Three things to sort out early: timing, good shoes and your visa.
- Timing: the red leaves peak around 15 November – 5 December. Tokyo's yellow ginkgo leaves are brightest in late November.
- Clothing: expect 12,000–15,000 steps a day, so bring comfortable trainers. Evenings are 8–15°C, so pack thermal layers.
- Visa: apply 1.5–2 months ahead so you can still catch good airfares.