Living in a country void of the four seasons, I’ve always imagined summer and winter as times of extreme conditions that I’ll never survive in. Autumn hits the perfect spot between the two and offers impeccable sceneries with rich warm hues while you witness some of nature’s most magnificent changes.

While European countries are popular during Autumn with the rustic architectures that stand perfectly with the hues, there are a few Asian countries that have gained popularity in recent years for their gorgeous autumn landscapes.

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Japan

infographic on autumn foliage in Japan
Image Credit: Skyscanner

If you’re looking for the best time to visit Japan for the autumn season, historical trends have shown that autumn in Japan usually begins in the northern regions of Hokkaido mid-October, making its way down to Kyushu area at the end of November. Flights are relatively cheaper with Skyscanner’s autumn flight deals and we recommend you to travel to a few cities within the same coastal region. Each city in Japan offers a different experience and culture, so do keep your choices open!

1. Nagoya Castle Autumn Festival

white castle in japan
Image Credit: Marufish | Flickr

A must-visit attraction in Autumn, the Ninomaru Garden at Nagoya Castle boasts one of the best autumn foliage in Japan. The Nagoya Castle serves as the perfect backdrop to the Garden with plenty of photo spots around.

  • Best time to visit: Early – Late November
  • Address: Ninomaru, Naka Ward, Nagoya, Aichi Prefecture 460-0032
  • Opening Hours:
    • Nagoya Castle: 9am – 4.30pm
    • Ninomaru Garden: 10am – 4pm

2. Kurobe Gorge

orange and green trees in gorge
Image Credit: Fred Rivett | Unsplash

Nestled in the outskirts of Tokyo and Osaka sits one of the three biggest gorges in Japan. This is the perfect place to spend a short 2 days out of Tokyo and bask in the beauty of the autumn foliage. The easiest way to get around and see the foliage would be hopping on the Kurobe Gorge Railway that also takes you to the Unazuki Onsen. And we all know a trip to Japan is never complete without a relaxing onsen bath.

  • Best time to visit: Mid October – Mid November
  • Address: Kurobe Okuyama Kanetsuri, Unazuki-machi, Kurobe-shi, Toyama-Ken
  • Opening Hours: 10am – 5.30pm (closed on Mondays, except National Holidays)

Check out Skyscanner’s awesome autumn flight deals to Japan!

DestinationTravel PeriodReturn Fares*

Tokyo

November 2019

SGD 498

Osaka/Kyoto

November 2019

SGD 490

Nagoya

November 2019

SGD 478

Sapporo

October 2019

SGD 529

*Prices shown are accurate as of the time of publishing. These travel deals for autumn 2019 will be available between 10 to 28 July 2019. So hurry and grab your flights today!

 

South Korea

infographic on autumn foliage in Korea
Image Credit: Skyscanner

Autumn in South Korea falls between mid-October to early November as the temperature starts to drop. A popular destination for many, South Korea is a modern metropolitan city with a rich cultural history. With delicious Korean cuisines and streets lined with indie boutiques, South Korea is a shopping and food haven for many.

1. Naejangsan National Park, Jeolla-do

road down autumn trees
Image Credit: Norton Ip | Flickr

“Naejang” directly translates to “many secrets”, and Naejangsan perfectly reflects this as the mountain unveils its secret autumn landscape in early November. The picturesque view en route to the cable car station is a sight to behold and makes the tiring walk worthwhile.

Quick Tip: Skyscanner has Car Rental deals that will make this visit a breeze.

  • Best time to visit: Mid October – Early November
  • Address: Bongdeok-gil, Bokheung-myeon, Sunchang-gun, Jeollabuk-do
  • Opening Hours: 7am – 6pm

2. Gyeongbokgung Palace, Seoul

pavilion palace during autumn
Image Credit: Cesare Tagliaferri | Flickr

The famous Gyeongbukgung Palace is constantly packed with tourists throughout all seasons. The Royal Palace built during the Joseon Dynasty has seen South Korea evolve for the past 600 years and you get a chance of relieving the Joseon era when you don the traditional Korean costumes. The autumn foliage coupled with the historical halls is the perfect touch of history in this upbeat city. Keep a lookout for the timings of the Royal Guard Changing Ceremony to experience this rare traditional event!

CeremonyPerformance Timings

Sumunjang (Royal Guard) Changing 

10:00 AM / 2:00 PM
Duration: 20 minutes per ceremony

Gwanghwamun Gate Guard-on-Duty Performance

11:00 AM / 1:00 PM
Duration: 10 minutes per ceremony

Sumungun (Gatekeeper) Military Training (outside Hyeopsaengmun Gate)

9:30 AM / 1:30 PM
Duration:15 minutes per ceremony

 

  • Best time to visit: Mid October – Mid November
  • Address: 161, Sajik-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul
  • Opening Hours:
    • September – October: 9am – 6pm (last entry at 5pm)
    • November – December: 9am – 5pm (last entry at 4pm)

Check out Skyscanner’s awesome autumn flight deals to South Korea!

DestinationTravel PeriodReturn Fares*

Seoul

November 2019

SGD 382

Busan

November 2019

SGD 348

Jeju

November 2019

SGD 522

*Prices shown are accurate as of the time of publishing. These travel deals for autumn 2019 will be available between 10 to 28 July 2019. So hurry and grab your flights today!

 

Taiwan

infographic on autumn foliage in Taiwan
Image Credit: Skyscanner

For those looking for an alternative destination for the autumn season, why not plan a trip to Taiwan! The autumn season falls between late October all the way to December so there’s plenty of time to plan your visit. With relatively cheaper flights as compared to Japan or Korea, Taiwan is the perfect choice for the ones who want a slice of the autumn season without burning some serious money.

1. Shihmen Reservoir

lake between mountains landscape
Image Credit: George C | Flickr

A hidden gem away from the hustle of the city, Shihmen Reservoir is the offers the best view of the autumn foliage in Taiwan. The warm autumn hues reflect off the reservoir surface, coloring the place in a gorgeous shade of orange and making it a phenomenal experience for any visitors. Plus, a Maple Festival is held every autumn and serves up fresh sashimi which is always a good idea.

  • Best time to visit: Early November
  • Address: No.1 Huanhu Road, Fuxingli, Daxi, Taoyuan, Taiwan
  • Opening Hours: 8am – 6pm

2. Xitou Nature Education Area, Nantou County

lake amongst autumn foliage and orange leaves
Image Credit: Emre Kuza | Pexels

For those who are visiting the Sun Moon Lake, the Xitou Nature Education Area is another great place to back in nature’s beauty. The autumn foliage here are aplenty and Gingko trees grow in the area as well! The autumn foliage both a classy shade of fiery red and yellow and you walk along the mountain trails.

  • Best time to visit: Late October – Mid November
  • Address: 558, Taiwan, Nantou County, Lugu Township, 森林巷9號
  • Opening Hours: 7am – 5pm

Check out Skyscanner’s awesome autumn flight deals to Taiwan!

DestinationTravel PeriodReturn Fares*

Taipei

November 2019

SGD 251

Kaohsiung

November 2019

SGD 308

*Prices shown are accurate as of the time of publishing. These travel deals for autumn 2019 will be available between 10 to 28 July 2019. So hurry and grab your flights today!

This article was originally published by Skyscanner.


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