Looking to capture Japan’s most stunning autumn leaves and hot spring experiences all in one trip?
Kyushu is a hidden gem for foliage lovers—less crowded than Tokyo or Kyoto, yet home to iconic spots like Yabakei Gorge, Mifuneyama Rakuen, and Mount Aso. By night, the dreamlike autumn illuminations bring the scenery to life. After a day of leaf-peeping, unwind in charming hot spring towns such as Yufuin, Kurokawa, and Unzen, where the romance of autumn foliage meets the soothing comfort of onsen.
To make the most of the short foliage season, the easiest way is to choose a Kyushu private car tour—flexible itineraries, no transportation worries, and a dedicated driver to take you straight to the best autumn viewing spots. You can even stay at premium hot spring hotels. Book your 2025 Kyushu Autumn Leaves + Onsen Journey now, and let Orange Cat craft your tailor-made Japan private car experience!
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If you’ve already experienced the crowds in Kyoto and Tokyo during autumn, why not take a different perspective this year and explore the hidden yet breathtaking foliage spots of Kyushu? Here, you’ll find the stunning maple valleys of Yabakei Gorge, the magical illuminated night leaves at Mifuneyama Rakuen, and the majestic landscapes of Mount Aso. You can also enjoy hot spring baths surrounded by autumn colors in famous onsen towns such as Yufuin, Kurokawa, and Unzen, immersing yourself in the most authentic Japanese autumn atmosphere.
Compared to the main island of Honshu, Kyushu offers a longer foliage season with fewer crowds, making it an ideal destination to combine autumn leaves, hot springs, and local cuisine. If you want to avoid the hassle of transportation schedules while covering all the top foliage spots, a Kyushu private car tour is the easiest choice—your dedicated driver will take you directly to the best photo spots, with the flexibility to tailor your itinerary, accommodation, and onsen stays.
(圖片來源：Tabirai Japan)
Located in southwestern Japan, Kyushu enjoys a milder climate compared to Honshu, meaning the autumn leaves typically change color later than in Tokyo or Kyoto—usually from early November to early December.
Here is an overview of the peak foliage season in major regions:
| Region / Spot | Estimated Peak Season | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Yabakei Gorge (Oita) | Mid to Late November | Famous for dramatic valleys and maple-covered cliffs |
| Mifuneyama Rakuen (Saga) | Mid November to Early December | Night illuminations with temples and gardens |
| Mount Aso & Kikuchi Gorge (Kumamoto) | Early to Mid November | Vast volcanic landscapes and waterfalls |
| Takachiho Gorge (Miyazaki) | Mid to Late November | Mythical gorge with glowing autumn leaves |
| Unzen & Nita Pass (Nagasaki) | Early to Mid November | Onsen town with panoramic mountain foliage |
| Yufuin & Lake Kinrin (Oita) | Mid to Late November | Hot spring town with lakeside autumn scenery |
Tokyo & Kyoto: Typically from mid-November to early December.
Kyushu: Some areas, such as Nita Pass in Nagasaki, see autumn colors as early as late October, while regions like Kagoshima can extend into early December.
→→ This means Kyushu offers a longer and more flexible foliage season, making it easier to avoid peak tourist crowds.
(圖片來源：Tabirai Japan)
1. Oita: Yabakei Gorge
Known as “Japan’s No.1 Yabakei,” this gorge is covered in brilliant autumn leaves, with dramatic rock formations and flowing streams creating a breathtaking scene. Transportation can be inconvenient—choosing a private car is the most comfortable way to get there.
2. Fukuoka: Hōmangū Kamado Shrine
Famous as one of the inspirations for Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba, this shrine is especially beautiful when its torii gates are framed by fiery red maple leaves. Located about an hour from central Fukuoka, it’s a popular spot to enjoy both foliage and shrine visits in one trip.
3. Kumamoto: Mount Aso & Kikuchi Gorge
Mount Aso’s vast volcanic grasslands combined with autumn leaves offer overwhelming scenery, while Kikuchi Gorge features crystal-clear streams reflecting vibrant colors. A one-day private car trip is perfect for exploring both natural wonders with ease.
4. Saga: Mifuneyama Rakuen (Night Illuminations)
One of Kyushu’s most beloved night foliage spots. Each autumn, the gardens are illuminated in the evenings, with maple leaves glowing against magical lighting. A private car is highly recommended to avoid transportation challenges at night—ideal for families or those traveling with children.
5. Nagasaki: Unzen Onsen + Nita Pass
Nita Pass is one of the earliest places in Kyushu to see autumn leaves. Combined with a stay in the hot spring town of Unzen, you can enjoy foliage viewing by day and a relaxing soak by night—the perfect two-in-one experience.
6. Kagoshima: Kirishima Shrine
Surrounded by towering ancient trees, the shrine’s grounds transform into a solemn yet enchanting landscape when wrapped in autumn colors. Since it’s more remote, a private car is the most convenient way to visit, especially if paired with a stay at a nearby onsen ryokan.
(圖片來源：Tabirai Japan)
(1) Saga – Mifuneyama Rakuen (Takeo)
The garden features mountainsides covered in maple leaves, with streams, stone bridges, and teahouses leading all the way to the lakeside. At night, illuminations bring out vivid layers of red, orange, and gold. The walking paths vary in elevation, offering two unique perspectives: from the hillside, a panoramic view of fiery foliage; from the water’s edge, a breathtaking mirror-like reflection.
Best time to visit: Enter around sunset to secure a spot and experience the “blue hour” transition into the illuminations—when the colors appear most pure.
Best photo spots: The lakeside wooden boardwalk and both ends of the stone bridge.
Suggested private car route: Fukuoka City → (approx. 1.5 hrs) → Mifuneyama Rakuen Night Illumination → Takeo Onsen Tower Gate night photography → Return to Fukuoka / Overnight at Ureshino Onsen.
Why private car? After the evening illumination, shuttle services and local train connections are limited. Mountain roads can be dark and winding, so hiring a private car is safer and saves you from rushing to catch the last train.
(圖片來源：Tabirai Japan)
(2) Fukuoka – Dazaifu “Hōmangū Kamado Shrine” Night Foliage
The stone steps, vermilion torii gates, and maple leaves create a classic composition; at night, the illuminations make the canopy look as if it’s floating in the air. During the day, stroll through Dazaifu Tenmangū Shrine and its lively food-filled approach, then head up to Kamado Shrine in the evening—the twilight glow before the lights switch on is especially enchanting.
Best time to visit: Weekday evenings, to avoid crowds.
Best photo spots: Looking up from the bottom of the stone steps toward the torii and maples; the reflection of red leaves outside the amulet office’s glass window.
Suggested private car route: Fukuoka → Dazaifu Tenmangū (daytime) → Kamado Shrine Night Foliage → Late-night food stalls at Nakasu → Return to hotel.
Why private car? Point-to-point transfers without waiting for shuttle buses, flexible timing for going up and down the mountain, and the convenience of stopping for late-night snacks after the visit.
(圖片來源：Tabirai Japan)
(3) Yabakei Dam Memorial Park – Keisekien Garden (with Onsen Town Stroll)
Famous for its majestic natural scenery, Yabakei becomes a breathtaking sight in autumn as the maple trees turn vibrant shades of red and yellow, enhanced by a magical illumination event. Built to commemorate the completion of the Yabakei Dam, this garden recreates the local landscape using tens of thousands of stones and water from the reservoir.
Best time to visit: Once before dinner and once after, to enjoy the contrasting daytime and nighttime atmospheres.
Suggested private car route: Yufuin / Beppu Hotel → Yabakei Dam Memorial Park Night Foliage → Jigoku-mushi (hell-steamed) dinner → Onsen soak → Return to hotel.
Why private car? Convenient point-to-point transfers without waiting outdoors in the chilly autumn weather. More importantly, it allows flexibility to extend your onsen or dinner time as you wish.
(圖片來源：Tabirai Japan)
(4) Bonus Picks: Spots That Are Just as Magical from Dusk to Night
Fukuoka – Akizuki Castle Ruins: Rows of maples framed by the moat and stone bridge glow beautifully under the golden light of dusk. The area is quite dark at night, so bring a small flashlight if you plan to visit.
Kumamoto – Kikuchi Gorge: On clear nights, the water surface reflects both the illuminated foliage and starlight. Trails can be slippery, so it’s best suited for experienced visitors with private car transfers.
Kagoshima – Kirishima Shrine: The shrine buildings and ancient trees exude an even more solemn and mystical aura under nightfall. Pair your visit with an evening hot spring soak in nearby Kirishima Onsen.
(圖片來源：Tabirai Japan)
Timing Strategy: Arrive about 45 minutes before sunset. The best moment is 10–20 minutes after sunset, when the sky turns a deep gradient blue that contrasts beautifully with the foliage. Colors appear vivid and natural, without being overly harsh.
Clothing & Footwear: Mountain areas can get chilly at night and paths may be damp with fallen leaves. Wear a windproof jacket and shoes with good grip.
Photography Tips: Use the night mode on your phone. Avoid shining strong lights directly onto the leaves.
Tickets & Notices: Night illuminations usually require a separate ticket. Times may vary slightly each year, so always check the official announcements in advance.
Safe Return: Mountain areas often have early last buses and complicated transfers. A private car is the safest and most convenient option for night foliage trips.
(Contact customer service to book your tour)
From Fukuoka｜Kamado Shrine Night Foliage + Yatai Food Stalls (5–6 hrs)
Hotel Pickup → Dazaifu Old Town → Kamado Shrine Night Foliage → Nakasu Yatai Food Stalls → Return to Hotel
From Fukuoka｜Mifuneyama Rakuen Night Foliage + Onsen (7–8 hrs)
Hotel Pickup → Break in Takeo/Ureshino → Mifuneyama Rakuen Night Foliage → Onsen & Dinner → Return to Hotel
From Beppu/Yufuin｜Night Foliage + Jigoku-mushi + Private Onsen (5 hrs)
Hotel Pickup → Beppu Park Night Foliage → Jigoku-mushi Cuisine → Private Onsen (1 hr) → Return to Hotel
(圖片來源：Tabirai Japan)
Kyushu is not only famous for its majestic landscapes and renowned foliage spots, but also home to some of Japan’s most celebrated hot spring towns. The most enchanting way to travel is to enjoy autumn leaves by day and soak in hot springs by night—immersed in steam while gazing at mountains covered in red and gold, a luxury experience unique to autumn.
(1) Oita – Yufuin Onsen × Lake Kinrin Foliage
Yufuin is one of Kyushu’s most iconic hot spring towns, lined with charming cafés and dessert shops. At the lakeside, maple leaves reflect beautifully on Lake Kinrin, and in the early morning mist, the scene becomes almost dreamlike. Stay overnight at a lakeside ryokan with open-air baths, where you can soak while admiring the autumn colors—truly the most romantic choice for an autumn trip in Kyushu.
(2) Kumamoto – Kurokawa Onsen × Mountain Foliage
Kurokawa Onsen is famous for its “rotenburo hopping” (open-air bath tour). Surrounded by mountains, the hot springs feel as though they spill directly into the autumn forest when the leaves turn red. Spend the day exploring Mount Aso or Kikuchi Gorge, then return to a traditional wooden ryokan, change into a yukata, and experience different outdoor baths one by one. The harmony of mountain foliage, sulfur-scented steam, and warm onsen water makes it hard to leave.
(3) Nagasaki – Unzen Onsen × Nita Pass
Nita Pass is one of the earliest places in Kyushu to enjoy autumn colors, where fiery leaves mingle with drifting sea clouds. After your hike, descend to the onsen town of Unzen, soak in sulfur-rich baths, and explore the unique volcanic landscapes of “Unzen Jigoku.” A perfect itinerary is to admire autumn leaves by day, relax in onsen by night, and stroll through the historic town the following morning.
(圖片來源：GRAND MERCURE)
If you want to make the most of the short foliage season, choosing a private car tour is the most effortless way. Forget about train transfers, timetables, or hauling luggage—your dedicated driver takes you directly to each destination, with a flexible and comfortable schedule. Below are three popular routes, suitable for different trip lengths.
2-Day Itinerary｜From Fukuoka: Yabakei + Beppu Onsen
Day 1: Fukuoka → Yabakei Gorge (dramatic rock formations + vibrant foliage) → Beppu Jigoku-mushi (hell-steamed) dinner → Overnight at Beppu Onsen Ryokan
Day 2: Lake Kinrin morning mist + lakeside foliage → Yufuin Onsen town stroll → Return to Fukuoka
3-Day Itinerary｜Kumamoto Deep Exploration: Mount Aso + Kurokawa Onsen + Fukuoka
Day 1: Fukuoka → Kumamoto Castle area foliage → Mount Aso volcanic crater viewing → Overnight at Aso Onsen
Day 2: Kikuchi Gorge foliage trail → Kurokawa Onsen rotenburo-hopping → Overnight at Kurokawa Onsen Ryokan
Day 3: Return to Fukuoka → Kamado Shrine Night Foliage (Dazaifu) → Late-night food stalls in Nakasu
5-Day Itinerary｜Northern Kyushu Autumn Foliage Highlights: Saga + Oita + Kumamoto
Day 1: Fukuoka → Dazaifu Tenmangū & Kamado Shrine → Saga Mifuneyama Rakuen Night Foliage
Day 2: Short break at Takeo Onsen → Yufuin Lake Kinrin + autumn scenery → Overnight at Yufuin Onsen
Day 3: Yabakei Gorge foliage tour → Beppu Park Night Illumination → Overnight at Beppu Onsen
Day 4: Kumamoto → Mount Aso Kusasenri Plains foliage → Kikuchi Gorge → Overnight at Kurokawa Onsen
Day 5: Leisurely breakfast → Return to Fukuoka for shopping / Nakasu gourmet farewell
Most foliage spots in Kyushu are located in the mountains; private car tours help avoid the hassle of long rides and multiple transfers.
With a private car, you can flexibly adjust your schedule—extend your time at peak foliage spots, or spend longer in an onsen if you wish.
Local drivers know the routes well and can plan the most efficient itinerary, making your journey smoother and more enjoyable.
(圖片來源：Tabirai Japan)
(1) Yufuin Onsen Ryokan (Oita)
Yufuin is Oita’s most iconic hot spring area, where Lake Kinrin reflects stunning autumn foliage. Many lakeside ryokan feature open-air baths with views of the leaves mirrored on the water. For a truly private and tranquil experience, choose a ryokan with in-room baths.
(2) Kurokawa Onsen Traditional Ryokan (Kumamoto)
Kurokawa is famous for its rotenburo-hopping (open-air bath tours). In autumn, the valley becomes enveloped in crimson foliage. Most ryokan preserve traditional wooden architecture and Japanese gardens, which glow beautifully under evening lanterns. Staying at a ryokan that offers multiple types of baths is highly recommended for longer or more immersive stays.
(3) Unzen Onsen Ryokan (Nagasaki)
Located near Nita Pass, one of the earliest foliage spots in Kyushu, Unzen Onsen offers a perfect combination of hot springs and autumn scenery. Some ryokan feature open-air baths facing the mountains, allowing you to soak while admiring layers of autumn leaves. This area is ideal for the early part of your trip.
(4) Beppu Onsen Hotels (Oita)
Beppu is Kyushu’s largest hot spring resort, offering a wide variety of accommodations. From modern hotels with panoramic sea views to traditional ryokan where you can try Jigoku-mushi (hell-steamed) cuisine, Beppu can easily be paired with nearby foliage spots. For convenience, choose a hotel in the city center for easy access to illuminated parks and local dining at night.
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(圖片來源：Beppu Showaen.JP)
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(圖片來源：ANA interContinental Beppu Resort&SPA)
Kyushu offers a more relaxed atmosphere for autumn foliage compared to Kyoto and Tokyo, combined with its rich hot spring culture, making it one of the most rewarding destinations to visit in autumn 2025. From the dramatic valleys of Yabakei Gorge, the illuminated night leaves at Mifuneyama Rakuen, to the hot spring towns of Yufuin, Kurokawa, and Unzen, travelers can enjoy a unique blend of nature and culture.
Want to catch the fleeting golden season of Kyushu’s autumn foliage and night illuminations—without worrying about the last train? Choose a private night foliage car tour in Kyushu, and enjoy the flexibility to focus on what truly matters: admiring the leaves, soaking in onsen, and capturing beautiful photos.
Kyushu Autumn Leaves + Onsen is the must-do combination for 2025. Book your private car tour now for a flexible itinerary that ensures you won’t miss the best autumn views!
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