around November 26, Kyoto November 27, Osaka November 24, and Fukuoka November 27.
Further north, the season starts much earlier. Sapporo's red leaves are forecast for around November 7, while Aomori is expected around November 13. In Nagano, red leaves are forecast for November 21.
At the other end of the country, Kagoshima's red leaves aren't expected until around December 10.
These dates aren't set in stone. Just like the sakura forecasts, foliage predictions can be refined as the season gets closer based on weather conditions and temperatures. Still, the first forecast provides a handy starting point for anyone planning a Japan trip around autumn colors.
JMC's next foliage forecast is scheduled for early October, when travelers should have a clearer picture of how the season is shaping up.
