Take a day trip to Mt. Ontake to enjoy the autumn foliage in the sky.
Ontake is a famous spot for autumn foliage, surrounded by nature and tranquility so rich that it is hard to believe that it is located in Tokyo. The entire 900-meter-high mountain turns red and yellow, and the colors stand out even more vividly in the clear air. As you get off the cable car and walk along the approach to the temple, you will see overlapping maple trees and maples, and walking in the sunlight through the trees is like walking through a tunnel of light. At the Musashi Ontake Shrine** located at the top of the mountain, the beautiful contrast between the vermilion shrine pavilions and the autumn leaves makes you want to stop and point your camera at the scenery. The best time to visit is from late October to mid-November. In the crisp morning air, the hustle and bustle of daily life naturally fades away as you gaze at the golden mountains, and you can feel your mind becoming more relaxed. A day trip from the center of Tokyo is a great way to enjoy “autumn foliage in the sky. Ontake is a spectacular sight that must be visited at least once in autumn.
Key points for photography
The key to taking photographs is to aim for early morning hours, with clear air and soft oblique light to bring out the coloring of the autumn leaves. On the approach to the shrine, be aware of depth by placing the line of stone pavement in the foreground, and wait for the moment when the sun shines through the trees to create a three-dimensional effect. Near the summit of the mountain, combine the vermilion shrine pavilion of Musashi-Ontake Shrine with the autumn leaves and shoot slightly backlit to emphasize the translucency of the leaves and the contrast of colors. On sunny days, it is effective to use a blue sky as a background; on cloudy days, it is also effective to suppress the exposure to bring out the depth of color.
Best viewing and photography timing
Best Season
秋
Recommended times
昼
Access & Basic Information (Check Before Shooting)
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Address | Mitakeyama, Ome City, Tokyo |
| subject | leaves changing color (colour) |
| Admission fee | None |
| Admission Time | None |
| Parking lot | Yes |
| Restroom | Yes |
