The Best Places to See Fall Foliage in Kyoto
In Japan, the tradition of seeking out and admiring vibrant autumn leaves is so beloved that it has its own name. Momijigari (紅葉狩り), literally translates to “autumn leaves hunting” and perfectly describes the pull to find the most beautiful fall foliage. Every fall, Japanese gardens and temples transform into a breathtaking canvas of fiery red maples, golden ginkgo trees, and misty mountain landscapes. And when it comes to experiencing momijigari, nowhere does it quite like Kyoto. From historic temples to peaceful garden pathways, this guide covers the best places to see fall foliage in Kyoto and where to experience the city at its most magical.
When is the Best Time to See Fall Foliage in Kyoto?
The best time to see the fall colours in Kyoto is from mid-November to early December.
Although Japan is relatively small geographically, the country experiences a wide range of climates from north to south. As a result, autumn foliage arrives at different times across the country, with leaves typically beginning to change earlier in northern regions and later in the south. If you are planning a trip to Japan to see the fall colours, it’s important to keep this in mind as you travel around the country.
When we went near the end of November, the leaves had just started to change in Tokyo while they were at their peak in Kyoto.
The Best Places to See Fall Foliage in Kyoto
Fushimi Inari Shrine
Fushimi Inari Shrine is one of the most popular landmarks in Kyoto Japan, and it’s for good reason. The grounds cover over 200 acres, making it one of the largest in the country. With nearly 10,000 torii gates stretching across the mountain trails, the scale of the shrine is truly breathtaking.
Tōfuku-ji Temple
Tofuku-ji is one of Kyoto’s most famous Zen temples and is widely considered one of the best places in the city to experience autumn foliage. Founded in the 13th century, the temple is known for its impressive wooden architecture, tranquil gardens, and the iconic Tsutenkyo Bridge, which overlooks a sea of vibrant maple trees below.
This was by far the most incredible display of fall foliage that I have ever seen in my life. I doubt I will ever see anything as beautiful as this ever again. An absolute must on your Kyoto fall foliage bucket list.
Bishamondō Temple
Tucked away on the outskirts of Kyoto, Bishamon-do Temple is a historic Buddhist temple with origins dating back more than 1,000 years. Originally founded in the Heian period, the temple is dedicated to Bishamonten, the Buddhist god of war and fortune.
During autumn, Bishamon-do becomes one of Kyoto’s most enchanting hidden gems for fall foliage. Its main attraction being the stairs leading up to the temple, flanked by vibrant maple trees that create a canopy leading up to the entryway.
Kōdaiji Temple
Kodai-ji is a serene Zen temple in Kyoto’s historic Higashiyama district, originally established in 1606 by Nene, the widow of famed samurai leader Toyotomi Hideyoshi. The temple is known for its refined aesthetics of the Momoyama period.
Bonus tip: Kōdaiji Temple has a small but hidden bamboo grove. If you’re reluctant to swim in the sea of tourists at Arashiyama, this is an excellent alternative.
Kiyomizu-dera
One of the most Instagramed locations in Kyoto, Kiyomizu-dera is bursting with colour during autumn. Originally founded in 778, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is best known for its massive wooden stage that extends out over the hillside below.
There’s so much more to explore than just the famous shot of the wooden stage, and I recommend taking your time exploring the entirety of the grounds. There are much more beautiful frames to capture.
Eikandō Zenrinji
Eikando Zenrin-ji is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful places in Kyoto to experience autumn foliage. Originally founded in the 9th century, this historic Buddhist temple is known for its peaceful gardens, traditional wooden halls, and more than 3,000 maple trees that transform the grounds into a sea of fiery red and orange each fall.
Philosopher’s Path
Philosopher’s Path is a scenic stone pathway that follows a quiet canal through Kyoto’s Higashiyama district, connecting several historic temples and shrines along the way. The path is named after Japanese philosopher Nishida Kitaro, who was said to walk this route daily while meditating on his way to university.
Philosopher’s Path is perfectly framed with cherry blossoms, creating a spectacular display in the spring when the flowers are in bloom. It’s equally as beautiful in the fall, when the leaves turn a vibrant shade of red.
Katsura River
Katsura River flows through western Kyoto and is especially famous for the scenic landscapes surrounding the Arashiyama district. Framed by forested mountains and traditional wooden buildings, the river creates one of the most picturesque settings in the city throughout the changing seasons.
During autumn, the surrounding hillsides burst into vibrant shades of red, orange, and gold, making the Katsura River one of Kyoto’s most beautiful spots for viewing fall foliage.
You can either experience the fall colours through a boat ride or the Sagano Scenic Railway. You can also opt for their special autumn night illumination event where they light up the trees at night.
Kyutei Omuro
Kyutei Omuro is a beautifully preserved traditional villa located near Ninna-ji in western Kyoto. Once used as a noble residence, the estate showcases elegant tatami rooms, sliding paper doors, and tranquil Japanese gardens that offer a glimpse into Kyoto’s refined architectural heritage. The windows frame the manicured garden so beautifully that it resembles a framed work of art.
At the centre of the room sits a beautifully crafted lacquered table designed to reflect the surrounding garden like a mirror. The glossy surface captures the vibrant autumn colours and carefully pruned trees outside the windows, creating the illusion that the garden extends seamlessly into the interior space.
Daigo-Ji
Daigo-ji is a historic Buddhist temple complex in southeastern Kyoto that dates back to the 9th century and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Spread across the lower slopes of Mount Daigo, the temple is known for its expansive grounds, ancient pagoda, and beautifully preserved gardens that showcase centuries of Japanese history and architecture.
In autumn, Daigo-ji is easily one of the most incredible places to view fall foliage, with vibrant maple trees and a red arching bridge perfectly reflected in the peaceful pond.
Night Illumination Events
In the spirit of Momijigari, Kyoto comes alive at night and offers many night illumination events, so you can continue to admire the fall foliage even as the sun goes down. Some of the most notable night illumination events occur at Kiyomizu-dera, Eikandō Zenrinji, Kōdaiji Temple, To-ji Temple and Rurikōin Temple.
