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Luxurious Autumn Journey in Kinki Region by Campervan

🍁 What You’ll Discover in This Article
  • 🏔️ Complete guide to spectacular autumn foliage spots across 5 Kinki prefectures (Biwako Valley, Takeda Castle Ruins, Mt. Odaigahara, Koya-Ryujin Skyline, Mitarai Valley)
  • 📅 Mid-October to early December foliage front route map and peak viewing calendar
  • 🚙 Overnight camping, roadside stations, hot springs, and parking information for comfortable autumn travel
  • ⭐ Complete manual for early morning photography, sea of clouds hunting, and stargazing (practical techniques at Tsuruhime Park and Takeda Castle)
  • 🍵 Luxurious autumn culinary journey with temple vegetarian cuisine, local sweets, and hot spring delicacies

🗺️ Destinations/Stopovers/Packing Lists Pre-set | 📝 Manage Your Gear with Packing Memo

Freedom and Stunning Views: A Luxurious Autumn Journey in Your Mobile Accommodation

The Kinki region in autumn is one of Japan’s premier foliage kingdoms, with diverse autumn leaf viewing spots scattered from ancient temples and shrines to rugged mountain valleys. The 2025 autumn foliage season is expected to be enjoyable for a long period of approximately 1.5 months, starting from high-elevation areas in mid-October through early December in lowland areas. The ideal travel style for chasing this vertical autumn foliage front is touring by camping car.

Silent valleys wrapped in early morning tranquility, seas of clouds dyed by sunset, starry skies filled with stars—the luxury of freely using “time” that cannot be experienced in regular tourism. This is the true essence of camping car travel. Without being bound by accommodation reservations, you can move flexibly according to peak foliage times, monopolize spectacular views shrouded in morning mist and star-filled night skies. The great attraction is also being able to relax in your vehicle without worrying about moving after being refreshed at hot springs. In this article, we introduce carefully selected autumn foliage spots across five Kinki prefectures that maximize the experiential value unique to camping cars.

🍁 2025 Kinki Region Autumn Foliage Calendar

Check peak viewing periods from mid-October to early December

Early Peak
Peak Season
Late Peak
Spot Name Mid
Oct
Late
Oct
Early
Nov
Mid
Nov
Late
Nov
Early
Dec
📍 Nara Prefecture
Mt. Odaigahara
🏔️ Kinki’s earliest foliage
🍁
Kaochi Valley
🏞️ Columnar joints & foliage
🍁 🍁 🍁
Mitarai Valley
💧 Kinki’s finest valley beauty
🍁 🍁
📍 Wakayama Prefecture
Koya-Ryujin Skyline
⭐ Stargazing sanctuary
🍁 🍁 🍁
Kizetsu Valley
🏔️ Valley & red contrast
🍁 🍁 🍁 🍁 🍁
📍 Shiga Prefecture
Biwako Valley
🏔️ 1,100m spectacular view
🍁 🍁
Ibuki Mountain Driveway
🚗 Elevation difference foliage
🍁 🍁
Hyakusaiji Temple
⛩️ 81ha grounds foliage
🍁 🍁 🍁
Metasequoia Avenue
🌳 2.4km brick-colored avenue
🍁 🍁
📍 Kyoto Prefecture
Kurama-dera・Kifune Shrine
⛩️ Mountain trail foliage
🍁 🍁
Nariaiji Temple
🌅 Mountain temple overlooking Amanohashidate
🍁 🍁
📍 Hyogo Prefecture
Takeda Castle Ruins
🏯 Castle in the sky & sea of clouds
🍁 🍁 🍁
Ritsuunkyo Valley
🏞️ Valley overlooking Takeda Castle
🍁 🍁

📝 Important Notes

  • Peak viewing times may vary depending on weather conditions. Please check the latest information in advance.
  • When visiting by camping car, we recommend checking parking availability and road width in advance.
  • Mountain areas get cold at night, so be sure to prepare adequate cold weather protection.
  • Follow nature conservation rules within national parks.

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【Shiga】Sky Terrace and Golden Avenue—Spectacular Foliage Overlooking Lake Biwa

Biwako Valley: Foliage Carpet Viewed from 1,100m Elevation

A high-speed ropeway carrying 121 people reaches the 1,100m summit in about 5 minutes, revealing a magnificent panorama of Lake Biwa and a carpet of autumn foliage spread below. The typical peak viewing period is from late October to early November, when maples and mizunara oaks dye the mountain slopes golden.

Biwako Valley
Biwako Valley

The advantage of camping cars is being able to avoid the crowded times on sunny weekends and holidays (10 AM to 2 PM) by arriving to catch the first upward ropeway departure (around 9:30 AM). The summit is 7-10 degrees cooler than the city, and with autumn temperature differences, if lucky, you can encounter magnificent seas of clouds. Watching the moment morning mist clears while holding a warm drink at Biwako Terrace Café 360—this is the real pleasure of camping car travel.

Metasequoia Avenue: 2.4km Avenue Dyed Brick Color

Along the prefectural road running through Makino Pick Land, approximately 500 metasequoia trees are planted over a stretch of about 2.4km, forming a landscape selected as one of “New 100 Best Japanese Street Trees.” The peak viewing period is typically from late November to early December, turning the warm hue locally described as “brick color.”

Metasequoia Avenue
Metasequoia Avenue

While there is no illumination implemented and only streetlights at night, with a camping car you can target the avenue illuminated by morning sun at dawn. Using the free parking lot at Makino Pick Land, the optimal time to photograph the harmonious view with the distant Nozaka mountain range—showing expressions of spring budding and fresh greenery, summer deep green, autumn foliage, and winter bare trees through the four seasons—is right after sunrise with oblique light.

Ibuki Mountain Driveway: Multilayered Foliage Enjoyed Through Elevation Difference

The Ibuki Mountain Driveway is a famous mountain drive spot where you can enjoy layers of foliage woven by beech, oak, and maple while overlooking Lake Biwa from the 900m parking lot observatory. Peak viewing is from late October to early November. With a camping car, you can stay at the summit parking lot until dusk and fully enjoy the collaboration of sunset over Lake Biwa and autumn foliage.

Ibuki Mountain Driveway
Ibuki Mountain Driveway

Hyakusaiji Temple: Brocade Autumn Temple Dyeing 81ha Grounds

Hyakusaiji Temple is located mid-slope of the Suzuka Mountains, a scenic spot where vast 81ha grounds are dyed with autumn foliage. Peak viewing is from early to late November. Illumination is also planned for 2025. Being able to rest comfortably in your camping car after special nighttime viewing is a great advantage.

Hyakusaiji Temple
Hyakusaiji Temple

【Kyoto】Amanohashidate and Ancient Temple Autumn—Japan Sea Spectacular Views and Mountain Temple Serenity

Nariaiji Temple: Mountain Temple Foliage Overlooking Amanohashidate

The mountain temple Nariaiji overlooking Amanohashidate features a picturesque “bird’s-eye view × temple” composition with the five-story pagoda and maple trees. The 2025 autumn foliage peak viewing is from mid to late November, with nighttime illumination also planned for November 15-16.

Amanohashidate from Nariaiji Observatory

From Kasamatsu Park (Amanohashidate Ascending Dragon View), the evening view is excellent, and being on the Japan Sea side, there is little light pollution, making star photography possible. With a camping car, you can warm up at Amanohashidate Onsen “Chie no Yu” (12:00-21:00, fee 800 yen) during the day, scout the evening view, photograph Nariaiji’s illumination with a tripod, then stay overnight at a nearby michi-no-eki—realizing such a luxurious schedule. “Chie no Mochi” at the temple gate operates from 8:00 to 17:00, allowing you to enjoy comparison tasting.

Kurama-dera・Kifune Shrine: Autumn Foliage Hiking Along Mountain Ancient Paths

Kurama-dera and Kifune Shrine in Kyoto’s inner sanctum are ideal spots for autumn foliage hiking along the approach paths. Peak viewing is around November, and Kifune Shrine is wrapped in a fantastical atmosphere with grounds illumination. The charm of camping cars is being able to immediately rest in your vehicle after enjoying the mountain crossing hike from Kurama to Kifune.

【Hyogo】Castle in the Sky Floating on Sea of Clouds—Takeda Castle Ruins Autumn Spectacular Views

Takeda Castle Ruins: “Japan’s Machu Picchu” Autumn Scenery

Takeda Castle Ruins, called “Japan’s Machu Picchu,” is a mountaintop castle ruin with peak viewing from early to late November. The collaboration of early morning sea of clouds and autumn foliage is considered the prime photography target.

Takeda Castle Ruins from Ritsuunkyo

The greatest advantage of camping cars is being able to wait on-site during the early morning hours of 4-6 AM when seas of clouds are most likely to occur. By sleeping overnight at nearby michi-no-eki or parking lots, you can deploy when seas of clouds form while monitoring weather conditions. This “ambush” strategy, difficult with regular accommodation, is the essence of camping car travel.

Takeda Castle Ruins and Starry Sky

Ritsuunkyo: Valley Observatory Overlooking Takeda Castle

Ritsuunkyo is a valley observatory overlooking Takeda Castle, with peak viewing from mid to late November. The collaboration of autumn foliage and sea of clouds is popular as a scenic spot. When visiting both Takeda Castle Ruins and Ritsuunkyo, camping cars offer high mobility, allowing an efficient route of photographing Takeda Castle from Ritsuunkyo in the morning and climbing the castle ruins in the afternoon.

Ritsuunkyo
Ritsuunkyo

【Wakayama】Deep Crimson of Kii Mountains and Heavenly Stars—Koyasan Area Foliage and Stargazing

Kizetsu Valley: Valley and Red Contrast

Kizetsu Valley is a valley designated as part of Yoshino-Kumano National Park, with peak viewing from late October to early December. The contrast between red-turning trees like maples and the impressive rocky valley walls is magnificent.

Kizetsu Valley
Kizetsu Valley

Iruka Onsen becomes a candidate for combining with valley autumn foliage visits. With a camping car, you can relax inside your vehicle after refreshing yourself at the hot springs. Being able to go directly to hot springs without worrying about moving after enjoying valley beauty walks is a great advantage.

Koya-Ryujin Skyline: Heavenly Drive and Stargazing Sanctuary

The Koya-Ryujin Skyline (National Route 371) is a mountain route where you can enjoy driving while viewing colorful autumn foliage. The foliage peak viewing is from late October to mid-November, and from the observatory at “Gomasan Sky Tower” along the way, a magnificent view spreads from mid-slope of Mount Gomadan to the Shikoku mountain range.

Koya-Ryujin Skyline

And the highlight of camping car travel is Tsuruhime Park along the Koya-Ryujin Skyline. It is considered one of Kinki’s premier spots for combining autumn foliage, sunset, and nighttime astronomical observation. With extremely little light pollution, it is highly rated by astrophotography enthusiasts as a shooting location, with parking lots at the park entrance and summit used as observation spots.

For nighttime astronomical observation, strict cold weather protection is necessary as temperatures on the mountain drop sharply. With a camping car, you can warm up inside the vehicle while timing your photography based on sky conditions. Around Tsuruhime Park, mobile phone reception is uneven—AU connects relatively easily, but Docomo and Softbank often lose signal, so preparing offline maps in advance is essential.

The Koyasan area has many wagashi shops influenced by shojin ryori (Buddhist vegetarian cuisine) culture, particularly Fuzen Honten’s “Nama-fu Mochi,” known as a famous confection rooted in sacred site history and food culture. We recommend stopping by during autumn foliage drives and savoring them slowly inside your camping car.

【Nara】Kinki’s Earliest Foliage and Valley Beauty—Autumn Woven by Primeval Forests and Clear Streams

Mt. Odaigahara: Kinki Region’s Autumn Foliage Season Opening

Mt. Odaigahara in Nara Prefecture, due to its high elevation, is one of the first places in the Kinki region where autumn foliage begins, typically reaching peak viewing around mid-October. The main trees are maples and beech, and the view from the vast mountaintop is magnificent.

Mt. Odaigahara
Mt. Odaigahara

Mt. Odaigahara is within Yoshino-Kumano National Park, where you may encounter wildlife such as deer, serow, and monkeys. For observation and photography in national parks, based on Ministry of Environment guidance, photography or observation methods that affect wildlife habitats must follow methods specified for each use adjustment area.

With a camping car, a “foliage front traverse route” is possible, starting autumn foliage touring from Mt. Odaigahara in mid-October and progressively moving to lower elevation areas. Being able to chase peak foliage constantly for up to 1.5 months is unique to camping car travel with high mobility freedom.

Mitarai Valley: Kinki’s Finest Valley Beauty

Mitarai Valley boasts Kinki’s finest valley beauty, with peak viewing from early to mid-November. It’s considered an excellent location for photographing waterfalls and autumn foliage from walking paths and suspension bridges.

Mitarai Valley
Mitarai Valley

Walking paths are maintained along the river, so strolling or hiking while viewing the scenery is recommended, and a “Momiji Festival” is also held during peak viewing season. With a camping car, you can monopolize the valley beauty in the fresh morning air during times when other tourists are few.

Kaochi Valley (Okukaochi Valley): Columnar Joints Cliff and Autumn Foliage

Okukaochi Valley (Okukōchidani) is the area along the Soni River from Ochiai to Nagano in Soni Village, Nara Prefecture, where strange rocks line both sides of the river. The most impressive is Kotaro Rock, a massive cliff about 700m wide and 200m high. During autumn foliage season, maples cover Kotaro Rock, creating unique valley beauty. Peak viewing is from early to late November, overlapping with the peak viewing of Soni Plateau’s pampas grass, where you can also enjoy the fantastical scenery of silvery waves of pampas grass swaying in the wind.

Kaochi Valley
Kaochi Valley

The columnar jointed rock walls continuing for about 8km from upstream of Shorenji Dam, as if cleaved by an axe, are popular as a driving course. With a camping car, you can enjoy driving along the valley while freely stopping at favorite photography points. Access is from Kintetsu Osaka Line Nabari Station by bus bound for Yamakasu-nishi to Ochiai or Kotaro Rock, then 5 minutes on foot, but since public transportation is limited, this is an area where camping car mobility shines.

Shorenji Dam
Shorenji Dam

Camping Car Utilization Tips for Successful Journey—Making Time Your Ally in Foliage Photography

To secure the best lighting conditions and serene atmosphere for autumn foliage, a very effective strategy is either arriving before sunrise in early morning or targeting right after the start of special nighttime viewing. With a camping car, you can sleep overnight near the site from the night before, completely avoiding tourists who concentrate on weekends and holidays during the day, especially from 10 AM to 3 PM, at popular spots like Kyoto and Hikone.

As a water mirror photography technique, when targeting reflections on water surfaces like Genkyu-en Garden or Toji Temple’s Hyotan Pond, windless early mornings or illumination times are optimal. To emphasize water surface reflections, using PL (polarizing) filters or ND (neutral density) filters and attempting long exposures can capture mirror-like smooth spectacular views.

For starry sky photography equipment, when planning astronomical observation or photography at places like Tsuruhime Park, wide-angle lenses, sturdy tripods, and remote releases are essential. Since mountaintop nights are extremely cold, in addition to regular cold weather clothing, thorough preparation including hand warmers, insulation sheets, and condensation prevention measures (lens heaters, etc.) is indispensable for high-quality photography.

Autumn Foliage Attractions and How to Enjoy Each Prefecture

Carefully Selected Spots Across Kinki’s 5 Prefectures to Tour by Camping Car

Shiga Prefecture

Metasequoia Avenue

An impressive avenue of 500 metasequoia trees continuing for about 2.4km. The tunnel shining golden is a must-see.

🍁
Peak: Late Nov – Early Dec
🌳
Trees: Metasequoia, Maple
🏛️
Night activities: Stargazing at Makino Plateau
♨️
Hot springs: Makino Kogen Onsen Sarasa
🍡
Local sweets: Makino Pick Land local confections

Biwako Valley

The contrast of Lake Biwa and autumn foliage viewed from the ropeway is spectacular. Panoramic views from the summit are also enjoyable.

🍁
Peak: Late Oct – Early Nov
🌳
Trees: Maple, Mizunara Oak
🦌
Wildlife: Small mountain animals
🏛️
Night activities: Sea of clouds・stargazing
♨️
Hot springs: Ogoto Onsen

Hyakusaiji Temple

A scenic spot where vast 81ha grounds are dyed with autumn foliage. Garden views are beautiful, with illumination also implemented.

🍁
Peak: Early – Late Nov
🌳
Trees: Maple
🏛️
Night activities: Autumn foliage illumination
🍡
Local sweets: Koto Sanzan confections

Kyoto Prefecture

Nariaiji Temple

A mountain temple overlooking Amanohashidate, with spectacular views woven by five-story pagoda and maples. Don’t miss the evening view and nighttime illumination.

🍁
Peak: Mid – Late Nov
🌳
Trees: Maple, Momiji, Ginkgo
🦌
Wildlife: Black Kite, Cormorant, Ducks (Amanohashidate area)
🏛️
Night activities: Night illumination planned 11/15-16
♨️
Hot springs: Amanohashidate Onsen “Chie no Yu”
🍡
Local sweets: Chie no Mochi (temple gate tea houses)

Kurama-dera・Kifune Shrine

Mountain shrines in Kyoto’s inner sanctum. Autumn foliage hiking along approach paths and Kifune Shrine illumination are fantastical.

🍁
Peak: Early – Mid Nov
🌳
Trees: Momiji
🏛️
Night activities: Kifune Shrine illumination
♨️
Hot springs: Kurama Onsen
🍡
Local sweets: Kyoto’s long-established wagashi shops

Hyogo Prefecture

Takeda Castle Ruins

“Japan’s Machu Picchu” castle in the sky. The collaboration of early morning sea of clouds and autumn foliage will become a lifelong memory.

🍁
Peak: Early – Late Nov
🌳
Trees: Momiji, Maple
🏛️
Night activities: Stargazing (little light pollution)
♨️
Hot springs: Hot springs around Takeda castle town
🍡
Local sweets: Tajima confections

Ritsuunkyo Valley

Valley observatory overlooking Takeda Castle. The collaboration of autumn foliage and sea of clouds is popular as a scenic spot.

🍁
Peak: Mid – Late Nov
🌳
Trees: Momiji
🏛️
Night activities: Distant view of Takeda Castle Ruins at night
♨️
Hot springs: Hot spring facilities in Asago City

Wakayama Prefecture

Koya-Ryujin Skyline

Heavenly drive route. Tsuruhime Park is a stargazing sanctuary and one of Kinki’s premier astrophotography spots.

🍁
Peak: Late Oct – Mid Nov
🌳
Trees: Maple, Beech
🦌
Wildlife: Deer, Monkeys (Yoshino-Kumano National Park)
🏛️
Night activities: Astronomical observation・star photography at Tsuruhime Park
♨️
Hot springs: Ryujin Onsen Village
🍡
Local sweets: Koyasan shojin sweets (Nama-fu Mochi)

Kizetsu Valley

Yoshino-Kumano National Park valley beauty. The contrast between maples and impressive rocky walls is magnificent.

🍁
Peak: Late Oct – Early Dec
🌳
Trees: Momiji
🦌
Wildlife: Deer, Serow (within national park)
♨️
Hot springs: Iruka Onsen
🍡
Local sweets: Kinan confections

Nara Prefecture

Mt. Odaigahara

Kinki’s earliest foliage. High elevation means colors begin from mid-October, the opening spot of foliage season.

🍁
Peak: Around Mid-Oct
🌳
Trees: Maple, Beech
🦌
Wildlife: Deer, Serow, Monkeys (Yoshino-Kumano National Park)
🏛️
Night activities: Mountaintop stargazing
♨️
Hot springs: Kamikitayama Onsen Village

Mitarai Valley

Kinki’s finest valley beauty. An excellent location for photographing waterfalls and autumn foliage from walking paths and suspension bridges.

🍁
Peak: Early – Mid Nov
🌳
Trees: Iroha Maple, Itaya Maple
🏛️
Night activities: Momiji Festival held
♨️
Hot springs: Hot springs in Tenkawa Village
🍡
Local sweets: Yoshino Kakinoha-zushi・Kuzu Mochi

Kaochi Valley

Columnar joints cliff and autumn foliage. Maples covering Kotaro Rock’s massive cliff create unique valley beauty.

🍁
Peak: Early – Late Nov
🌳
Trees: Momiji
🏛️
Night activities: Soni Plateau pampas grass and starry sky
♨️
Hot springs: Soni Kogen Onsen Okame no Yu

🚐 Camping Car Utilization Points

Early Morning Photography Freedom

Wait on-site from the night before for serene foliage photography avoiding crowds

Starry Sky × Foliage Double Experience

Enjoy astronomical observation at mountain locations like Tsuruhime Park with minimal light pollution

♨️

Relax After Hot Springs

Rest in your vehicle without worrying about moving after being refreshed at day-trip hot springs

🗺️

Chase the Foliage Front

Move flexibly according to peak viewing from mid-October to early December

📝 Important Notes

  • Peak viewing times may vary depending on weather conditions. Check the latest information in advance.
  • When visiting by camping car, check parking availability, road width, and vehicle height restrictions in advance.
  • Mountain areas get cold at night. Prepare adequate cold weather and condensation prevention measures (lens heaters, etc.).
  • Follow nature conservation rules in national parks and maintain appropriate distance from wildlife.
  • Mobile phone signals may not reach mountainous locations like Tsuruhime Park. Prepare offline maps.

🍁 Kinki Camper Van Autumn Foliage Journey – Frequently Asked Questions

🍁 What’s the best autumn foliage spot for beginners and families in Kinki?

For beginners and families, “Biwako Valley in Shiga Prefecture” is the top recommendation!

Why it’s recommended:

  • 🚡 High-speed ropeway (121 passengers) reaches 1,100m elevation in just 5 minutes – no hiking required
  • 🏔️ Enjoy Lake Biwa × autumn foliage panorama with warm drinks at Biwako Terrace Café 360
  • 👶 Barrier-free facilities safe for families with children and elderly visitors
  • ☁️ Lucky visitors may witness magnificent sea of clouds (7-10°C cooler than city areas)
  • 🚗 Large camper van-friendly parking, arrive early at first ropeway (around 9:30 AM)
  • 📅 Peak season: late October to early November; avoid crowded weekends 10 AM-2 PM by visiting early morning

Runner-up recommendations: Metasequoia Tree-Lined Road in Shiga (2.4km brick-red avenue, late Nov to early Dec), Nariaiji Temple in Kyoto (overlooking Amanohashidate, mid to late Nov)

For advanced travelers: Takeda Castle Ruins in Hyogo (early morning sea of clouds hunting 4-6 AM, early to late Nov), Koya-Ryujin Skyline in Wakayama (stargazing × autumn foliage, late Oct to mid Nov) offer challenging experiences!

📅 When is peak foliage season and what are the best spots in Kinki by season?

Kinki Region Autumn Foliage Calendar (1.5 months from mid-October to early December):

🏔️ Mid-October (Earliest foliage in Kinki):

  • Mt. Odaigahara, Nara (elevation 1,695m) – Earliest foliage in Kinki, maple and beech with magnificent views
  • Koya-Ryujin Skyline, Wakayama (around 1,000m elevation) – Vibrant foliage drive, Gomasan Sky Tower observatory

🍂 Late October to Early November:

  • Biwako Valley, Shiga (elevation 1,100m) – Lake Biwa × foliage carpet panorama, maple and mizunara oak
  • Ibukiyama Driveway, Shiga (900m parking observatory) – Multi-layered foliage of beech, oak, and maple
  • Kiketsukyo Gorge, Wakayama (gorge scenery) – Contrast of maple against gorge rock faces, enjoyable until early Dec
  • Kochi Valley, Nara (columnar joints) – Great cliff of Kotaro-iwa × foliage, combined with Soni Plateau silver grass

🏯 Early to Mid-November:

  • Mitarai Valley, Nara (finest gorge in Kinki) – Waterfalls × foliage from walking trails and suspension bridges, Momiji Festival held
  • Hyakusaiji Temple, Shiga (81-hectare grounds) – Vast temple foliage on Suzuka Mountains, illumination events
  • Takeda Castle Ruins, Hyogo (Japan’s Machu Picchu) – Early morning sea of clouds × foliage photography mecca
  • Kurama-dera & Kibune Shrine, Kyoto (mountain trails) – Trail hiking × foliage, Kibune illumination

🌅 Mid to Late November:

  • Nariaiji Temple, Kyoto (overlooking Amanohashidate) – Five-story pagoda × maple “bird’s eye view × temple” composition, Nov 15-16 night illumination
  • Ritsuunkyo Gorge, Hyogo (gorge observatory) – Autumn foliage × sea of clouds viewing Takeda Castle, efficient afternoon castle climb route

🍁 Late November to Early December (Late foliage season):

  • Metasequoia Tree-Lined Road, Shiga (2.4km length) – Warm brick-red tree tunnel, best in early morning slanting sunlight

💡 With a camper van: Start at Mt. Odaigahara in mid-October and gradually move to lower elevation areas for a “foliage front traverse route” – chase peak foliage for 1.5 months!

🚙 What are the recommended roadside stations and camping spots in Kinki?

Recommended overnight spots and hot spring sets by foliage location:

🏔️ Shiga Prefecture:

  • Michi-no-Eki Makino Osakkatouge: Base for Metasequoia Road & Biwako Valley, free parking at Makino Pick Land available
  • Ibukiyama Driveway summit parking (900m elevation): Stay until sunset, monopolize Lake Biwa sunset × foliage
  • Hyakusaiji Temple parking: Relax in vehicle after night illumination special viewing
  • Hot springs: Ogoto Onsen (west shore of Lake Biwa), Nagahama Taiko Onsen

⛩️ Kyoto Prefecture:

  • Michi-no-Eki Funaya no Sato Ine: Base for Nariaiji Temple & Amanohashidate area, enjoy Sea of Japan views
  • Amanohashidate area parking: Wait from night before for Nariaiji illumination (Nov 15-16)
  • Hot springs: Amanohashidate Onsen “Chie-no-Yu” (12:00-21:00, ¥800), Kurama Onsen, Kibune Onsen

🏯 Hyogo Prefecture:

  • Takeda Castle Ruins nearby parking: Base for early morning sea of clouds “ambush strategy,” nap from night before and deploy based on weather conditions
  • Michi-no-Eki Tajima no Mahoroba: 15 min drive from Takeda Castle, convenient for Ritsuunkyo move
  • Hot springs: Kinosaki Onsen (50 min from Takeda Castle), Yumura Onsen

🌲 Wakayama Prefecture:

  • Koya-Ryujin Skyline, Tsuruhime Park parking: Holy trinity of foliage × sunset × stargazing, minimal light pollution for astrophotography
  • Michi-no-Eki Ryujin: Koya-Ryujin Skyline entrance, good access to Kiketsukyo Gorge
  • Hot springs: Ryujin Onsen, Iruka Onsen (near Kiketsukyo), Koyasan Onsen

🏞️ Nara Prefecture:

  • Mt. Odaigahara parking: Earliest foliage base, wildlife observation in fresh early morning air
  • Mitarai Valley area parking: Overnight before trail walk, monopolize serene valley beauty in early morning
  • Michi-no-Eki Sugi no Yu Kawakami: Base for Mitarai Valley & Kochi Valley, quiet riverside environment
  • Hot springs: Dorogawa Onsen (near Mitarai Valley), Irinoha Onsen

🎯 Overnight camping tips: Kinki’s foliage season spans 1.5 months. Leave Friday night for high elevation areas on weekends, then descend to lowlands the following weekend for a phased southward traverse route for maximum satisfaction!

⚠️ Important notes: Mountain areas like Tsuruhime Park have poor cell reception (AU recommended, Docomo/Softbank unstable). Offline maps essential. Mountain areas get very cold at night – thorough cold weather protection and anti-condensation measures (lens heaters, etc.) required.

📸 What are the essential times and techniques for foliage photography in Kinki?

“Making time your ally” photography strategy with camper vans:

🌅 Golden early morning hours (before sunrise to 8 AM):

  • Metasequoia Road (Shiga): Tree line and Nosaka Mountains glow golden in post-sunrise slanting light, serene time with few tourists
  • Biwako Valley (Shiga): Arrive for first ropeway (around 9:30 AM), capture moment when morning mist clears
  • Mitarai Valley (Nara): Fresh early morning air, monopolize waterfall × foliage from trails and suspension bridges
  • Takeda Castle Ruins (Hyogo): “Ambush” strategy for sea of clouds at 4-6 AM, staying overnight nearby is the essence of camper van travel

🌆 Golden sunset hours (1 hour before to 30 min after sunset):

  • Ibukiyama Driveway (Shiga): Lake Biwa sunset × foliage collaboration from summit parking
  • Koya-Ryujin Skyline, Tsuruhime Park (Wakayama): Foliage × sunset → transition to stargazing, minimal light pollution for astrophotography
  • Nariaiji Temple, Kasamatsu Park (Kyoto): Amanohashidate sunset bird’s eye view, low light pollution on Sea of Japan side enables stargazing

🌙 Night illumination photography:

  • Hyakusaiji Temple (Shiga): 2025 illumination planned, relax in vehicle after night special viewing
  • Nariaiji Temple (Kyoto): Nov 15-16 night illumination, mystical five-story pagoda × maple composition
  • Kibune Shrine (Kyoto): Grounds illumination, mystical pathway lights and foliage

📷 Water reflection photography techniques:

  • Optimal during windless early morning or illumination hours (emphasize water surface reflection)
  • Use PL (polarizing) filter and ND (neutral density) filter for long exposure to capture mirror-smooth spectacular views
  • Practice at famous reflection spots like Kyoto’s Genkyu-en Garden and Toji Temple’s Hyotan Pond

⭐ Stargazing equipment (Tsuruhime Park, Takeda Castle, etc.):

  • Essential equipment: Wide-angle lens, sturdy tripod, remote release, lens heater (anti-condensation)
  • Cold weather protection: Regular winter clothing + hand warmers, insulation sheets (mountains get extremely cold)
  • With camper van, warm up inside while monitoring sky conditions to time photography sessions

💡 Crowd avoidance strategy: Popular spots like Kyoto and Hikone are crowded on weekends from 10 AM-3 PM. With camper van, stay overnight nearby and completely avoid crowds!

🍵 What hot springs and gourmet spots can be enjoyed with Kinki autumn foliage tours?

Luxurious autumn culinary journey with temple vegetarian cuisine × local sweets × hot spring delicacies:

♨️ Famous hot springs near foliage spots:

  • Shiga Prefecture: Ogoto Onsen (west shore of Lake Biwa, 40 min from Biwako Valley), Nagahama Taiko Onsen (30 min from Ibukiyama Driveway)
  • Kyoto Prefecture: Amanohashidate Onsen “Chie-no-Yu” (near Nariaiji, 12:00-21:00, ¥800), Kurama Onsen, Kibune Onsen (ideal after mountain trail hiking)
  • Hyogo Prefecture: Kinosaki Onsen (50 min from Takeda Castle, tour 7 public baths), Yumura Onsen (40 min from Ritsuunkyo)
  • Wakayama Prefecture: Ryujin Onsen (along Koya-Ryujin Skyline, one of Japan’s three beautifying waters), Iruka Onsen (near Kiketsukyo), Koyasan Onsen
  • Nara Prefecture: Dorogawa Onsen (near Mitarai Valley, ideal after gorge walk), Irinoha Onsen (60 min from Mt. Odaigahara)

🍡 Regional sweets and gourmet:

  • Shiga Prefecture: Omi beef steak/sukiyaki, funa-zushi, red konnyaku (luxury of grilling steak in vehicle with spectacular views)
  • Kyoto Prefecture: “Chie-no-mochi” at Nariaiji gate (8:00-17:00, tasting available), Kyoto pickles, Uji tea sweets
  • Hyogo Prefecture: Tajima beef (yakiniku near Takeda Castle), Matsuba crab at Kinosaki Onsen (season opens Nov), Izushi soba
  • Wakayama Prefecture: Koyasan shojin ryori (Buddhist vegetarian cuisine), nama-fu mochi from Fuzen Honten (confection rooted in sacred site history and food culture), umeboshi, mehari-zushi
  • Nara Prefecture: Kakinoha-zushi, Yoshino kudzu, Miwa somen, Yamato tea

🎯 Golden routes combining hot springs × gourmet × foliage:

  • Shiga Course: Biwako Valley foliage → Omi beef lunch → Ogoto Onsen → Metasequoia sunset → overnight camping
  • Kyoto Course: Kurama-dera/Kibune Shrine hiking → Purchase Chie-no-mochi → Amanohashidate Onsen → Nariaiji illumination (Nov 15-16) → Michi-no-Eki overnight
  • Hyogo Course: Takeda Castle early morning sea of clouds → Tajima beef lunch → Ritsuunkyo foliage → Kinosaki Onsen tour → Matsuba crab dinner → Hot spring town overnight
  • Wakayama Course: Koya-Ryujin Skyline foliage drive → Purchase nama-fu mochi → Ryujin Onsen → Tsuruhime Park sunset × stargazing → Overnight camping
  • Nara Course: Mt. Odaigahara early morning foliage → Kakinoha-zushi lunch → Mitarai Valley walk → Dorogawa Onsen → Kochi Valley drive → Soni Plateau silver grass → Overnight camping

🍳 In-vehicle cooking ideas:

  • Grill Omi beef or Tajima beef steaks while enjoying Lake Biwa or Takeda Castle views
  • Create healthy vegetable-centered hot pot inspired by Koyasan shojin ryori
  • Pair local sake (Shiga’s “Shichihonyari,” Kyoto’s “Fushimi sake,” Wakayama’s “Kokugyu,” etc.) with regional sweets
  • Enjoy onsen tamago (hot spring eggs) or onsen manju for breakfast in your vehicle

💡 With camper van: No worry about transportation after hot springs, purchase local gourmet and savor leisurely in your vehicle. Freedom from time constraints makes dining a special experience in your autumn foliage journey!

Conclusion—Weaving Your Own Autumn Foliage Story in Mobile Accommodation

Touring autumn foliage by camping car is not just sightseeing, but “travel artistry” freely manipulating time and space. Early morning serenity, dusk’s lingering atmosphere, nighttime starry skies—freedom unbound by timetables or accommodation curfews allows you to experience Kinki’s autumn foliage more deeply and richly.

Autumn foliage in the Kinki region starts in high-elevation mountain areas, transitions to plains, urban areas, and lakesides, effectively utilizing a long period of approximately 1.5 months. From Mt. Odaigahara in mid-October to Kyoto’s historic gardens in early December, while chasing the foliage front, being refreshed at hot springs, moved by starry skies, and savoring local confections.

This autumn of 2025, why not fully enjoy Kinki’s brocade autumn to your heart’s content in your own mobile accommodation? The autumn foliage viewed from car windows will surely become treasures of your life.

[2025 Latest] Complete guide to spectacular autumn foliage across 5 Kinki prefectures! Biwako Valley, Takeda Castle Ruins, Mt. Odaigahara, and more. Mid-October to early December peak viewing calendar, camper van overnight camping, roadside stations, hot springs info, early morning photography, sea of clouds hunting, stargazing techniques, and local gourmet coverage. Chase the foliage front for 1.5 months with a traverse route that makes time your ally for a luxurious autumn journey.
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ABOUT ME
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I have always wanted to travel in a campervan and have moved from staying in a minivan to buying a campervan. I am currently doing a lot of research for the purchase of a campervan. I am still a new guide, but I will use this opportunity to learn more and share this information with you.