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Risshakuji Temple, more commonly known as Yamadera, is a striking mountaintop temple in Yamagata Prefecture. The best time to see the autumn colours is around late October to early November. |
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Hi ,
Welcome to the October and November edition of the Japan Travel News Updates.
With more comfortable temperatures and seasonal colours transforming Japan’s landscapes, gardens and temples, autumn is a great time to visit. While this year's autumn foliage forecast will be available soon, the 2025 forecast remains a useful reference for typical peak viewing periods across the country.
Whether you're planning to ride the reopened Kurobe Gorge Railway, explore the waterfalls at Akiu or discover destinations recognised in Lonely Planet's Best in Travel 2027, there is plenty to inspire your next journey.
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Travel News, Inspiration and Updates |
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Guide to Nikko’s autumn leaves (Tochigi)
Nikko has released an autumn guide to help visitors navigate the area during the popular autumn leaves period. It features a foliage forecast along with tips and activity ideas for enjoying the season while avoiding crowds.
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The Kurobe Gorge Railway has resumed full-line services from 1 October. Ride the open-air trolley train through one of Japan’s deepest gorges and take in spectacular autumn colours, before unwinding in the renowned onsen town of Unazuki. Autumn foliage is typically at its best from late October to early November, and reservations are recommended.
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Explore the natural beauty and cultural traditions of Akiu, from the dramatic Akiu Otaki Falls to the historical hot springs of Akiu Onsen. Nearby, Akiu Craft Village offers the chance to discover traditional crafts including kokeshi dolls, with hands-on workshops where visitors can paint and personalise their own.
Photo courtesy of Sendai Tourism Convention and International Association |
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Two Japanese destinations have earned a place in Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2027. Okinawa was recognised for its subtropical island culture, while Tohoku was highlighted for hiking experiences on the Michinoku Coastal Trail. Together, they showcase two distinct sides of Japan beyond its major cities. |
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Experience Japan through film
Celebrate 30 years of the Japanese Film Festival (JFF) with a diverse program honouring the masters of Japanese cinema alongside the filmmakers shaping its future. From samurai epics and animated features to international festival prizewinners, explore captivating stories that bring Japan’s culture and creativity to the big screen.
Screenings take place across Canberra, Perth, Melbourne, Brisbane and Sydney between 26 September to 20 December, with a selection of films showing in Adelaide from 23 to 28 November.
Image: © LOOK BACK- - Palace Films
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Discover regional Japan in Sydney
Explore destinations beyond Japan’s major cities at the Discover Next Japan event in Sydney this October. Meet travel experts and representatives from regional destinations including Hokkaido, Gifu, Fukui and Shizuoka City, and stop by our Visit Japan (JNTO) stand for travel inspiration and advice.
The free event also features onigiri and green tea tastings, plus the chance to win a trip to Japan with ANA.
Event dates: 11am – 3pm, Fri 9 Oct – Sun 11 Oct | Fri 16 Oct – Sun 18 Oct
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JNTO Sydney brochure room
Our self-service brochure room is open Monday to Friday* from 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM (AEDT). Visitors are required to pre-register online, and same-day bookings are not available, so please plan ahead. You can also explore a range of digital brochures online.
* Please note we are closed on some Japanese public holidays. See the latest list here.
Brochure room update: Please note the brochure room will be closing at the end of 2026. The last appointment will be at 4:00 PM on 24 December 2026. Appointments to access the room will not be available after this date.
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Visit Japan Web
Complete the immigration and customs forms on Visit Japan Web prior to your departure to streamline your entry into Japan. There are two forms: immigration (the digital equivalent of a disembarkation card) and customs.
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Monthly event calendar
Find out what festivals and events will be on during your visit. The monthly calendars are released around the middle of the month and cover events across the whole country.
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Japan Visitor Hotline
Open 24 hours, 365 days a year. Call for tourist information, if you need assistance in case of emergencies (accidents or sickness) or for support during natural disasters.
Phone number: +81 (0)50-3816-2787
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Copyright © 2026 Japan National Tourism Organization | All rights reserved.
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