Autumn Leaves at Asaina Kiridoshi Pass (朝夷奈切通)
Discover the Autumn Leaves at Asaina Kiridoshi Pass (朝夷奈切通)
Asaina Kiridoshi Pass, located on the border between Kamakura and Yokohama, is a hidden autumn gem blending medieval history with natural beauty. One of the “Seven Entrances of Kamakura,” this path was carved through the mountains in the mid-13th century and is now a nationally designated historic site.
Along the stone path, red and orange maples and golden ginkgo trees color the valley. In late autumn, sunlight filtering through the trees creates a glowing tunnel of color — especially around Saburo Falls and the hillside leading toward Junisho Orchard, where the forest radiates soft, warm light.
When Is the Best Time to Visit?
The best time to see autumn leaves at Asaina Kiridoshi is from late November to mid-December. The colors here peak slightly later than in central Kamakura, allowing visitors to enjoy vibrant foliage well into early winter.
From around 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., sunlight streaming between the trees highlights the reds and yellows, revealing a three-dimensional beauty unique to this natural corridor.
Photo Highlights and Must-See Spots
A highlight of the trail is Saburo Falls, associated with the warrior Asaina Saburo Yoshihide (朝夷奈三郎義秀), who is said to have cut the pass through the mountain in a single night. Here, water, rock, and flame-colored leaves create a mystical atmosphere perfect for photography.
Midway along the route lies Kumano Shrine (熊野神社), where three ginkgo trees and a large camphor tree are designated as famous old trees of Yokohama. In late autumn, the shrine glows in gold, offering a peaceful spot for rest and reflection.
Other attractions include Buddhist rock carvings and Kajiwara Tachiaraimizu (梶原太刀洗水), a legendary spring — all enhanced by the colors of the season.
Embrace the Quiet Hours of Morning
Separated from the busy city, Asaina Kiridoshi offers remarkable calm in the morning hours. Walking beneath crimson and yellow canopies while listening to birds and rustling leaves is a meditative experience.
Even after mid-December, fallen leaves paint the trail floor, giving the rocky path a soft golden-red glow.
How to Get There from Tosh’s Place (トシズプレイス)
From Kamakura Station, take a bus to either “Junisho Jinja” or “Asahina” and walk to the trailhead. The western (Kamakura) approach is mostly uphill and can be slippery due to flowing spring water — sturdy, waterproof shoes are recommended.
Guests at Tosh’s Place can enjoy an early-morning hike before breakfast, taking advantage of the self-catering, fully automated stay to explore at their own pace.
Combining this hike with nearby temples like Hokoku-ji Temple (報国寺) or Zuisen-ji Temple (瑞泉寺) makes for a perfect autumn itinerary.
Wrap-Up: A Local Way to Experience Kamakura’s Autumn
At Asaina Kiridoshi Pass, travelers walk through history surrounded by vibrant maples and golden ginkgo trees. This trail unites nature, legend, and silence — offering a deeply Kamakura-style experience of autumn.
By staying at Tosh’s Place, you can plan a relaxed, unhurried visit and discover the serene and colorful essence of Kamakura’s late autumn at your own rhythm.
Evaluation of Asaina Kiridoshi (Asaina Pass) for autumn foliage viewing, based on five criteria:
| Criteria | Score | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Scenery | 8 | The harmony of the historical pass with colored leaves creates a beautiful landscape with tunnels of foliage and carpets of fallen leaves. The colors lean toward oranges and yellows; photo opportunities are abundant but not overwhelmingly dramatic. |
| Accessibility | 7 | About 15 minutes from Kamakura Station by bus and on foot; the approach includes a mountain path and simple signage. Still manageable for most visitors. |
| Historical Value | 10 | Nationally designated historic site, one of Kamakura’s Seven Entrances. Exceptionally high historical significance. |
| Comfort | 8 | Few crowds and peaceful atmosphere. The mountain path is natural and facilities are sparse, but the quiet setting allows for a relaxing stroll. |
| Reviews | 7 | Average online ratings around 4.4. Praised as a “hidden autumn spot” and for its tranquility. |
Total Score: 40
A tranquil spot where nature and history blend beautifully. While it requires some walking to access, visitors can enjoy leisurely autumn leaf viewing in a peaceful, less-crowded setting with favorable reviews.