Tucked away in a quiet pocket of Niigata and Nagano prefecures, the area known collectively as ‘Akiyamago’ is a group of villages set among the beautiful forests surrounding the Nakatsugawa River. Best explored by car, October and November see the arrival of the stunning autumn leaves – the ideal time to enjoy Akiyamago. The views are truly beautiful with walking trails, forest bridges and secret hot springs to keep enticing you onward.

There are plenty of accommodation options in the area, so go slow and enjoy one of Central Japan’s best autumn destinations.