3 Stunning Autumn Foliage Spots in Kyoto You Can’t Miss

Autumn in Kyoto is painted with breathtaking colors that captivate visitors from around the world.
With its many temples and gardens, the city offers a unique harmony of historic architecture and brilliant maple leaves. The vivid reds and golden hues reflecting off stone paths and wooden temple halls create unforgettable moments for all who visit. From serene hidden gems to iconic spots that fill magazines and social media feeds, Kyoto’s autumn foliage offers experiences for every style of traveler.

In this article, we’ll introduce three must-see destinations: Anraku-ji, famous for its fiery carpet of fallen leaves; Tofuku-ji, one of Kyoto’s most renowned autumn foliage sites; and Rurikoin, a beloved hidden retreat with a tranquil atmosphere.

Anraku-ji, where fallen maples paint the stone steps red

Located near the Philosopher’s Path, Anraku-ji is renowned for its fallen maple leaves that turn the stone steps a vivid red in autumn. The carpet of crimson leaves along the approach instantly draws visitors into a dreamlike world. The striking contrast between moss-covered stones and brilliant red foliage creates a breathtaking scene of almost surreal beauty.

Within the temple grounds, a calm atmosphere prevails, making it the perfect spot for those who wish to enjoy the autumn colors in peace. Despite being situated in a popular sightseeing area, entry to the temple is limited, allowing for a relatively relaxed viewing experience. Beyond its picture-perfect scenery, the simple act of walking across the fallen leaves creates a lasting impression.

Visiting Hours	Open: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM November Weekends & Holidays, and Early December Weekends, 2025
Address	21 Goshonodan-cho, Shishigatani, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, Japan
Access	・Hotel Gracery Kyoto Sanjo: Walk about 5 minutes to Kyoto Shiyakusho-mae Station on the Tozai Subway Line. Get off at Keage Station, then walk about 20 minutes to reach Anraku-ji Temple. ・Hotel Tavinos Kyoto: Walk about 8 minutes from the hotel to Shijo Station on the Karasuma Subway Line. Transfer to the Tozai Line at Karasuma Oike Station, get off at Keage Station, then walk about 20 minutes to Anraku-ji Temple.
URL	http://anrakuji-kyoto.com/

Tofuku-ji, a temple renowned for its breathtaking autumn scenery

Famed nationwide as a must-see autumn spectacle, Tofuku-ji is celebrated for its breathtaking foliage. Around 2,000 maple trees blanket the valley, and the view from the Tsuten Bridge is truly awe-inspiring. The vibrant hues of crimson, orange, and gold spread across the ravine like a perfect painting created by nature itself.

The temple’s halls, built during the Muromachi period, and its serene Zen atmosphere harmonize beautifully with the brilliant colors, leaving visitors deeply moved. During peak season, crowds from across Japan gather to witness this scenery, a testament to its enduring popularity. Frequently shared on social media, Tofuku-ji has become an iconic symbol of Kyoto’s autumn. For those seeking to experience autumn leaves on an overwhelming scale, it is a destination not to be missed.

Visiting Hours	April 1 – October 31, 2025 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM (gates close at 4:30 PM) November 1 – December 7, 2025 8:30 AM – 4:00 PM (gates close at 4:30 PM)
Address	15-778 Honmachi, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto, Japan
Access	・Hotel Gracery Kyoto Sanjo: Walk about 10 minutes to Hankyu Kyoto Kawaramachi Station. Take the Keihan Line and get off at Tofuku-ji Station. From there, it’s about a 5-minute walk to the temple. ・Hotel Tavinos Kyoto: Walk about 8 minutes from the hotel to Keihan Kiyomizu-Gojo Station. Take the Keihan Line to Tofuku-ji Station, then walk about 5 minutes to the temple.
URL	https://tofukuji.jp/

Rurikoin, a hidden retreat with an intimate atmosphere

Nestled at the foot of Mount Hiei in the Yase district, Rurikoin is known for its secluded, retreat-like atmosphere. One of its highlights is the famous “reflection foliage” seen from the study on the second floor. Polished black lacquered desks mirror the brilliant maples outside, creating a dreamlike scene that feels almost otherworldly.

The temple grounds also boast exquisite gardens, where moss and autumn leaves weave together in perfect harmony with nature. As Rurikoin opens only during special viewing periods in spring and autumn, the very act of visiting feels like a rare privilege. Amid the quiet flow of time, the autumn colors here offer visitors a serene moment away from the bustle of the city.

Visiting Hours	Special Autumn Viewing October 1 (Wed) – December 14 (Sun), 2025 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (last admission at 4:30 PM) From November 8 (Sat) to December 7 (Sun), admission is by reservation only. Closed Days: None during the special viewing period
Address	55 Higashiyama, Kamitakano, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, Japan
Access	・Hotel Gracery Kyoto Sanjo: Walk about 10 minutes to Keihan Sanjo Station. Take the Keihan Main Line to Demachiyanagi Station, transfer to the Eizan Railway, and get off at Yase-Hieizan-guchi Station. From there, it’s about a 5-minute walk to Rurikoin Temple. ・Hotel Tavinos Kyoto: Walk about 8 minutes from the hotel to Keihan Kiyomizu-Gojo Station. Take the Keihan Main Line to Demachiyanagi Station, transfer to the Eizan Railway, and get off at Yase-Hieizan-guchi Station. Then walk about 5 minutes to Rurikoin Temple.
URL	https://rurikoin.komyoji.com/