When is the best time to see autumn colors at Tsutsumori Momiji-dani Valley?

The peak autumn foliage season runs from late November to early December, making it one of the last places in the Kanto region to experience fall colors. This later timing distinguishes it from most other autumn leaf spots in Japan, which typically peak earlier in November.

How do I get to Tsutsumori Momiji-dani Valley by public transportation?

Take the Kominato Railway from Goi Station to either Yoro-Keikoku Station or Kazusa-Nakano Station. During autumn season weekends and national holidays, the Boso Satoyama GO bus operates from the station to Tsutsumori Momiji Valley bus stop, taking approximately 8 minutes. Alternatively, take a bus to Oikawa stop and walk 45 minutes. Note that IC cards like Suica and PASMO cannot be used on the Kominato Railway, so you must purchase paper tickets.

How difficult is the walk through the valley?

The walking trail extends approximately 1 kilometer from the entrance through the valley. The path follows alongside a mountain stream with views of waterfalls and rugged terrain. The temperature drops noticeably as you walk deeper into the valley, and the surrounding cliffs are densely covered with large trees. The walk is manageable for most visitors but requires reasonable mobility to navigate the mountain trail.

Tsutsumori Momijidani Valley, Otaki

Q: Can I drive to Tsutsumori Momiji-dani Valley?

Yes, the valley is located approximately 30 minutes from the Ken-O Expressway Ichihara-Tsurumai Interchange. However, be aware that the access road is extremely narrow with many sections where two vehicles cannot pass simultaneously. Parking is available for 20 cars. Due to the challenging road conditions, first-time visitors may find it difficult to locate and reach the valley.

3.8 (93)Tourist AttractionPoint Of InterestEstablishment

Last updated Aug 19, 2026

Tsutsumori Momiji-dani Valley is a secluded autumn foliage destination located in the Yoro Valley area of Otaki Town, Chiba Prefecture. The valley earned its name from the striking crimson maple trees that blanket the landscape during peak season, transforming the entire valley into what appears to be a sea of red fire. This relatively unknown spot is considered sacred ground among local autumn leaf enthusiasts and ranks among the Eight Scenic Sights of Yoro, alongside historic landmarks such as Shussei Kannon, Kannon Bridge, and Kobundo Cave Site.

The valley sits approximately 1 kilometer along a narrow mountain road from National Route 465 in the Tsutsumori area, with Japanese maple trees, Chinese lacquer trees, and beech lining both sides of the route. The remoteness and difficult access have helped preserve its natural beauty, making it a hidden gem that rewards those willing to venture off the beaten path. The site is described as difficult to reach for first-time visitors but offers autumn scenery known primarily to locals.

Visitors experience a walking trail that extends through the valley, following alongside a clear mountain stream with views of waterfalls and rugged terrain. The approximately 1-kilometer walk from the entrance features maple leaf decorations on bridge guardrails and provides increasingly dramatic views as the path progresses deeper into the valley. The temperature noticeably drops as visitors walk further into the valley, where large trees grow thickly around the surrounding cliffs. At the summit, local vendors traditionally sell roasted sweet potatoes as a warming treat for hikers.

Access requires taking the Kominato Railway to Yoro-Keikoku Station or Kazusa-Nakano Station from Goi Station (which connects to Tokyo via the Sobu and Uchibo lines through Chiba Station). During autumn season, the Boso Satoyama GO bus operates on weekends and national holidays, taking approximately 8 minutes from the station to Tsutsumori Momiji Valley bus stop.

Visitors can take a bus to Oikawa bus stop and walk 45 minutes to reach the valley. By car, the valley is located approximately 30 minutes from the Ken-O Expressway Ichihara-Tsurumai Interchange, though drivers should note that the access road is extremely narrow with many sections where two vehicles cannot pass simultaneously. Parking is available for 20 cars. There is no admission fee to visit the valley. Note that IC cards like Suica and PASMO cannot be used on the Kominato Railway, so paper tickets must be purchased.

Traveler reviews

Beautiful area! had some japanese snacks in the nearby rest area. Then took a nice stroll around the place. There are several places that you can visit please collect the information from the local tourist center. And they also have a free parking area.

anika suki (anika_suki)

Dec 9, 2023

There's a parking lot, too! The road is quite narrow along the way, and you might wonder if it's safe to continue on this path, but don't worry, you'll find the Tsutsumori Momiji Valley Parking Lot just before the dead-end sign...☺️ There's also a parking space along the river about 200 meters before the Tsutsumori Momiji Valley Parking Lot. There's also a mobile food truck there, so if you're lucky, you might be able to buy some roasted sweet potatoes. There are two simple restrooms at the Tsutsumori Momiji Valley Parking Lot and one just before it. *From here, it's best to climb a little past the dead-end sign and view the autumn leaves 🍁 at the parking lot, perfect for Instagram photos. I don't recommend continuing up the dead-end road. I went partway, but didn't find anything Instagrammable.💦 The road is narrow, so you'll need to yield to oncoming traffic. Also, there are no trash cans, so please be considerate and take your trash with you. Management G-52

As everyone has written, the road is narrow, so you need to be careful of oncoming vehicles. I asked a local person and they said that the leaves are changing color about two weeks earlier than usual this year. If you're careful, you can descend to the valley below.

Visited on November 24, 2025. This is a little-known spot to see the autumn leaves. There is parking for about 20 cars at the back, and including the roadside, it looks like it can accommodate about 50 cars. However, the road is narrow and there are many places where it is difficult to pass other cars, so please be careful if you are driving a large car. I think the autumn leaves are most beautiful around the parking lot at the back.

A hidden gem for viewing autumn leaves, very beautiful! However, the road is narrow and it is difficult to pass oncoming vehicles. There are portable toilets and a local farmer's product sales.