Tokyo in Autumn: 7-Day Itinerary + Top Attractions

'Golden hour’ among the Ginkgo trees in Meiji Jingu Gaien, Tokyo. Image source: Adobe Stock

In autumn, leaves in hues of red and gold transform Japan’s outdoors into dreamy landscapes while seasonal festivals get underway. Tokyo’s contrasting modern and traditional architecture and activities, along with its impressive food scene appeals to travellers worldwide.

Use our itinerary to spend a week experiencing the best of Tokyo in autumn.

7-Day Tokyo Itinerary

Autumn’s cooler weather is ideal for exploring and discovering exactly what this dynamic city has to offer.

Day 1: Tour traditional Tokyo

Morning: Visit the city’s oldest Buddhist temple—Sensoji Temple. Walk through the little garden featuring Tokyo's oldest stone bridge and ablution fountain and shop for goodies like kokeshi dolls at Nakamise Dori market.

Afternoon: The Imperial Palace’s magnificent East Gardens display traditional Japanese landscaping. While not open to the public, they can be appreciated from the Nijubashi Bridge.

Evening: Stroll through the many eateries and luxury shops of the Marunouchi district, a mixture of modern architecture and historical landmarks.

The atmospheric Sensoji Temple, Asakusa, Tokyo, Japan. Image source: Adobe Stock

Day 2: Appealing autumn attractions

Morning: Start at the picturesque Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, arguably the best place to see autumn leaves in Tokyo.

Afternoon: The autumn leaves at Koishikawa Korakuen and Rikugien are also a must for travellers, with stunning photo opportunities between the ponds and bridges.

Evening: Multicoloured winter illuminations start in November at several locations throughout the city. The Narita Fireworks Festival in early November has elaborate performances, live music and tantalising street food. Be sure to book in advance!

Day 3: Temples and treasures

Morning: Explore old Tokyo’s quaint Yanaka Ginza shopping lane with stalls surrounded by temples and traditional homes. Get a personalised seal, or hanko, from craft and accessory store Shinimonogurui. Used on documents instead of a signature in Japan, it’s the perfect souvenir.

Afternoon: Admire the Nezu Museum’s superb collection of ancient and traditional Asian artworks. Afterwards, relax in the cafe overlooking the tranquil Japanese landscape garden.

Evening: Visit the historic 17th-century Shibamata Taishakuten Temple for its detailed wooden carvings revealing tales from the Buddhist Lotus Sutra.

Day 4: Blissful bathing

Onsens, or baths fed by volcanic hot springs, are incredibly enticing in cooler autumn temperatures.

Take the train or bus to Nagano’s famous Kusatsu Onsen resort with 13 public baths. Relax, unwind and recharge.

Many Japanese onsen have sensitivities towards exposing tattoos, however, several baths at Kusatsu are tattoo-friendly. Check with the onsen before you arrive.

Day 5: Lights and Landmarks

Morning: Admire the Roppongi Hills complex’s modern architecture, and explore its shops, restaurants and the Mori Art Museum. Enjoy a sweeping vista of the city by day by taking an elevator to the top of the 54 storey Mori tower.

Afternoon: Visit the famous Meiji Jingu Shrine—autumn festivities feature Japanese yabusame or horseback archery from 1:00 pm. Arrive early for the best spot! The nearby Meiji Jingu Gaien Park’s ginkgo avenue turns stunning gold in autumn and is illuminated after dark.

Evening: Take the subway to the 250 metre-high Tokyo Tower for a panoramic view of the city skyline by night. Watch as the Kirameki show lights the tower in a dazzling display of pure white.

Explore Shinjuku’s narrow streets by night for delicious, traditional Japanese fare. Image source: Adobe Stock

Day 6: Fantastic food

Morning: Tuck into teishoku, a typical Japanese breakfast of rice, miso soup and grilled fish. Try Suke6 Diner, a fantastic vegetarian-friendly option.

Afternoon: Sample fresh sushi and seafood from the Tsukiji Outer Market’s hundreds of stalls. Taste different ramen varieties at the Tokyo Ramen Festa in late November.

Evening: Explore Omoide Yokocho's smoky, lantern-lined streets for izakaya—Japanese bars—and yakitori stalls selling grilled chicken skewers.

Don’t miss katsu curry at CoCo Ichibanya Tokyo, authentic ramen at Menya Musashi, and gyoza—Japanese dumplings—at Harajuku Gyozaro.

Day 7: Departure day

Morning: Squeeze in some last-minute shopping—Shinjuku for electronics, Shibuya for trendy clothing, Harajuku's Omotesando for designer stores and Nihonbashi for traditional products and regional foods.

Afternoon: Hire a bicycle and enjoy the autumn colours at Yoyogi Park.

Evening: Head to the airport for your flight back to Perth, or your onward journey.

Indulge in some serious retail therapy in Shibuya district before you leave. Image source: Adobe Stock

Day trips from Tokyo

If you are staying longer, head outside the city to the Nikko and Hakone historical sites. Alternatively, opt for some hiking in Tokyo—try Mount Takao and Hakone.

What you need to know before travelling to Tokyo 

Here are a few things to consider for your week-long holiday:

Japan Railway Pass

The JR Pass makes visits to multiple regions easier and more cost-effective. It includes Shinkansen bullet trains and the Narita Express from Narita Airport to Tokyo Station.

Packing essentials

• A Zhiyun Smooth Q3 gimbal from WHSmith in T1 International to help improve your photos.
• The Korjo USB 2X2JA USB & Power Adapter Home and Japan has two USB sockets and can also be used at home.
• The Cygnett Laptop Power Bank and Wireless Phone Charger can charge up to 4 devices at once, also available at WHSmith in T1 International.
• Stay stylish with the GAP Nylon Travel Crossbody bag from Australian Way in T1 International.
• Avoid unexpected expenses with appropriate travel insurance.

For a smoother journey, check out our full list of practical tips for international travel.

Discover colourful autumn foliage around Lake Kawaguchi on a day trip outside Toyko. Image source: Adobe Stock

What to wear in autumn 

Bring a warm coat or jacket and long pants for cooler morning and evening temperatures. Pack comfortable walking shoes with socks—shoes must be removed before entering temples.

Where to stay in Tokyo

Accommodation near subway lines gives quick access to tourist attractions. Shops and reasonably-priced restaurants are usually nearby.

Enjoy the dazzling city lights by night in Tokyo’s city centre. Image source: Adobe Stock

Direct flights to Tokyo 

Tokyo is enchanting in autumn! All Nippon Airways has made Japan even easier to experience with non-stop flights from Perth to Tokyo commencing from 29 October 2023. Departing from Perth Airport gives you access to top-notch facilities, accessible services, multiple forex stores and ATMs—and with our helpful passenger guide you are all set for a great start to your trip. What are you waiting for? Book your holiday today and enjoy the best of Tokyo in autumn!

All advice, recommendations and use of this blog is subject to Perth Airport Online Services - Terms of Use.