When is the best time to visit Momiji Park for autumn foliage?

Mid-October to early November, with peak colors typically in late October. The park also offers cherry blossoms from mid to late April. Evening illuminations occur during autumn peak season.

What else can I see besides the autumn leaves?

Yamagata Castle stone walls and moat remnants from the Edo period, over 1,500 cherry trees, the Suganozawa River, a suspension bridge, and several historical monuments and shrines.

Are there parking facilities at Momiji Park?

Limited parking is available but fills quickly during autumn season. Public transportation is recommended, especially during peak viewing times in late October and early November.

Are there facilities like restrooms and food vendors in the park?

Public restrooms are available within the park. Food vendors and stalls typically operate during peak autumn and spring seasons, though permanent facilities are limited. Visitors should plan accordingly for off-peak visits.

Saitama

Momiji Park

3.6 (100)ParkTourist AttractionPoint Of InterestEstablishment

Last updated Mar 6, 2026

Momiji Park, located in Yamagata City, is one of northern Japan's most celebrated autumn foliage destinations, drawing visitors primarily between mid-October and early November when its maples reach peak color. The park encompasses approximately 25,000 square meters and contains over 1,000 maple trees, predominantly Japanese maples that transform into brilliant shades of crimson and gold during fall.

The park was established in 1913 during the Taisho period as a public recreational space, though the area has historical significance dating back to the Edo period when it served as grounds for Yamagata Castle. The surviving stone walls and moat remnants visible throughout the park connect visitors to this feudal heritage. The park's name, Momiji, translates directly to "maple" or "autumn leaves," reflecting its primary purpose as a seasonal viewing destination.

Beyond autumn, the park offers year-round appeal with approximately 1,500 cherry trees that bloom in spring, typically from mid to late April. The park features walking paths that wind along the Suganozawa River, creating scenic waterside views particularly popular during the autumn illumination events when the trees are lit after dark. A suspension bridge provides an elevated vantage point for photography. The park also houses several monuments and small shrines that commemorate local history.

Momiji Park is accessible from Yamagata Station via a 15-minute bus ride on the Zao Line, alighting at the Kajomae stop. The park is also reachable by foot in approximately 30 minutes from the station. Admission to the park is free throughout the year, though special events during peak autumn season may have associated costs.

Phone

+81 48-838-1111

Website

www.city.saitama.jp

Overview

Address

3 Chome-30 Minamiurawa, Minami Ward, Saitama, 336-0017, Japan

Frequently Asked Questions

Traveler reviews

It's a park. Also has toilets.

George Ianuş

Nov 8, 2017

Despite being called "Maple Park," there are only a handful of maple trees. However, the zelkova trees and other trees in the park were beautifully colored with autumn leaves. There's a statue of Urawa Reds' mascot, "Redia." The public toilets shaped like pencils are interesting.

This small park is incredibly elaborate. The playground equipment includes a large slide and an octopus-shaped see-saw? There's even a Reds mascot at the entrance, and even a toilet design. There are lanterns and a sign saying there's parking for two cars. Under the cherry blossoms in full bloom, kindergarteners, children, and local residents were eating and playing. It's the most wonderful time of the year!

The cherry blossoms are beautiful in the spring. The playground equipment and sandbox have been replaced in the last two or three years. The benches were also replaced in 2022.

It has been open since March 25th. There are two slides, and the longer one has the type with a black board-like surface that is common these days.