Registered as a National Treasure of Japan, Matsumoto Castle's black walls and roofs are particularly striking against a bright blue autumn sky. Its beauty is accentuated by the surrounding red leaves, which reflect in the waters of the castle moat. Matsumoto Castle is one of the best-recognized of Japan's 12 original construction castles, and the nearest one to Tokyo.

Best Time for Autumn Colors: Late October to early November

Also known as Tsuruga Castle, Aizu-Wakamatsu Castle is surrounded by gardens where you can see the trees changing colors from every angle. The stunning scene is illuminated at night from late October to mid-November.

Best Time for Autumn Colors: Late October to mid-November

Registered as a National Treasure, Hikone Castle is one of Japan's 12 remaining original-construction castles. The castle is clearly visible above nearby Genkyu-en Garden, which takes on beautiful shades of red and orange in the fall, along with stunning nighttime illumination.

Best Time for Autumn Colors: Late November to early December

Another of Japan's 12 original-construction castles, Matsue Castle's swooping roofs are said to resemble a bird in flight, giving it the nickname Plover Castle, or "Chidori-jo." Trees can be found changing color in the surrounding gardens and along the extensive moats beyond, which you can tour in a cruise on a little boat.

Best Time for Autumn Colors: Mid to late November

Okayama Castle's unique black walls have given it the nickname Crow Castle, or "U-jo." It takes on special beauty in the fall when surrounded by red and orange leaves under a clear blue sky. Be sure to head to neighboring Okayama Korakuen Garden, one of the Three Great Gardens of Japan, for an especially stunning view.

Best Time for Autumn Colors: Mid to late November