2. Must-Read Before You Go! Hokkaido Autumn Foliage Season, Weather & Outfit Guide
In Japan, Hokkaido is the earliest region to welcome the fall foliage season. Every year, the leaves begin to turn red around mid-September and last until late October. The colors spread gradually—from north to south and from the mountains down to the plains—allowing travelers to plan their itinerary flexibly depending on the region and timing.
2025 Autumn Foliage Forecast at a Glance:
-
Daisetsuzan National Park (Kurodake): Mid to late September
-
Sounkyo & Mount Asahidake: Late September to early October
-
Jozankei Onsen, Lake Shikotsu, Lake Toya: Early to mid-October
-
Sapporo City (Odori Park, Maruyama Park): Around mid-October
These destinations not only offer breathtaking scenery but also come with convenient transport and accommodation options—perfect for arranging a relaxing private car tour, snapping photos, or enjoying a rejuvenating hot spring stay.
Hokkaido Autumn Weather & Outfit Tips
Autumn in Hokkaido is refreshingly cool, but the temperature difference between day and night can be significant. Starting mid-September, daytime temperatures usually range between 15°C–22°C, while in October, they drop further to 8°C–16°C. In mountain or lakeside areas, early mornings can dip below 5°C.
Travelers are advised to check the local forecast before departure. For tops, bring long-sleeved knits or light sweaters, paired with a trench coat, jacket, or lightweight down coat—warm yet easy to pack. For bottoms, jeans or thicker trousers are recommended, along with comfortable, slip-resistant shoes. If you plan to enjoy night foliage, hot springs, or sunrise/sunset photography, don’t forget scarves and hats for extra warmth. This way, you can fully immerse yourself in Hokkaido’s romantic autumn scenery without worrying about the chill.
3. Recommended Hokkaido Autumn Foliage Routes｜Private Car Tours for Maximum Comfort
Hokkaido is vast, with foliage peaking at different times across regions and landscapes. For travelers who want to experience multiple iconic spots in one trip and capture the most stunning autumn views, a private car tour is the best option. It eliminates the hassle of public transport transfers and allows for flexible itinerary changes depending on the foliage conditions.
Route 1｜Sapporo → Jozankei → Lake Shikotsu → Noboribetsu
Perfect for first-time visitors. Begin in Sapporo, where you can stroll through Odori Park and Maruyama Park to enjoy urban foliage. Next, head to Jozankei Onsen, where maple-lined valleys offer idyllic autumn walks. Continue to Lake Shikotsu for mirrored reflections of fiery leaves, before ending the day at Noboribetsu Onsen—soak in hot springs while surrounded by autumn colors, combining sightseeing with relaxation.
Route 2｜Asahikawa → Biei → Furano → Sounkyo
Ideal for travelers seeking wide-open natural landscapes. From Asahikawa, journey through the rolling hills of Biei and the golden fields of Furano—a paradise for photographers. End with Sounkyo Gorge, one of Hokkaido’s most famous foliage spots, where the valley bursts into red and gold in late autumn. For a truly unforgettable experience, take the ropeway to enjoy panoramic views from above.
Route 3｜Hakodate → Onuma Park → Yakumo → Lake Toya
A quieter route with hidden gems. Start from the port city of Hakodate, where Goryokaku Park glows with autumn charm. Continue to Onuma Park, a scenic lake surrounded by forests, perfect for boat rides and reflection photography. Pass through the mountain area of Yakumo, then finish at Lake Toya Onsen, where you can soak in hot springs while gazing at autumn leaves mirrored on the lake—a serene and healing finale.
(圖片來源：Tabirai Japan)
Why Choose a Private Car for Autumn Foliage in Hokkaido?
More Flexible, More In-Depth, More Comfortable
Hokkaido’s autumn leaves are spread across vast regions, with long travel times between scenic spots. While public transport is convenient, it often makes it hard to reach remote hidden gems, and schedules can feel rushed. By choosing a private car tour, you can flexibly adjust routes according to the actual foliage conditions, skip the hassle of carrying luggage and transferring trains, and enjoy a smoother journey. It’s especially ideal for families with seniors or children, as well as travelers who want to capture photos at their own pace.
With Orange Cat TTtrips’ Hokkaido Private Car Service, you’ll be accompanied by a professional Chinese-speaking driver familiar with local roads. The itinerary can be fully customized—covering both popular attractions and hidden scenic spots. Whether it’s a 5-day, 4-night autumn foliage getaway or a two-week in-depth Hokkaido exploration, Orange Cat takes care of everything, so you can simply relax and enjoy the trip while capturing picture-perfect moments.
With the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day holidays approaching, now is the perfect time to start planning your 2025 Hokkaido autumn foliage journey!
立即LINE預約北海道包車Book your Hokkaido private car tour now via LINE!
(圖片來源：Tabirai Japan)
4. Autumn Leaves + Gourmet Delights: Hokkaido’s Seasonal Food Recommendations
Autumn in Hokkaido isn’t just about colorful foliage—it’s also the golden season for gourmet indulgence. Every fall, while travelers enjoy the refreshing climate and stunning scenery, the island’s oceans and fields also bring forth a bounty of seasonal ingredients. This means you can savor delicious Hokkaido flavors while soaking in the beauty of autumn leaves, doubling the happiness of your trip.
First on the list is autumn salmon (aki-zake), one of Hokkaido’s most iconic seasonal catches. It’s said that the salmon returning to Hokkaido before spawning is at its very best—rich, tender, and flavorful. Whether it’s grilled salmon, miso salmon hot pot, or a hearty oyako-don topped with salmon and salmon roe, every bite warms the stomach and soul.
Next is Pacific saury (sanma), another seasonal favorite known for its fatty, juicy meat. The classic salt-grilled version is a must-try, but in autumn, you might also encounter limited-edition sashimi-style saury, making it one of the most seasonal and authentic tastes of Hokkaido.
Of course, no Hokkaido trip is complete without its luxurious crabs—king crab and snow crab. Autumn and winter are their peak seasons, when the meat is plump and sweet. Whether you enjoy them in a steaming seafood hot pot at a hot spring inn or grilled fresh at a market, crab dishes bring a touch of indulgence to your foliage journey.
Beyond seafood, Hokkaido’s autumn produce also shines. Don’t miss the sweet, tender corn and potatoes, which add a rustic yet comforting flavor to seasonal dining.
(圖片來源：Hokkaido Treasure Island Travel Inc)
For those who want to dive deeper into local flavors, it’s highly recommended to enjoy at least one or two meals at regional restaurants or seafood markets. Popular picks include Nijo Market in Sapporo, Port Seafood Market in Noboribetsu, and Hakodate Morning Market, where you can savor freshly prepared, reasonably priced dishes full of Hokkaido character.
If you opt for a private car itinerary, your driver can even help plan a food route—skipping the crowds and taking you straight to local hidden gems. This way, your autumn foliage trip and gourmet journey come together perfectly.
5. Autumn Leaves Beyond Daytime! Night Foliage Spots & Hot Spring Stays
Many travelers associate foliage viewing with daytime mountain walks, but Hokkaido’s night foliage offers a uniquely magical charm. Under warm illumination, the leaves glow in shades of crimson and gold, blending with the crisp autumn air to create a fairy-tale atmosphere unlike anything you can experience during the day.
Recommended Night Foliage Spots in Hokkaido:
-
Jozankei Onsen “Nature Luminarie” (紅葉火舞)
A seasonal light-up event where valleys, suspension bridges, and forests are gently illuminated. Stroll along the riverside trails and admire the reflections of night foliage—an enchanting experience. -
Sounkyo Onsen “Momiji Valley” Light-up
Located within the Daisetsuzan mountain range, Sounkyo Gorge is famed for its brilliant autumn colors. During the light-up period, visitors can wander through Momiji Valley under glowing maples, enjoying crisp mountain air and tranquil surroundings. -
Hakodate Goryokaku Park Night Illumination
A unique blend of history and nature, where the star-shaped fortress shines with maple leaves and night lights. Perfect for an evening stroll and photoshoots.
Foliage × Hot Springs: A Healing Journey for Body & Soul
Autumn in Hokkaido is not only about scenery and food—hot springs are an essential part of the experience. After a full day of foliage viewing, retreat to a traditional ryokan, slip into an open-air bath, and soak beneath the fiery leaves while listening to the flow of the river. It’s the ultimate seasonal indulgence, both relaxing and rejuvenating.
Recommended Onsen Areas:
-
Jozankei Onsen: Just an hour from Sapporo, famous for its valley foliage and night illuminations—ideal for combining night foliage with a cozy stay.
-
Noboribetsu Onsen: Renowned for its sulfur springs and dramatic landscapes like Jigokudani (“Hell Valley”), even more striking during foliage season.
-
Lake Toya Onsen: Surrounded by mountains and water, offering the chance to soak while admiring maple reflections on the lake and autumn night skies.
With a private car tour, it’s easy to combine night foliage and onsen stays without worrying about late-night transport or long transfers—ensuring you enjoy every moment of Hokkaido’s autumn charm, from morning to night.
(圖片來源：Hokkaido Treasure Island Travel Inc)
6. How to Get Around Hokkaido for Autumn Foliage?
Private Car, Self-Drive, or Public Transport Compared
Hokkaido is vast, with foliage spots scattered across the region. If you want to connect multiple scenic areas, avoid the crowds, and keep your itinerary flexible, choosing the right mode of transport is crucial. Below is a comparison of the three most common options:
Self-Drive
Driving through Hokkaido’s scenic roads in autumn can be a delightful experience, offering full flexibility to plan your schedule as you wish. However, foreign travelers need to apply for an International Driving Permit in advance, and the long hours of driving can be exhausting. Add in the stress of navigation, parking, and unfamiliar roads—and it becomes even more challenging if the weather turns snowy or slippery.
Public Transport
Public transportation works well for travelers who only plan to visit single destinations, such as foliage spots near Sapporo like Jozankei or Mt. Moiwa. But with limited departures and long transfer times, the number of places you can visit in a single day is restricted. For those who want to see multiple highlights in one trip, it can be inconvenient.
Private Car with Driver
For the most carefree experience, a private car with a local driver is hard to beat. Drivers are familiar with Hokkaido’s roads and foliage routes, and they can adjust the itinerary in real time—helping you avoid traffic and ensuring you never miss peak foliage moments. You can simply sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenery without worrying about directions, parking, or physical strain. Especially during the busy foliage season and national holidays, private cars save valuable time and make the journey far more enjoyable. The only consideration is a slightly higher budget, but the comfort and efficiency are well worth it.
(圖片來源：Hokkaido Treasure Island Travel Inc）
