At a glance
Koshu Kaido Ginkgo Avenue in Hachioji stretches 4 kilometers with 763 ginkgo trees planted in 1929 to commemorate the Tama Mausoleum construction. This free, 24-hour accessible scenic spot offers spectacular golden foliage views in autumn and fresh green canopies in summer. Footbridges along the route provide ideal vantage points for photography without crossing traffic.
Photographs
Koshu Kaido Ginkgo Avenue
Stretching roughly four kilometers along Koshu Kaido from Oiwake Intersection to Takao Station, this magnificent avenue showcases 763 ginkgo trees planted from 1927 to 1929 in connection with the construction of Emperor Taisho’s mausoleum. The golden canopy during autumn transforms the street into one of Tokyo’s most spectacular seasonal displays, visible even from viewpoints on nearby Mount Takao. Multiple footbridges along the route provide elevated vantage points for photography and views along the tree-lined boulevard.
The Hachioji Ginkgo Festival takes place annually during the autumn foliage season, with the 2026 festival scheduled for November 21 and 22. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll from Nishi-Hachioji Station toward Takao Station, discovering small restaurants and cafes along the way. The avenue remains accessible year-round and offers free admission.
Beyond autumn’s golden spectacle, fresh green leaves in late spring and summer create a lush canopy providing shade along the sidewalks. The quieter atmosphere outside the festival period makes it an appealing alternative to more crowded Tokyo destinations, while the long, walkable route offers plenty of space to enjoy the scenery.
Seasonal and Event Highlights
- Late Spring to Summer: Fresh green ginkgo leaves form a leafy canopy along the avenue, though midsummer can be hot and humid for a four-kilometer walk.
- Autumn: The main seasonal highlight, when hundreds of ginkgo trees turn brilliant yellow, generally around November.
- Hachioji Ginkgo Festival: Held during the autumn foliage season with checkpoints, stalls and community events. The 2026 festival is scheduled for November 21 and 22.
Before you go
The Koshu Kaido Ginkgo Avenue is free to visit and accessible at any time, as the trees line a public road rather than a gated attraction. The route is mostly paved and straightforward to walk, although completing the full stretch requires comfortable footwear. Public toilets, cafés, convenience stores, and other facilities can be found around the stations and along parts of the route. Take care when photographing near traffic and crossings. Tripods are possible where they do not obstruct pedestrians, but they are best avoided in busy areas during the Hachioji Ginkgo Festival.
The ginkgo avenue is a public streetscape and is accessible 24 hours a day throughout the year, including weekends and public holidays. There are no regular closing days, although individual shops, cafés, and festival facilities follow their own schedules.
When to go
Visit during mid to late November when the 763 ginkgo trees reach peak autumn color, transforming the 4-kilometer avenue into a golden corridor. The annual Hachioji Ginkgo Festival takes place during this period, featuring food stalls and a stamp rally checkpoint walking tour from Oiwake Intersection to Takao Station. Weekday mornings offer quieter conditions for photography and leisurely walks along the tree-lined avenue. Weekend afternoons during the festival period become exceptionally crowded, though the atmosphere remains lively with local vendors and activities.
Public review summary
Visitors praise the spectacular golden autumn foliage along this 4-kilometer stretch, with many noting it offers a quieter alternative to Tokyos more crowded ginkgo spots. The annual Ginkgo Festival draws enthusiastic participation, though some mention crowds during peak season. Photography enthusiasts appreciate footbridge viewpoints, while a few note timing is crucial as leaves can fall quickly. Fresh green spring foliage also earns admiration for creating peaceful walks.
What you'll find here
Location & access
- DirectionsAddress
Japan, 〒193-0831 Tokyo, Hachioji, 23, 高尾町
- How to get there
By Public Transportation:
Nishi-Hachioji Station on the JR Chuo Line is a convenient starting point for walking the ginkgo-lined section of Koshu Kaido toward Takao. Takao Station is another convenient access point, allowing visitors to walk the avenue in the opposite direction.
By Car:
Koshu Kaido is accessible by car through western Hachioji, but there is no dedicated parking for the ginkgo avenue itself. Use nearby paid parking and explore on foot. Traffic and parking can become considerably busier during peak autumn foliage and the Hachioji Ginkgo Festival.
Common questions
What is the best season to visit Koshu Kaido Ginkgo Avenue?
Autumn is the best season to visit Koshu Kaido Ginkgo Avenue when the ginkgo trees turn brilliant golden yellow, typically in mid-November. The ginkgo festival is held during this period with food stalls and activities. However, the avenue is also beautiful in summer with fresh green leaves.
How long is the ginkgo tree-lined avenue in Hachioji?
The Koshu Kaido Ginkgo Avenue stretches approximately 4 kilometers from Oiwake Intersection to Takao Station intersection. About 763 ginkgo trees line both sides of the road. Visitors typically spend around 1 hour exploring, though walking the entire length takes longer.
Is there an admission fee for Koshu Kaido Ginkgo Avenue?
No, there is no admission fee to visit Koshu Kaido Ginkgo Avenue. The avenue is open 24 hours daily and accessible year-round. During the annual Ginkgo Festival in November, there may be a small participation fee for special activities like the stamp rally.
Can I view the ginkgo trees from a footbridge?
Yes, several footbridges along Koshu Kaido Ginkgo Avenue offer excellent viewing points. These elevated positions provide safe, unobstructed views of the tree-lined street stretching in both directions. The footbridges are popular spots for photography, especially during autumn foliage season.
How do I get to Koshu Kaido Ginkgo Avenue from central Tokyo?
Take the JR Chuo Line from central Tokyo to either Nishi-Hachioji Station or Takao Station in Hachioji City. The ginkgo avenue runs along Koshu Kaido between these two stations. From Nishi-Hachioji Station north exit, the ginkgo trees are visible within a 10-minute walk.
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