Yabakei Gorge Autumn Leaves 2026
Last updated: July 28, 2026. Typical viewing times and details below are compiled from official park, temple, city and tourism-association websites (linked at the end of this page). The dates of annual night light-ups are set each year — check the official site before you travel.
One of Japan's three great autumn-foliage destinations, Yabakei's dramatic volcanic rock gorges and river valleys turn brilliant shades of red and gold, with maples framing landmarks such as the Ichimoku-Hakkei viewpoint and the moss-covered Goryo Shrine approach.
Key Facts
| Typical peak | Mid to late November |
|---|---|
| Best months | November |
| Location | Nakatsu, Oita |
| Nearest station | JR Nakatsu Station (Nippo Main Line) is the regional gateway, but the gorge spots lie well inland and require onward driving or a bus/tour. |
| Admission | The Yabakei scenic areas and viewpoints (including Ichimoku-Hakkei and Goryo Momiji) are free to visit; some parking areas may charge a fee. |
| Night light-up | No autumn night light-up |
| Official site | https://nakatsuyaba.com/ |
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Highlights
- Ichimoku-Hakkei (One View, Eight Sights) at Shin-Yabakei, where towering rock pinnacles are wrapped in autumn color
- Goryo Momiji, a hidden gem where maples flank the moss-covered stone steps leading up to Goryo Shrine
- The historic Ao-no-Domon hand-carved tunnel and Keiseki-en garden set among the crimson valley
Where to See the Autumn Leaves
Ichimoku-Hakkei Viewpoint (Shin-Yabakei) (Free)
A panoramic lookout at Shin-Yabakei where eight jagged rock peaks can be taken in at a single glance, spectacular when draped in autumn foliage.
In the Shin-Yabakei (Fukayabakei) area of Yabakei-machi, Nakatsu; reached by car, with roadside parking and the Yabakei-machi rest areas nearby.
Goryo Momiji (Goryo Shrine approach) (Free)
A quiet, photographer-favorite spot where the maples lining both sides of the moss-covered stone stairway to Goryo Shrine glow deep red and carpet the ground with fallen leaves.
At Toppara, Yabakei-machi, Nakatsu, reached by car.
Getting There
In the Yabakei area west of central Nakatsu, Oita Prefecture; the scenic spots are spread along the valley and are best reached by car (roughly one to one-and-a-half hours from central Nakatsu depending on the spot). Public transport is limited, so a rental car or tour is recommended.
Crowd & Timing Tips
- Weekends at the peak of mid-to-late November draw the biggest crowds and traffic to Ichimoku-Hakkei; arrive early in the day for parking and quieter photos.
- The valley is spread out, so plan a driving route between spots rather than expecting to walk between them.
About Yabakei Gorge
Local tradition holds that a villager, Hiraoka Tojiro, and others grafted several maple varieties onto a tree at Goryo Shrine, giving rise to the Goryo Momiji.
See more autumn-leaf spots: Kyushu Autumn Leaves 2026 · Japan Autumn Leaves Guide 2026