From Tokyo: 2-Day Korankei Maples Customizable Tour

Korankei Gorge in Toyota city, Aichi, is one of the best places for autumn leaves in central Japan. About 4,000 maple trees line the Tomoe River. The red Taigetsukyo bridge crosses the water, and in the evening the trees are lit up, with the colours shining on the river.

Next to the gorge is Asuke, an old post town on the salt road. Its narrow lanes have white walls, wooden houses and old shops.

At the Sanshu Asuke Yashiki craft village, local people still work in the old ways: making charcoal, weaving baskets, dyeing cloth and making paper umbrellas. You try a hands-on craft workshop. Entry and the workshop are included.

On Day 2 we visit Obara, where shikizakura cherry trees bloom in autumn. In late November you can see pink blossoms next to red maple leaves.

You book your own hotel near Toyota or in Nagoya. Korankei is busy in November, and your guide knows the best times to visit.

This is a private tour. Only your group. One family or group of 1 to 6 people per van, never shared with strangers. Your driver-guide speaks English, and also Hindi and Urdu.

If the Korankei autumn light-up is closed or cancelled on your date, you can take a full refund of your booking, guaranteed. If you prefer, we can instead visit Korankei Gorge in daylight, walk the Asuke old town and the Obara autumn cherry blossoms.

DAY 1 Hotel pickup in Tokyo and drive to Asuke (about 4.5 hours). Sanshu Asuke Yashiki craft workshop, the Asuke old town, then Korankei Gorge and the evening light-up.

DAY 2 Morning walk at Korankei, the Obara autumn cherry blossoms, and the drive back to your Tokyo hotel.