Road Trip to Akita’s Hidden Autumn Foliage Gems in Japan
Tired of crowded autumn foliage spots but don’t want to miss the vibrant fall colors?
This guide features seven hidden autumn leaf destinations in Akita’s Shirakami Sanchi region—accessible only by car.
These locations aren’t reachable by train or bus, making them treasured secrets even among locals in Tohoku. Far from noisy crowds, they offer rare tranquility and relaxation.
If you’re seeking a unique autumn leaf-viewing experience, consider this journey through Akita Prefecture in Japan’s Tohoku region. Wander among dazzling beech and ginkgo trees and enjoy a private, unforgettable fall foliage adventure.
Local-Only Hidden Gems for a Self-Drive Autumn Foliage Tour
🍁 Hidden Foliage Spot ①: Kimimachizaka Park 🍁
「A Romantic Place for Blossoms and Fall Colors」
🍁 Best time to visit: Mid-October to early November
Kimimachizaka Park sits on a hillside and is known locally for its cherry blossoms in spring. But in autumn, it becomes just as beautiful with colorful leaves.
The highlight here is the large folding rock cliffs. Between the rocks, green pine trees and bright red maples mix together, creating a scene that looks like a painting—peaceful, natural, and only found in Japan’s fall season.
Besides the foliage...
Just a 3-minute drive from the park, you’ll find 「Michi-no-Eki Futatsui」, a local roadside station offering a variety of regional snacks, fresh produce, and handmade goods. It’s a great place to grab lunch if you’re planning a picnic while enjoying the fall colors.
There are also a few popular restaurants nearby. 「Shinju Shokudo」 and 「Western Kitchen ZEPPET」 both come highly recommended. At ZEPPET, you can enjoy classic Japanese-style Western dishes while looking out at the colorful autumn leaves of Kimimachizaka Park from the window.
🍁 Hidden Foliage Spot ②: Ichosan-Jinja Shrine 🍁
「A Hidden Little Ginkgo Shrine in the Forest」
🍁 Best time to visit: Mid to Late November
Ichosan-Jinja Shrine is a true hidden gem known only to the locals. Tucked away in a cedar forest in Futatsui-machi, the shrine itself sits quietly under the filtered sunlight, creating a peaceful and almost mystical atmosphere.
Venture deeper into the woods and you’ll find two towering ginkgo trees that have stood for over 300 years. Around November, their leaves turn a brilliant gold, lighting up the entire forest in a warm, glowing hue—an unforgettable autumn sight.
Besides the foliage...
Near Ginkgo Mountain Shrine, two highly rated restaurants—「Shinju Shokudo」 and 「Hill Top Restaurant」—serve delicious meals and are a great choice for lunch after your visit.
If you’d like to see more ginkgo trees, you can drive about an hour to Fukaura to view the massive 「Fukaura's Big Yellow」a stunning natural landmark.
The quiet beauty of the shrine’s ginkgo and the powerful presence of the giant tree offer two very different, but equally memorable, autumn scenes.
🍁 Hidden Foliage Spot ③: Dakedai Education Forest🍁
「An Easy Walk Through Beech Forest Magic」
🍁 Best time to visit: Mid to Late October
If you want to experience the beauty of Shirakami Sanchi’s beech forests without climbing mountains, Dakedai Education Forest is the perfect spot.
This protected forest area is home to an untouched beech woodland, with wide, gentle paths that make it easy to explore. It was specially designed for nature education, allowing visitors to enjoy the forest up close without strenuous hiking.
In autumn, the entire forest glows golden, creating a dreamlike scene that looks straight out of an animated film.
Besides the foliage...
Since there are no restaurants near the forest, it’s best to grab a bento or drinks at 「Itoku Supermarket」 in Fujisato Town before your visit.
After your walk, stop by 「Shirakami Sanchi Forest Station」 for tasty lamb or horse meat dishes. Right next door is the 「Shirakami-sanchi World Heritage Center」, perfect for learning more about the area.
For more autumn views, consider visiting 「Daira Gorge」 and 「Subari Dam」—two nearby scenic spots we’ll introduce next.
🍁 Hidden Foliage Spot ④: Daira Gorge🍁
「Brilliant Reds Among Cedars and Beeches」
🍁 Best time to visit: Mid to Late October
Daira Gorge lies on the border between Akita and Aomori prefectures, right along the edge of the World Heritage site, Shirakami Sanchi. In autumn, the vivid reds of the maple leaves contrast beautifully with the deep green of towering cedar trees—and a bright red bridge adds the perfect accent to this breathtaking scene.
Because the foliage changes gradually from higher to lower elevations, each visit offers a unique view of shifting layers and colors. Even if you miss the peak, you'll still find plenty of autumn beauty to enjoy.
Besides the foliage...
Daira Gorge is located near the previous foliage spot, 「Dakedai Education Forest」, so we also recommend stopping by 「Itoku Supermarket」 in Fujisato Town before your visit for food and drinks. Afterward, you can dine at 「Shirakami Sanchi Forest Station」 or visit the 「Shirakami Sanchi World Heritage Center」 to learn more about the area.
If you have extra time, head north toward 「Tsurube-Otoshi Pass」, another stunning spot known for its colorful autumn scenery. It's perfect to pair with Daira Gorge for a full day of fall exploration.
🍁 Hidden Foliage Spot ⑤: Subari Dam🍁
「A Favorite Autumn Retreat for Locals」
🍁 Best time to visit: Mid to Late October
Nestled beside Lake Subari and its dam, Subari Park is a beloved weekend escape for residents of Fujisato. The park features well-equipped activity areas and play facilities, but its real charm lies in the stunning natural scenery—forests and valleys that surround you on all sides.
In autumn, the area comes alive with a vibrant foliage festival. Fiery red leaves blanket the mountains, and their reflections shimmer across the calm lake, creating a breathtaking scene. It’s the perfect spot for a peaceful stroll through the forest while soaking in the beauty of fall.
Besides the foliage...
Subari Park is located near the previous two foliage spots, so we also recommend picking up a light meal at the 「Itoku supermarket」 in Fujisato before your visit. After your outing, you can enjoy a local meal at the 「Shirakami Sanchi Forest Station」 or stop by the 「World Heritage Center」 to learn more about the nature and history of Shirakami Sanchi.
Since Subari Park is close to Fujisato Town, it's also a great idea to return to the area for a relaxing soak in a day-use hot spring at 「Yutorìa Fujisato Hotel」 or 「Yunozawa Onsen」—or even stay overnight.
🍁 Hidden Foliage Spot ⑥: Mase Valley (Sanjugama)🍁
「Brilliant Foliage Reflected in Crystal Waters—With Salmon Swimming Upstream」
🍁 Best time to visit: Mid to Late October
Located in Happo Town, Akita, the Mase Valley—also known as Sanjugama—is a scenic valley formed by a series of waterfalls and streams. A 1.5 km walking trail makes it a popular autumn hiking and foliage spot for locals.
The crystal-clear stream sometimes shines emerald green, creating a vivid contrast with the surrounding red and yellow leaves. Adding to the beauty, salmon can be seen swimming upstream to spawn during this season—a spectacular sight that draws many photographers to this vibrant natural scene.
Besides the foliage...
After enjoying the autumn colors at Manose Gorge (Sanjugama), a perfect spot to relax is 「Onsen Hatahata-Kan」. Whether you’re just stopping by for a hot spring soak, grabbing a meal, or staying overnight, it’s a great way to unwind.
There are also two charming cafés nearby—「Shirakami Cafe」 and 「LABO and CAFE Yamamoto」—each with its own unique vibe, perfect for a relaxing break.
If you're still in the area by late afternoon, consider heading to 「Shikanoura Observatory」. On clear days, it offers one of the best sunset views in Akita, with the sun slowly sinking into the Sea of Japan.
🍁 Hidden Foliage Spot ⑦: Ishikura Mountain🍁
「A Gentle Hike with Stunning Views of Shirakami and Oga」
🍁 Best time to visit: Mid to Late October
Located in Mitane Town, Mt. Ishikura is a scenic low mountain known for its year-round beauty. In autumn, its slopes are covered in vibrant foliage, making it the perfect spot for a relaxed nature walk.
Standing at just 143 meters, it’s an easy climb for anyone. On clear days, the summit rewards you with panoramic views of the Shirakami Sanchi and Oga Peninsula—a breathtaking autumn treat.
Besides the foliage...
At the foot of Mount Ishikura is 「Moritake Onsen」, known as Japan’s saltiest hot spring—perfect for relaxing after a hike. If you’re hungry, try freshly baked stone oven pizza at 「Pieno di Sole」 or fresh sushi at 「Nanshuya Sushi」 nearby.
Here’s a secret: the Akita Dog Masa Hiking in Mitane Town can be done on Mount Ishikura too. When booking on Activity Japan, just note you want the Mt. Ishikura route (English is fine). If the handler is available, you can hike and enjoy autumn leaves with a friendly Akita dog!