Ikeminetsu Momiji no Sato (Oku-Yugawara) Complete Guide | How to Get There, Best Viewing Season, and Charm of Kanagawa’s Premier Autumn Foliage Spot
“Ikeminetsu Momiji no Sato,” located in the mountainous region of Yugawara Town, Ashigarashimo District, Kanagawa Prefecture, is a hidden autumn foliage destination that can be visited as a day trip from central Tokyo. The spectacular autumn foliage that spreads out after a 40-minute walk along the quiet mountain path of Oku-Yugawara is so beautiful it makes you forget the fatigue of hiking.
This article provides comprehensive information you should know before visiting, including the charm of Ikeminetsu Momiji no Sato, access methods, peak viewing season, details of the hiking course, and nearby tourist attractions.
What is Ikeminetsu Momiji no Sato? A Hidden Autumn Foliage Spot in Yugawara Town, Kanagawa
Ikeminetsu Momiji no Sato is an autumn foliage spot located in the mountains continuing from Oku-Yugawara toward the Daikazan direction. Located in the mountainous region at an elevation of approximately 400 meters, about 540 Iroha Japanese maples are planted here.
Basic Information
Location: Kanagawa Prefecture, Ashigarashimo District, Yugawara Town, Miyakami area
Types of Foliage: Iroha Japanese Maple, Maple
Number of Trees: Approximately 540
Admission: Free
Parking: None (use public parking around Oku-Yugawara entrance)
Inquiries: Yugawara Town Tourism Division (0465-63-2111)
The greatest characteristic of Ikeminetsu Momiji no Sato lies in its location. Because it is located after a 40-minute walk along the hiking course, there is little tourist crowding, allowing you to enjoy the autumn foliage in a quiet environment. It is also known as an area where you can enjoy autumn foliage relatively late into the season compared to other parts of Kanagawa Prefecture.
Peak Viewing Season | Late November to Early December is the Peak Period
The autumn foliage of Ikeminetsu Momiji no Sato reaches its prime during a relatively late season compared to other parts of Kanagawa Prefecture. Because of its high elevation and location in mountainous terrain, temperatures are lower than in flat areas, and the progression of autumn foliage is slow.
Foliage Progression Schedule
Start of Color Change: Mid-November
Prime Viewing: Late November to Early December
Leaf Fall: Mid-December
In mid-November, the Iroha Japanese maples gradually begin to change color. During this period, many leaves still remain green, but it is also a time when the gradient is beautiful.
From late November through early December is the peak season, when all approximately 540 Iroha Japanese maples turn red and yellow at once. During this period, Ikeminetsu Momiji no Sato as a whole is enveloped in autumn foliage, allowing you to enjoy the most beautiful scenery.
Fluctuations in Peak Season Due to Weather Conditions
The peak viewing season can vary depending on that year’s weather conditions. The following factors in particular have an impact:
- Temperature: Color change accelerates when the minimum temperature drops below 8°C
- Hours of Sunlight: The stronger the daytime sunlight, the more vivid the colors become
- Precipitation: Appropriate rainfall promotes foliage coloring, but strong winds from typhoons accelerate leaf fall
When planning a visit, it is recommended to check the latest color-change status on the official website of the Yugawara Town Tourism Association or autumn foliage information sites.
Access | Detailed Explanation of How to Get There by Train, Bus, and Car
You can access Ikeminetsu Momiji no Sato via public transportation or a private vehicle. However, since you must hike to Momiji no Sato itself, comfortable clothing and shoes are essential.
Access by Train and Bus
Nearest Station: JR Tokaido Main Line “Yugawara Station”
- Board a Local Bus from Yugawara Station
After exiting the Yugawara Station ticket gate, board a bus bound for “Oku-Yugawara” or “Fudo Falls” from bus terminal platform 2.
- Get Off at “Oku-Yugawara Entrance” Bus Stop
The ride takes approximately 20 minutes, and the one-way fare is about 400 yen.
- Walk the Hiking Course for Approximately 40 Minutes
From the bus stop to Ikeminetsu Momiji no Sato, you will walk the hiking course.
Bus Operation Information:
- Operating Company: Hakone Tozan Bus
- Operating Frequency: Approximately 1-2 buses per hour on weekdays
- Additional buses may be added during the autumn foliage season
Access by Car
Nearest IC: “Odawara-Nishi IC” on the Odawara-Atsugi Expressway
- Head south on Route 135 toward Atami from Odawara-Nishi IC
- Approximately 15 km away, arriving in the Oku-Yugawara area in about 30 minutes
- Park your car at a public parking lot near the Oku-Yugawara entrance
- Walk the hiking course for approximately 40 minutes
Parking Information:
Ikeminetsu Momiji no Sato has no dedicated parking lot. There are public parking lots and parking areas for day-use hot spring facilities around the Oku-Yugawara entrance, but these get crowded during the autumn foliage season, so arriving early is recommended.
Access from Tokyo and Yokohama
From Tokyo Station:
- JR Tokaido Main Line for approximately 1 hour 30 minutes to Yugawara Station
- Or Shinkansen “Kodama” to Odawara Station in approximately 35 minutes, then transfer to the JR Tokaido Main Line for approximately 15 minutes
From Yokohama Station:
- JR Tokaido Main Line for approximately 1 hour to Yugawara Station
Details of the Ikeminetsu Hiking Course | Walking Through Mountain Paths for About 40 Minutes
To reach Ikeminetsu Momiji no Sato, you will walk the Ikeminetsu Hiking Course from the Oku-Yugawara entrance bus stop. This hiking course features a well-maintained mountain path that is relatively easy to walk even for beginners.
Overview of the Hiking Course
Distance: Approximately 2.5 km
Duration: Approximately 40 minutes each way (uphill), approximately 30 minutes (downhill)
Elevation Gain: Approximately 200 m
Difficulty: Beginner to Intermediate
Course Characteristics and Points of Interest
Starting Point (Oku-Yugawara Entrance Bus Stop)
Near the bus stop, there is a stone marker engraved with “Momiji no Sato,” and a signpost reading “Momiji no Sato Entrance – About 40 minutes on foot.” The mountain path begins here.
First Half (0-15 minutes)
Relatively gentle uphill sections continue. The road gradually changes from pavement to a mountain path. Sugi (Japanese cedar) forest spreads around you, allowing you to enjoy forest bathing as you walk.
Middle Section (15-30 minutes)
The slope becomes somewhat steeper, turning into a full-fledged mountain trail. Proceed carefully, watching your footing. In some places, the sound of a stream can be heard, letting you feel the richness of nature.
Final Section (30-40 minutes)
The slope becomes gentler, and Momiji no Sato draws near. From around this point, colored maple leaves begin to appear, and anticipation builds.
Arrival (Ikeminetsu Momiji no Sato)
The view suddenly opens up, and the spectacular landscape of approximately 540 Iroha Japanese maples spreads before you. The beauty is so stunning it makes you forget the fatigue of hiking.
Hiking Precautions and Preparation
- Clothing: Comfortable, easy-to-move-in clothes, trekking shoes or athletic shoes
- Items to Bring: Drinking water, towel, rain gear, light snacks
- Time Consideration: Plan for approximately 3 hours total, including the round-trip 2 hours and time for viewing
- Weather Confirmation: On rainy days, the footing becomes slippery, so use caution
- Sunset Time: Since autumn has shorter days, it is recommended to depart by 2 PM at the latest
Charm of Ikeminetsu Momiji no Sato | Spectacular Scenery Created by Approximately 540 Iroha Japanese Maples
The greatest charm of Ikeminetsu Momiji no Sato is undoubtedly the spectacular scenery of approximately 540 Iroha Japanese maples changing color all at once. In the quiet mountain environment, you experience the sensation of being inside an autumn foliage tunnel.
Characteristics of Iroha Japanese Maple
The Iroha Japanese maple is one of the representative tree species of Japan’s autumn foliage. The name comes from the fact that the leaves are divided so finely they can be counted as “iroha ni hohe to” (the first characters of the Japanese syllabary).
- Leaf Shape: Palmately lobed into 5-7 sections
- Autumn Foliage Color: Vibrant red, orange, and yellow
- Tree Height: Approximately 5-15 meters
The Iroha Japanese maples at Ikeminetsu Momiji no Sato are planted at appropriate intervals, allowing you to appreciate the beauty of each individual tree. Also, because of the elevation difference, the progression of autumn foliage varies by location, allowing you to enjoy various color gradations.
Photography Tips
Ikeminetsu Momiji no Sato is also popular as a photography spot.
Recommended Photography Times:
- Morning: Sunlight illuminates the foliage, making it appear to glow
- Afternoon: Soft light creates warm-toned photographs
- Cloudy Days: Even light makes foliage colors appear vivid in photos
Photography Tips:
- Use a wide-angle lens to capture the overall landscape
- Use a macro lens to photograph leaf details
- Include people to show the scale
- Fallen leaves carpeting the ground are also attractive subjects
Crowding Conditions and Ways to Enjoy
Ikeminetsu Momiji no Sato is less crowded than other famous autumn foliage spots because you must hike to reach it.
Weekdays: You can enjoy the foliage in a quiet environment with hardly anyone around
Weekends and Holidays: Even at peak autumn foliage season, crowds are not overwhelming
Recommended Visit Time: Early morning on weekdays allows you to enjoy foliage in near-complete solitude
Autumn Foliage Spots in the Oku-Yugawara Area | Nearby Attractions
In addition to Ikeminetsu Momiji no Sato, the entire area from Oku-Yugawara to Daikazan is a noted autumn foliage destination. If time permits, it is recommended to visit nearby autumn foliage spots as well.
Autumn Foliage Spots in Oku-Yugawara
Fudo Falls
A waterfall with a 15-meter drop, where the contrast between the waterfall and surrounding foliage is beautiful. It is accessible in approximately 15 minutes on foot from the Oku-Yugawara entrance.
Yugawara Hot Spring Town
Autumn foliage can also be enjoyed along Chitose River flowing through the hot spring town. The attraction is being able to enjoy both hot springs and autumn foliage simultaneously.
Daikazan
If you climb the mountain further from Ikeminetsu Momiji no Sato, you will reach Daikazan. From the 1,011-meter summit, you can see Sagami Bay and Mount Fuji, allowing you to enjoy foliage and spectacular views at the same time.
Nearby Tourist Attractions
Yugawara Hot Spring
A historic hot spring mentioned in the Man’yoshu (Collection of Ten Thousand Leaves). After hiking, it is recommended to relax in a day-use hot spring.
Yugawara Plum Forest (Makiyama Park)
In spring, about 4,000 plum blossoms bloom here, but autumn foliage is also beautiful at this spot.
Manazuru Peninsula
A scenic spot approximately 20 minutes by car from Yugawara. You can enjoy spectacular views of Sagami Bay.
Day-Use Hot Spring Bathing in Yugawara Hot Spring | Recommended Hot Spring Facilities After Hiking
After sweating from hiking, it is recommended to enjoy a day-use bath at Yugawara Hot Spring. Yugawara Hot Spring has weakly alkaline water quality and is said to have fatigue recovery and beauty skin benefits.
Recommended Day-Use Hot Spring Facilities
Kogome no Yu
A day-use hot spring facility in Oku-Yugawara. The open-air bath offers views of nature in every season.
Hours: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Admission: Around 1,000 yen for adults
Manyo no Yu
A large hot spring facility within walking distance of Yugawara Station. Dining options are abundant.
Hours: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Admission: Around 1,500 yen for adults
Doppo no Yu
A foot-bath-only facility where you can enjoy hot springs casually.
Hours: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Admission: Around 300 yen for adults
Planning Your Visit to Ikeminetsu Momiji no Sato | Model Courses and Duration
Here are model courses for a day trip to Ikeminetsu Momiji no Sato.
Day-Trip Model Course (Total Duration: Approximately 6 Hours)
9:00 AM Depart from Tokyo Station (JR Tokaido Main Line)
10:30 AM Arrive at Yugawara Station
10:40 AM Board bus from Yugawara Station
11:00 AM Arrive at Oku-Yugawara Entrance Bus Stop
11:10 AM Begin hiking
11:50 AM Arrive at Ikeminetsu Momiji no Sato, view autumn foliage (approximately 1 hour)
12:50 PM Begin descent
1:20 PM Arrive at Oku-Yugawara Entrance
1:30 PM Day-use hot spring bathing and lunch at nearby facility (approximately 2 hours)
3:30 PM Take bus to Yugawara Station
4:00 PM Depart from Yugawara Station
5:30 PM Arrive at Tokyo Station
Overnight Stay Plan is Also Recommended
For those who want to enjoy the experience at a more leisurely pace, an overnight stay plan at a Yugawara hot spring inn is also recommended. After enjoying autumn foliage until evening, you can relax at a hot spring inn.
Precautions and Etiquette When Visiting
When visiting Ikeminetsu Momiji no Sato, please note the following points.
Safety Precautions
- Prepare Hiking Gear: Since the hiking course involves mountain paths, appropriate shoes and clothing are necessary
- Check Weather: On rainy days, footing becomes slippery, so avoid visiting if conditions are poor
- Confirm Physical Fitness: Physical fitness to walk for approximately 2 hours round trip is required
- Bring a Bear Bell: Since this is a mountainous area, carrying a bear bell is recommended for safety
- Mobile Phone Reception: Reception is weak in some areas in the mountains
Environmental Protection and Etiquette
- Take Trash With You: There are no trash cans, so be sure to take all trash with you
- Do Not Harvest Plants: Removing colored leaves or other plants is prohibited
- Respect Off-Limits Areas: Do not enter areas outside designated zones
- Keep Noise Down: Keep conversations at a low volume to maintain a quiet environment
- No Smoking: Smoking on the hiking course is strictly prohibited to prevent forest fires
History and Origins of Ikeminetsu Momiji no Sato
The name “Ikeminetsu” comes from the place name of this region. It is said that there was once a pond in this mountainous area, and the name “Ikeminetsu” (pond peak) refers to the peak or mountain with this pond.
The approximately 540 Iroha Japanese maples have been carefully cultivated for many years by the people of this region. Yugawara Town has developed it as a tourist resource, and it has become a relatively unknown autumn foliage destination within Kanagawa Prefecture.
The hiking course is also maintained by volunteers in the region to ensure visitors can safely enjoy the autumn foliage.
Comparison with Other Autumn Foliage Spots in Kanagawa Prefecture
Kanagawa Prefecture has many autumn foliage spots, but Ikeminetsu Momiji no Sato has unique charm in the following respects.
Differences from Other Autumn Foliage Spots
Hakone (Ashinoko Area)
Peak: Early to Mid-November
Feature: Developed as a tourist destination with easy access, but crowded
Tanzawa (Mt. Oyama)
Peak: Mid to Late November
Feature: Requires mountaineering and proper climbing equipment
Kamakura (Engaku-ji Temple, etc.)
Peak: Late November to Early December
Feature: Beautiful combination of temples/shrines and foliage, but extremely crowded
Ikeminetsu Momiji no Sato
Peak: Late November to Early December
Feature: Accessible with moderate hiking, less crowded, and enjoyable late into the season
Ikeminetsu Momiji no Sato is ideal for those who want to “avoid full-scale mountaineering but enjoy foliage in a quiet environment with some walking.”
Summary | Experience Special Autumn Foliage at Ikeminetsu Momiji no Sato
Ikeminetsu Momiji no Sato (Oku-Yugawara) is a hidden autumn foliage destination in Kanagawa Prefecture, reached after a 40-minute hike. The spectacular foliage scenery created by approximately 540 Iroha Japanese maples is so beautiful it makes you forget the fatigue of hiking.
Because autumn foliage can be enjoyed from late November to early December, a relatively late season compared to other Kanagawa locations, you can visit even after foliage has finished at other spots. The lack of crowds and quiet environment where you can fully appreciate nature are major attractions.
After hiking, enjoying a day-use bath at Yugawara Hot Spring is also recommended to soothe fatigue. Ikeminetsu Momiji no Sato, reachable as a day trip from central Tokyo while offering rich nature and beautiful autumn foliage—why not visit this autumn?
Before your visit, check the latest autumn foliage information, dress appropriately and prepare well, and enjoy autumn foliage viewing safely.
