Hokkaido Official Tourism Site HOKKAIDO LOVE!

Fall scenery at Lake Toyoni, the heart-shaped lake in Hokkaido! Located in the forest of Erimo Town, the lake is not easy to access but there is a seasonal helicopter tour that takes you over the area.

The heart-shaped lake surrounded by the colorful leaves of fall is a view you’ll find nowhere else.

■Tour: JTB Lake Toyoni Helicopter Tour

■Operating period: Early to mid-October

■Boarding area address: 214-6 Meguro, Erimo, Horoizumi District, Hokkaido

Early October is when you should go see the spectacular fall scenery at Shiretoko Goko Lakes, Hokkaido! The way the colorful fall leaves and the Shiretoko mountains reflect in the lake during this season is a must-see.

When visiting, we recommend signing up for a guided tour around the five lakes. 

■Best time to see the fall leaves: early to mid-October

The Blue Pond in Biei is known to transition between various shades of blue throughout the seasons. In autumn is when the yellow and red leaves reflect beautifully on the water’s surface.

■Best time to see the fall leaves: mid to late October

■Access: 20 minutes by car from JR Biei Station, or take the Dohoku Bus from JR Asahikawa Station to the Shirogane Blue Pond entrance

In October the leaves around Lake Akan add bright colors to the deep blue and green scenery of the summer .

A recommended place to see beautiful fall leaves in this area is the Takimibashi (Takimi Bridge). It’s only a 5-minute drive from the onsen district and close to another scenic spot along the Bokke Nature Trail.

■Best time to see the fall leaves: early to late October

■Access: About an hour drive from Kushiro Airport or take the Akan Bus from JR Nemuro Station until the last stop. From there, walk for about 3 minutes

Lake Shikotsu is one of the clearest lakes in Japan! Aside from the lake itself which looks beautiful all year round, one of the best parts about visiting Lake Shikotsu is that you can enjoy the view from various locations. The lake is surrounded by all kinds of trees, making it a great scenic spot in the autumn.

■Best time to see the fall foliage: mid to late October

■Access: From Shin-Chitose Airport, take the Hokkaido Chuo Bus going to Lake Shikotsu (1hr); From Sapporo City, 1h10min by car