Kyoto Fall Foliage 2026: How to Enjoy the Best Autumn Colors

If you're looking for classic Japanese fall colors among temples and gardens, Kyoto is your top choice.

The peak season typically runs from mid-November to early December. You may want quieter spots while still seeing the classics, and the best views are often in temple gardens, riverside paths, and nearby mountain areas.

This guide covers the best times to visit, the top foliage locations including both iconic viewing sites and quieter hidden spots, seasonal highlights, and practical tips to help you plan your trip with ease.

Kyoto Autumn Leaves Forecast 2026

According to past years' records, the best time to see autumn colors in Kyoto is from around November 20 to early December, usually before the 5th. The peak can shift by about a week earlier or later depends on the weather.

Fall colors usually stay vibrant for about a month, from early November to mid-December, so even if your trip doesn't land exactly on the peak dates, we can still plan the best spots for your timing.

In early November, we recommend Kibune Shrine, where you can see a vivid red shrine surrounded by red, yellow, and green autumn leaves.

For mid-December, try Uji or Nara, where colors tend to last longer.

Where to See Autumn Leaves in Kyoto 2026

Kyoto's autumn is known for its bright red and golden leaves surround centuries-old buildings. Some locations, such as Kiyomizu-dera and Eikando, offer evening light-ups that add a soft glow to the fall colors.

We will introduce some of the most popular spots, as well as lesser-known destinations like Saiho-ji and Ryoan-ji, which feature beautiful scenery and fewer crowds, giving you a range of options to choose from.

1. Kiyomizu-dera: Dramatic Stage Views

• Open time: 6:00 a.m.
• Evening Light-Up: Late November to early December, 5:30 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.

Kiyomizu-dera is one of Kyoto's top fall spots. From its wooden stage, you could see the city surrounded by vibrant red maple leaves.

The temple grounds are large, with plenty of space for photos and quiet walks. To avoid crowds, arrive before 8:00 a.m. or just before the evening light-up.

Nearby, the traditional streets of Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka offer a perfect autumn stroll with seasonal views and a classic Kyoto atmosphere.

If you want to avoid the crowds at Kiyomizu-dera, visit Tofuku-ji instead. Its gardens are beautifully designed, and the temple's Tsutenkyo Bridge offers a stunning view of the autumn foliage from above.

2. Eikandō: Kyoto's Best Night Foliage Spot

• Daily Open Time: 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
• Evening Light-Up: Mid-November to December, 5:30 p.m.- 9:00 p.m.

You'll find charming stone bridges, peaceful gardens, and a gentle slope where maple leaves layer from deep red to soft gold. After wandering through the garden, take your time and enjoy a cup of matcha at the open-air tea spot while watching the autumn colors.

In the evening, the maple trees are beautifully lit up. If you plan to see the night illumination, it's best to stay in the Gion or Higashiyama area so you can walk or take a short taxi ride back to your hotel.

Eikando and Kiyomizu-dera are close enough to visit on the same day. Start at Kiyomizu-dera in the morning, stroll through Sannenzaka and Ninenzaka, and end your day with the evening maple lights at Eikando. 

Tips:

• The temple's garden requires you to take off your shoes to enter.  
• Eikandō is extremely popular, so try to arrive before 10:00 AM or after about 3:30 PM to avoid the crowds. If you plan to see the night illumination, it's best to come around 7:30 PM.
• Night tickets and daytime tickets are separate. If you want to visit in the evening, you'll need to buy an additional ticket.

3. Saihoji Temple: A Zen-Inspired Autumn Escape

If you want to slow down and simply sit in front of a garden surrounded by autumn colors, Saihoji is the top place to go. The whole visit feels peaceful and very Japanese.

Your visit starts with a short sutra-copying session in the main hall, a quiet moment to settle your mind before entering the moss garden. With limited entry and required reservations, the temple stays calm and unhurried.

Wander slowly, soak in the changing garden views, or pause in a quiet corner. In autumn, the lower garden invites you to stroll through mossy paths with ponds and colorful foliage.

Tips:

• Children under 12 are not allowed.
• Reservations must be made on the official website about two months in advance, and each application allows up to two people.
• The sutra copying is done with a brush using kanji outlines, so even beginners can trace it without difficulty.

4. Arashiyama: River Cruises and Mountain Trains Surrounded by Red Maples

In Arashiyama, you can enjoy autumn leaves in many immersive and enjoyable ways, including scenic train rides, river cruises, and peaceful walks through historic temples surrounded by vibrant fall colors. 

Start your morning with a ride on the Sagano Scenic Railway from Kameoka Station. The 25-minute journey offers stunning views, especially just after the train emerges from each tunnel.

From Arashiyama Station, take an 8-minute walk to Jojakkoji Temple, where autumn leaves are beautifully framed by symmetrical windows. If you prefer a quieter experience, visit nearby Hōgen-in Temple for a more refined and peaceful atmosphere.

For a more leisurely experience, enjoy a Hozugawa River cruise on a traditional yakatabune, where you can savor a Japanese meal while drifting past the scenic riverside landscapes. 

5. Kodai-ji Temple: A Quiet Touch of Autumn Elegance

• Evening Light-Up: Mid-October to early December, sunset to 9:30 p.m. (last entry 9:00 p.m.)

Kōtō-ji Temple is very close to Kiyomizu-dera, so you can visit both in one day. This plan lets you enjoy the classic sights at Kiyomizu-dera and still experience the quiet, peaceful side of autumn at Kōtō-ji. It is also a calm alternative to Eikandō for night-time maple viewing.

The temple, designed by master tea and garden artists of the Edo era, feels deliberate and calming. Stroll past reflective ponds, quiet paths, a Zen rock garden, and a bamboo grove, or sit in the teahouse with a bowl of handmade matcha and enjoy the seasonal colors.

6. Nanzen-ji Temple: Classic Zen Architecture with Fall Scenery

• Open time: 8:30 a.m.– 5:00 p.m.

Nanzen-ji has long been a spiritual center for Zen practitioners. You can stroll through the open courtyards, admire the architecture, and enjoy the surrounding autumn colors. The atmosphere is calm and peaceful. 

Don't miss Tenjuan Garden, a small and quiet space with Edo-period rock and pond design. Maple trees, moss, and stone lanterns line its winding paths in a beautifully arranged layout. The sub-temples around the main hall are also open in autumn, offering even quieter spots to enjoy the season's colors.

You can combine Ginkaku-ji (hillside fall views), the Philosopher's Path (quiet canal), and Nanzen-ji in one easy, mostly downhill autumn walk. It is perfect for a relaxed half day.

Near Nanzen-ji, several elegant garden-view restaurants offer seasonal meals. If you go in the morning, enjoy a garden lunch right after your half-day tour.

7. Daigo-ji: World Heritage with Maple Views

• Evening Light-Up: Mid to late November, around 6 to 8 p.m.

Daigo-ji is a large UNESCO World Heritage temple complex at the base of a forested mountain. Its most classic view is the autumn scene at Bentendo Hall, with a red bridge, temple hall, and maple leaves reflected in a quiet pond. It's a popular spot for wearing kimono and taking photos.

During peak season, Daigo-ji offers evening light-ups. It's quieter than other night spots in Kyoto and highlights the temple's calm beauty under soft lighting.

The temple grounds are vast. If you're interested in nature, you could hike to the mountaintop. The round trip takes about 3 hours.

4 Less Crowded Fall Foliage Attractions Near Kyoto

Compared to central Kyoto, nearby spots like Kibune and Uji tend to have fewer crowds during the autumn season.

These areas offer a slower pace, where you can not only enjoy vibrant foliage but also interact with animals or relax in a hot spring while taking in the autumn scenery.

1.Kibune: A Photogenic Escape Through Forests and Shrines

• Location: From Kyoto about 40 minutes by car

Want to escape Kyoto's crowds? Head to Kibune, a peaceful little gem in the forest. The red lanterns at Kibune Shrine are stunning and the forested creek-side path offer an easy and relaxing walk, perfect to enjoy calm and nature. 

The shrine, dedicated to water, is said to bring luck in love and harmony. Don't miss trying the interesting water fortune.

For a half-day escape surrounded by autumn colors and serene gardens, continue about a 40-minute drive from Kibune to Sanzen-in Temple in Ohara. The temple's elegant monastic garden are pure Japanese atmosphere. You can even enjoy matcha in the garden while taking in the scenery.

2. Uji: Fall & Matcha Delights for a Relaxing Escape

• Location: From Kyoto about 30 minutes by car

Uji is best known for its high-quality matcha, but it also offers beautiful fall foliage, historic temples, and a refined atmosphere with fewer crowds than central Kyoto.

Start at Byodoin, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The Phoenix Hall and pond are especially stunning in the late afternoon light. If you're interested in culture, don't miss the Buddhist wooden carvings inside the hall and the coffered ceiling.

After visiting the temple, take a stroll along the Uji River, where autumn leaves line the peaceful riverside paths. Along the way, you can stop for local treats like matcha soba and matcha ice cream, or relax at a riverside tea house with macha and sweets.

3. Nara: Feed Deer Amid Fall Colors

• Location: takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour from Kyoto by car

Nara is a peaceful place to enjoy autumn leaves alongside adorable deer.

Around Nara Park, red maples and golden ginkgo trees line the paths near the Yoshikigawa Stream, where deer often rest, drink, or nap in the sun.

If you have time and energy, hike up Mount Wakakusa behind the park. From the slope, you'll get wide views over Nara and colorful foliage, with a chance to see deer and catch a beautiful sunset.

The trees in Nara Park are small and spread out, but the atmosphere feels natural and alive. For denser maple scenery, walk to Kasuga Taisha, or Yoshikien Garden about 10 minutes away.

A half-day is enough to explore Nara Park, but if you plan to visit Mount Wakakusa and nearby spots, set aside a full day.

4. Enkō-ji: Maple Views in Tatami

• Transportation: takes about 60 minutes by car from Kyoto
• Opening Hours: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. (last entry 4:30 p.m.)

Enkō-ji is a hidden gem in northern Kyoto. It is known for its beautiful autumn leaves framed by sliding doors. This spot offers a quieter alternative to the popular Rurikō-in. You could sit on tatami mats and enjoy the view in silence. It is a favorite among photographers.

A short uphill path behind the main hall leads to a small viewpoint overlooking Kyoto's rooftops, especially stunning in the soft light of late afternoon.

5 Immersive Things to Do in Kyoto's Autumn

Autumn in Kyoto is not just about beautiful fall leaves. You can also explore traditional culture, enjoy seasonal foods, and take part in unique hands-on experiences.

1. Watch Kyoto's Historic Jidai Matsuri Parade

Kyoto's most famous autumn event is the Jidai Matsuri, or Festival of the Ages.

You could see a spectacular parade with hundreds of participants in authentic costumes spanning over a thousand years of history.

We could arrange reserved seating at the best spots. You could avoid crowds, enjoy clear views, and experience this iconic event in true VIP comfort.

This event takes place from Kyoto Imperial Palace to Heian Shrine on October 22.

2. Immerse in Your Autumn Zen Experience in Kyoto

When Kyoto's temples glow with red and gold leaves, it's the perfect time to slow down and immerse in zen experience, such as meditating, copying Buddhist sutras, and painting Buddha images.

We've selected a few temples with the most ritual and atmosphere to help you connect with Kyoto's autumn spirit:

• Shunkoin jin Myoshinji Tempel: You can join a meditation session in its historic hall, and there are also options for tea, and vegetarian meals.
• Sanzen-in Temple: Temple attendants sprinkle incense before sutra copying. The subtle scent adds a ritual touch.
• Saihō-ji (Moss Temple): Over 1,300 years old. Japan's oldest dry-landscape garden. Zen experience limited to 6–10 guests. A peaceful, top-tier retreat.

We handle all reservations and online bookings. Just enjoy your once-in-a-lifetime Zen retreat.

3. Explore Macha Culture in Uji

In Uji, you could admire vibrant autumn leaves while immersing yourself in Japan's matcha culture.Taste high-quality matcha in its birthplace or join a quiet session at a small temple where you can explore matcha-based incense making.

For a deeper experience, visit a traditional tea garden. Pick tea leaves and learn to identify the finest matcha grades.

If you're looking for something unique, we can arrange a private session with a kimono-clad incense master. In a serene, old-style room, you'll learn to craft matcha incense in different shapes, and you can take your creations home as a special keepsake.

4. Taste Autumn Matsutake Delights in Kyoto

In autumn, don't miss Kyoto's prized matsutake mushrooms. Try matsutake udon, full-course matsutake meals, matsutake steamed in a teapot, and fragrant matsutake rice. Enjoy the warm broth filled with earthy, aromatic flavors.

Around Gion area, restaurants such as Mizai and Kikunoi offer seasonal specialties.

5. Discover an Art Museum in Beautiful Autumn

We recommend the Miho Art Museum, about one hour from Kyoto. It was designed by the world-famous architect I. M. Pei.

The museum blends perfectly with the hills covered in autumn colors. Inside, you'll find art from Japan, China, and Egypt.

The building itself harmonizes with the seasonal scenery. There is also a café and a restaurant. You could enjoy organic meals made with naturally grown ingredients. It's a peaceful and beautiful way to experience art and nature together.

How to Plan Autumn Trips in Kyoto

With so many stunning fall spots in and around Kyoto, it can be hard to know where to start or how long to stay. If you have limited time, this two-day romantic tour is perfect for couples.

It lets you enjoy Kyoto's autumn beauty and relax in Japan's most charming hot spring town. Here's a suggested itinerary to help you make the most of your trip.

Romantic Tour for Couples:

Day 1: Stroll Through Kyoto's Historic Temples

• Begin your day exploring Kōdai-ji and Kiyomizu-dera, surrounded by autumn colors and quiet paths.
• For lunch, enjoy a garden-view restaurant featuring seasonal flavors like matsutake mushrooms, chestnuts, and maple-themed desserts.
• In the evening, visit Eikandō for the night light-up—a romantic highlight of Kyoto's autumn season.

Day 2: Arima Onsen Escape

• Take a morning trip to Arima Onsen. Walk through colorful maple trees in Zuihōji Park, then relax with a soak at Kin-no-Yu public bath.
• Explore the charming onsen town streets, and check in to a ryokan with a private open-air bath, where you can unwind with red leaves all around.

If you're traveling with families or friends, interested in culture, passionate about photography, or simply want more time to explore, we also have plenty of ideas to create a personalized itinerary for you.

Tips for Autumn Leaves Season in Kyoto

• Book early: Reserve your hotel 3–6 months in advance to get the best rooms and rates. Boutique hotels and ryokan near Kiyomizu-dera or Arashiyama sell out fast.
• Beat the crowds: Go on weekdays and before 10 a.m. On public holidays or weekends, aim for 8 a.m., especially around Culture Day (Nov 3) and Labor Thanksgiving Day (Nov 23).
• Wear easy shoes: Many temples require you to take off your shoes. Avoid lace-up or high-top shoes. Wear thicker socks if you're worried about cold floors.
• Prepare cash: Small temples and tea shops may not accept credit cards, so carry some cash.

What to Wear & Bring in Kyoto's Autumn

Typical weather in Kyoto ranges from 6°C to 16°C (43°F to 61°F) in late November. Days are cool and dry, but mornings and evenings can feel quite cold.

What to Wear:

• Dress in layers
• Warm inner layer + sweater + light down jacket
• Gloves or scarf (especially for mountains or night light-ups)

What to Bring:

• Comfortable shoes (gravel paths, slopes, stone steps)
• Small umbrella (for occasional light rain)
• Sunglasses or hat (midday sun)

Let's Help You Arrange Your Autumn Tour in Japan

If you have any questions about planning your autumn trip or need assistance, feel free to contact us. We'll help you create your Japan itinerary based on your preferences.

More Tips & Guides for Traveling Japan in Autumn

• How to Plan a Fall Foliage Trip to Japan
• When and Where to See Autumn Colors in Tokyo
• Best Japan Autumn Itineraries