In this day and age, the world is seemingly filled with chaos and turmoil. Kyle Cotner (aka Leaf Daddy) founder and owner of The Foliage Report, would love to highlight the more calming and fascinating features on this planet we all call home.
Here is The Foliage Report’s, “Leaf Daddy’s Top 5 Countries for Best Fall Foliage.” Other lists may exist; however, this is the most comprehensive list and I would bet you a Shipyard Pumpkinhead beer on it. Leaf Daddy used many internet sources regarding global spots within the top countries since he prefers to kick it domestic.
5) South Korea
Sticking it to Kim Jong Un, the autumn color in South Korea is a breathtaking experience loved by photographers and nature lovers alike. The shades of red, orange and yellow show off a wonderful display along the landscapes.
The golden ginkgo leaves are the last color to show during the season, but the wait is well worth it. Fun Fact: The Ginkgo is one of the oldest living tree species in the world! It is the sole survivor of an ancient group of trees dating back to the prehistoric times of dinosaurs.
Here are some of the “peak” spots in South Korea:
Seoraksan National Park: One of the most famous locations for fall foliage, this area is known for its dramatic mountain scenery and vibrant fall leaves.
Naejangsan National Park: Known as one of the best places in South Korea for autumn leaves, this park offers stunning views.
Bukhansan National Park: Located near Seoul, this park is easily accessible for those in the capital. The trails offer panoramic views of the city and the surrounding colorful landscapes.
Jirisan National Park: As one of South Korea’s largest national parks, Jirisan offers a wide range of trails with spectacular fall foliage. The vastness of the park allows visitors to enjoy the colors in a serene environment.
Jeju Island: While more famous for its volcanic landscapes, its fall colors are sneaky great for visitors!
4) Germany
Anyone has a spare pair of lederhosen? Famous for the annual autumn festival known as Oktoberfest, Germany’s autumn color is equally as spectacular. Pairing well with a favorite malt-rich lager, fall foliage fans can find a palette of gold, orange and red in Germany’s forests, vineyards and historic towns from late September to early November. From the Alps in the south to the forests of the north, Germany’s diverse landscapes provide numerous opportunities to experience the beauty of autumn.
Here are some of the “peak” spots in Germany:
Bavarian Alps: The southern region of Germany, especially around the Bavarian Alps, is one of the most picturesque places to view fall foliage. The combination of towering mountains, serene lakes and colorful forests makes for stunning scenery.
Rhine Valley: The vineyards along the Rhine River turn golden in the fall, creating a beautiful contrast with the river and medieval castles perched on the hills.
Black Forest: Known for its dense woods and charming villages, the Black Forest is an iconic destination for fall foliage. Hiking or driving through the forest during autumn offers breathtaking views.
Berlin Area: For those in the capital, Berlin’s parks offer a lovely display of fall colors. Nearby Potsdam, with its palaces and gardens, is also a great spot for autumn strolls.
Thuringian Forest: This central German forest is a fantastic place for a fall hike.
3) Canada
I can hear Canada telling the countries ranked below them “Just gonna sneak right past ya, eh!” to move into the top three. Leaf Daddy appreciates the Canadian politeness but the Canucks should gloat.
The Great White North is renowned for its spectacular fall foliage, with the country’s vast landscapes transforming into vibrant displays of red, orange, and yellow during the autumn months.
The season typically begins in mid-August with the tundra of northern Canada turning first. Whether you are in the eastern provinces or exploring the Rockies in the west, Canada’s fall foliage is a sight to behold.
Here are some of the “peak” spots in Canada:
Algonquin Provincial Park, Ontario: One of the most famous spots for fall foliage, Algonquin Park offers a stunning display of autumn colors, particularly its sugar maples.
Rocky Mountains, Alberta: While the Rockies are better known for their evergreen forests, the golden larches that dot the landscape during fall, provide a unique and striking contrast against the snow-capped peaks.
Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia: The Cabot Trail on Cape Breton Island is one of the most scenic drives in the world, especially during the fall. The mix of coastal views, rolling hills and vibrant foliage makes this a must-visit destination.
Fundy National Park, New Brunswick: Located along the Bay of Fundy, this national park offers a stunning combination of fall colors and coastal scenery. The park’s forests turn brilliant shades of red and orange, contrasting with the rugged shoreline.
The Eastern Townships, Quebec: This region, located near the U.S. border, is known for its rolling hills, vineyards, and charming villages. During the fall, the landscape transforms into a kaleidoscope of colors, making it a popular spot for hiking, biking, and scenic drives.
2) Japan
Move over cherry blossom viewing during the spring! Known as “Koyo” by the Japanese, Japan’s fall color is also greatly celebrated by visitors from around the world.
The season typically starts in late September to early October in the northern region of Japan and the color ends in the southern areas around late November. English speakers call viewing fall foliage as “leaf peeping” while the Japanese call it Momijigaii. Even some Japanese maples are known to stay red throughout the year! Momijigaii all year round?
Here are some top fall locations in Japan:
Kamikochi, Nagano: Kamikochi is part of the Northern Japan Alps and is famous for its beautiful alpine scenery. In the fall, the valleys and mountainsides are covered in gold and red hues.
Kyoto: Kyoto is one of the most iconic places to experience fall foliage in Japan. The city’s historic temples, shrines and gardens are stunning during autumn. The mix of traditional architecture and vibrant leaves creates a magical atmosphere.
Mount Takao, Tokyo: Located just outside central Tokyo, Mount Takao is a popular day trip destination for both hiking and fall foliage. The trails leading up the mountain offer stunning views of the surrounding forests, which turn brilliant shades of red and orange.
Fujigoko (Fuji Five Lakes), Yamanashi: The areas around the Fuji Five Lakes offer stunning views of Mount Fuji framed by fall foliage. This is one of the best places to enjoy both the iconic mountain and the autumn colors.
Korankei Valley, Aichi: One of Japan’s most famous spots for autumn colors. The valley is known for its dense maple trees, which create a vivid display of reds and oranges.
1) United States of America
Cue Lee Greenwood’s “God Bless the USA”! How could Leaf Daddy, a patriotic American, pick any other country? The 2024 Summer Olympics may be over, but the U.S.A wins another Gold.
Starting with the tundra of the north slope of Alaska in mid-August to the swamps of south-central Florida in early December, there is no other country with such diverse fall color.
Leaf Daddy would love to point fall foliage lovers to view the golden Aspen trees in the Western Rockies, deep reds Dogwoods in the Midwest, shades of red and orange Maple trees in the Northeast and the dark red Shumard Oaks and various autumn colors Sweetgums in the Mid-Atlantic down to auburn orange Cypress trees in the deep South.
As there are too many to count in this publishment, I am saving the list of top areas in the United States for an article later this season, where I rank all 50 United States of America for best fall color. Peep you later!
Countries outside the top 5 but heavily considered: Scotland, Argentina, Czech Republic, Romania, France, Russia, China.