[Autumn 2026] Just 2 hours from Tokyo ! 7 must-see autumn foliage spots in Hokuto City , Yamanashi Prefecture, rich in nature!

2026.09.07

Hokuto City in Yamanashi Prefecture is easily accessible, just two hours by car or train from Tokyo and about an hour by car from Mount Fuji . Surrounded by mountains and rich in nature, Hokuto City offers a variety of seasonal changes. This time, we will introduce 7 beautiful spots to see autumn leaves. We are sure you will find something you like.

• Table of Contents
• The Higashizawa Bridge : Kiyosato's Iconic "Red Bridge" Set Against the Brocade Autumn Foliage of the Yatsugatake Mountains.
• The Ojiragawa Valley : TheContrast of Emerald Stream and Autumn Colors
• Yatsugatake Kogen Great Bridge : Autumn Leaves Adorning the Valley Against the Backdrop of Yatsugatake Mountains
• Mt. Mizugaki Nature Park : A Spectacular Combination of Golden Larch and Vivid Maple
• Hontanigawa Valley : Autumn Colors Painting the Pure Waters selected as  Japan's 100 Best Waters
• Shingen Bomichi : A golden corridor with a history
• Fujimidaira : Panorama of shining larch trees and Mt. Fuji

The Higashizawa Bridge : Kiyosato's Iconic "Red Bridge" Set Against the Brocade Autumn Foliage of the Yatsugatake Mountains.

The Higashizawa Ohashi Bridge, affectionately known as the "Red Bridge," is a 90-meter-long, vermilion arch bridge located in Kiyosato.

During the autumn foliage season, this place offers breathtaking scenery as the surrounding area is painted in the vibrant colors of Nishiki. With the majestic Yatsugatake Mountains as a backdrop, the bright red bridge and the autumn leaves of larch and maple trees adorning the deep gorge create a beautiful contrast.

The view from the observation deck on the east side of the bridge (towards Kiyosato Station) is exceptional.

The best time to see them is usually from mid-October to early November.

(Note) Repair work is being carried out from September 1, 2026 to August 10, 2027. Half of the bridge is covered with sheets, affecting the view.

The Ojiragawa Valley : TheContrast of Emerald Stream and Autumn Colors

The Ojiragawa Valley, sourced from the Minami Alps, is a valley selected as one of Japan's 100 Exquisite and Well-Conserved Waters

At Senga-fuchi, which is about a15-minute walk from the parking lot, the emerald green clear stream creates astunning contrast with the red and yellow autumn leaves of beech and mapletrees. This harmonious collaboration between the pure water and the autumnalcolors is truly magical. 

For those interested in serious trekking, the trail continues deeper into the valley, where you can visit several waterfalls.

The best time to see the autumn colors near Sengafuchi is usually from early to late November.

*The trail beyond Chigafuchi is narrow and there is a risk of falling. Please make sure you are properly equipped with hiking boots and other hiking gear. Those with little hiking experience or who are not confident in their physical fitness should refrain from using this trail.

(Note) The forest road beyond Sengafuchi is closed during the winter (early December to late April).

Yatsugatake Kogen Great Bridge : Autumn Leaves Adorning the Valley Against the Backdrop of Yatsugatake Mountains

The Yatsugatake Kogen Great Bridge, oftencalled the "Yellow Bridge" in contrast to the "Red Bridge",is 100 meters high and 490 meters long. The bridge features a pedestrianwalkway, offering panoramic views of the Yatsugatake Mountains to the north,the Minami Alps to the southwest, and Mt. Fuji to the south.

During the autumn season, you can enjoy amagnificent view of the colorful foliage decorating the valley stream, with theYatsugatake Mountains in the background.

For the best view of the bridge, it's recommended to park at the observation deck parking lot on the east side of the bridge (towards Kiyosato Station).

The best time to see the autumn colors is usually from late October to early November.

Mt. Mizugaki Nature Park : A Spectacular Combination of Golden Larch and Vivid Maple

Mizugakiyama Nature Park is a nature-rich park located at the foot of Mount Mizugaki Mizugaki, one of Japan's 100 Famous Mountains .

During the autumn foliage season, you can enjoy a breathtaking view of the golden larch trees and crimson maple leaves against the backdrop of the imposing rocky Mine of Mount Mizugaki .

The best time to see them is usually from mid-October to early November.

(Note) The forest road is closed during the winter season (early December to late April).

Hontanigawa Valley : Autumn Colors Painting the Pure Waters selected as  Japan's 100 Best Waters

Hontanigawa Valley is a valley along the Hontanigawa River, which originates from Mount Kinpu Kinpu, and is a beautiful valley through which the clear water, selected as one of the " 100 Best Waters of the Heisei Era ," flows.

In autumn, trees such as larch and maple turn vibrant colors, painting the clear stream in autumn hues.

Enjoy the tranquil and beautiful autumn scenery of Japan, where clear water and vibrant autumn leaves create a breathtaking spectacle.

The best time to see them is usually from late October to early November.

(Note) Some sections of the forest road are closed during the winter season (early December to late April).

Shingen Bomichi : A golden corridor with a history

The Shingen Bomichi (Shingen's Straight Road)is a military road built by the warlord Shingen Takeda (1521 - 1573). It iscalled a Bo (pole) road because it stretches straight like a pole.

It has been developed as a nature trail and has been selected as one of the "500 Beautiful Walking Paths in Japan ."

As autumn deepens, the ancient path transforms into a corridor of shining golden larch trees. Along the way, a moss-covered stone Buddha statue that has been watching over the walking path since the Edo period (1603-1868) stands quietly, admiring the beauty of the Nishiki colors.

Enjoy the charming autumn roads while reminiscing about the romance of the past.

The best time to see the autumn colors is usually from late October to early November.

Fujimidaira : Panorama of shining larch trees and Mt. Fuji

Fujimi-daira, literally "Mt. Fuji ViewPlateau", as its name suggests, is a prime location where you can viewMt. Fuji directly without obstruction.

During the autumn foliage season, the surrounding larch trees turn golden yellow, creating a stunning contrast with the magnificent Mt. Fuji .

You will be captivated by the crisp air and magnificent scenery.

The best time to see the autumn colors is usually from mid-October to early November.

(Note) The forest road is closed during the winter (late November to late April).

As you tour the colorful city, you can also see Mt. Fuji shining against the autumn sky.

The autumn leaves season brings vibrant colors to the mountains. Why not take a short trip from the Tokyo metropolitan area or Mt. Fuji to enjoy some hidden gems for viewing the autumn leaves?

Let's find more autumn foliage in Hokuto City , Yamanashi Prefecture !