Kyoto Seasons: Fall Foliage in Kyoto, Japan - MACHIYA RESIDENCE INN

Fall Foliage in Kyoto, Japan

The combination of machiya houses, historical temples and shrines, and the warm autumnal colors of red, yellow, and gold are enough to make Kyoto City one of the best places in Japan to view the autumn leaves. Known as ‘koyo’ (紅葉) in Japanese, the leaves in Kyoto begin to change color in late October through mid-November. Below are some of our favorite and recommended spots to view the autumn leaves in Kyoto, Japan.

Arguably one of the most popular places to view autumn leaves in Kyoto is at Tofukuji Temple, just south of Kyoto Station. There are over 2,000 maples trees that turn vibrant shades of red and orange during the fall foliage months. Its most famous view is from the Tsutenkyo Bridge, where it becomes completely surrounded by the autumnal shades of Kyoto.
A temple that requires a little more navigation, but is definitely worth the effort. Bishamondo is a temple hidden amonst the mountains of Higashiyama. Whilst it does require you to travel further towards the outskirts of Kyoto City, this tranquil temple will allow you to take in the beauty of Kyoto's fall foliage without any overbearing crowds.
Rurikoin Temple - located at the foot of Hiezan (Mt. Hiei), this temple is open to the public during select times throughout the year, but it is especially picturesque during the autumn months. It is known for its "yuka momiji" (literally 'floor maple leaves') - where the colorful autumn leaves are reflected upon the polished floors of Rurikoin Temple.
One of our favorite "hidden temples" is Enkoji Temple located in the northern Kyoto, founded by Tokugawa Ieyasu, a famous shogun leader of the Edo Period. It not only has a beautiful garden, but is known for its small "jizo statues" - smiling stone statues of Jizo Bosatsu, a guardian deity of children and travelers.
Just a short walk from Kyoto Station is Shosei-en Garden, a hidden gem that is a part of the Higashi Honganji Temple. During the autumn months, the maple trees that surround the beautiful pond transform into brilliant shades of red - you can even see Kyoto Tower peeking between the leaves in the distance.
You can experience the fall foliage in your machiya house, too. If you are lucky enough, the traditional tsuboniwa garden in your private garden will also showcase beautiful fall foliage - with momiji (Japanese maple leaves) turning shades of various golden hues. Pictured here is "Shimabara Kaiden" machiya house in Kyoto.