Kyoto Autumn Leaves Journey: Discovering the Best Fall Spots

Kyoto in early December, the autumn leaves are almost at 100%! When the sunlight falls, the forest of autumn leaves looks like it's covered with a golden-red filter. The beauty of nature needs no embellishment, and every corner of Kyoto looks like a painting. In this autumn leaves tour, I will share my itinerary and highlights so you can also embrace this 'red ocean.' 1. Itinerary Planning: Best Route Arrangement 🌟 Highlights: Kiyomizu-dera → Tofuku-ji → Nanzen-ji Tenjuan → Murin-an → Jojakko-ji It's recommended to start in the morning and gradually enjoy the scenery to avoid the crowds and better appreciate the serene autumn atmosphere. 2. Detailed Spot Descriptions and Photo Highlights Day 1: Exploring the Autumn Leaves Paradise 1. Kiyomizu-dera 📍 Recommended Time: Early Morning 6:30–8:00 Kiyomizu-dera is one of Kyoto's landmarks, and it's especially crowded in autumn. It's recommended to visit early in the morning when the autumn leaves under the morning sun look like they're burning. Overlooking the entire valley of autumn leaves from the Kiyomizu stage feels like entering a fairy tale world. Highlights: Kiyomizu Stage, Otowa Waterfall. 2. Tofuku-ji 📍 Best Time: Morning 9:00–11:00 Known as the 'ceiling' of Kyoto's autumn leaves, Tofuku-ji's Tsutenkyo Bridge and the maple leaves on both sides of the valley are unparalleled. Standing on the bridge feels like being in a tunnel of autumn leaves. Highlights: Tsutenkyo Bridge, Sengyokukan Valley. 3. Nanzen-ji Tenjuan 📍 Suggested Time: Afternoon 13:00–14:30 Tenjuan in Nanzen-ji is famous for its exquisite garden design and beautiful autumn leaves. It's especially suitable for quiet appreciation or enjoying tea in the temple, feeling the Zen of the Japanese garden. Highlights: Garden Water Scenery, Reflections of Autumn Leaves. 4. Murin-an 📍 Visiting Time: Afternoon 15:00–16:30 The garden here is known for its understated elegance. The Japanese-style buildings surrounded by autumn leaves are particularly photogenic, especially when the midday sunlight falls, making it breathtaking. Highlights: Japanese Garden, Wooden Buildings with Autumn Leaves Background. 5. Jojakko-ji 📍 Sunset Time: 16:30–17:30 Known as the 'hidden gem of Arashiyama's autumn leaves,' Jojakko-ji is located on a small hill. The autumn leaves here are as bright as flames. It's recommended to visit in the evening when the sunset and autumn leaves create a stunning picture. Highlights: Tahoto Pagoda, Stone Steps with Autumn Leaves Path. 3. Tips for Capturing the Best Moments of Autumn Leaves 1. Lighting is Key: Early morning and evening are the best times for photography. Natural light gives the autumn leaves more depth. 2. Composition Suggestions: Use temple buildings or bridges combined with autumn leaves to highlight the Japanese style. 3. Accessories Tips: Wearing a kimono or bringing Japanese accessories for photos will match the autumn scenery better. 4. Transportation and Time Arrangement Transportation: • Kiyomizu-dera: Take the Keihan Electric Railway to 'Kiyomizu-Gojo Station,' then walk about 20 minutes. • Tofuku-ji: JR Nara Line 'Tofukuji Station,' then walk about 10 minutes. • Nanzen-ji Tenjuan: Subway Tozai Line 'Keage Station,' then walk about 5 minutes. • Murin-an: Subway Tozai Line 'Keage Station,' then walk about 10 minutes. • Jojakko-ji: Take the Arashiyama Electric Railway to 'Arashiyama Station,' then walk about 15 minutes. Itinerary Suggestion: Explore from east to west to avoid rushing and save energy for taking beautiful photos and savoring the autumn leaves. Conclusion: The Ultimate Beauty of Kyoto's Autumn Leaves Kyoto's autumn leaves season is short and precious. When you step into this red painting, every moment is full of poetry and inspiration. This autumn leaves tour, whether it's the magnificent Kiyomizu-dera or the tranquil Murin-an, will leave you lingering. If you're planning a trip to Japan, follow the footsteps of the autumn leaves and experience this autumn feast!