When ginkgo trees turn gold in November, entire streets transform into golden tunnels. While autumn leaves (koyo) get all the attention, the brilliant yellow of ginkgo trees is equally stunning and uniquely Japanese. Here are the best spots to see them.
Best Ginkgo Viewing Spots

Meiji Jingu Gaien – Tokyo
The most famous ginkgo avenue in Japan. Four rows of 146 ginkgo trees create a 300-meter golden tunnel. Peak color usually mid-to-late November. The Jingu Gaien Ginkgo Festival features food stalls and craft markets. Free to walk. Best time: golden hour (4-5 PM) when sunlight filters through the leaves.
Osaka Midosuji – Osaka
A 4-kilometer boulevard lined with 800 ginkgo trees. The scale is massive. Walk or drive through this golden corridor in late November. The trees are illuminated at night during the festival.
Showa Kinen Park – Tokyo
Two stunning ginkgo avenues: the 200-meter Kanal with yellow trees reflecting in water, and the 300-meter Japan Avenue. Less crowded than Meiji Jingu Gaien. Entry 450 yen.
Nanzenji Temple – Kyoto
The combination of red maple and golden ginkgo at Nanzenji creates an incredible color contrast. The massive temple gate (sanmon) framed by golden ginkgo is unforgettable.
Ginkgo Nuts (Ginnan)
Roasted ginkgo nuts are a beloved autumn snack. You will find them at:
- Street vendors: near any ginkgo viewing spot
- Izakayas: served roasted with salt as a beer snack
- Chawanmushi: ginkgo nuts hidden inside this steamed egg custard
Warning: The fallen fruit smells terrible but the roasted nuts inside are delicious.
Autumn Driving + Ginkgo

Drive through golden ginkgo avenues in a classic JDM car. Book an autumn JDM experience for the ultimate fall road trip.
🇯🇵 Plan Your Japan Experience
JDM Car Rental
Drive a GT-R, Supra, RX-7, or Silvia on the roads they were built for. Hakone passes, Wangan highway, mountain touge — your dream JDM experience.
Daikoku PA Tour
Visit Japan’s most legendary car meet. Hundreds of modified cars, passionate owners, and the heartbeat of JDM culture. Guided weekend night tours available.
Photo Guide Tour
Capture stunning photos at locations only locals know. Hidden shrines, backstreet alleys, rooftop views, and golden hour spots for unforgettable shots.
See Japan's Autumn Colors Up Close
Experience stunning fall foliage on a day trip from Tokyo. Mt. Fuji views, Hakone's forests, and Lake Ashi — peak autumn beauty. Free cancellation.

