The eruption of Mount Bandai in 1888 created a group of over 300 lakes and ponds. The autumn scenery of Urabandai, with the reflection of autumn leaves on its water 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 shares from experience the best viewing times, five scenic spots, and ways to avoid crowds while guiding actual customers.
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 change color 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 longer by going down to the foot of the mountain in Inawashiro and Aizu)
Since the timing 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 catch the peak viewing time even if the timing is slightly off.
Five scenic spots
1. Goshikinuma Lake Group — The epitome of blue ponds × autumn leaves
The center of sightseeing in Urabandai. In particular, Bishamon Pond offers a stunning contrast between its emerald green water surface and autumn leaves, and you can also enjoy 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 Akanauma and Aonuma, along with the autumn leaves (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 autumn leaves viewed from the bridge and the stream seen up close by descending the walking path. It is standard to visit this spot as part of 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 the Three Lakes Paradise (usually closed from mid-November to mid-April. Check the traffic conditions).
4. Kyokusawanuma — A mirror-like pond where photography enthusiasts gather
On windless mornings, a hidden gem where autumn leaves reflect like a mirror on the water's surface can be seen. 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 looking up at the autumn-colored mountains from the lake's perspective via sightseeing boats or motorboats.
Points to note during the autumn foliage season
- Parking congestion: On weekends and holidays in October, parking 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 mornings and evenings. Be sure to wear a jacket that you can easily put on or take off.
- Limited public transportation: There are local buses, but their frequency is limited, making it difficult to rely solely on transfers for moving between spots.
Model course (8 hours, an example of a chartered 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 according to fitness level) |
| 11:30 | Local recommended lunch by Lake Hibara |
| 13:00 | Bandai Azuma Lake Line → Three Lakes Paradise Viewpoint |
| 14:00 | Stroll through Nakatsugawa Valley |
| 15:30 | Reflection photography at Kyokusawa Pond |
| 17:00 | Transfer to accommodation or station |
This is just an example. The advantage of a private tour is that the itinerary can be adjusted according to the customer's fitness and interests, such as 'shorter walking, focusing on scenic views from the car window' or 'ample time for photography'.
If you want to visit only the best points without driving
During the autumn foliage season in Urabandai, parking congestion and driving on mountain roads can be concerns. We, Tabinoito, provide a fully private autumn foliage tour with a dedicated Alphard as a registered travel agency in Fukushima Prefecture (License No. 27).
- 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 most colorful points at that day and time.
- The walking distance can be adjusted based on your consultation. Seniors can enjoy it without strain.
- The fee is Standard Plan ¥45,000 per person (8 hours, tax included, highway and gasoline fees included). 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 want 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 can vary 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 according to the foliage conditions on the day, providing you with the best experience at that time.
Q. How much do 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 for just viewpoint visits and short strolls. Please consult us in advance.
Q. What should I wear?
A. It gets chilly in the mornings and evenings in Urabandai in October. Please prepare comfortable shoes and a layerable jacket (like fleece or a light down).
Tabinoito offers private tours limited to one group per day based in Urabandai, Fukushima.Here is the list of courses, andhere is a guide on how to get to Ouchi-juku. Feel free to consult us viaofficial LINE.
