Some of the best spots for autumn leaves in Hokkaido can be found in its southern area, known as donan. This region is gorgeous, with its abundance of natural scenic locations like Hakodate’s famed Goryōkaku Park as well as the Onuma Quasi-National Park.
From accessible towns to breathtaking cliffs that you can only reach by boat, there are many places where you can enjoy the picturesque fall scenery. According to the Japan Meteorological Corporation's foliage forecast released on October 3, 2022, autumn colors are expected in Hokkaido around November 6.
The scenery is even more beautiful when the autumn leaves in Hokkaido begin changing color from mid-October to early November. Read on to find out more about the best fall foliage spots in the area of southern Hokkaido.
1. Goryōkaku Park: One of the Best Tourist Attractions for Autumn Leaves in Hokkaido
Goryōkaku Park is located just around the center of Hakodate City. The park is well-known as a viewing spot for sakura (cherry blossoms) during spring, but come fall, the red autumn leaves create a landscape that is just as beautiful, but in a completely different way.
If you look down from the 107-meter tall Goryōkaku Tower, you will be able to witness the breathtaking view of the red autumn leaves spreading throughout the star-shaped area of the park.
Strolling along the riverbank is another excellent way to enjoy the fall foliage up close. In particular, you will get to see the red foliage of azaleas if you stroll along the riverbank that goes along the Ninohashi bridge within the star-shaped area.
This is also an ideal spot for capturing some commemorative shots as the fall foliage and bridge are reflected in the waters.
Goryōkaku is just a 10-minute walk away from the "Goryōkaku Kōen Iriguchi" bus stop, making it conveniently accessible.
Goryokaku Park
44, Goryokakucho, Hakodate-shi, Hokkaido
Goryokaku-koen-mae
0138-57-7210
Book Now ▶ Hokkaido Goryokaku Tower Admission Ticket in Hokkaido
2. Kōsetsuen: Where You Can Enjoy Fall Foliage at Night Too!
In the center of Miharashi Park, which is a 40-minute bus ride away from Hakodate Station, is Kōsetsuen. Kōsetsuen is a landscape garden that was constructed in 1898 as one of the city’s most luxurious villas.
Later in 2001, Kōsetsuen was designated as a “Place of Scenic Beauty” under the Law for the Protection of Cultural Property and became the only landscape garden in Hokkaido to be officially designated as a cultural property.
There are approximately 150 different kinds of trees planted, out of which most are maple trees. When autumn comes, Kōsetsuen is bustling with lots of visitors looking to enjoy the fall foliage.
Enjoy a different atmosphere when you view fall foliage at night
Fall foliage starts in late October at Kōsetsuen and ends in early November. In line with the …
