A quiet golden tunnel unfolds in autumn —at Manabi no Mori Promenade in Kakamigahara , Gifu, about 70 ginkgo trees welcome visitors. Stretching over 200 meters, this promenade offers scenery that resembles a painting against the backdrop of late autumn air.
This article introduces the charm of Manabi no Mori Promenade during the fall foliage season, along with practical tips for your visit. Whether you are traveling to Japan for the first time, exploring solo, or visiting with family, you will find helpful guidance for a comfortable stay.
Walking through the promenade that changes its expression with each season, you may feel inspired for your next journey. From tips on enjoying the autumn leaves to information for a safe visit, everything is carefully presented here.
Contents
Manabi no Mori Promenade｜Access Guide
Check the latest weather forecast before your visit: [weathernews ]
By Train
Nagoya Station
Take the Meitetsu Nagoya Main Line to “Shin-Unuma Station” (about 45 minutes)
Transfer to the Meitetsu Kakamigahara Line and get off at “Kakamigahara-Shiyakusho-mae Station” (about 15 minutes)
Walk about 2 minutes to the promenade
Total travel time: about 1 hour 10 minutes
Gifu Station
From Meitetsu Gifu Station, take the Meitetsu Kakamigahara Line and get off at “Kakamigahara-Shiyakusho-mae Station” (about 20 minutes)
Walk about 2 minutes to the promenade
Total travel time: about 25 minutes
Chubu Centrair International Airport Station (Centrair)
Take the Meitetsu Airport Line “μ-SKY Limited Express” to Meitetsu Nagoya Station (about 30 minutes)
Continue on the Meitetsu Nagoya Main Line to “Shin-Unuma Station” (about 45 minutes)
Transfer to the Meitetsu Kakamigahara Line and get off at “Kakamigahara-Shiyakusho-mae Station” (about 15 minutes)
Walk about 2 minutes to the promenade
Total travel time: about 1 hour 40 minutes
One Point Advice
Visitor Info｜Hours & Admission
Admission: Free
Hours: Open all day
Closed: The illumination period runs from 5:00 pm to around 10:00 pm.
Manabi no Mori Promenade｜Highlights & Itinerary
Golden Ginkgo Avenue｜Autumn Tunnel of Light
With about 70 ginkgo trees lined in a row, the promenade transforms into a golden tunnel in autumn . The wide path makes it easy to stroll, welcoming families and couples alike. The arch of trees changes in tone depending on the season and time of day—soft light in the morning and deep shadows in the evening. Every angle you capture on this Japanese promenade becomes a photo worth keeping, as if painted on canvas.
Duration: 20–30 minutes
Admission: Free
Winter Sonata Street｜Night Illumination
In winter, the promenade is known as “Fuyu-Sona Street,” with illuminations that create a magical atmosphere . The tree-lined path wrapped in lights is popular with couples, making this illumination a romantic highlight of Japanese autumn and winter travel. Lighting periods are set for the season, so checking official information beforehand is recommended.
Duration: 20 minutes
Admission: Free
Promenade & Café｜Relaxing Coffee Break
Right next to the promenade is “KAKAMIGAHARA STAND ,” a café popular among locals and travelers. Enjoying coffee by the window with sunlight filtering through the trees enhances the charm of your walk. Seasonal drinks and light meals with local ingredients make it a welcoming spot for those visiting the Japanese autumn foliage or winter illuminations.KAKAMIGAHARA STAND Official Website
Duration: 30–40 minutes
Cost: Food and drinks not included
Manabi no Mori Promenade｜Nearby & Next-day Trips
Kakamigahara City Park｜Lawn & Sculpture Walk
About 10 minutes on foot from the promenade, this park features wide lawns and playgrounds, making it family-friendly. Scattered sculptures allow you to enjoy art while strolling. After the autumn foliage, it is a popular place to experience both nature and culture in one visit.Kakamigahara Tourism Association Official Website
Inuyama Castle Town｜Historic Streets & Local Food
From Kakamigahara-Shiyakusho-mae Station, take the Meitetsu Line for about 30 minutes to reach the castle town of Inuyama , home to a National Treasure castle. Stone-paved streets are lined with shops where you can try local specialties such as gohei-mochi and mitarashi dango . Combining this visit with Japanese autumn foliage creates a fulfilling one-day itinerary of history and local food.
See also this article
Inuyama Castle｜Best Things to Do & Travel Tips
Standing quietly along the Kiso River, Inuyama Castle is a National Treasure and the oldest surviving wooden castle keep in Japan. From the top floor, visito…
Gifu Castle & Kawaramachi｜Historic Riverside Walk
For the following day, Gifu Castle atop Mt. Kinka and the historic Kawaramachi district at its base are recommended. From the promenade, you can reach the area in about 50–60 minutes by train and bus. Walking through Oda Nobunaga’s former stronghold, with the clear Nagara River as a backdrop, offers a memorable journey that contrasts with the autumn foliage.
See also this article
Explore Gifu Castle｜Top Guide to Views & History
Gifu Castle rises atop Mount Kinka and is known as a stage of the Sengoku period. From the summit, visitors can enjoy sweeping views of the Nōbi Plain, and o…
Manabi no Mori Promenade｜Travel Q&A
When is the best time to see the autumn leaves?
Mid to late November is usually the most beautiful, with the Japanese promenade glowing in gold.
How does the atmosphere change at night?
In autumn, the ginkgo trees glow under streetlights, while in winter, illuminations create a lively and festive scene.
Are there places to rest?
Benches and cafés are available along the promenade for short breaks.
What kind of clothing is recommended?
Since mornings and evenings can be chilly, bringing a light jacket or scarf in autumn is reassuring.
Are there any photography tips?
Tripods are allowed, but please avoid blocking pathways and always give priority to pedestrians.
Manabi no Mori Promenade｜Travel Summary
Manabi no Mori Promenade is cherished as a symbol of autumn in Kakamigahara , Gifu. The golden ginkgo avenue soothes the heart and creates special moments with friends and family.
The promenade is easily accessible, even for first-time visitors. Seasonal highlights such as Japanese autumn leaves and winter illuminations provide lasting memories captured in photos and in your heart.
Next, extend your trip to Inuyama Castle Town or Gifu Castle, where historical streets and landscapes await your discovery.
