Kyoto Fall Foliage 2025: When and Where to See

Kyoto's historic temples, stone paths, and quiet gardens make it one of Japan's top spots for autumn foliage. You could enjoy fall views in temple gardens, along rivers, and in the nearby mountains.

Peak season usually starts in mid-November and lasts until early December. Warmer weather may delay the colors by about a week.

This guide covers the best times to visit, top spots, seasonal highlights, and practical tips to help you plan smoothly.

When to See Fall Colors in Kyoto

The best time is from late November to early December. Leaves start turning in late October and usually last until mid-December.

Fall colors stay vibrant for 2–3 weeks and don't fall quickly like cherry blossoms. Even if your timing is not perfect, you will likely still catch good views. 

For early November, head to nearby mountain areas like Kurama, Kibune, or Mount Hiei.

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

Where to See Autumn Leaves in Kyoto

Kyoto's autumn is known for its bright red and golden leaves surround centuries-old buildings. Some locations also 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 with beautiful scenery and fewer crowds, giving you a range of options to choose from.

Kiyomizu-dera

• Highlights: Dramatic stage views, night-time light-up
• 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.

Eikandō

• Highlights: Kyoto's top spot for night-time autumn leaves
• Evening Light-Up: Mid-November to early December, 5:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. (last entry 8:00 p.m.)

The temple has stone bridges, gardens, and a gentle slope with layered maple colors from deep red to soft gold, glowing under evening lights.

You'll need to remove your shoes to enter the tatami rooms, where you could enjoy matcha and traditional sweets while taking in the view.

A special kaiseki dinner plan is available in autumn. By booking the dinner, you can enjoy both day and night scenery, including the entrance fee.

The temple is located near the Philosopher's Path, perfect for a quiet stroll before or after your visit.

Philosopher's Path

• Highlights: Canal-side walk with temples and fall foliage
• Walking Route: Starts at Ginkakuji (2 Ginkakujicho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto) and ends near Nanzenji (Fukuchicho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto)

Philosopher's Path is a peaceful 2–3 km walking trail lined with maple trees, stone bridges, and charming old houses. It's one of Kyoto's most scenic places to enjoy the fall season on foot.

Start at Ginkakuji, where a small viewpoint offers a great overlook of Kyoto framed by autumn color.

At the end, do not miss Nanzenji's grand gate, the Hōjō Garden with its classic rock and sand designs, and Tenjuan Garden, which is small, peaceful, and worth the extra ticket.

Close to Nanzenji are elegant restaurants with garden seating. They're great for a meal with autumn scenery, but book at least three days ahead in peak season.

This route is mostly downhill and easy to follow, ideal for a relaxed half-day tour.

Kyoto Gyoen

• Highlights: Spacious imperial park with peaceful fall scenery
• Opening Hours: Open daily, year-round (Free entry)

Kyoto Gyoen surrounds Kyoto Gosho (Kyoto Imperial Palace), which is former residence of the Imperial Family. The park is known for its calm atmosphere and the elegance of a former royal garden.

With open lawns, shaded paths, and plenty of benches, it's perfect for a quiet stroll or picnic. It is a good spot for families or anyone looking for a relaxing break.

Daigo-ji

• Highlights: Brilliant maple scenery around a World Heritage temple
• 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.

Arashiyama

• Highlights: Valley maple views by Hozugawa River cruise and Sagano Scenic Railway
   

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.

• Ride the Sagano Scenic Railway:
  Start your morning from Kameoka Station. The 25-minute ride offers the best views just after the train exits each tunnel.
• Wander through an old temple:
  Walk 8 minutes from Arashiyama Station to Jojakkoji Temple, known for autumn leaves framed by symmetrical windows.
• If crowded, head to nearby Gioji Temple and its serene moss garden.
• Drift along the Hozugawa River:
  End your day with a 2-hour boat ride. Enjoy maple-covered banks as boatmen share stories in English and interact with people on shore.

Kōdai-ji

• Highlights: Elegant gardens, and dramatic night maple light-up
• Evening Light-Up: Mid-October to early December, sunset to 9:30 p.m. (last entry 9:00 p.m.)

Kōdai-ji is known for blending temple architecture with Zen-style gardens. Its night-time light-up is a small but beautiful experience.

Inside, you'll see a light show near the pond surrounded by red maples. As you walk uphill, the path becomes quieter and the views open up. On the way back, you'll pass a bamboo grove softly lit with star-like lights.

The temple is just a 5-minute walk from Yasaka Shrine, or about 10 minutes from Kiyomizu-dera. You could explore Kōdai-ji in under an hour. It offers a peaceful alternative to Eikandō for night-time maple viewing, with fewer crowds.

Where to Escape the Crowds for Fall Foliage Near Kyoto

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

Compared to central Kyoto, nearby spots like Nara and Arima are much quieter 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.

Nara

• Highlights: Maple with free-roaming deer, autumn views overlooking Kyoto
• Transportation: 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.

Arima Onsen

• Highlights: Mountain maple views and a relaxing hot spring town
• Transportation: From Kyoto, it takes about 1 to 1.5 hours by car

Arima Onsen is one of Japan's oldest hot spring towns. In autumn, you can soak in a hot spring while enjoying views of colorful maple trees, a rare and relaxing seasonal experience.

Many traditional inns here offer private hot spring baths with views of the trees. One good option is Goshobō, where you can enjoy fall colors while soaking in a quiet private bath.

If you want to experience local life, go to Zuihōji Park, a quiet spot for viewing autumn leaves. Or simply stroll around the town—try a foot bath at Kin-no-Yu or enjoy local snacks like carbonated rice crackers.

Uji

• Highlights: Autumn leaves, matcha culture, and a UNESCO World Heritage site
• Transportation: 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 Mimuroto-ji: a hillside temple with classic Japanese scenery such as stone steps, moss-covered gardens, and a five-story pagoda. It's less crowded, scenic, and perfect for a peaceful stroll and photos, even during peak season.
• Uji River Walk: Return to central Uji and stroll along the Uji River, where autumn leaves line the peaceful riverside paths. Stop for local food or relax with matcha sweets at a tea café.
• End your visit at Byodoin: a UNESCO World Heritage site. The Phoenix Hall and pond are especially stunning in the late afternoon light. Be sure to explore the museum and tea shop on-site for a richer experience.

Enkō-ji

• Highlights: Framed maple views through tatami rooms and overlooking Kyoto
• 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.

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. We recommend spending at least two days to fully enjoy the autumn scenery. Here's a suggested itinerary to help you make the most of your trip.

Fun with Kids for Family:

Day 1: Arashiyama Nature Adventure

Ride the Sagano Scenic Railway through colorful mountain foliage.

Then take a short boat ride on the Hozugawa River or hike to the Monkey Park, where kids can watch monkeys play with a backdrop of autumn leaves.

Day 2: Deer and Gardens in Nara

Start the day in Nara Park, where kids can feed the friendly deer and play among golden trees.

Walk to Yoshikien Garden, a peaceful spot with ponds and maples, great for a quiet break.

If you're feeling active, hike up the slope of Mount Wakakusa for wide views over the city and the autumn hills.

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 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.

How to Avoid Crowds During Autumn Leaves Season in Kyoto

Kyoto is always lively during fall, especially at places like Tofukuji and Kiyomizu-dera, but it remains calm and orderly. If you're concerned about crowds, we've got some tips for you:

• Avoid Japanese public holidays like Culture Day (November 3) and Labor Thanksgiving Day (November 23).
• Weekday visits and early morning arrivals before 8 am can also help.
• If you prefer quieter spots, consider nearby places like Yoshikien Garden in Nara.

How Early to Book for Fall Foliage Season

Autumn is one of the busiest times to visit Kyoto, especially from mid-November to early December. To secure the best hotels, avoid price hikes, and reserve top experiences, early planning is essential.

Here's what to keep in mind:

• Book 3–6 months ahead to get the best hotel options and rates.
• Private guides, cars, and exclusive restaurants should be booked even earlier.
• Prices can rise 30–50% during peak foliage week.
• Once the foliage forecast is out, top-rated spots and services fill up quickly.
• Boutique hotels and ryokan near Kiyomizu-dera or Arashiyama often sell out early.

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.