8 Beautiful Fall Foliage Spots

Discover Uchiko in Autumn

Autumn brings a new palette of colors to Uchiko. From mountain valleys covered in brilliant reds and golds to ancient ginkgo trees and quiet country roads, there are plenty of places to enjoy the changing season throughout the town.

Because Uchiko stretches from the historic town center deep into the mountains, the leaves do not change everywhere at once. The season usually begins in the higher elevations of Odamiyama before gradually reaching the lower areas of town.

Here are eight recommended spots to enjoy the autumn colors in Uchiko, along with the latest foliage information and approximate best viewing periods.

Current Foliage Update

1. Odamiyama Valley

Current status (October 23): Colors beginning to change

Located about a one-hour drive from central Uchiko, Odamiyama Valley is one of the town's most spectacular places to experience autumn. The mountain slopes and walking trail gradually turn shades of yellow, orange, and red as the season progresses.

Last year, the foliage was at its best in early November.

Before you visit:

• Temperatures in the valley are considerably lower than in central Uchiko, so please bring warm clothing.
• Some sections of the mountain road leading to the valley are very narrow. Passing oncoming vehicles can be difficult, particularly during the busy autumn season when sightseeing buses also use the road.
• We recommend visiting in a compact car and, if possible, having someone experienced with driving on narrow mountain roads behind the wheel.
• Follow the signs for Odamiyama Valley after passing Oda-no-Sato Seseragi.
• On your return journey, please follow the signs for the alternative return route rather than driving back along the same road. This route is easier to drive and helps prevent congestion on narrow sections of the road.
• The walking trail can be slippery due to fallen leaves and moss. Shoes with good grip, such as trekking shoes, are recommended.
• Weekends can become very busy and parking is limited. If possible, consider visiting on a weekday.
• There is no mobile phone reception around Odamiyama Valley.
• As the valley is surrounded by mountains, the best time to enjoy the scenery in daylight is approximately 11:00 AM–3:00 PM.

2. Ryuo Park – Maple Tunnel

Current status (October 20): Green leaves

Access: About 5 minutes by car or 15 minutes by bicycle from Uchiko Station. Coming from Uchiko pass the parking lot on top of the hill and go down the road to Ikazaki.

A road lined with maple trees creates a colorful tunnel when the leaves change later in the season.

Last year, the best viewing period was from late November to early December.

Please remember that this is an active roadway and take care not to obstruct passing vehicles while enjoying or photographing the foliage.

3. Ginkgo Grove near Ryuo Park

Current status (October 20): Green leaves

Access: About 5 minutes by car or 15 minutes by bicycle from Uchiko Station

A grove of ginkgo trees near Ryuo Park turns a brilliant golden yellow in autumn. Last year, the best viewing period was around mid-November.

Please note that the grove is located on private property and is open to visitors thanks to the kindness of the landowner. Please be respectful of the property and surroundings.

There is no parking at the grove. Please use the parking area at Ryuo Park.

More Autumn Foliage Spots in Uchiko

4. Yuge Shrine, Ishidatami

Access: About 30 minutes by car from central Uchiko
Expected best viewing: Mid-November

Enjoy the colors of autumn surrounded by the peaceful rural scenery of the Ishidatami area.

5. Nankin Haze Street

Access: About 5 minutes on foot from Uchiko Station
Expected best viewing: Mid-November

An easily accessible autumn spot close to the center of Uchiko, where the changing leaves add seasonal color to the streetscape.

From Uchiko Station, follow the road toward the Uchiko Jichi Center (Community Center).

6. Chichide-no-Oicho – Giant Ginkgo Tree

Access: About 30 minutes by car from central Uchiko

The tree stands at Mishima Shrine in the Nakagawa area, beyond Oda. When driving from central Uchiko, continue toward Nakagawa instead of turning off toward Odamiyama Valley.

Expected best viewing: Mid-November

This impressive ancient ginkgo tree is one of the area's natural landmarks. In autumn, its enormous canopy turns golden yellow, creating a striking sight in the countryside.

There is no dedicated parking area.

7. Kamihaga Residence & Wax Museum

Access: About 20 minutes on foot from Uchiko Station or 5 minutes on foot from the Machinami Parking Lot
Last year's best viewing: Mid-November

Autumn colors provide a beautiful seasonal backdrop to the historic architecture of the Kamihaga Residence, located in Uchiko's traditional townscape preservation district.

8. Yakushido Giant Ginkgo Tree

Access: About 35 minutes by car from central Uchiko

Located beside Yakushido, a small Buddhist hall in the Kamigawa area, this impressive ginkgo tree stands in the peaceful mountain countryside beyond Oda.

Expected best viewing: Mid-November

In autumn, the giant ginkgo turns a brilliant golden yellow, creating a striking contrast with the surrounding rural landscape.

There is no dedicated parking area.

Plan Your Autumn Visit

The timing of autumn foliage varies each year depending on temperatures and weather conditions.

Odamiyama Valley usually changes earlier due to its higher elevation, while many spots closer to central Uchiko reach their peak later in November.

Please check the latest conditions before setting out, especially when visiting Odamiyama Valley.

We hope you enjoy exploring the colors of autumn in Uchiko.