The biggest mistake is assuming the leaves look the same everywhere. The colours start in the mountains and the north (Hokkaido from September) and only reach Tokyo and Kyoto in November to early December, with each place peaking for just 1–2 weeks. Check the Koyo Forecast map before fixing your dates.
- Getting up late: go very early for good photos and fewer people. By 10:00 it's already crowded.
- Missing the night leaves: many traditional gardens such as Rikugien (Tokyo) have beautiful evening light-ups.
- Over-packing your days: leaf spots are often large temple grounds or out of town, so choose just 2–3 places a day.
- Underestimating the weather: evenings and mountain areas such as Lake Kawaguchiko and Nikko are much colder than daytime. Bring warm layers and comfortable trainers, as you may walk around 20,000 steps a day.
Note: Don't break branches, pick leaves or trample fallen leaves for photos. Japanese people care deeply about protecting their scenery.