1. Miyajima Island, Hiroshima, Japan
The view atop Miyajima Island’s Mount Misen is spectacular; the fall foliage is seemingly endless and lines the mountain as well as the rest of the island. Although it’s definitely worth the short climb, there’s also an option to take a cable car up. After that, find tranquility at Momijidani Park, a maple tree park famous for its namesake; here, tree-lined paths and traditional red bridges lead to picturesque areas perfect for watching the wildlife. Accommodation on the island is limited, so stay in Hiroshima and make a day trip to the island instead via ferry.
2. Fushoushan Farm, Taichung, Taiwan
Situated between Mount Hehuan and Mount Snow, Fushoushan Farm boasts an impressive view all year long, made particularly spectacular during fall when the Japanese maples turn a brilliant red. Travellers can also visit Heaven’s Pool, famed for being filled with water all year long. The farm offers lodging in the form of chalets, or you can do a day-tour from Taipei or Taichung (the drive either way is about three hours long). Be sure to sample the region’s Fushou Everspring Tea, which is highly sought after.
3. Naejangsan Mountain, Jeollabuk-do, Korea
Located in the Jeolla-do province, Naejangsan is one of the best mountains in Korea for viewing colourful leaves and is popular with both tourists and locals alike. Take a ride on the cable car provides for unparalleled views of the park followed by a walk through the forest which will lead you to waterfalls like the 20 metre Dodeok Falls, and further in, Geumseon Falls, where legend has it, the gods used to bathe. If fighting the fall foliage crowds sounds daunting, the area is also great for catching the elusive cherry blossoms in the spring. A bus from Seoul takes about three hours to reach the mountain.
4. Chuzenji Lake, Nikko, Japan
This world heritage site attracts visitors year long, but is especially popular during the fall when its leaves transform into gold, red, and orange. Chuzenji Lake was created when Mount Nantai erupted 20,000 years ago and blocked the valley below. Today, visitors can marvel at the lush flora and relax at Chuzenjiko Onsen, a small hotspring town with plenty of ryokan-style accommodation. The period to see the leaves is fairly short; spanning from late October to late November, so book your trip and get your foliage fix in before it’s too late. Trains from Tokyo to Nikko take about two hours.
5. Hoan Kiem Lake, Hanoi
The trees that line Hoan Kiem Lake give the area in Hanoi an enchanting feel, and when they change in fall, they add a burst of colour to the otherwise serene scenery. The lake surrounds Ngoc Son Temple, a pagoda housed on an island in the middle of the water. Arrive early enough and you’ll catch local residents practicing tai chi along the shore.
6. Jiuzhaigou Valley, Chengdu, China
The picturesque Jiuzhaigou Valley could have been taken out of a fairytale and fall is undoubtedly the best time to go. The valley’s vast expanse features big blue lakes, cascading waterfalls, and lush forests that turn shades of gold, red and even purple during this season. A view of these colours beautifully reflected in the picturesque lakes makes the journey and the potential fight with the crowds worth it. From Chengdu, take a bus from Xinnamen Bus Station and be sure to head to the valley (not just the city).
Images from Shutterstock
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