Joanna James
Autumn in Kyoto transforms the city into a breathtaking canvas of vibrant colours, with maple leaves ablaze in shades of red, orange, and gold. This seasonal spectacle attracts visitors from around the world, eager to experience the serene beauty of traditional temples, historic gardens, and picturesque streets adorned with fall foliage.
Perched high on a mountainside, Nariai-ji Temple offers a stunning view of the Amanohashidate sandbar, a slender stretch of green pine trees and white sand recognised as one of Japan's top three scenic spots. Beyond the breathtaking vista, the temple features extensive grounds to explore, including a serene pond and a bell tower. The most impressive highlight is its magnificent five-storey pagoda, which, is framed by vibrant red and yellow autumn foliage against the backdrop of Miyazu Bay’s blue waters, capturing the essence of Kyoto in the fall.
The Omoto Headquarters is situated along the peaceful Yura River, a mere 15-minute walk from Ayabe Station. Also referred to as Baisho-en, the grounds feature several stunning halls that host traditional Japanese arts, including aikido and Noh theatre. Additionally, the adjacent Kinryukai garden is a premier location for appreciating Kyoto's autumn foliage, adorned with maple trees that transform into vivid shades of fiery scarlet and deep maroon, blanketing the ground with their unique palmate leaves. For those staying in family hotels in Kyoto, such as the Travelodge Kyoto Shijo Kawaramachi, this place is easily reachable and certainly worth your time.
Hiking is an unparalleled autumn activity in Kyoto, and Hozukyo Gorge is one of the most delightful spots for a fall walk. This scenic route extends from the Hozu Bridge in Kameoka City to the famous Togetsu-kyo Bridge in Arashiyama, tracing the path of the Hozugawa River as it winds through a narrow channel between the mountains. For a truly memorable experience, consider taking an exhilarating two-hour boat ride through the rapids. As the boatmen skillfully navigate the rocks and pools, you can enjoy the stunning display of red, orange, and yellow foliage adorning the hillsides.
Zenporitsu-ji Temple, located in Yawata City and only a 15-minute walk from Keihan Iwashimizu Hanchimangu Station, provides a tranquil setting for enjoying Kyoto’s autumn foliage. The gardens feature around 100 maple trees that line the pathways and frame the magnificent front gate. Their stunning array of vibrant orange and ruby red leaves has led to Zenporitsu-ji being affectionately called Momiji-dera, or Maple Tree Temple. It’s easy to see why this temple deserves a spot on this list!
Renowned for its eleven-faced, thousand-armed statue of the Kannon Bodhisattva, Yanagidani Kannon (Yokokuji Temple) features incredibly picturesque grounds. Each season presents a variety of blooms to admire, including the stunning autumn leaves. The vibrant crimson and gold foliage beautifully contrasts with the grey stone lanterns and intricately designed wooden structures. If possible, plan your visit for the 17th of the month, when the Kamishoin study opens to the public, offering a particularly enchanting view of the autumn garden from within.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
