One of Kumamoto City's best - and most unexpected - spots for fall foliage is the plaza in front of the prefectural office. Lined with rows of golden-leafed gingko trees, the vibrant colors draw families and photographers alike during the day. On most nights throughout the month of November, the leaves are illuminated late into the evening as well. With few crowds and free parking, it feels like an autumn escape in the middle of the city.
- 1 min read
Autumn Illumination in Kumamoto
One of the city's best-kept foliage secrets

By Mandy Bartok
Community writer

The plaza at Kumamoto's prefectural office is illuminated during the month of November

Gingko leaves litter the ground there

A gingko tree on the plaza looks ethereal in the evening light

The trees are an impressive sight during the day as well ...

... but a recent rainstorm caused many of the leaves to fall.

The best time for viewing the gingkos would be in the third and fourth weeks of November
Explore nearby
Leave a comment
0 comments 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
Umamusume: Pretty Derby
Culture -
2
Tokyo Auto Salon 2026 Japan Car Tour: Cars, Culture & The Open Road
Chiba -
3
Osaka Noh Festa
Osaka - Sponsored -
4
PokéPark Kanto Set to Open in Spring 2026
Tokyo -
5
I’m Donut?: Japan’s Viral Donut Sensation
Culture -
6
Miyoko Schinner: Japan Vegan Tour 2026
Food -
7
25 Authentic Activities in Minobu
Yamanashi - Sponsored -
8
70 Nations, One Amazing Meal
Osaka - Sponsored -
9
Enjoy Toba: More Than Just a Seaside Retreat
Mie - Sponsored -
10
Watching Noh in Tokyo
Tokyo
-
1
Guide to Bringing Medicines Into Japan
Planning -
2
Gion Matsuri
Kyoto -
3
July Grand Sumo Tournament (Nagoya)
Aichi -
4
The Ultimate Guide to Thrifting in Tokyo
Shopping -
5
Your Name: Real-Life Locations in Tokyo
Tokyo -
6
Kamakura Fireworks
Kanagawa -
7
Shitamachi Tanabata Matsuri
Tokyo -
8
Tenjin Matsuri
Osaka -
9
Ghibli 3D Sculpture Exhibition
Tokyo -
10
Iwatayama Monkey Park
Kyoto