“Seasons are the manifestation of the passage of time” – Diane Durston, Curator Emerita
In Japan, the transition of seasons is revered for their impermanence. The fleeting nature of Japanese maples reaching peak color only heightens the anticipation of fall. Throughout this season, the Garden is active as the lush, full, and matured trees from the summer transform into their autumn splendor, revealing brilliant shades of red and gold.
While factors like temperature, light, and water all affect the onset and duration of fall colors, visitors will start to see the transformation throughout the month of October. Check back often as we’ll be sharing frequent updates on the status of fall colors at Portland Japanese Garden!
STATUS UPDATE (November 4, 2020): Peak fall color has arrived, and our Japanese maples are showing their iconic red-orange hues. Fall foliage is fleeting, so we hope you can take time for yourself to capture the colors soon.
Attention Photographer Members: To help provide a safe environment for all during our pandemic, we have updated our guidelines on photography at our famous Japanese maple tree. Only two photographers will be allowed within the area at a time and each photographer is allowed 15 minutes max.
Resources for Enjoying Fall Colors
Photo Galleries
November 4, 2020
October 28, 2020
October 21, 2020
October 14, 2020
October 7, 2020
September 30, 2020
Videos
KGW News
KGW NewsKGW spotlights fall color and the significance of seasonal change at Portland Japanese Garden in 2019.
The Register-Guard
The Register-GuardThis segment highlights the serenity of the fall season with soothing music and beautiful captures of fall color.
Portland Japanese Garden, Fall Splendor Timelapse
See the Garden transform before your eyes with this timelapse of stunning foliage.
Autumn at the Portland Japanese Garden: an HDSerenescapes production
Autumn at the Portland Japanese Garden: an HDSerenescapes productionSee the Garden’s most iconic views transformed from verdant summer foliage to vibrant, warm hues.
Best Places for Fall Colors
Planning a road trip to admire fall foliage in the Pacific Northwest? Find your guides for local or regional fall-focused excursions.
Travel Oregon
Travel OregonGuide to Fall Foliage in Oregon
Thrillist
ThrillistThe Most Beautiful Fall Foliage Within Driving Distance of Portland
Travel Portland
Travel PortlandPortland’s Best Spots for Fall Color
Photographer Membership
Portland Japanese Garden Photographer Memberships are designed especially for professional and amateur photographers and include all the benefits of membership, including invitations to special Photographer Member hours, permission to sell photographs of the Garden for commercial, advertising, or promotional purposes, and more! Learn about the value of these photo memberships ahead of this picturesque seasonal time.