Hokkaido is in the middle of the autumn foliage season right now! Hokkaido has many famous spots for viewing autumn leaves, each with its own unique autumn scenery to enjoy. Here we will introduce some limited-time events that will allow you to enjoy the autumn leaves even more.

(Photo courtesy of Sapporo Kokusai Ski Resort)

The gondola at Sapporo Kokusai Ski Resort is currently operating as a special "Autumn Leaves Gondola" for this season only! You can enjoy an aerial stroll while looking down at the expansive autumn leaves. The view from the gondola is wonderful, but from the 360° mountaintop panoramic observation deck at the top, you can get a panoramic view of Ishikari Port and Otaru Port.

(Photo courtesy of Sapporo Kokusai Ski Resort)

There is also a mountaintop cafe with popular soft serve ice cream, a restaurant, and a souvenir corner.

(Photo courtesy of Jozankei Tourism Association)

Buses that take you to the five major autumn foliage areas in Jozankei are currently operating for a limited time from the Jozankei Tourist Information Center! There are also bus tours accompanied by local volunteer guides, so you can enjoy them even without prior knowledge. Also, since the tour departs from the Tourist Information Center, you can enjoy the autumn leaves while sightseeing at Jozankei Onsen!

(Photo courtesy of Jozankei Tourism Association)

The Jozankei Onsen area, one of the top five areas for viewing autumn leaves, has a valley with large temperature differences, rock faces, and a richly flowing river, allowing you to see the vibrant colors of the leaves. At Hoheikyo Dam, you can see the scenic beauty of Hokkaido's best arch dam and the magnificent nature, and from the gondola at Sapporo Kokusai Ski Resort you can see the autumn leaves and Ishikari Bay spreading out as far as the eye can see. In addition to viewing the autumn leaves, you can also enjoy fruit picking and other activities at Okujozankei Kamui Forest (formerly Jozankei Farm). The Hakkenzan area is home to a horse riding club, orchard, and winery that are hidden gems for recreation. Enjoy the five major autumn foliage areas, each with their own unique charm.

(Photo courtesy of Sounkyo Tourism Association)

The fourth annual "Miracle Illumination" is now being held on a larger scale than ever before! Not only can you enjoy the illuminated autumn leaves, but you can also enjoy colorfully projected waterfalls, rivers, and carpets of autumn leaves, all of which change color as you move around.

(Photo courtesy of Sounkyo Tourism Association)

In the shopping district near the parking lot, illuminations and photo spots have been set up for an event titled "Night Stroll in the Shopping District," and you can enjoy a stroll on your way to Momijidani, the venue for Miracle Illumination IV. Hokkaido is dotted with many spots where you can enjoy not only the autumn leaves, but also activities, gourmet food, hot springs, and more, and combine sightseeing with a visit to these places. There are still many events where you can enjoy the autumn leaves even more, so be sure to enjoy the scenery that is only available now!