Get Exclusive App Deals
  1. Home
  2. Japan
  3. Kyushu
  4. Saga
  5. Half-day/Full-day Tours
  6. 【Departing from Fukuoka】An Autumn Journey Captivated by Stunning Scenery: Day Tour to the Public Opening of Kunenan and Famous Autumn Foliage Spots
Product #765305
10
Autumn leaves of red reflect in the pond, a rustic Japanese building stands quietly in the forest.
Red maple leaves cover a traditional Japanese building with a courtyard, showcasing serene architecture and a tranquil garden setting.
Overlooking the pond, the view reflects autumn colors of maple forests and garden scenery.
Autumn garden scene with maple leaves and stone lanterns reflecting each other. A serene and beautiful autumn day in Japan.
Crimson leaves reflect in the water, mountain ridges accompany, autumn colors are captivating.

【Departing from Fukuoka】An Autumn Journey Captivated by Stunning Scenery: Day Tour to the Public Opening of Kunenan and Famous Autumn Foliage Spots

Japan-Kyushu , Saga , Nagasaki , Fukuoka
Booking confirmation: within 4 days before the departure
Duration:8 hour(s) 30 min(s)–9 hour(s)
Guided language: Japanese
Free cancellation 11 day(s) prior to experience date
Please present the e-voucher on-site
  • 【Confirmed Departure】Raizan Sennyoji Temple & Kunenan Plan: 11/17, 11/23, 11/29
  • 【Confirmed Departure】Jufukuji Temple & Kunenan Plan: 11/19, 11/21
  • Visit Daikozanji Temple, Raizan Sennyoji Temple, Jufukuji Temple & Kunenan, all dyed in autumn colors! Choose the plan that suits you best!
  • Guided tour to the autumn public opening of 'Kunenan'!
  • Lunch included in all plans!
[5% App discount] Code: APP5OFF , HK: APP15HK

Package Options

Details
Select a package to view details

Product Info

【Kunen-an】＜Autumn Public Opening Period＞ November 14 – November 29, 2026

Kunen-an, a nationally designated Place of Scenic Beauty known for its stunning autumn foliage, was originally the villa of Yataro Itami, a prominent businessman from Saga. The name originates from the fact that it took nine years to construct, starting in 1900, under the guidance of the Jodo Shinshu monk, Ajari. The Sukiya-style residence and the garden, which incorporates the scenery of the Chikushi Plain, are planted with azaleas and Japanese maples, creating a beautiful atmosphere with native trees and a carpet of cedar moss.

【Nakanokoji Guest House】＜Special Autumn Opening Period＞ (Typically late November / Scheduled)

Located in Saga City, Saga Prefecture, the Nakanokoji Guest House (former Governor's Residence) is a historic building where successive governors lived for 123 years, from the Meiji era to the Heisei era.

During the special autumn opening, the beautiful Japanese garden with its colorful maples and the charming, eclectic Japanese-Western style interior are open to the public.

【Daikozen-ji Temple】

Daikozen-ji Temple in Kiyama Town, Saga Prefecture, is one of Kyushu's premier autumn foliage spots, where approximately 500 to 1,500 maple trees paint the temple grounds and the Chigiri Garden in red from mid-November to early December each year. You can enjoy the beautiful contrast between the thatched-roof main hall and the autumn leaves.

【Raizan Sennyoji Temple】

Raizan Sennyoji Daihioin Temple in Itoshima City, Fukuoka Prefecture, is one of Fukuoka's leading autumn foliage spots, typically reaching its peak from mid to late November.

The temple is known for its approximately 400-year-old giant maple tree, a prefectural designated natural monument, and the roughly 200 maple trees on the grounds that turn vibrant colors, as well as the beautiful carpet of red fallen leaves.

【Jufuku-ji Temple】

At Jufuku-ji Temple in Sasebo City, Nagasaki Prefecture, a portion of the tatami mats in the main hall is removed and replaced with acrylic panels for a limited time in mid-November to display the 'inverted autumn leaves' reflected from the garden trees.

【Mifuneyama Rakuen】

Mifuneyama Rakuen in Takeo City, Saga Prefecture, is a nationally designated Place of Scenic Beauty featuring a pond-strolling garden spread across a vast 150,000-tsubo site.

In autumn, with the 210-meter-high cliffs of Mt. Mifune as a backdrop, a 170-year-old giant maple and about 500 other maple trees turn brilliant shades of red and yellow.

◆ Best Time for Autumn Foliage (Typical) ◆

・Kunen-an: Mid-November to late November *According to the Kanzaki City Tourism Association

・Daikozen-ji Temple: Mid-November to late December *According to Daikozen-ji Temple

・Raizan Sennyoji Temple: Early November to mid-November *According to the Itoshima City Tourism Association

・Jufuku-ji Temple: Mid-November to late November *According to Jufuku-ji Temple

・Mifuneyama Rakuen: Early November to early December *According to Mifuneyama Rakuen

*The best time for autumn foliage may vary depending on weather conditions.

Purchase Notice

[Travel conditions]

Departure point/Destination: Fukuoka/Saga/Nagasaki

Trip duration: Day trip

Transportation used: Chartered bus

Bus company operating the service: Showa Jidosha or a bus company operating in the Kyushu area (according to our company's standards)

Meal plan: Breakfast 0 times, Lunch 1 time, Dinner 0 times

Accommodation used: None

Minimum number of participants: 20

Tour guide: 1 (Guidance in Japanese)

Guide: 0

[Travel planning/execution]

Company Name: Hankyu Travel Co., Ltd., Kyushu Sales Headquarters, Media Sales Department 1

Address: 12th Floor, Denki Building Kyosokan, 2-1-82 Watanabe-dori, Chuo-ku, Fukuoka City, Fukuoka Prefecture 810-8589

Registration Number: Japan Tourism Agency Registered Travel Agency No. 1847 Affiliated Travel Industry Association: Japan Association of Travel Agents (JATA) Regular Member

[Consignment Sales]

KKDAY JAPAN Co., Ltd.

2nd Floor, WESTALL Yotsuya Building, 1-22-5 Yotsuya, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-0004, Japan

Registered Travel Agency No. 2045, Commissioner of the Japan Tourism Agency

Member organization: Japan Association of Travel Agents (JATA)

Reminders

  • A minimum of 20 traveler(s) are required for the tour to depart. If the number of participants does not reach the minimum requirement, the tour will be canceled. An email regarding tour cancellation will be sent 4 day(s) before the departure date

  • In the event of inclement weather such as typhoons or snowstorms, a decision on whether to cancel the tour will be made 1 day(s) before departure (local time 14:00). Notifications will then be sent via email

  • Meals are not included for children under the age of 6

  • This tour is primarily a local tour for Japanese tourists. While the tour guide will communicate in Japanese, necessary information will be provided in written form in English and Chinese. In case of emergencies, translation apps on tablet devices will be used.

  • The meeting time is based on Japan local time. At the meeting point, our staff will be waiting for you holding a 'Hankyu Travel' sign (board or flag). Please confirm the tour name and check in using the representative's name. Please note that check-in can only be completed once all members of your party have arrived. / The meeting time is based on Japan local time and must be strictly observed. If you do not arrive by the meeting time, we and the tour conductor will not contact you, and the tour will depart as scheduled.

  • This tour does not include a guide. The tour conductor will manage the tour itinerary (they will not act as a sightseeing guide). Tourist information leaflets and other materials distributed by the tour conductor will generally be in Japanese.

  • Depending on the number of participants, you may unfortunately be seated with other passengers on the bus or at the lunch venue, either sitting in front of or behind others. We appreciate your understanding.

  • Children aged 6 to under 12 are charged the same price as adults. Children aged 3 to under 6 will be provided with a bus seat. Other expenses such as meals and miscellaneous expenses incurred during the trip are not included.

  • On the day of departure, the bus company may change due to vehicle malfunction or the driver's health (we are not liable for changes due to these reasons).

  • The above schedule may be subject to change due to transportation issues (buses, etc.), weather, local conditions, road conditions, etc., including the itinerary, sightseeing locations, order of visits, meal details, and return time/location. The meeting time is in Japan Standard Time, and punctuality is required. Even if a customer does not appear at the meeting time, neither our company nor the tour guide will contact the customer, and the tour will depart as scheduled.

  • We are unable to accommodate individual requests such as changes to the meal menu. The menu may change depending on ingredient availability and other factors.

  • All photos are for illustrative purposes only. The timing of the autumn foliage may vary depending on weather conditions.

  • Raizan Sennyoji Temple/Kyūnen-an Plan: Each person will be served approximately 180g of squid. (Not one whole squid per person.) If squid cannot be procured due to weather or other reasons, the tour will be canceled or the menu will be changed to an alternative. In that case, we will contact you by the day before.

FAQ

1. What is Kunen-an, and what makes it a notable autumn foliage destination?

Kunen-an is a historic villa and garden in Saga Prefecture, Japan, renowned for its stunning autumn foliage. It is known for its moss garden meticulously cared for over nine years, which creates a vibrant green carpet beneath brilliant red and gold maple leaves during autumn. This breathtaking contrast makes it a particularly picturesque and sought-after destination for autumn leaf viewing.

2. When is the optimal season to experience autumn foliage at Kunen-an and other Saga locations?

The optimal season to experience autumn foliage in Saga, including Kunen-an, typically falls during late November. During this period, the leaves at Kunen-an, Daikōzenji, Raizan Sennyoji, and Jufukuji reach their peak vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows, offering spectacular views. It's advisable to visit during this specific window for the most breathtaking display.

3. What are the admission fees and visiting logistics for Kunen-an during its public opening?

Kunen-an is generally open to the public only for a limited period each autumn. Specific admission fees are required during this special public opening period to help maintain the historic site. Visitors usually follow a designated route through the garden to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for everyone, managing visitor flow to preserve the tranquil atmosphere.

4. Besides Kunen-an, what other recommended autumn foliage spots are included in this day tour, such as Daikōzenji, Raizan Sennyoji, and Jufukuji?

In addition to Kunen-an, this day tour highlights several other renowned autumn foliage spots. You will visit Daikōzenji, known for its vast temple grounds adorned with colorful leaves; Raizan Sennyoji, a beautiful temple offering serene views amidst autumn colors; and Jufukuji, another charming location that becomes vibrant with fall foliage. Each offers a unique perspective on Saga's autumn beauty.

5. How convenient is it to visit Kunen-an and other Saga autumn foliage sites without self-driving?

Visiting Kunen-an and other Saga autumn foliage sites without self-driving is highly convenient when joining a guided tour. A tour from Fukuoka, for instance, provides comfortable coach transportation, eliminating the need for personal vehicle navigation, parking, or deciphering public transport routes in unfamiliar areas. This allows visitors to fully enjoy the scenery without logistical stress. You can easily book such a convenient tour through KKday, which offers well-organized itineraries.

6. What unique experiences can be expected when visiting Daikōzenji, Raizan Sennyoji, and Jufukuji for autumn leaves?

When visiting Daikōzenji, Raizan Sennyoji, and Jufukuji, you can expect unique experiences amidst stunning autumn leaves. Daikōzenji offers expansive temple grounds for tranquil walks. Raizan Sennyoji provides a spiritual retreat with ancient trees bursting with color. Jufukuji is known for its picturesque settings. All these locations are famed for their breathtaking autumn displays, creating memorable photo opportunities and immersive cultural experiences.

7. What is the historical significance of Kunen-an, and why is its autumn public opening so special?

Kunen-an holds historical significance as a private villa and garden constructed over nine years (hence "Kunen-an"). It was built by a wealthy merchant and is celebrated for its traditional Japanese architecture and exquisite garden design. Its autumn public opening is special because it's the only time visitors can enter and appreciate the meticulously maintained garden and its harmonious blend of moss and vibrant autumn leaves.

8. Are meals provided during the autumn foliage day tour from Fukuoka that visits Kunen-an and other locations?

Yes, meals are provided during this autumn foliage day tour. The product features explicitly state that "All plans include lunch!" This ensures visitors can enjoy a hassle-free and satisfying meal as part of their experience, allowing them to focus entirely on the beautiful autumn scenery at Kunen-an, Daikōzenji, Raizan Sennyoji, and Jufukuji without needing to plan their own lunch arrangements.

Get Help

KKday Help Center