Enjoy autumn in Futtsu at the Yamanaka Maple Festival, with a weekend rest area to look forward to

Late-autumn colors along the Shikoma River

Momiji Road follows Prefectural Route 182 (Uehata-Minato Line) beside the Shikoma River for about 10 km. Around 1,000 maple trees line the route, which is described as a place to enjoy vivid autumn leaves in the dappled light of late fall. Rather than a single viewing spot, the scenery unfolds along the road.

The autumn leaves are usually at their best from late November to early December, with the colors beginning to change around mid-November. The 2026 Yamanaka Maple Festival dates fall within this period. Whether you are visiting for the foliage or the festival, it may help to choose your date based on the scenery you want to see and how you would like to spend time at the venue.

Iroha maples and ginkgo trees are among the trees noted for their autumn colors along Momiji Road. Yamanaka Community Center is the festival venue, while Momiji Road runs alongside the Shikoma River. Allow time both to take a break at the venue and to enjoy the scenery along the road, so you can plan your visit around what interests you.

For scenery a little later in the season, Jizodo Falls, midway along Momiji Road, is said to be at its best for autumn leaves in mid-December. This is after the festival dates, so if you would also like to visit the falls, consider it separately from the event schedule.

Prefectural Route 182 is relatively wide in the north, while some sections to the south are narrow. Take care around pedestrians and passing vehicles as you enjoy the scenery along the road.

A free rest area and seasonal treats on weekends and public holidays

A free rest area and food trucks are planned for weekends and public holidays during the festival. Roasted sweet potatoes, mochi and tonjiru pork soup are also expected to be on sale, giving you the option to take a break at the venue or sample seasonal treats after enjoying the autumn colors.

Admission to the event is free. Roasted sweet potatoes, mochi and tonjiru pork soup, however, are listed as items expected to be on sale. As individual prices are not provided, budget separately for any food and drink you plan to buy.

If you are looking forward to the rest area or food stalls, consider visiting on a weekend or public holiday during the festival. The venue is Yamanaka Community Center in Yamanaka, Futtsu, Chiba Prefecture. Decide whether you are mainly interested in the scenery along Momiji Road or would also like to enjoy a break and food at the venue, then check the location on a map before setting out.