Complete Guide to Shimoyama’s Ohatsuki Ginkgo Grove (Yamanashi Prefecture) | Autumn Foliage and Highlights of a Nationally Designated Natural Monument
What is Shimoyama’s Ohatsuki Ginkgo Grove?
In the Shimoyama district of Minobu Town, Minami-Koma County, Yamanashi Prefecture, there is an extremely rare group of ginkgo trees called “Ohatsuki Ginkgo.” Unlike ordinary ginkgo trees, Ohatsuki Ginkgo is a ginkgo variant with the highly unusual morphological characteristic of producing seeds (ginkgo nuts) on the leaves themselves.
In the Shimoyama district, there are a total of 5 Ohatsuki Ginkgos, comprising both nationally designated natural monuments and town-designated natural monuments, with 3 of them designated as national natural monuments. These trees are not merely tourist attractions but possess extremely important academic value in plant science, occupying a significant position in Japan’s botanical research history.
Botanical Characteristics of Ohatsuki Ginkgo
The most distinctive feature of Ohatsuki Ginkgo is that seeds form on the center of the leaf or near the leaf stalk base. While ordinary ginkgo trees produce seeds directly on the short branches of female trees, Ohatsuki Ginkgo exhibits the extremely unusual characteristic of forming seeds on the leaf surface itself.
This phenomenon is referred to in botany as “seeds on leaves” and has been studied as valuable evidence of ginkgo evolution. In Meiji 24 (1891), the Ohatsuki Ginkgo at Kamisawa Temple in Shimoyama was reported to the academic world for the first time, and the clarification of its morphological significance caused a major stir in botanical circles.
Nationally Designated Natural Monument Ohatsuki Ginkgos in Shimoyama
Honkokuji Temple’s Ohatsuki Ginkgo
The Ohatsuki Ginkgo at Honkokuji Temple is the most famous giant tree among Shimoyama’s Ohatsuki Ginkgo grove. It was designated as a national natural monument on April 2, Showa 4 (1929).
Basic Information about the Tree:
- Age: Approximately 700 years or more
- Height: Approximately 25 meters
- Trunk circumference: Approximately 7 meters
- Location: Shimoyama, Minobu Town, Minami-Koma County, Yamanashi Prefecture
- Designation Category: Nationally Designated Natural Monument
A legend remains that Honkokuji Temple’s Ohatsuki Ginkgo was planted by Saint Nichiren. The estimated age of 700 years roughly coincides with the period when Saint Nichiren entered Minobu Mountain (1274), suggesting this legend has a certain degree of credibility.
Kamisawa Temple’s Ohatsuki Ginkgo
The Ohatsuki Ginkgo at Kamisawa Temple holds an extremely important position in botanical research history as the first Ohatsuki Ginkgo ever reported academically in Japan.
In Meiji 24 (1891), it was reported to the academic world for the first time by botanists, and the existence of the Ohatsuki Ginkgo variant became widely known. This tree is designated as a national natural monument as a scientifically valuable specimen and as a memorial to plant research history.
Important Event:
Unfortunately, it was broken near the base and toppled by strong winds from Typhoon No. 24 on September 30, Heisei 30 (2018). Although this was a major loss to the region, preservation measures have been implemented after the toppling, and its academic value continues to be recognized.
Other Designated Trees
In addition to the 2 nationally designated natural monuments mentioned above, there is one more nationally designated natural monument and 2 town-designated natural monuments in the Shimoyama district. Among these 5 Ohatsuki Ginkgos, 4 female trees have legends related to Saint Nichiren, and they are highly evaluated for their religious and cultural value.
Viewing Season and Ways to Enjoy Shimoyama’s Ohatsuki Ginkgo Grove’s Autumn Foliage
Best Time to View the Autumn Foliage
The autumn foliage of Shimoyama’s Ohatsuki Ginkgo grove typically reaches its peak from early November to late November.
Autumn Foliage Calendar:
- Color Change Begins: Late October to Early November
- Peak Viewing Period: Mid-November to Late November
- Leaf Fall: Early December onward
The autumn foliage of ginkgo trees is characterized by a golden luster different from that of Japanese maples and other maples. Especially on clear days, the golden leaves of ginkgos shine beautifully against the blue sky, delighting visitors.
Due to differences in elevation and temperature conditions, the peak viewing time may vary from year to year. Before visiting, we recommend checking the latest color change status through Minobu Town Tourism Association or local tourism information websites.
Best Timing for Photography
Here are some tips for photographing Ohatsuki Ginkgo’s autumn foliage beautifully.
Time of Day:
- Morning (9:00-11:00): Golden ginkgo leaves illuminated by morning sunlight are beautiful
- Afternoon (14:00-16:00): The golden luster caught by the setting sun stands out
Photography Angles:
- Upward composition: Contrast between blue sky and golden ginkgo leaves
- Composition including the trunk: Expressing the grandeur of the giant tree
- Carpet of fallen leaves: The golden fallen leaves covering the ground are also spectacular
Expected Congestion Times
Shimoyama’s Ohatsuki Ginkgo grove is a little-known autumn foliage spot in Yamanashi Prefecture, and compared with other famous tourist destinations, it can usually be viewed relatively leisurely.
However, the following time periods tend to be crowded during the peak viewing season of mid-November:
Expected Congestion Times:
- 10:00-15:00 on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays
- Especially during 3-day holidays in mid-November
To avoid crowds, we recommend visiting on weekdays in the morning or during the early (early November) or late (late November) part of the peak season.
Access Information
Access by Car
Via Chuo Expressway:
- Approximately 50 minutes from Kofu Minami IC on the Chuo Expressway via National Route 52
- Approximately 15 minutes from Shimobe Onsen Hayakawa IC on the Chubu Odan Expressway
Parking Information:
Each temple has parking spaces for visitors, but the number is limited, so early arrival is recommended during peak foliage season.
Access by Public Transportation
Using JR Minobu Line:
- Get off at Hatakashima Station on the JR Minobu Line, approximately 30 minutes on foot
- Get off at Shimobe Onsen Station on the JR Minobu Line, approximately 10 minutes by taxi
Since public transportation options are limited, we recommend confirming the timetable in advance and planning your itinerary with sufficient time.
Road Conditions in the Area
The Shimoyama district is located in a mountainous area, and some roads are relatively narrow. Especially during the autumn foliage season, tourist vehicles increase, so please drive safely. Additionally, during winter, there is a possibility of road surface freezing, so equipping with studless tires and pre-checking road conditions is important.
Facilities to Visit Near Shimoyama’s Ohatsuki Ginkgo Grove’s Autumn Foliage
Nichiren Sect Head Temple Minobusan Kuon-ji
Located approximately 20 minutes by car from Shimoyama’s Ohatsuki Ginkgo grove is Minobusan Kuon-ji, the head temple of the Nichiren sect.
Minobusan Kuon-ji is the most sacred site for Nichiren sect believers, as it is the holy place where Saint Nichiren spent the last 9 years of his life. The temple grounds feature a weeping cherry tree over 400 years old and 287 stone steps called the Bodai Stairs (Bodai-tei), where you can enjoy a beautiful landscape where history and nature harmonize.
Highlights of Kuon-ji:
- Main Hall: A solemn main temple building
- Five-Story Pagoda: A beautiful pagoda rebuilt in Heisei 21 (2009)
- Treasure Museum: Displays precious items related to Saint Nichiren
- Ropeway: Convenient access to the Okuno-in at the mountain top
In autumn, the maples on the temple grounds also turn color, allowing you to enjoy the beauty of foliage different from the Ohatsuki Ginkgo.
Shimobe Onsen Hot Spring Area
Located approximately 15 minutes by car from the Shimoyama district, the Shimobe Onsen hot spring area is a historic hot spring known as a hidden spa of Takeda Shingen.
Characteristics of Shimobe Onsen:
- Spring Quality: Alkaline simple hot spring
- Benefits: Relief from neuralgia, muscle pain, joint pain, and fatigue recovery
- History: Said to have been discovered approximately 1,200 years ago
After viewing the autumn foliage, you can relax at the hot spring and soothe your fatigue. Day-use bathing facilities are also well equipped.
Minobu Town Nakatomi Contemporary Craft Art Museum
An art museum that disseminates Minobu Town’s art and culture, primarily displaying contemporary craft works. Recommended for those who want to experience the region’s culture.
Michi-no-Eki Tomizawa
A roadside station along National Route 52 where you can purchase fresh local agricultural products and specialty items. Minobu Town specialties such as yuba (tofu skin) and seasonal vegetables and fruits are available.
Gourmet Information Around Shimoyama’s Ohatsuki Ginkgo Grove
Minobu Yuba
“Minobu yuba” is a specialty of Minobu Town. It has developed as a Buddhist vegetarian cuisine at Minobusan Kuon-ji Temple and is characterized by its refined taste made with high-quality soybeans and groundwater from Mount Fuji.
Recommended Ways to Enjoy:
- Fresh yuba: Topped with wasabi soy sauce as is
- Yuba donburi: A specialty rice bowl topped with generous amounts of yuba
- Yuba kaiseki: A course meal where yuba is enjoyed in various cooking styles
Minobu Manjū
A traditional Japanese sweet that has been beloved as a souvenir from Mount Minobu pilgrimages. It is a simple yet deeply flavorful steamed bun with sweet bean paste wrapped in thin skin, and is also suitable as a souvenir.
Local Soba
Yamanashi Prefecture is also known as a soba-producing region, and there are delicious soba restaurants scattered throughout the Minobu area. Soba noodles made with clear water are highly praised for their fragrance and smooth texture.
History and Cultural Background of Shimoyama’s Ohatsuki Ginkgo Grove
Connection to Saint Nichiren
The Ohatsuki Ginkgo grove in Shimoyama, particularly 4 female trees, bears a tradition of having been planted by Saint Nichiren. Saint Nichiren entered Mount Minobu in Bunei 11 (1274) and spent approximately 9 years there until Koan 5 (1282).
During this period, Saint Nichiren cultivated many disciples, spread his teachings, and deepened his interaction with local people. The planting tradition of the Ohatsuki Ginkgo remains as one of the footprints left by Saint Nichiren in the region and continues to be passed down with care.
History of Academic Discovery
In Meiji 24 (1891), the Ohatsuki Ginkgo at Kamisawa Temple was reported to the academic world for the first time, which was an important event in Japan’s botanical history.
Previously, ginkgos were thought to be gymnosperms with seeds attached directly to branches, but the discovery of Ohatsuki Ginkgo revealed the unique characteristic of seeds forming on leaves. This discovery drew attention from botanists both domestically and internationally as it might indicate intermediate characteristics between gymnosperms and angiosperms and relate to ginkgo evolution.
Process of Natural Monument Designation
In Showa 4 (1929), based on the Historic Sites, Scenic Spots, and Natural Monuments Preservation Law, the predecessor of the Cultural Properties Protection Law, the Ohatsuki Ginkgos at Honkokuji and Kamisawa temples were designated as national natural monuments.
This designation reflected comprehensive evaluation not only of the tree’s size and age but also its academic value, cultural value, and connection to the region’s history. Subsequently, another Ohatsuki Ginkgo was additionally designated as a national natural monument, as it remains to this day.
Conservation Activities for Shimoyama’s Ohatsuki Ginkgo Grove
Conservation Activities by the Community
Minobu Town conducts various conservation activities to pass these valuable Ohatsuki Ginkgos on to future generations.
Main Conservation Activities:
- Periodic health checkups by tree surgeons
- Prevention and early detection of pests and diseases
- Soil improvement for tree vigor recovery
- Damage prevention measures against typhoons and heavy snow
- Maintenance and conservation of the surrounding environment
Especially after the toppling of Kamisawa Temple’s Ohatsuki Ginkgo due to a typhoon, support posts have been installed on other trees and tree vigor assessments have been strengthened to prevent similar damage.
Educational Activities and Public Awareness
Minobu Town implements learning programs on Ohatsuki Ginkgo as part of environmental education for local elementary and junior high school students. By learning about the region’s valuable natural heritage, children come to understand the importance of conservation, cultivating future custodians of conservation activities.
Additionally, interpretation signs have been installed for tourists, and guided tours are conducted to widely communicate the value of Ohatsuki Ginkgo.
Other Autumn Foliage Spots in Yamanashi Prefecture
Yamanashi Prefecture has many autumn foliage destinations besides Shimoyama’s Ohatsuki Ginkgo grove.
Shosenkyo Gorge
Shosenkyo Gorge, called Japan’s finest gorge scenery, is Yamanashi Prefecture’s premier autumn foliage destination. The contrast between bizarre rock formations, clear streams, and autumn colors creates a spectacular view. Peak viewing is from late October to mid-November.
Lake Kawaguchi
The Lake Kawaguchi area, where you can enjoy autumn foliage with Mount Fuji as a backdrop, is a popular spot attracting many domestic and international visitors. The “Maple Corridor” in particular features a spectacular tunnel of autumn maple leaves from approximately 60 trees.
Nishizawa Gorge
Located within the Chichibu-Tamakai National Park, Nishizawa Gorge’s charm lies in the natural beauty created by primeval forest and gorge streams. Various waterfalls and autumn foliage can be enjoyed along an approximately 10km hiking course.
Kiyosato Highland
Located at approximately 1,200 meters elevation, the Kiyosato Highland is an area where the yellow foliage of larch trees is beautiful. From mid to late October, the entire landscape turns golden.
Koushinkuetsu Autumn Foliage Spot News
The Koushinkuetsu region (Yamanashi, Nagano, and Niigata prefectures) is characterized by being able to enjoy autumn foliage over an extended period from late September to late November due to significant elevation differences.
Major Autumn Foliage Destinations in Koushinkuetsu:
Nagano Prefecture
- Kamikochi: Spectacular views of the Northern Alps and autumn foliage (early to mid-October)
- Shirakoma-no-Ike: Mysterious pond at 2,100 meters elevation with autumn foliage (late September to early October)
- Shigakogen: Autumn foliage of vast highland (late September to mid-October)
Niigata Prefecture
- Naeba Dragondola: Japan’s longest gondola for an aerial autumn foliage tour (mid to late October)
- Yahiko Park: Vibrant autumn foliage of the maple valley (late October to mid-November)
Finding Yamanashi Prefecture Autumn Foliage Destinations by Specific Criteria
By Elevation
High Elevation (1,500m and above):
- Peak Viewing: Late September to Mid-October
- Characteristics: Autumn foliage can be enjoyed early, cool weather requires warm clothing
Medium Elevation (500-1,500m):
- Peak Viewing: Mid-October to Early November
- Characteristics: Easy access and diverse tree species for foliage viewing
Low Elevation (500m or below):
- Peak Viewing: Early to Late November
- Characteristics: Convenient access, abundant nearby facilities including hot springs
By Access Method
Convenient by Car:
- Autumn foliage spots with complete parking facilities
- Popular destinations near expressway interchanges
Accessible by Public Transportation:
- Autumn foliage spots within walking distance of stations
- Popular destinations easily reached by tour bus
By Activity Type
Hiking and Trekking:
- Nishizawa Gorge, Shosenkyo Gorge, etc.
Driving:
- Kiyosato Highland, areas around the Yatsugatake Mountains, etc.
Hot Springs and Autumn Foliage:
- Shimobe Onsen, Isawa Onsen, etc.
History, Culture and Autumn Foliage:
- Minobusan Kuon-ji, Erin-ji Temple, etc.
Finding Koushinkuetsu Autumn Foliage Destinations by Specific Criteria
Choosing by Scenic Beauty
Mountain Scenery:
- Kamikochi (Nagano Prefecture): Majestic views of the Northern Alps
- Shirakoma-no-Ike (Nagano Prefecture): Mysterious pond and primeval forest
- Yatsugatake (Yamanashi and Nagano prefectures): 360-degree panorama
Gorge Beauty:
- Shosenkyo Gorge (Yamanashi Prefecture): Bizarre rock formations and gorge streams
- Nishizawa Gorge (Yamanashi Prefecture): Seven waterfalls and primeval forest
- Kiyotsu Gorge (Niigata Prefecture): One of Japan’s three great gorges
Choosing by Crowding Level
Relatively Uncrowded Hidden Gems:
- Shimoyama’s Ohatsuki Ginkgo Grove (Yamanashi Prefecture)
- Otome Highland (Yamanashi Prefecture)
- Akiyama Village (Nagano and Niigata prefectures)
Popular Destinations (Note Crowding):
- Lake Kawaguchi area (Yamanashi Prefecture)
- Kamikochi (Nagano Prefecture)
- Naeba Dragondola (Niigata Prefecture)
Recommended for Families
Barrier-Free Accessible:
- Lake Kawaguchi Maple Corridor (Yamanashi Prefecture)
- Yahiko Park (Niigata Prefecture)
Facilities for Children’s Enjoyment:
- Kiyosato Highland (Yamanashi Prefecture): Farms and experience facilities
- Karuizawa (Nagano Prefecture): Outlets and art museums
Finding Autumn Foliage Destinations by Prefecture
Hokkaido and Tohoku Region
Hokkaido:
The region where autumn foliage begins earliest in Japan. Color change begins in mid-September in the Daisetsuzan Range.
Tohoku:
Many destinations feature beautiful combinations of gorge scenery and autumn foliage, such as Oirase Gorge (Aomori Prefecture) and Naruko Gorge (Miyagi Prefecture).
Kanto Region
Tochigi Prefecture:
Nikko (Irohazaka, Lake Chuzenji) is a representative autumn foliage destination in the Kanto region. Elevation differences allow for extended viewing periods.
Tokyo:
Well-equipped with easily accessible autumn foliage spots such as Takao Mountain and the Meiji Shrine Outer Garden.
Kanagawa Prefecture:
Popular destinations like Hakone and Kamakura allow enjoying both autumn foliage and hot springs or historic structures simultaneously.
Koushinkuetsu Region
Yamanashi Prefecture:
Shimoyama’s Ohatsuki Ginkgo Grove, Shosenkyo Gorge, Lake Kawaguchi and other autumn foliage spots with views of Mount Fuji are appealing.
Nagano Prefecture:
High-elevation mountain autumn foliage such as Kamikochi and Shirakoma-no-Ike can be enjoyed.
Niigata Prefecture:
Dynamic natural scenery and autumn foliage contrasts are spectacular, as seen at Naeba and Kiyotsu Gorge.
Hokuriku and Tokai Regions
Hokuriku:
Beautiful autumn foliage of historic gardens such as Kenroku-en (Ishikawa Prefecture) and Eihei-ji (Fukui Prefecture).
Tokai:
Representative autumn foliage destinations of the Tokai region include Kourankei (Aichi Prefecture) and Yoro Falls (Gifu Prefecture).
Kansai Region
Kyoto Prefecture:
Famous autumn foliage spots including Kiyomizu-dera, Arashiyama, and Tofuku-ji are concentrated in Japan’s representative foliage destinations.
Osaka Prefecture:
Beautiful autumn foliage can be enjoyed in urban areas such as Minoo Falls and Osaka Castle Park.
Chugoku, Shikoku and Kyushu Regions
Chugoku:
Destinations such as Miyajima (Hiroshima Prefecture) and Okutu Gorge (Okayama Prefecture) allow enjoying autumn foliage through late November due to the Seto Inland Sea’s warm climate.
Shikoku:
The autumn foliage of the Shikoku Mountains is beautiful, as seen at Kankakei (Kagawa Prefecture) and Mount Ishizuchi (Ehime Prefecture).
Kyushu:
Autumn foliage season extends from mid-November through early December at destinations such as Yabakei (Oita Prefecture) and Unzen (Nagasaki Prefecture).
Autumn Foliage Destinations Popularity Ranking [Yamanashi Prefecture]
Here we introduce Yamanashi Prefecture’s autumn foliage destinations ranked by comprehensive evaluation including visitor numbers, social media posts, and online reviews.
1st Place: Lake Kawaguchi Maple Corridor
A spectacular tunnel of autumn maple leaves from approximately 60 trees with Mount Fuji as a backdrop. Night illumination is also offered, allowing you to enjoy a mystical atmosphere.
2nd Place: Shosenkyo Gorge
Called Japan’s finest gorge scenery, the contrast between bizarre rock formations, clear streams, and autumn foliage is spectacular. Mountain top views are also available via ropeway.
3rd Place: Nishizawa Gorge
Surrounded by primeval forest, the performance of seven waterfalls and autumn foliage is beautiful. Popular as a hiking course.
4th Place: Minobusan Kuon-ji Temple
The head temple of the Nichiren sect where the maples on the temple grounds color beautifully. The harmony between historic structures and autumn foliage is appealing.
5th Place: Kiyosato Highland
Wide expanse of beautiful larch yellow foliage. Enjoy autumn foliage walks in fresh mountain air.
6th Place: Shimoyama’s Ohatsuki Ginkgo Grove
A nationally designated natural monument with rare ginkgos turning golden yellow—a little-known autumn foliage destination with high academic value.
Autumn Foliage Destinations Popularity Ranking [Koushinkuetsu]
Here we introduce popular autumn foliage destinations throughout the Koushinkuetsu region.
1st Place: Kamikochi (Nagano Prefecture)
The collaboration of the Northern Alps’ magnificent scenery with autumn foliage is truly spectacular. The view from Kappa Bridge is particularly popular.
2nd Place: Naeba Dragondola (Niigata Prefecture)
Japan’s longest 5.5km gondola allows an aerial autumn foliage tour. The carpet of foliage spread below is impressive.
3rd Place: Lake Kawaguchi Maple Corridor (Yamanashi Prefecture)
The combination of Mount Fuji and autumn foliage is beautiful, attracting numerous domestic and international visitors.
4th Place: Shirakoma-no-Ike (Nagano Prefecture)
A mystical pond at 2,100 meters elevation. The primeval forest reflecting on the water’s surface creates a dreamlike landscape.
5th Place: Shosenkyo Gorge (Yamanashi Prefecture)
The harmony between gorge beauty and autumn foliage is wonderful, making it Yamanashi Prefecture’s representative autumn foliage destination.
Autumn Foliage Data for Shimoyama’s Ohatsuki Ginkgo Grove
Basic Information
Location: Shimoyama, Minobu Town, Minami-Koma County, Yamanashi Prefecture
Peak Viewing Period: Early November to Late November
Type of Tree Displaying Autumn Foliage: Ohatsuki Ginkgo (ginkgo variant)
Number of Trees: 3 nationally designated natural monuments and 2 town-designated natural monuments for a total of 5 trees
Fee: Free (temple visitations follow each temple’s regulations)
Hours: Open 24/7 (no nighttime lighting)
Parking: Visitor parking spaces available at each temple (limited spaces)
Contact Information
Minobu Town Tourism Association
- Phone: 0556-62-1116
- Hours: 9:00-17:00
Minobu Town Office Tourism Division
- Phone: 0556-42-4801
Nearby Facility Information
Nearest Station: Hatakashima Station on the JR Minobu Line (approximately 30 minutes on foot)
Nearest IC: Shimobe Onsen Hayakawa IC on the Chubu Odan Expressway (approximately 15 minutes by car)
Nearby Hot Springs: Shimobe Onsen (approximately 15 minutes by car)
Convenience Stores: Approximately 10 minutes by car to nearest convenience store
Notes on Terminology
Regarding Ohatsuki Ginkgo Nomenclature
“Ohatsuki Ginkgo” may also be written as “Leaf-bearing Ginkgo Nut” in kanji, but the katakana notation “Ohatsuki Ginkgo” is standard in academic contexts. The “O” prefix is an honorific.
Place Name Notation
“Shimoyama” is read as “shimo-yama.” It is a district name within Minobu Town, Minami-Koma County, Yamanashi Prefecture.
Classification of Natural Monument Designations
- Nationally Designated Natural Monument: Natural monuments designated by the national government based on the Cultural Properties Protection Law
- Town-Designated Natural Monument: Natural monuments designated by municipalities based on local ordinances
Recommended Information
Attractions of Minobu Town to Enjoy with Autumn Foliage
Minobusan Ropeway:
A ropeway connecting Minobusan Kuon-ji to the Okuno-in in approximately 7 minutes over an elevation difference of 763 meters. The mountain top offers spectacular views of Mount Fuji and the Southern Alps.
Minobu Town Specialty Products:
- Minobu yuba: Traditional food made from high-quality soybeans and pure water
- Akebono soybeans: Large-grain soybeans with strong sweetness
- Minobu manjū: Traditional steamed buns beloved as pilgrimage souvenirs
Experience Programs:
- Sutra copying experience: Meditate and copy sutras at Kuon-ji
- Yuba making experience: Learn the yuba manufacturing process and try making it yourself
Appeal as a Photography Spot
Ohatsuki Ginkgo is also popular among photography enthusiasts for its rarity and beauty.
Photography Tips:
- Blue Sky Contrast: Morning on clear days is recommended
- Backlighting Photography: Capture the moment when leaves glow golden and translucent
- Carpet of Fallen Leaves: The golden fallen leaves covering the ground are attractive subjects
- Trunk Details: The venerable bark texture of 700-year-old trunks has photographic value
Finding Autumn Foliage Destinations by Conditions
Scene-Based Recommendations
Dating:
Autumn foliage spots with romantic atmosphere. The illuminated Lake Kawaguchi Maple Corridor or the quiet atmosphere of Shimoyama’s Ohatsuki Ginkgo Grove are recommended.
Family Trips:
Autumn foliage spots with good access and nearby facilities children can enjoy. Kiyosato Highland and the Lake Kawaguchi area are ideal.
Solo Travel:
For those wanting to enjoy autumn foliage quietly, hiking through Nishizawa Gorge or quiet viewing at Shimoyama’s Ohatsuki Ginkgo Grove are recommended.
Photography:
Those wanting to photograph spectacular scenery should visit Shosenkyo Gorge, Kamikochi, Shirakoma-no-Ike and similar locations.
Budget-Based Recommendations
Free Enjoyment:
- Shimoyama’s Ohatsuki Ginkgo Grove
- Lake Kawaguchi areas (excluding the maple corridor)
- Kiyosato Highland autumn foliage drive
Affordable (up to ¥3,000):
- Shosenkyo Gorge (ropeway round trip ¥1,300)
- Minobusan Kuon-ji (ropeway round trip ¥1,500)
Premium Experience:
- Hot spring resort lodging with autumn foliage viewing
- Helicopter aerial autumn foliage viewing
Finding Autumn Foliage Destinations from Rankings [2025 Edition]
National Autumn Foliage Destination Ranking
The following spots received high ratings in 2025’s national autumn foliage destination ranking.
Top 10 (Excerpts):
- Kyoto Arashiyama (Kyoto Prefecture)
- Kamikochi (Nagano Prefecture)
- Nikko (Tochigi Prefecture)
- Lake Kawaguchi (Yamanashi Prefecture)
- Hakone (Kanagawa Prefecture)
Regional Rankings
Check popular autumn foliage destinations in each region in ranking format.
Koushinkuetsu Region Top 5:
- Kamikochi (Nagano Prefecture)
- Naeba Dragondola (Niigata Prefecture)
- Lake Kawaguchi (Yamanashi Prefecture)
- Shirakoma-no-Ike (Nagano Prefecture)
- Shosenkyo Gorge (Yamanashi Prefecture)
Hidden Gem Ranking
Hidden gems ranking for those wanting to enjoy autumn foliage avoiding crowds.
Koushinkuetsu Region Hidden Gems Top 3:
- Shimoyama’s Ohatsuki Ginkgo Grove (Yamanashi Prefecture)
- Akiyama Village (Nagano and Niigata prefectures)
- Otome Highland (Yamanashi Prefecture)
Enhancing Your Autumn Foliage Enjoyment
Autumn Foliage Mechanisms
Autumn foliage is a phenomenon in which, due to dropping temperatures and shortened daylight hours, chlorophyll (leaf pigment) in leaves breaks down, making carotenoids and anthocyanins and other pigments more prominent.
Ginkgo Yellow Foliage:
The yellow color of ginkgo is caused by a pigment called carotenoid. As chlorophyll breaks down, the yellow carotenoid originally present in the leaf becomes prominent.
Autumn Foliage Viewing Prediction
The peak viewing period for autumn foliage is significantly influenced by temperature and weather.
Conditions for Peak Viewing:
- Color change begins when minimum temperatures drop below 8°C
- Color change accelerates when minimum temperatures reach 5-6°C
- Greater temperature differences between day and night result in more vivid coloring
Autumn Foliage Photography Tips
Basic Settings:
- Clear Days: Use a polarizing filter to make colors more vivid
- Cloudy Days: Adjust white balance toward warm tones
- Backlighting: Expose brightly for a high-key look
Composition Tips:
- Be mindful of foreground, middle ground, and background for depth
- Clearly decide whether to make foliage the main subject or part of the landscape
- Utilize reflections on water surfaces
Clothing and Items for Autumn Foliage Viewing
Clothing:
- Layered clothing for temperature variations between morning and evening
- Easy-to-walk shoes (trekking shoes for hiking)
- Cold-weather gear (November can be quite chilly)
Items to Bring:
- Camera and smartphone
- Spare batteries (batteries drain faster in cold)
- Drinks and snacks
- Leisure sheet (convenient for resting)
- Garbage bag (always take trash with you)
Conclusion
Shimoyama’s Ohatsuki Ginkgo Grove is a precious natural heritage of Yamanashi Prefecture and an autumn foliage destination with extremely high botanical and cultural value.
Ohatsuki Ginkgo, with its unusual characteristic of producing seeds on leaves, is found in only limited locations nationwide. The fact that 3 of these trees are concentrated in Minobu Town speaks to the richness of this region’s natural environment.
The sight of giant trees over 700 years old glowing golden yellow transcends mere autumn foliage beauty and allows one to sense the long history and culture. The deep connection to Saint Nichiren creates a special place where faith and nature harmonize.
The relatively uncrowded atmosphere, allowing quiet foliage viewing, is also a major attraction. With nearby attractions including Minobusan Kuon-ji and Shimobe Onsen, you can enjoy an enriching autumn foliage viewing experience.
In the autumn of 2025, please visit Shimoyama’s Ohatsuki Ginkgo Grove and personally experience the golden glow of this precious national natural monument.
Shimoyama’s Ohatsuki Ginkgo Grove Autumn Foliage Q&A
Q1: What is Ohatsuki Ginkgo?
A1: Ohatsuki Ginkgo is a ginkgo variant with the highly unusual morphological characteristic of producing seeds (ginkgo nuts) on the leaves themselves. Unlike ordinary ginkgo trees that produce seeds directly on branches, Ohatsuki Ginkgo forms seeds on the leaf surface. This phenomenon is called “seeds on leaves” and serves as a valuable research subject in botany.
Q2: When is the best time to view Shimoyama’s Ohatsuki Ginkgo Grove?
A2: Peak viewing is typically from early November through late November. Color change begins around late October, with mid-November being the most stunning golden display. However, the exact timing varies year to year depending on temperature and weather. We recommend checking with Minobu Town Tourism Association for the latest information before visiting.
Q3: How many nationally designated natural monuments are there?
A3: There are 5 Ohatsuki Ginkgos total in the Shimoyama district, with 3 designated as national natural monuments. The remaining 2 are town-designated natural monuments. Among the nationally designated monuments, Honkokuji Temple’s Ohatsuki Ginkgo and Kamisawa Temple’s Ohatsuki Ginkgo are particularly famous.
Q4: Is there parking available?
A4: Each temple has parking spaces for visitors, but spaces are limited. During peak foliage season, especially weekends, congestion is possible, so early arrival is recommended. Alternatively, consider using public transportation.
Q5: Are there nearby tourist attractions?
A5: Minobusan Kuon-ji, head temple of the Nichiren sect, is located approximately 20 minutes away and allows enjoying historic structures and autumn foliage simultaneously. Shimobe Onsen, approximately 15 minutes away, offers hot spring bathing to relax after foliage viewing. Local specialty foods like Minobu yuba are also available.
Q6: Is admission required?
A6: Viewing the Ohatsuki Ginkgo itself is free. However, if entering temple grounds, follow each temple’s regulations. Temple building visits may require separate admission fees.
Q7: Is photography allowed?
A7: Yes, photography is permitted. However, some temple areas may prohibit photography, such as inside main halls. Please follow signage and temple staff instructions. Be considerate of other visitors and worshippers.
Q8: Is night illumination available?
A8: Currently, regular illumination is not offered. Since there is no nighttime lighting, daytime visits are recommended. The foliage is best enjoyed from morning through afternoon hours when daylight is adequate.
Q9: Is public transportation access convenient?
A9: Hatakashima Station on the JR Minobu Line is approximately 30 minutes on foot, but with limited train frequency, car access is more convenient. For public transportation use, confirm schedules in advance and plan with adequate time. Consider taxi options.
Q10: What is the current condition of Kamisawa Temple’s Ohatsuki Ginkgo?
A10: Unfortunately, it was broken near the base and toppled by strong winds from Typhoon No. 24 on September 30, 2018. However, its academic and historical value remains unchanged, and appropriate preservation measures have been implemented after toppling. Visitors can learn about the toppling circumstances and the tree’s history at the site.
