Best Places to See Fall Foliage: Visit These 9 Autumn Destinations

Find the top spots for unforgettable autumn views

Looking for an autumn escape filled with colourful landscapes and crisp temperatures? Fall foliage season transforms many of Scoot's destinations into stunning shades of red, orange, and gold.

From Japan's iconic maple leaves to scenic mountains and lakes in South Korea and China, here are some of the best places to see autumn colours and enjoy the beauty of the season.

1. Sapporo, Japan

Hoheikyo Dam

As one of Japan's northernmost cities, Sapporo enjoys some of the country's earliest autumn colours. Explore the golden ginkgo-lined avenue at Hokkaido University, soak in the scenic hot springs of Jozankei Onsen, or visit Hoheikyo Dam, one of Hokkaido's most famous leaf-viewing spots. Nature lovers can also venture into Daisetsuzan National Park, where Japan's autumn season begins as early as September. 

📅 Expected peak foliage period: Mid-September to October

2. Vienna, Austria

Schönbrunn Palace 

Vienna is one of Europe's most underrated autumn destinations, with grand imperial architecture framed by golden and copper-coloured trees. Visitors can admire the season at Schönbrunn Palace Gardens, Stadtpark, and Prater Park. Beyond the autumn scenery, enjoy cosy coffee houses, classical music performances, and strolls through the city's elegant historic centre.

📅 Expected peak foliage period: October to early November

3. Jeju, South Korea

Yongnuni Oreum

While much of Asia's autumn appeal comes from fiery red and orange foliage, Jeju is famous for its waves of silver grass (eulalia grass) that blanket the island's volcanic landscapes every autumn. The most spectacular displays can be found around Hallasan National Park, Sangumburi Crater, Saebyeol Oreum, and Geum Oreum, where shimmering silver plumes sway against clear blue skies. Autumn is also one of the best times to explore Jeju's coastal walking routes, visit tangerine farms, and enjoy the island's fresh seafood in cooler, more comfortable weather.

📅 Expected peak silver grass period: Mid-October to November

4. Seoul, South Korea

Gyeongbokgung Palace

Seoul comes alive in autumn as mountains, parks, and palace grounds transform into shades of crimson, making it one of the best places to see fall foliage. Popular sights to admire the season include Bukhansan National Park, Namsan Park, Gyeongbokgung Palace, and Deoksugung Stone Wall Road. Visitors can also enjoy cosy tea houses, seasonal street food, and pleasant temperatures for sightseeing.

📅 Expected peak foliage period: Late October to early November

5. Hangzhou, China

West Lake

Often considered one of China's most picturesque cities, Hangzhou is especially beautiful in autumn when the trees around West Lake turn shades of gold and red. Visitors can also admire seasonal colours at Lingyin Temple and Longjing Tea Plantation. Beyond leaf-peeping, enjoy leisurely boat rides on the lake, sample local tea, and explore the city's historic gardens.

📅 Expected peak foliage period: Mid-November

6. Qingdao, China

Laoshan Mountain

This coastal city offers a unique combination of seaside scenery and autumn colours. Wander through Badaguan Scenic Area, where tree-lined avenues turn vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow, or head to Laoshan Mountain, a breathtaking coastal mountain range known for its colourful forests, granite peaks, and panoramic sea views. Autumn is also a great time to enjoy Qingdao's famous seafood and waterfront promenades without the summer crowds.

📅 Expected peak foliage period: Late November to early December

7. Tokyo, Japan

Chureito Pagoda

Autumn in Tokyo offers a perfect blend of urban parks, mountain scenery, and postcard-worthy landscapes. Admire golden ginkgo trees at Meiji Jingu Gaien, illuminated maple leaves at Rikugien Garden, or hike Mount Takao for panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. For one of Japan's most iconic autumn sights, take a day trip from Tokyo to Chureito Pagoda, where vibrant red maple leaves frame the pagoda against the backdrop of snow-capped Mount Fuji.

📅 Expected peak foliage period: Late November to early December

8. Osaka, Japan

Minoh Falls

Osaka pairs vibrant city life with beautiful autumn scenery. Minoh Park is the region's best-known leaf-peeping spot, while Osaka Castle Park and Expo '70 Commemorative Park provide colourful escapes within the city. Visitors can also expect seasonal food experiences such as matsutake mushrooms, roasted sweet potatoes, and autumn desserts.

📅 Expected peak foliage period: Late November to early December

9. Kyoto, Japan

Kiyomizu-dera Temple

A 30-minute train ride from Osaka will take you to Kyoto, widely considered one of the best places to visit in autumn. Visit Tofuku-ji Temple, Eikando Temple, Kiyomizu-dera Temple, and the Arashiyama district to experience some of the country's most iconic fall scenery. Seasonal highlights include temple illuminations, tea ceremonies, and autumn kaiseki dining.

📅 Expected peak foliage period: Late November to early December

Note: Peak foliage periods are estimates and may vary depending on seasonal weather and local conditions.

Getting there is easy with Scoot's network across Japan, South Korea, China and Austria. So, book early, pack your camera, and get ready to experience some of the world's most beautiful autumn landscapes!