Autumn Foliage Spots in Kyoto 🍁 – Complete Instagram-Worthy Guide
From temples and gardens to cafés and night illuminations – a complete guide for travelers
Autumn in Kyoto is legendary. From mid-November to early December, temples and shrines are draped in vibrant red and golden leaves, creating picture-perfect scenes that attract photographers from around the world. This guide will take you through the best autumn foliage spots, cozy cafés, and illuminated night views, along with practical tips on access, entrance fees, and the optimal times to visit. Whether you’re a photography enthusiast or simply looking to enjoy a beautiful day in Kyoto, this guide helps you plan your autumn adventure efficiently.
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🔖 Bookmark NowMust-Visit Autumn Spots in Kyoto
Kiyomizu-dera Temple is one of the most iconic autumn spots in Kyoto. The temple overlooks the city, and during mid-November, the hillside is ablaze with red maples. Arriving early in the morning allows you to avoid crowds and capture serene views. Walking along side paths offers quieter, intimate photo opportunities. Local photographers recommend exploring the Jishu Shrine within the grounds for cultural and architectural shots alongside the autumn foliage.
📍 Access:About a 15-minute walk uphill from Kiyomizu-Gojo Station (Keihan Line) or a 10-minute bus ride from Kyoto Station.
⏱ Average Visit Time:1.5–2 hours, including the walk up the historic shopping street, Sannenzaka.
🍁 Best Season:Mid-November to early December, when the hillside below the main hall glows with red maples.
📸 Instagram Tip:Shoot from the Okunoin Hall, where you can capture the stage of Kiyomizu-dera surrounded by blazing foliage with Kyoto city in the distance.
Eikan-do Temple, nestled in the eastern hills, is famous for its fiery red maples and reflective ponds. Late morning sunlight enhances the warm tones of the leaves, making it perfect for photography. Locals suggest wandering the trails behind the pond, where the crowds thin out and the scenery feels almost private.
📍 Access:A 15-minute walk from Keage Station (Tozai Line) or about 10 minutes by taxi from Kyoto Station.lines).
⏱ Average Visit Time:1–1.5 hours, more if visiting during illumination hours.
🍁 Best Season:Mid-November to late November, peak season for Kyoto maples.
📸 Instagram Tip:Stand by the Hojo Pond and capture the vibrant foliage mirrored on the still water—it’s one of the most photogenic autumn shots in Kyoto.
For a traditional Kyoto streetscape, Gion Shirakawa offers canals lined with wooden machiya houses framed by maples. Early morning is ideal to capture reflections in the water and enjoy quiet walks. Nearby cafés provide the perfect opportunity for a coffee or seasonal dessert break, with the added bonus of photographing autumn leaves through large windows.
📍 Access:A 5-minute walk from Gion-Shijo Station (Keihan Line).
⏱ Average Visit Time:30 minutes–1 hour, perfect to combine with dinner or a tea house experience nearby.
🍁 Best Season:Mid-November to early December.
📸 Instagram Tip:Photograph the traditional wooden bridges and the canal framed by colorful leaves—it feels like stepping into an old painting.
In western Kyoto, Arashiyama combines rivers, mountains, and the famous bamboo groves with vibrant autumn colors. The Togetsukyo Bridge provides a panoramic view of the area and is especially beautiful around mid-November. Locals recommend visiting either early morning or late afternoon to enjoy the light and avoid large crowds.
📍 Access:A 15-minute train ride from Kyoto Station to Saga-Arashiyama (JR Sanin Line), or Arashiyama Station (Hankyu/Keifuku lines).
⏱ Average Visit Time:Half a day to a full day, especially if you explore both the bamboo grove and the temples in the area.
🍁 Best Season:Late November to early December.
📸 Instagram Tip:Capture the bridge with the colorful mountains behind it at sunset, or take a photo from the river for a unique angle.
Tofuku-ji Temple is celebrated for its giant wooden Tsutenkyo Bridge, which crosses a valley filled with red and gold leaves. Mid- to late November is peak season. Tripods are useful for capturing both wide views and low-light shots in shaded areas.
📍 Access:A 10-minute walk from Tofuku-ji Station (JR Nara Line, Keihan Main Line).
⏱ Average Visit Time:1–1.5 hours.
🍁 Best Season:Mid to late November.
📸 Instagram Tip:Shoot from the Tsutenkyo Bridge looking down over the maple valley—it’s Kyoto’s most famous autumn view.
Many temples, including Kodaiji and Shoren-in, offer evening illuminations in mid-November, where autumn colors are highlighted under warm lights. These spots create a magical atmosphere perfect for photography. Locals advise checking opening hours in advance, as illuminated evenings can be busy and are only available for a limited period each year.
📍 Access:A 10-minute walk from Gion-Shijo Station (Keihan Line) or about 15 minutes by bus from Kyoto Station.
⏱ Average Visit Time:1–1.5 hours, best enjoyed in the evening.
🍁 Best Season:Mid-November to early December.
📸 Instagram Tip:The illuminated reflection of red leaves on the pond at night creates surreal photo opportunities—tripod recommended for clear night shots.
Autumn Foliage: Best Viewing Periods, Access & Entrance Fees
| Spot | Best Viewing | Access | Entrance Fee / Hours | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kiyomizu-dera Temple | Mid-November | Bus 100/206 from Kyoto Station | Adults ¥400 / 6:00–18:00 | City views & hillside maples |
| Eikan-do Temple | Mid-November | Bus 5 from Kyoto Station | Adults ¥600 / 9:00–17:00 | Pond reflections & golden leaves |
| Gion Shirakawa | Mid-November | Keihan Gion-Shijo Station 5-min walk | Free | Historic streets & riverside maples |
| Arashiyama (Togetsukyo Bridge) | Mid-November | JR Saga-Arashiyama Station 10-min walk | Free | River, mountains & bamboo groves |
| Tofuku-ji Temple | Mid–late November | Keihan Tofukuji Station 5-min walk | Adults ¥400 / 9:00–16:00 | Tsutenkyo Bridge & valley of leaves |
| Kodaiji / Shoren-in (Night Illumination) | Mid-November | Keihan Gion-Shijo / JR Kyoto Station 15–20 min | Varies ¥600–¥1,000 / 17:30–21:00 | Illuminated gardens & temple architecture |
Suggested Autumn Itineraries (Practical Time Schedule) – Detailed Version
Itinerary 1: Eastern Kyoto Temples & Gion
- 6:30–8:30 | Kiyomizu-dera Temple
Start your day early to avoid crowds. Walk up the approach to the temple and explore side paths for quieter, scenic spots. From the main veranda, you can get sweeping views of Kyoto with hillside maples in fiery red and gold. Bring a small tripod for sharper shots, especially if it’s misty. The Jishu Shrine within the temple grounds is also worth visiting for cultural shots alongside the autumn foliage.
- 8:30–9:00 | Transit to Gion Shirakawa
Take a 15-minute taxi or bus ride to save energy for walking the historic streets. - 9:00–10:30 | Gion Shirakawa Stroll & Café Break
Walk along riverside streets lined with traditional machiya houses. Early morning light reflects beautifully on the canal. Stop at a nearby café for coffee or seasonal desserts. Locals suggest exploring small alleys behind the main streets for unique, quieter shots.
- 10:30–11:00 | Transit to Eikan-do Temple
Short bus ride (approx. 10 min) or a 20-minute scenic walk. - 11:00–13:00 | Eikan-do Temple
Photograph the famous pond reflections and three-story pagoda. Mid-morning light enhances the warm autumn tones. Explore trails behind the pond for more serene photography.
- 13:00–14:00 | Lunch
Enjoy Kyoto-style casual meals or noodles at a restaurant near Eikan-do. Vegetarian options are common in temple districts. - 14:30–16:30 | Tofuku-ji Temple
Walk along the Tsutenkyo Bridge, capturing panoramic views of the valley covered in autumn leaves. Explore hidden trails below the bridge for unique perspectives. Tripods are useful for low-light photography in shaded areas.
- 17:00–21:00 | Kodaiji or Shoren-in Night Illumination
Arrive before sunset to capture both natural and artificial light. Walk slowly to enjoy illuminated pathways and reflections in ponds. Bring a portable charger and small flashlight for evening photography. Arriving early helps avoid crowding.
Itinerary 2: Western Kyoto – Arashiyama & Sagano
- 8:00–10:00 | Arashiyama – Bamboo Grove & Togetsukyo Bridge
Early morning is best to avoid tourist groups. Walk through the bamboo grove before it becomes busy and pause at viewpoints for shots of the Togetsukyo Bridge framed by autumn leaves. Wide-angle lenses are recommended. - 10:00–11:00 | Local Café in Arashiyama
Stop at a riverside café for traditional Kyoto sweets or seasonal matcha drinks. Many cafés have terraces with views of the river and foliage, ideal for photography and relaxing.
- 11:30–13:30 | Tenryu-ji Temple & Gardens
Explore the central pond and surrounding gardens. Take photos from multiple angles: pond’s edge, small bridges, and slightly elevated paths. Weekdays are less crowded; consider an audio guide for historical context. - 13:30–14:00 | Light Lunch / Snack
Quick meals or café snacks near Tenryu-ji.
- 14:00–16:00 | Sagano Scenic Walk & Okochi Sanso Garden
Follow the trail through Sagano, capturing mountains and colorful foliage. Okochi Sanso Garden has a small entrance fee but offers panoramic views and meticulously maintained gardens. Pause to frame distant hills through autumn leaves.
- 16:30–21:00 | Night Illumination at Kinkaku-ji or Nearby Temples
Arrive before sunset to capture the transition from natural light to night illumination. Kinkaku-ji’s golden pavilion reflects in the pond, surrounded by autumn colors. Tripods are recommended for longer exposures. Be patient with crowds.
Travel Tips for Kyoto Autumn Visits
Kyoto’s autumn brings cool, crisp weather, so layering is recommended. Comfortable footwear is essential, as walking paths often include stone steps and uneven surfaces. Most temples accept only cash for entrance fees (¥400–¥1,000), so have small bills ready. Buses are convenient but can be crowded; a one-day Kyoto bus pass or taxis for tight schedules may save time. Local cafés often feature seasonal desserts, which are perfect for resting and photographing. Early mornings offer the best light and fewer crowds, while late afternoons are ideal for rich autumn colors and pond reflections.
