A group of over 300 lakes created by the eruption of Mount Bandai in 1888. The autumn scenery of Urabandai, with the fall foliage reflecting on the water's surface, is among the most beautiful in Tohoku. In particular, the contrast between the emerald blue ponds and the red and yellow leaves is said to be a landscape that can only be seen here.
In this article, a local guide will share from their experience of actually guiding customers about the best viewing times, five must-see spots, and how to avoid crowds.
When is the best time to see the autumn leaves in Urabandai?
Due to its elevation of about 800 meters, the autumn leaves in Urabandai progress earlier than in the plains.
- Beginning to change color: Typically early October
- Peak viewing time: Typically mid to late October
- Lingering autumn leaves: Until early November (you can enjoy them even longer by going down to the foot of the mountain in Inawashiro and Aizu)
Since it can vary by about a week each year, it's best to check the latest color change information. By utilizing the elevation difference and traveling "from top to bottom," you can more easily hit the peak viewing time even if the timing is slightly off.
Five must-see spots
1. Goshikinuma Lake Group — The epitome of blue ponds and autumn leaves
The center of sightseeing in Urabandai. In particular, Bishamon Pond offers a stunning contrast between the emerald green water and the autumn leaves, and you can also get a panoramic view of Mount Bandai from the observation spot. Walking the approximately 3.6 km Goshikinuma Nature Trail allows you to visit ponds of different colors, such as Akonuma and Aonuma, along with the fall foliage (about 1.5 hours one way, with some ups and downs).
2. Nakatsukawa Gorge — Autumn leaves in a beautiful gorge
A gorge located along the Bandai Azuma Lake Line. You can enjoy the contrast of the autumn leaves viewed from the bridge and the nearby stream seen from the walking path. It's a standard visit combined with a drive along the Lake Line.
3. Bandai Azuma Lake Line — A drive with autumn leaves across the lake
A mountain road overlooking the "Urabandai Three Lakes" of Akimoto Lake, Onogawa Lake, and Hibara Lake. Currently free of charge, panoramic views of the lakes and autumn leaves can be enjoyed from viewpoints like Sanroku Paradise (usually closed from mid-November to mid-April. Please check the traffic conditions).
4. Kyokusawanuma — A mirror-like pond where photography enthusiasts gather
On windless mornings, this hidden gem offers "reflections" of autumn leaves mirrored on the water's surface. It's worth visiting early in the morning with a camera.
5. Hibara Lake — Autumn leaves viewed from the lake
The largest lake in Urabandai. In addition to driving along the lakeside, we also recommend the experience of viewing the mountains of autumn leaves from the water via sightseeing boats or motorboats from a lake perspective.
Points to note during the autumn foliage season
- Parking congestion: On weekends and holidays in October, parking lots around Goshikinuma may fill up by the morning. It's recommended to visit on weekdays or arrive early in the morning.
- Morning and evening chill: In October, temperatures in Urabandai can drop to around 5°C in the morning and evening. Be sure to wear a jacket that can be easily put on or taken off.
- Limited public transportation: While there are buses, their frequency is limited, making it difficult to navigate between spots solely by transfers.
Model course (8 hours, an example of a private tour)
| Time | Itinerary |
|---|---|
| 9:00 | Pick-up from accommodation or Inawashiro Station, etc. |
| 9:30 | Stroll along the Goshikinuma Nature Trail (walking distance can be adjusted to your fitness level) |
| 11:30 | Local recommended lunch at Lake Hibara |
| 13:00 | Bandai Azuma Lake Line → Three Lake Paradise Viewpoint |
| 14:00 | Explore Nakatsugawa Valley |
| 15:30 | Reflection photography at Kyokusawadake |
| 17:00 | Transfer to your accommodation or station |
This is just an example. The advantage of a private tour is that the itinerary can be adjusted according to your fitness level and interests, such as 'shorter walks, focusing on scenic views and viewpoints' or 'ample time for photography'.
If you want to visit only the best spots without driving
During the autumn foliage season in Urabandai, parking congestion and mountain road driving can be challenging. We, Tabinoito, as a registered travel agent in Fukushima Prefecture (License No. 27), offer fully private autumn foliage tours with a dedicated Alphard.
- Pick-up from your accommodation or Inawashiro Station / Aizuwakamatsu Station, no worries about finding parking
- A local guide with 50 years of experience will take you to the points that are most colorful at that time of day.
- The walking distance can be adjusted based on your consultation. Even elderly guests can enjoy it without difficulty.
- The fee is Standard Plan ¥19,800–/per person (8 hours, tax included, including gasoline and insurance fees). There are no additional charges.
▶ Check availability on the booking form (During the autumn foliage season, we recommend booking early as we only accept one group per day.)
FAQ
Q. I would like to book according to the autumn foliage season, when should I decide on the dates?
A. The peak is usually from mid to late October, but it varies each year. If you let us know that you want to prioritize the autumn foliage when making your reservation, we will adjust the order and elevation of the itinerary based on the foliage conditions on the day, providing you with the best experience at that time.
Q. How much will we walk?
A. It depends on your preference. Walking the entire Goshikinuma trail takes about an hour and a half one way, but we can also arrange a shorter walk with just the viewpoints. Please consult with us in advance.
Q. What should I wear?
A. In Urabandai in October, it gets chilly in the mornings and evenings. Please prepare comfortable shoes and a jacket that you can easily put on and take off (like a fleece or a light down jacket).
Tabinoito offers private tours limited to one group per day, based in Urabandai, Fukushima.See the list of courses here, and also check out the guide on how to get to Ouchi-juku. For inquiries, feel free to contact us via official LINE.
