Gokanosho may well be one of Kyushu's best-kept secrets. This mountainous area - once a hideaway for the hunted Heike clan after the Battle of Dan-no-ura in 1185 - is reached only via extremely narrow and winding roads. It's worth braving the drive in the autumn, however, when Gokanosho's mountains become saturated with reds, oranges, and yellows. For two weekends in early November, a system of one-way roads is maintained to ease congestion in the mountain passes.
- 1 min read
Fall Foliage in Gokanosho
Southern Kumamoto's mountains are ablaze in autumn

By Mandy Bartok
Community writer
Explore nearby
Join the discussion
Kim Bergström
6 years ago
The best kind of best kept secret!!
1 comment in total
Book your trip
Find a nearby hotel
Explore some of the best nearby hotels and deals for the perfect place to stay in Japan.
Top Articles
-
1
Kyushu Craftsmanship and Traditions Heritage Tour
Article -
2
Sado Island Kodo Earth Celebration 2025: Music, Traditions, Taste Tour
Niigata -
3
Suica 2026 and Beyond: What’s New and What’s Cool
Culture -
4
I’m Donut?: Japan’s Viral Donut Sensation
Culture -
5
Starbucks Japan Spices Up Summer
Food -
6
Kamenoi Hotel Atami
Shizuoka - Sponsored -
7
Mt. Fuji Hike 2025: New Safety Rules & Registration Guide
Shizuoka - Sponsored -
8
Driving in Japan: Guide to ETC for Highway Toll Gates
Transportation -
9
70 Nations, One Amazing Meal
Osaka - Sponsored -
10
Hokkaido Full Immersion Tour
Hokkaido
-
1
Guide to Bringing Medicines Into Japan
Planning -
2
The Ultimate Guide to Thrifting in Tokyo
Shopping -
3
Sanja Matsuri
Tokyo -
4
Your Name: Real-Life Locations in Tokyo
Tokyo -
5
May Grand Sumo Tournament (Tokyo)
Tokyo -
6
Iwatayama Monkey Park
Kyoto -
7
Adachi Fireworks
Tokyo -
8
Daikoku Car Meet
Kanagawa -
9
Japanese Urban Legends
Culture -
10
Gion Matsuri
Kyoto