Tohoku Travel – Mt. Kurikoma: Japan’s “Carpet of the Gods”

Every autumn, the slopes of Mt. Kurikoma in Kurihara, Miyagi Prefecture, transform into a breathtaking tapestry of red, orange, yellow, and green. Known as the “Carpet of the Gods,” this spectacular mountain landscape is one of Tohoku’s most beautiful autumn foliage destinations.

Photographed on October 8, 2026, the mountain reveals the extraordinary colors that make autumn in northern Japan so special.

Why Is Mt. Kurikoma Called the “Carpet of the Gods”?

Rising 1,626 meters above sea level, Mt. Kurikoma spans Miyagi, Iwate, and Akita prefectures in the Tohoku region of northern Japan.

Unlike mountains covered by a single dominant color, Mt. Kurikoma displays a remarkable variety of autumn shades. Japanese maples, mountain ash, and other deciduous trees turn the slopes into a natural mosaic of crimson, golden yellow, vivid orange, and deep green.

Viewed from the hiking trails, these colors spread across the mountain like an enormous woven carpet. The breathtaking panorama has earned Mt. Kurikoma its poetic nickname, the “Carpet of the Gods.”

It is a spectacular reminder of the beauty of Japan’s changing seasons.

Experience the Beauty of Autumn in Tohoku

The autumn foliage season is one of the best times to explore the mountains of Tohoku.

Mt. Kurikoma offers several hiking routes, allowing visitors to enjoy its colorful landscapes from different perspectives. The central trail from Iwakagami-daira on the Miyagi side is particularly popular for its beautiful views of the autumn foliage.

On clear days, the summit offers sweeping panoramas across the surrounding mountains. Along the way, hikers can stop to admire the extraordinary gradients of color covering the slopes.

The best viewing period varies with elevation and weather, but the colors typically begin in late September and continue into October.

Discover Rural Japan Beyond the Famous Tourist Destinations

While many international visitors head to Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, the Tohoku region offers a different kind of Japanese travel experience.

Here, dramatic mountain scenery, quiet rural communities, hot springs, and seasonal traditions remain closely connected to everyday life.

Mt. Kurikoma is a perfect destination for travelers who want to experience Japan’s natural beauty away from the busiest tourist routes. It can also be combined with visits to local hot springs and other attractions in the wider Tohoku region.

Autumn is a wonderful time to discover this less familiar side of Japan.

Discover Autumn in Fukushima and Tohoku with Deep Japan Tours

From spectacular mountain foliage to traditional festivals, historic towns, and relaxing hot springs, northern Japan offers unforgettable experiences in every season.

The “Carpet of the Gods” at Mt. Kurikoma is one of autumn’s most impressive sights—a landscape that deserves to be experienced in person.

Planning an autumn trip to Japan? Discover the season’s hidden gems with Deep Japan Tours. We help travelers explore beyond the usual tourist routes and experience the landscapes, traditions, and local culture that make this region so special.

Come and discover another Japan.

Location: Mt. Kurikoma, Kurihara City, Miyagi Prefecture, Japan
Photo: October 8, 2026