A Guide to Nearby Fall Foliage Spots Around the World Heritage Shirakami Sanchi
Shirakami Sanchi, a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site in Japan’s Tohoku region, is a nature treasure with four distinct seasons. Every autumn, its forests burst into layers of red, orange, and yellow—like a spilled paint palette, breathtakingly beautiful.
This article introduces four stunning fall foliage spots near Akita’s Shirakami Sanchi. The best part? All are easy to reach by train, so you can enjoy the autumn colors without driving.
Hope this guide helps you plan your Akita autumn trip and create wonderful fall memories.
4 Must-See Autumn Foliage Spots in Akita Shirakami Sanchi for Train Travelers
🍁 Foliage Spot #1: Akita Nairiku Line 🍁
「Akita’s Most Popular Fall Foliage Spot! 」
🍁 Best time to visit: Mid October to early November
Known as the “Smile Rail,” the Akita Nairiku Line runs between Kakunodate and Takanosu, passing rivers, forests, and fields that change beautifully with the seasons.In autumn, the section between Okashinai and Kayakusa, especially near Ooyagawa Bridge, offers stunning fall foliage views.
①Take the Shinkansen to Kakunodate Station, then transfer to the Nairiku Line.
②Take the JR Ou Main Line to Takanosu Station, then transfer to the Nairiku Line.
Beyond the foliage...
If you plan to stay overnight along the line, we recommend Utto Onsen Matagi-no-Yu, about a 5-minute drive from Ani-Matagi Station. The hotel offers pick-up service upon request. It features a hot spring and a small exhibition on the unique mountain hunter culture of“Matagi”from the Tohoku region.
To continue your fall foliage journey, get off at the third-largest station, Aniai Station, and head to our next foliage spot: Mt. Moriyoshi Ani Ski Resort.
While waiting for the shuttle bus to the ski resort, enjoy a meal at the station or visit the nearby Ani Unstaffed Bookstore to soak in the town’s charming local culture.
🍁Foliage Spot #2: Ani Ski Resort🍁
「View Tohoku’s iconic fall foliage on a gondola ride 」
🍁 Best time to visit: Mid to late October
Famous for its "snow monsters" in winter, Mt. Moriyoshi Ani Ski Resort is also a hidden gem for fall foliage. During autumn, the gondola remains in service, offering a rare chance to glide above the mountains painted in vibrant reds and golds.
▶ Reserve the shuttle online in advance, and take it from Aniai Station to Mt. Moriyoshi.
※Shuttle fare: ¥2,000 (¥1,900 with reservation).
Shuttle Reservation
Beyond the foliage...
The gondola ride takes about 20 minutes. At the summit of Mt. Moriyoshi, enjoy a walk with stunning views of endless autumn foliage.
After descending, you can dine at Ani Ski Resort and say hi to Hokuto, the Akita dog mascot. Then take the shuttle back to Aniai Station to catch the Akita Nairiku Line to Takanosu or Kakunodate.
Be sure to reserve the shuttle early and check train schedules in advance, as trains are infrequent.
🍁Foliage Spot #3: Juniko🍁
「One of Shirakami Sanchi’s iconic sights: Clear lake waters and vibrant autumn leaves」
🍁 Best time to visit: Late October to early November
Located on the western foothills of the World Natural Heritage site Shirakami Sanchi, the Juniko (Twelve Lakes) features 33 beautiful ponds surrounded by beech forests. The most famous among them is Aoike, known for its stunning sapphire-blue color.
▶ Take the Gono Line to “Juniko Station” and transfer to a bus to the final stop“Oku-Juniko Parking Lot“.
Bus Route Map
Bus Timetable
Beyond the foliage...
The Juniko area offers several walking trails, and nature lovers can easily enjoy a leisurely 1 to 2-hour stroll without any problem.
After your walk, it is recommended to take the shuttle bus back to Juniko Station to continue your journey toward Aomori or Akita. If you wish to stay nearby, consider the Awone Shirakami Juniko or Furofushi Onsen. Both accommodations are accessible by bus.
(For Awone Shirakami Juniko, get off at "Awone Shirakami Juniko station"; for Furofushi Onsen, get off at the final stop "Furofushi Onsen station")
🍁Foliage Spot #4: Fukaura's Big Yellow🍁
「The Tallest Ginkgo Tree in Japan」
🍁Best time to visit: Mid to late November
Located in Fukaura, Aomori, the "Golden Giant" is Japan’s tallest ginkgo tree at 31 meters—about 10 stories high—and the third tallest tree of any kind in the country.Each year from mid to late November, it turns a stunning golden yellow. Visit at night during the special illumination event for an unforgettable, glowing view that draws visitors from near and far.
▶ About a 10-minute walk from JR Gono Line’s Kita-Kanegasawa Station.
Google Map
Beyond the foliage...
Daytime visitors can grab lunch nearby—try "Fisherman’s Snack House" for seafood and savory ice cream. Afterward, take the Resort Shirakami train to Hirosaki or Noshiro.
Planning to see the night lights? Stay nearby or in Hirosaki. See links below for hotels near Mutsu-Akebono or Ajigasawa stations.
Note: Only one evening train is available—don’t miss it!
● 20:21 local train to Hirosaki (as of May 2025)