Kyoto is one of the most beautiful cities in Japan, and autumn is perhaps the best time to visit. From mid-November to early December, the city transforms into a vibrant world of red, orange, and golden leaves. Here are four of the most famous temples and gardens to experience the magic of Kyoto’s autumn foliage.

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1. Rurikoin (瑠璃光院)

Highlights:
Rurikoin is a hidden treasure in Kyoto, especially famous for the stunning reflections of autumn leaves on its polished wooden floors. The temple’s serene atmosphere and its “mirror-like” view attract many visitors every fall.

Autumn Special Admission (2025):

• Period: October 1, 2025 (Wed) – December 14, 2025 (Sun)
• Hours: 10:00 – 17:00 (last entry 16:30)
  • Important: From November 8 (Sat) to December 7 (Sun), entry is by reservation and lottery only, with different admission times.
    👉Reservation and lottery page is here
• Admission Fee:
  • Adults: ¥2,000
  • Junior high & high school students: ¥1,000 (with student ID)
  • Children: One child (elementary school or younger) is free per adult. A second child is ¥1,000.
• Closed Days: None during the special admission period.
• Notes:
  • No parking is available. Please use public transportation.
  • Group tours are not accepted due to agreements with the neighborhood.
  • The temple may close in case of disasters.
  • Outside the special admission period, the temple is closed to visitors.

Best Time for Autumn Leaves: Mid-November to early December.

Access:

Around 30 minutes from central Kyoto by train.

About 5 minutes on foot from Yase-Hieizanguchi Station (Eizan Railway).

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2. Eikando (永観堂)

Highlights:
Known as the “Temple of Autumn Leaves,” Eikando is one of the most popular places in Kyoto for fall colors. The temple grounds feature a pond, pagoda, and gardens illuminated during special night events. The reflection of red and orange leaves on the pond is especially beautiful.

Best Time for Autumn Leaves: Mid-November to late November.

Access:

• 15 minutes on foot from Keage Station (Kyoto Subway Tozai Line).
• Buses are also available from Kyoto Station (approx. 30 minutes).

Admission Fee: ¥600 (daytime), ¥1,000 (night illumination).

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3. Tofukuji (東福寺)

Highlights:
Tofukuji is one of the largest Zen temples in Kyoto, famous for the Tsutenkyo Bridge, which overlooks a valley filled with thousands of maple trees. The panoramic view of red leaves stretching out below is unforgettable.

Best Time for Autumn Leaves: Mid-November to early December.

Access:

• 10 minutes on foot from Tofukuji Station (JR Nara Line or Keihan Main Line).
• About 10 minutes from Kyoto Station.

Admission Fee: ¥600 (Tsutenkyo Bridge & Kaisando Hall), ¥1,000 (combined ticket).

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4. Genkoan (源光庵)

Highlights:
Genkoan is a small temple famous for its two unique windows: the “Window of Enlightenment” (a round window) and the “Window of Confusion” (a square window). Through these windows, you can enjoy a framed view of the autumn leaves, which look like natural paintings.

Best Time for Autumn Leaves: Mid-November to late November.

Access:

• Take a bus from Kitaoji Station (Kyoto Subway Karasuma Line), about 15 minutes.
• From central Kyoto, about 40 minutes by bus.

Admission Fee: ¥400.

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Tips for Visiting Kyoto in Autumn

• Crowds: These temples are extremely popular, so visit early in the morning to avoid long lines.
• Night Illuminations: Some temples (like Eikando) offer evening light-ups, giving you a different perspective of the autumn leaves.
• Transport: Kyoto’s buses and trains can be crowded during peak foliage season. Consider walking or using a bicycle for short distances.

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✨ Visiting Kyoto in autumn is like stepping into a traditional Japanese painting. Whether you want breathtaking views, serene reflections, or hidden gems, these four spots—Rurikoin, Eikando, Tofukuji, and Genkoan—offer some of the most unforgettable autumn experiences in Japan.

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