[2025 Latest] 10 Must-See Autumn Leaf Spots in Kyoto! From Classic Destinations to Hidden Gems, We've Got Them All! Also Recommended for Dates!

[2025 Latest] 10 Recommended Autumn Foliage Spots and Hidden Gems in Kansai! Introducing Recommended Spots, Famous Places, and Hidden Gems! Also Recommended for Dates!

Kyoto is a premier tourist destination in Kansai, offering a chance to experience Japan's timeless, good old culture through its historic shrines and temples. From famous popular spots to hidden gems known only to a few, it's packed with recommended attractions.

Especially during the autumn foliage season, the trees dyed bright red further enhance the atmosphere. This time, we will introduce 10 recommended autumn foliage spots that you should visit on your autumn trip or tour.

When is the best time to see the autumn leaves in Kyoto?

The best time to see autumn leaves in Kyoto is from mid-November to early December. However, since the timing of the colors varies between higher and lower elevations even within the same area, it's important to check the latest information for your desired spot in advance.

Also, those heading to the mountaintop or going out for nighttime autumn foliage viewing are likely to feel cold, so be sure to dress warmly for protection against the cold.

First, let's visit! 7 popular famous spots representing Kyoto's autumn leaves

Kyoto boasts many famous spots for autumn foliage, and it's natural to want to enjoy the classic, popular destinations first. Here are 7 recommended spots, including Kiyomizu-dera and Arashiyama, which are popular as both tourist attractions and autumn foliage viewing locations.

"Kiyomizu-dera," a Temple That Shows a Completely Different Face by Day and Night

Kiyomizu-dera Temple is a temple dedicated to Kannon, located on Mount Otowa, and is a World Heritage site with a history of approximately 1200 years. Numerous National Treasures and Important Cultural Properties are displayed on its vast grounds, and Kyoto's cityscape can be viewed from the famous Kiyomizu Stage.

The best time to see the autumn leaves at Kiyomizu-dera Temple is from late November to early December, when about 1,000 Japanese maples throughout the temple grounds turn brilliant colors.

The main highlight is being able to look down on the Kyoto cityscape, enveloped in autumn leaves, from Kiyomizu-dera's stage. You can enjoy a magnificent view, as if a crimson carpet has been laid across the city of Kyoto.

Furthermore, from the inner sanctuary located above the Otowa Waterfall within the temple grounds, a picturesque scene of the Kiyomizu Stage and autumn foliage can be admired. The autumn leaves envelop the entire stage, creating a mystical sight as if the stage were floating on a crimson cloud.

Furthermore, there are also special nighttime viewings where the entire temple grounds are illuminated, allowing you to enjoy a mystical autumn foliage experience completely different from the daytime. At night, the blue light representing Kannon deity overlaps with the autumn leaves, creating a mysterious atmosphere. If you go before dusk, you can enjoy both the daytime and nighttime expressions at once.

This is perfect for first-time visitors to Kyoto or those who want to enjoy the classic autumn foliage spots.

Best viewing period: Late November to early December

Business Hours: 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Admission Fee: "Nighttime Special Viewing" 500 yen for adults, 200 yen for elementary and junior high school students.

Access: From Hankyu Kawaramachi Station or Keihan Gion-Shijo Station, take a bus to Kiyomizu-michi, then walk 10 minutes.

Tofuku-ji Temple, where you can look down on a sea of autumn leaves from above

Tofukuji Temple is a particularly popular spot for autumn foliage in Kyoto. It is a Rinzai Zen sect head temple, named after Todai-ji and Kofuku-ji temples in Nara, and is a large temple complex with 25 sub-temples. Its convenient location, just 15 minutes from Kyoto Station, is a welcome advantage.

The best time to see the autumn leaves at Tofuku-ji Temple is from mid to late November, when approximately 2,000 maple trees adorn the temple grounds. You can also see Tsuten Momiji, which Enni brought back from Song Dynasty China. Tsuten Momiji are rare maple trees whose leaves split into three lobes and turn golden, possessing a unique beauty that cannot be found elsewhere.

Tofukuji is famous for its "sea of autumn leaves" viewed from Tsutenkyo Bridge. When looking down from above at the maple trees spread across the valley called Sen-gyoku-kan, the countless red leaves appear like waves, creating the sensation of overlooking a sea of autumn foliage.

While Tōfuku-ji is famous for its photogenic Tsūtenkyō Bridge, its other two bridges are also worth seeing. Gauen Bridge is free to access and photograph, while Engetsu Bridge offers a less crowded, hidden gem spot where you can enjoy the autumn foliage from various angles.

Tofuku-ji Temple offers private early morning viewings by reservation only, providing a special opportunity to enjoy the autumn foliage in a peaceful, crowd-free environment. Illumination events are also held at night for a magical autumn leaves experience.

For those who want to take their time photographing the autumn leaves or experience a truly authentic autumn foliage spot, this is the place to go.

Best viewing period: Mid-to-late November

Opening Hours: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Admission Fee: [Tsuten Bridge, Kaisando, and Hojo Garden Combined Ticket] Adults | ¥1,000, Elementary and Junior High School Students | ¥500

Access: Approx. 10-minute walk from Tofukuji Station (JR and Keihan lines)

"Arashiyama," where you can enjoy scenic beauty brimming with atmosphere all day long.

Arashiyama, with Togetsukyo Bridge as its symbol, is a particularly popular tourist destination in Kyoto. Temples, characteristic of the ancient capital of Kyoto, are scattered throughout the area, and with its many attractions spread out over a wide range, it's an area you can enjoy all day. One of Arashiyama's unique charms is how the crowds are dispersed compared to other famous spots.

The best time to see the autumn leaves in Arashiyama is from mid to late November, allowing you to enjoy the vibrant colors a little later than in other parts of Kyoto.

Togetsukyo Bridge, a 155-meter wooden bridge spanning the Katsura River, is renowned as a representative autumn foliage spot in Arashiyama. Standing on the bridge, the vibrant mountains spreading before your eyes feel like a painting. It's also an incredibly photogenic spot on social media, attracting many people who stop to take pictures.

In Arashiyama, don't miss Jojakko-ji Temple, located on the mountainside of Mt. Ogura. You can witness a picturesque scene where a 12-meter-tall tahoto pagoda is beautifully adorned by red and yellow autumn leaves. Furthermore, as you climb the stone steps and look back, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the autumn foliage in Sagano.

Arashiyama also holds events during the autumn foliage season, which are a must-see. In October, a new light-up event titled "Arashiyama Tsukito-ro," themed around Princess Kaguya, takes place in the evenings, and in November, the "Arashiyama Momiji Matsuri" (Arashiyama Autumn Foliage Festival), which recreates the boat parties of Heian period nobles, is held. If you're looking to enjoy a special autumn foliage viewing experience, be sure to visit.

Because the attractions in Arashiyama are spread out over a wide area, you can enjoy viewing the autumn leaves in a more relaxed atmosphere without the crowds that gather at other famous spots. It's recommended for those who want to visit multiple locations in a single day or those who want to fully immerse themselves in the charm of Kyoto.

Best viewing time: Mid-to-late November

Opening hours: Varies by spot

Price: Varies by spot

Access: Immediately upon alighting at JR Sagano Line "Saga-Arashiyama" Station.

Enjoy the magnificent crimson view at "Eikando Temple, the Maple Temple."

Eikando is an especially famous autumn foliage spot in Kyoto, known as "Eikando of the Maples." It is a historic temple founded in 853 by a disciple of Kūkai, and its beauty has even been celebrated in the Kokin Wakashū. It has been cherished as a renowned autumn foliage destination since ancient times.

The autumn foliage at Eikando Temple is at its best from mid to late November, with approximately 3,000 Japanese maples and large-leaved maples painting the temple grounds a brilliant red.

Eikando's main attraction is the "upside-down autumn leaves" at the Hojo Pond. The autumn foliage surrounding the pond reflects on the water's surface, creating a wondrous sensation as if the boundary between sky and ground has disappeared. Especially on windless days, the pond becomes like a mirror, and the moment the fiery red autumn leaves are reflected is breathtakingly beautiful.

Eikando's autumn leaves are characterized by a spread of pure crimson, rather than a gradation of mixed colors. From the Tahoto pagoda, situated midway up the mountain, you can apparently also look down upon the city of Kyoto adorned with autumn foliage. Another pleasing aspect is the ability to enjoy the autumn leaves from various angles, with sights like the striking Iwagaki maple that stands out against the rocks, weeping maples, and fallen leaves.

Just before the Hojo Pond, there's a teahouse where you can relax with a bowl of zenzai. Enjoying warm zenzai while gazing at the autumn leaves is a special moment that warms both body and soul.

For those who want to visit popular autumn foliage spots in Kyoto or see the reverse autumn colors reflected in the pond, this is a must-visit.

Best viewing period: Mid-to-late November

Business Hours: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Admission: Regular viewing ¥600 (¥1000 for the Treasure Exhibition from Nov 11 to Dec 10, ¥700 for the illumination from Nov 15 to Dec 10)

Access: Take the Tozai Subway Line to Keage Station and walk approximately 15 minutes.

Enjoying "Kitano Tenmangu Shrine" at the historic Oido

Kitano Tenmangu Shrine is a Tenmangu shrine dedicated to Sugawara no Michizane, who is renowned as the god of learning. It is the head shrine of all Tenmangu shrines and Tenjin shrines across the country, and it is visited by many students preparing for exams and school trip groups every year.

At Kitano Tenmangu Shrine, the best time to see the autumn leaves is from early November to early December, with approximately 350 maple trees lining the Kamiya River. A welcome bonus is that you can enjoy the autumn foliage for a long period of about a month and a half.

With the autumn foliage, the normally inaccessible Momiji Area of Odoi will be specially opened to the public as the "Momiji Garden." One of the highlights is the collaboration of red and yellow trees, beautifully reflected on the surface of the vermillion Uguisu Bridge and the Kamiya River. From the observation deck, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the National Treasure Main Sanctuary and the autumn leaves, allowing you to feel a distinctly Japanese atmosphere.

Additionally, a nightly illumination event is held daily, allowing you to see the magical autumn foliage in a way that differs from the daytime. During the autumn foliage season, traditional events unique to shrines, such as the Ochatsubo Hoken Hokokusai (Festival for Offering and Announcing the Tea Caddy) and the Kencha-sai (Tea Offering Festival), are also held, so be sure to check them out.

This is a recommended spot for those who want to enjoy both academic prayers and autumn foliage viewing at the same time, or for those who want to see a landscape that combines historic buildings and nature.

Best viewing period: November 1, 2025 - December 7, 2025 (Maple Garden open days)

Business Hours: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Price: Adults ¥1,200, Children ¥600

Access: [Train] From JR Kyoto Station, take City Bus routes 50 or 101 to the Kitano Tenmangu Mae bus stop, then walk for a moment.

A Miraculous Scenic View Reflected on the Desk: "Rurikō-in"

Ruriko-in Temple is located at the foot of Mount Hiei and is famous for the reflection of autumn leaves on the desks in its study. Situated in Yase, a place cherished by aristocrats since the Heian period, it is a place where you can feel the profound atmosphere, named after the lapis lazuli color, which symbolizes the Pure Land of Paradise.

Ruriko-in Temple is a hidden autumn foliage spot that is only open to the public in spring and autumn. The best time to visit is from mid to late November, when over 100 varieties of maple trees spread from the approach to the shoin (main hall).

The view from the second floor of the shoin is a spectacular sight that can be called the hallmark of Ruri-ko-in. The autumn leaves reflected like a mirror on the black desk create a mystical scene where it's hard to distinguish between reality and reflection. Since the area beyond the desk is off-limits, you can take impressive photos for social media without worrying about people appearing in the shot, which is another great point.

From the first floor of the shoin, you can gaze upon the "Lapis Lazuli Garden," where the combination of moss and autumn leaves is beautiful. The sound of flowing water further enhances the experience, allowing you to enjoy a moment of peace and tranquility.

Please note that during the peak season, many visitors are expected, so some parts of the special viewing period will be by reservation only. If you're looking to take Instagrammable photos or enjoy a quiet and mystical atmosphere, be sure to check it out!

Best viewing period: October 1, 2025 – December 14, 2025

Business Hours: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM (※From Saturday, November 8th to Sunday, December 7th, viewing hours will vary by reservation.)

Price: Adults ¥2000. Junior high school students and above ¥1000 with student ID.

Access: 5-minute walk from Yase-Hieizanguchi Station on the Eizan Electric Railway

Savor the World Heritage garden beauty at "Tenryu-ji Temple"

Tenryu-ji Temple is a temple located in Arashiyama, built in 1339 by Ashikaga Takauji to commemorate Emperor Go-Daigo. It is a precious site, registered as a World Heritage site, which continues to preserve the beauty of its garden from approximately 700 years ago.

At Tenryu-ji Temple, the autumn foliage is at its peak from mid-November to early December.

Among them, the autumn foliage of the Sogenchi Garden with Arashiyama in the background is particularly captivating. The scenery, with the gradation of autumn leaves reflected on the garden's water surface, is breathtakingly beautiful. The real landscape and the world on the water's surface become one, creating a fantastical view.

Along a small path in the depths of the Sogenchi Garden, vibrant autumn leaves overhead create a tunnel-like atmosphere. Walking along the path, you'll feel as though you've wandered into another world.

During the autumn foliage season, the gates open at 7:30 AM, one hour earlier than usual. Tenryu-ji Temple is a prime spot to view the early morning autumn leaves. Located at the western edge of Kyoto City, it's the first place to catch the morning sun. This creates a mystical scene where the autumn foliage, illuminated by the rising sun in the crisp morning air, shines brilliantly. Visiting early in the morning also means fewer tourists, allowing you to quietly savor the autumn colors.

Recommended for those who want to enjoy autumn leaves in a charming atmosphere, or for those who wish to appreciate them in quiet contemplation.

Best viewing time: Mid-November to early December

Business Hours: 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM (Gates open at 7:30 AM from November 15 to 30, 2025)

Admission: ¥500 for high school students and older, ¥300 for elementary and junior high school students.

Access: [Train] 2-minute walk from Randen Arashiyama Station on the Keifuku Electric Railroad Arashiyama Line

3 Enchanting Autumn Leaf Light-Up Spots Emerging from the Night's Darkness

Nighttime illuminated autumn leaves, which show a completely different face from during the day. We introduce recommended illuminated spots for enjoying vibrant autumn foliage glowing in the darkness at night.

"Kōdai-ji Temple," known for its new staging

Kōdai-ji Temple was built by Nene, the wife of Toyotomi Hideyoshi, as a memorial for him. It is a historic spot that retains the splendor of the Momoyama period, with cherished items of Hideyoshi and Nene, and a tea room relocated from Fushimi Castle.

Kōdai-ji Temple's autumn leaves are best viewed from mid-November to early December, and you can enjoy them in the Kōdai-ji garden with Higashiyama as a backdrop.

At Goryu Pond within the garden, the inverted autumn leaves reflected on the water's surface are popular for their Instagrammable appeal. The sight of the autumn leaves floating and reflecting on the water in the quiet night will make you feel as if you've wandered into another world.

When you think of Kodai-ji Temple, the projection mapping displayed at the Chokushimon Gate is the main attraction. Its colorful performances, which change themes annually, are particularly noteworthy, featuring enchanting displays like magical circles of light and the appearance of yokai, making it a truly spectacular sight.

Additionally, the bamboo grove is illuminated at night, enveloping the garden in a magical atmosphere. Since the system at Kodai-ji doesn't involve replacing visitors between day and night, you can stay from the evening and compare the daytime and nighttime scenery.

If you're looking to enjoy a special experience different from usual autumn leaf viewing, be sure to check this out.

Best viewing period: Mid-November to early December

Business hours: 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM (Last reception 5:00 PM)

Price: Adults ¥600, Junior High/High School Students ¥250

Access: 20-minute walk from Keihan Electric Railway Gion-Shijo Station

Kifune Shrine, enveloped in a mysterious light

Kifune Shrine, located in the "inner parlor" of Kyoto, enshrines the deity of water. As the place name, derived from "Kifune" meaning "where energy is born," suggests, it is a power spot believed to be the origin of all things' energy. The shrine's path follows the Kifune River, the source of the Kamo River, creating a mystical atmosphere.

The autumn foliage at Kifune Shrine is at its best in early November. Located in the mountains a short distance from central Kyoto, the cooler temperatures there mean the autumn color season arrives a bit earlier than in the city.

It's appealing because you can enjoy the early autumn leaves and have the beautiful scenery relatively to yourself before the crowds arrive.

At Kifune Shrine, the autumn foliage spreading to envelop the approach to the shrine is a must-see. The vibrant autumn leaves and the green of the evergreen trees above, combined with the stone-paved stairs and vermilion lanterns, create a sense of charm. Especially during the nighttime illuminations, the warm glow of the lanterns gently illuminates the autumn leaves, enveloping you in a fantastical atmosphere as if you've stepped back in time.

From near the main shrine, you can also enjoy the gradient of autumn leaves spreading across Mount Kurama. The 360-degree view of autumn foliage, only possible due to its location surrounded by mountains, is breathtakingly beautiful.

For those who wish to enjoy the autumn leaves early by avoiding crowds, those who want to be healed at a power spot, and those seeking a mystical and quiet space, please be sure to visit Kifune Shrine.

Best viewing period: Early November

Business Hours: 6:00 AM - 8:00 PM

Price: Free

Access: Alight at "Kibune-guchi" station on the Eizan Railway, then a 30-minute walk.

A Breathtaking Collaboration: The Five-Storied Pagoda and Autumn Leaves at Toji Temple

To-ji Temple is a historic temple registered as a World Heritage Site as the only existing relic of Heian-kyo. Its official name is "Kyoō Gokokuji" and it is said to possess over 80 national treasures.

At Toji Temple, the peak viewing season for autumn leaves is from mid-November to early December, when approximately 250 maple trees vividly dye the temple grounds with color.

When it comes to the autumn leaves at To-ji Temple, the collaboration with the five-story pagoda within the precincts is the biggest highlight. The five-story pagoda, Japan's tallest wooden structure, and the bright red autumn leaves create a landscape that evokes the essence of Kyoto.

Furthermore, at night, a light-up event takes place, creating a fantastical scene with the pagoda illuminated against the darkness and the autumn leaves lit up by the lights. During the light-up period, the first floor of the five-story pagoda, which is usually not open to the public, will be specially opened, so if you are interested, please be sure to check it out.

Also, don't miss the autumn leaves around the gourd-shaped pond within the temple grounds. The sight of the pagoda's silhouette and the vibrant crimson of the autumn leaves reflecting and swaying in the pond is truly mystical. Especially on windless nights, you can witness a scene like a mirror, with the lights reflecting on the water's surface.

This is perfect for those who want to take photos that capture the essence of Kyoto or are looking for autumn foliage spots within walking distance of Kyoto Station.

Best viewing period: Mid-November to early December

Business Hours: 5:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Gate opening time)

Fee: Free admission

Access: [Train] 15-minute walk from JR Kyoto Station

Summary

This article introduced 10 recommended autumn leaf viewing spots in Kyoto.

Kyoto offers a wide variety of attractions, from classic must-sees like Kiyomizu-dera and Tofuku-ji to special spots only open to the public during the autumn foliage season. The collaboration between historical architecture and the vibrant autumn leaves is undoubtedly a unique charm of Kyoto.

This autumn, try visiting Kyoto and create some unforgettable autumn foliage memories.

The power spots in the Kansai area are introduced in the following article! Please be sure to check it out.