Autumn Colors

Autumn Updates

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Eastern Kyoto

Sennyu-ji Temple

Sennyu-ji Temple stands quietly surrounded by trees. The autumn colors in Gozasho Garden, which is filled with graceful emotion, appear relatively early for Kyoto City, and the colors are widely known for their vividness. Although it is not large, as you walk along the corridor, the garden opens up before you.

Address:

27 Sennyu-ji Yamanouchi-cho, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture

Hours:

9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
*Until 4:00 p.m. from December through February.

URL:

http://www.mitera.org/ – Japanese
Kiyomizu-dera Temple

In the season of autumn tints, the entire precinct of Kiyomizu-dera Temple is colored red and yellow. A ravine known as Kinunkei beneath the veranda of Kiyomizu-dera Temple is filled with a sea of autumnal colors. Evening illumination is provided on some days.

Address:

1-294 Kiyomizu, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture

Hours:

Varies throughout the year. When there are special openings at night, the gates close for a short time and open again.
See here for more details:
http://www.kiyomizudera.or.jp/en/location/#OpenHours

URL:

http://www.kiyomizudera.or.jp/en/
Kodai-ji Temple

The chisen kaiyu-style garden has a pond with autumn trees planted around it. During the fall leaf season, the area is lit up, creating a magical atmosphere with the bright colors of trees reflected in the pond.

Address:

526 Kodai-ji Shimokawara-cho , Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture

Hours:

9:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
*Last entry is 5:00 p.m.
*Entry during the evening illumination period is permitted until 9:30 p.m.

URL:

https://www.kodaiji.com/
Nanzen-ji Temple

Climbing up to the Sanmon, one of the three great gates of Japan, you can enjoy the view of brilliant red leaves in 360 degrees. The temple’s gardens, including the larger Hojo Garden, which is also called the Tora-no-ko-watashi Garden, and the Ryugin Garden, are adorned with marvellous autumn colors. The scarlet maple trees seen with the Suirokaku Water Bridge in the precincts background are also superb, making this spot one of the most popular destinations in Kyoto.

Address:

Nanzen-ji Fukuchi-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture

Hours:

8:40 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
*Last entry is 4:40 p.m.
*In and after December, last entry is 4:10 p.m. and the gates close at 4:30 p.m.

URL:

https://www.nanzenji.or.jp/ - Japanese
Eikan-do Temple

The tree colors of autumn are so prominent here, Eikan-do Temple has been synonymous with autumn leaf viewing since days of yore. There are some three thousand maples on the grounds, which are lit up at night in fall. The temple grounds are on a mountain slope, and one never tires of the expansive premises that can be enjoyed, going up and down the walkways.

Address:

48 Eikan-do-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture

Hours:

9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
*Last entry is 4:00 p.m.

URL:

http://www.eikando.or.jp/English/index_eng.html
Shinnyo-do Temple

Cherry blossom trees, maples, ginkgos and other trees fill the temple approach and the grounds with colors. From beside the well outside the main hall, the trees are red, yellow and green, an unusual lineup of distinct colors. When December arrives, the fallen leaves form a bright red carpet behind the main hall.

Address:

82 Jodo-ji Shinnyo-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture

Hours:

9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
*Last entry is 3:45 p.m.

URL:

http://shin-nyo-do.jp/ – Japanese
Anraku-ji Temple

Not normally open to the public, Anraku-ji Temple makes a special exception for the foliage viewing season. The colors on the approach are beautiful along the gentle stone stairs. A talk is given on the origins of the temple at the main hall every 30 minutes starting at 10 o'clock each day.

Address:

21 Shikagatani Gosho-no Dan-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture

Hours:

10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

URL:

http://anrakuji-kyoto.com/ – Japanese
Bishamon-do Temple

Located on the side of mountain overlooking the Yamashina basin, Bishamon-do Temple is well known for its weeping cherry blossom trees in spring and the beautifully colored foliage in fall. The flagstone approach to the temple is covered with vermillion leaves. Walking along it while listening to the crackle of leaves underfoot makes for a relaxing stroll.

Address:

18 Anshu Inariyama-cho, Yamashina-ku, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture

Hours:

9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
*Until 4:00 p.m. from December.

URL:

https://www.bishamon.or.jp/english/
Yase Maple Path

The path starts from Yase-Hieizanguchi Station, the final station of the Eizan Main Line, Eizan Electric Railway. Strolling through the tranquil mountainside, you will find impressive views where the rich colors of autumn leaves form a colorful tapestry. During your stroll, you will find many noted places, such as Kurama-dera Temple and Kifune Shrine, making the path a perfect destination to appreciate the beauty of nature.

Address:

Higashiyama, Kamitakano, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture
Kurama-dera Temple

In autumn, the entire Mt. Kurama turns vivid red. The autumn leaves seen from the approach to the temple and from its precincts are said to be especially remarkable. Kurama-dera Temple is also a key site of mountain worship. With its history of more than 1,200 years, this temple is often associated with Minamoto-no-Yoshitsune and tengu goblins, leading the entire mountain to be recognized as a sacred spiritual power spot. Where better to appreciate autumn leaves than in this mountain’s tranquil, solemn atmosphere?

Address:

1074 Honmachi, Kurama, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture

Hours:

9:00 a.m. to 4:15 p.m

URL:

https://www.kuramadera.or.jp/ – Japanese
Kifune Shrine

The charm of the autumn leaves of Kifune Shrine is enhanced by the shrine’s mysterious atmosphere. In the precincts of Kifune Shrine, where a water deity is worshiped, a clear stream flows, and the beauty of the contrast between the water and vivid fall foliage is utterly beyond words. Another feature of the shrine is evening illumination by lanterns, enabling you to enjoy a night stroll.

Address:

180 Kibune-cho, Kurama, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture

Hours:

Goods shop: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
*Entry during the evening illumination period is permitted until 8:30 p.m.

URL:

https://kifunejinja.jp/en/
Shisen-do Temple

What makes Shisen-do Temple particularly attractive in autumn is the beauty of the autumn leaves in its bamboo forest and moss-covered garden. The fall foliage seen from the veranda of the temple in a tranquil atmosphere presents a picturesque view. The contrast between its classic architecture and autumn leaves provides visitors with peace of mind.

Address:

27 Monguchi-cho, Ichijoji, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture

Hours:

9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. *Last entry is 4:45 p.m.

URL:

https://kyoto-shisendo.net/ – Japanese
Hakuryuen Garden

Located in Ninose, Kurama, Hakuryuen Garden is well-known to garden enthusiasts as a place that embodies the four distinctive seasons of Kyoto. In autumn, you can enjoy an expanse of brilliant colors like those of beautiful color-printed ukiyoe saturated with autumn colors. Since the number of visitors is limited per hour, the garden allows you to spend time in a calm atmosphere.

Address:

106 Ninose-cho, Kurama, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture

Hours:

10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
*The number of visitors to the garden is limited per hour. Advance reservation is necessary.

URL:

https://hakuryuen.com/ – Japanese
Shimogamo Shrine

The stream flowing through the Tadasu-no-mori forest in the precincts of the World Heritage Shimogamo Shrine provides a beautiful contrast with trees tinted red and yellow. In a beautiful, tranquil, and sacred atmosphere, you can feel as if your soul is being purified.

Address:

59 Izumigawa-cho, Shimogamo, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture

Hours:

6:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

URL:

https://www.shimogamo-jinja.or.jp/en
Kyoto Botanical Gardens

The Kyoto Botanical Gardens is an urban facility situated in a spacious area. Of particular note is the autumn leaves in the Japanese Garden Area, and the autumn leaves reflected on the pond enhance the charm of the area. The facility organizes seasonal events that attract family visitors and couples. While feeling nature, you can appreciate autumn leaves in a laid-back atmosphere.

Address:

Hangi-cho, Shimogamo, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture

Hours:

9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
*Last entry is 4:00 p.m.
*Varies depending on the season.

URL:

https://www.kyotobotanicalgardens.jp/ – Japanese
Rurikoin Temple

Located in a tranquil place at the foot of Mt. Hiei, the temple is remarkable especially for its autumn leaves. The view from the Tsukue-no-heya (desk room) is exceptionally fine, and you can enjoy a wonderful reflection. The temple is also popular as a photography spot and perfect for you to take a photo as a memento of your unforgettable visit to the temple.

Address:

55 Higashiyama, Kamitakano, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture

Hours:

10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
*Last entry is 4:30 p.m.
*Reservations are required during the autumn leaves season.

URL:

https://rurikoin-komyoji-com.translate.goog/?_x_tr_sl=ja&_x_tr_tl=en&_x_tr_hl=ja

Southern Kyoto

Tofuku-ji Temple

Tofuku-ji Temple is the first place that comes to mind for seeing autumnal leaves in Kyoto. Many tourists come to Tsuten-kyo Bridge, the crossing of which is like crossing a sea of beautiful autumnal leaves. When you stand on the bridge, the colorful leaves completely blanket the ravine, a scene so astounding, it will take your breath away.

Address:

15-778 Honmachi, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture

Hours:

8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
*9:00 am. to 4:00 p.m. in October, 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. from early December.
*Last entry is 30 minutes before closing.

URL:

https://tofukuji.jp/ - Japanese
Kosho-ji Temple

Alongside the approach that leads to front is a brook with water that sounds like a koto, giving this hill the name Kotozaka. In Kotozaka, vivid red and yellow autumn leaves form a tunnel, fascinating visitors.

Address:

27-1 Uji Yamada, Uji, Kyoto Prefecture

Hours:

10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

URL:

https://www.uji-koushouji.jp/en/
Iwashimizu Hachimangu Shrine, Otokoyama

Otokoyama is the hill where Iwashimizu Hachimangu Shrine is located, and cable-car access to the hilltop is popular. In autumn, the hill is entirely covered with autumn leaves, and the temple’s main building seen beyond the autumn leaves is a must-see. In addition, the view from the hill is also superb, and you can enjoy a panoramic view of Kyoto Basin in autumn color.

Address:

Yawata-Takabo, Yawata, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture

Hours:

According to the cable car operation schedule

URL:

https://iwashimizu.or.jp/ – Japanese
Zenporitsuji Temple

Featuring the very beautiful autumn foliage of about 100 trees in the precincts, the temple is called Momiji (maple leaves) Temple. It is said that shoguns and emperors once visited the temple to appreciate the beauty of its autumn leaves. Allowing visitors to appreciate autumn leaves in a tranquil, calm atmosphere, the temple is a hidden gem.

Address:

88-1 Yawata-Baba, Yawata, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture

Hours:

9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

URL:

https://ritsuji.web.fc2.com/ – Japanese

Northern Kyoto

Honen-in Temple

An ancient temple that sits tranquilly on one side of the Philosopher's Walk. When you climb the stone-paved approach, the thatched front gate greets you with mountain village charm. In fall, many people who know Kyoto well come to see the leaves that have fallen on the roof of the simple front gate.

Address:

30 Shikagatani Gosho Dan-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture

Hours:

6:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

URL:

http://www.honen-in.jp/ – Japanese
Manshu-in Temple

The main attraction of Manshu-in Temple in autumn lies in its rock garden surrounded by trees with bright red leaves. Representing deep mountains and the ocean, the garden superbly complements the gentle fall colors. Featuring white sand styled to flow like water and well-trimmed rhododendrons, the elegance of the garden is captivating.

Address:

42 Ichijo-ji Takenouchi-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture

Hours:

9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

URL:

http://www.manshuinmonzeki.jp/ – Japanese
Sekizan Zen-in Temple

Sekizan Zen-in Temple is one of the few locations where both cherry blossom and autumn colors can be enjoyed at the same time. The cherry trees that blossom at the temple in autumn are kan-zakura, a variety that blooms from autumn to winter, allowing visitors to appreciate a beautiful combination with autumn leaves. The autumn leaves and kan-zakura are at their best in November.

Address:

18 Shugaku-in Kaikonbo-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture

Hours:

9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

URL:

https://rakuhoku-sekizanzenin.org/english.html
Jisso-in Temple

Jisso-in is a temple well-known for its yuka momiji (floor maples), the reflections of the trees in the black lacquered floors. The bright, lustrous colors of the leaves have the appearance of an impressionist painting, matching the solemn atmosphere of the temple with their grace. There is a garden pond with a path around it in the chisen kaiyu style, and there are two rock gardens, providing different ways to enjoy the charms of fall foliage.

Address:

121 Iwakura Agura-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture

Hours:

9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

URL:

http://www.jissoin.com/ – Japanese
Eizan Railway Momiji (Maple Tree) Tunnel

Between Ichihara and Ninose Stations on the Eizan Electric Railway, there is a stretch of about 250 meters with thickly growing trees on both sides called the Momiji (Maple Tree) Tunnel. The railway line is illuminated during the kibune maple lantern event. All lights are turned off and the train runs at a leisurely pace through this stretch to allow passengers to fully enjoy the mystical view from the windows.

Address:

Between Shizuichi Ichihara-cho and and Kurama Ninose-cho in Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture

Hours:

According to the train schedule.

URL:

https://eizandensha.co.jp/en/
Sanzen-in Temple

The expansive grounds include some one thousand Japanese maples, known as yama momiji, and provide many wonderful places to see. The red and yellow trees that spread their branches among the Japanese cedars are stunningly beautiful. The garden, centered around Ojo Gokuraku-in, presents a vivid contrast of green moss and red and yellow tree leaves. During the fall season, seating for tea is provided.

Address:

540 Ohara Raiko-in-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture

Hours:

8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
*9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. in October, 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. from December.

URL:

http://www.sanzenin.or.jp/en/
Kitano Tenman-gu Shrine

Since 2007, the historical earthwork "Odoi" has been open to the general public as a maple tree garden, and has become one of Kyoto's newest attractions for fall foliage. Maples and other trees planted by Sugawara no Michizane in Odoi long ago are filled with the colors of deep crimson and yellow. The Kamiya-gawa River runs through, and the leaves reflect in its surface for a pleasant atmosphere. Evening illumination is provided on some days.

Address:

Bakurocho, Kamigyo-ku, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture

Hours:

9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
*Entry during the evening illumination period is permitted until 7:30 p.m.

URL:

https://kitanotenmangu.or.jp/en/

Western Kyoto

Togetsu-kyo Bridge, Arashiyama area

In autumn, a tunnel of autumn leaves is formed on the approach within the precincts of Jojakko-ji Temple, presenting visitors with an air of fantasy. Featuring a beautiful contrast between its bamboo forest and autumn leaves, the temple is also popular for photography enthusiasts. Once you visit the temple, you will never forget the scenery woven by its historic structures and fall foliage.

Address:

Saga, Ukyo-ku, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture

URL:

http://www.arashiyamahoshokai.com/ – Japanese
Jojakko-ji Temple

In autumn, a tunnel of autumn leaves is formed on the approach within the precincts of Jojakko-ji Temple, presenting visitors with an air of fantasy. Featuring a beautiful contrast between its bamboo forest and autumn leaves, the temple is also popular for photography enthusiasts. Once you visit the temple, you will never forget the scenery woven by its historic structures and fall foliage.

Address:

3 Ogura-cho, Ogurayama, Saga, Ukyo-ku, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture

Hours:

9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
*Last entry is 4:30 p.m. *Open all year round.

URL:

https://jojakko-ji.or.jp/ – Japanese

Shiga

Hiyoshi Taisha Shrine

The leaves of 3,000 maples and other trees color the vast precincts of Hiyoshi Taisha beyond its torii gate. The magnificent main building exists in harmony with the great nature surrounding it, and the shrine is well known as a place to enjoy truly resplendent fall colors.

Address:

5-1-1 Sakamoto, Otsu, Shiga Prefecture

Hours:

9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
*From November through early December, evening illumination is provided from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.

URL:

https://hiyoshitaisha.jp/en/
Mii-dera Temple

The main feature of Mii-dera Temple in autumn lies in the contrast between the solemn atmosphere of its three-storied pagoda and colorful autumn foliage. From Bishamondo Hall and Kangetsu Stage, located ahead of the tunnel of autumn leaves along the approach to the temple, you can enjoy views of Lake Biwa and the City of Otsu.

Address:

246 Onjoji-cho, Otsu, Shiga Prefecture

Hours:

9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m
*Last entry is 4:30 p.m.
*Entry during the evening illumination period is permitted until 9:30 p.m.

URL:

http://www.shiga-miidera.or.jp/translation/eng.html
Lake Biwa Canal

This canal conveys water from Lake Biwa to Kyoto city. In autumn, the path along the canal is adorned with marvelous red leaves. The Lake Biwa Canal Cruise service, available only in spring and autumn, is especially popular. Viewing the autumn leaves reflected on the water, from the cruise boat, you can further appreciate the beauty of autumn in Japan.

Address:

Daimon-dori, Otsu, Shiga Prefecture

URL:

https://biwakososui.city.kyoto.lg.jp/en/
Ishiyamadera Temple

Ishiyama-dera Temple is said to have inspired Murasaki Shikibu, a female writer from the Heian Period, to write the Tale of Genji. This old temple is also renowned for its superb autumn leaves. During the autumn foliage illumination period from mid to late November, the structures in the precincts designated as national treasures are lit up, emanating a romantic atmosphere and presenting marvelous scenery.

Address:

1-1-1 Ishiyama-dera, Otsu, Shiga Prefecture

Hours:

8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
*Last entry is 4:00 p.m.
*The illumination period is from 5:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., with the last entry at 8:30 p.m.

URL:

https://www.ishiyamadera.or.jp/en
Mount Hiei

Situated on the border of Kyoto and Shiga, Mt. Hiei, at 848 m, commands a literally superb view of autumn leaves. The mountain when entirely covered with autumn colors looks magnificent, and the autumn leaves especially around Enryakuji Temple are impressive. The scenery of Lake Biwa and the City of Kyoto seen beyond these autumn leaves is outstandingly beautiful. In the clear air of autumn, you can enjoy autumn foliage while feeling closeness of nature and the depth of history.

Address:

4220 Sakamoto Honmachi, Otsu, Shiga Prefecture

URL:

https://www.hieizan.gr.jp/en/