Tohoku peaks 2–3 weeks before Tokyo or Kyoto — mid-to-late October up in the mountains, early November once it drops to sea level.
The pattern: color moves north-to-south and high-to-low. Start at Hachimantai and Naruko Gorge in late September, then chase it downhill toward Sendai, Matsushima, and Yamadera through October into early November.
Base yourself in Sendai — it’s the only shinkansen stop in the region, putting everything else within a day trip.
One thing that actually matters: hit Naruko Gorge on a weekday. Weekends mean 45+ minute waits for the ropeway.
Want the exact week to go this year? → Read the full timing guide