Local Guide
[2025 Edition] 10 Must-Visit Spots for Viewing Autumn Leaves in Kyoto's Arashiyama Area

The Arashiyama area is home to many of Kyoto's most popular tourist attractions, including the Togetsukyo Bridge over the Oi River (Katsura River), the bamboo forests of Sagano, and the World Heritage Site of Tenryuji Temple. As autumn deepens, the area attracts many tourists, as the autumn leaves blend seamlessly into the traditional Japanese landscape. This article introduces 10 recommended autumn foliage spots around Arashiyama, from classics to hidden gems. We also introduce the best viewing times and upcoming events.

The black wood torii gate surrounded by autumn leaves is a must-see. An ancient shrine that also appears in the Tale of Genji

The combination of the black wood torii gate and the maple leaves shining brightly on a clear day is a sight to behold. You can also expect to take some beautiful autumn photos.
The combination of the black wood torii gate and the maple leaves shining brightly on a clear day is a sight to behold. You can also expect to take some beautiful autumn photos.

Located in the "Bamboo Grove Path," a popular tourist spot in Sagano, this historic shrine is featured in "The Tale of Genji: Sakaki Chapter," written by Murasaki Shikibu, a writer from the Heian period.

The symbol of our shrine is the black torii gate in front of the main hall. It is made from black oak with the bark still attached, and as autumn deepens, you can enjoy the contrast with the Japanese maple tree next to it.

Additionally, the moss garden to the rear right of the main hall is called "carpet moss," and you can enjoy the contrast of green and red when the leaves fall.

As a shrine dedicated to the god of matchmaking, this shrine is deeply revered by people praying for a good match. It is said that if you pray while stroking the sacred stone "Okameishi" located next to "Nonomiya Daikokuten" on the grounds, your wish will come true within a year, making it popular among men and women hoping for a good match.

[Start of coloring] Usually mid-November
[Best time to see] Usually from late November to early December
[Types of autumn leaves] Japanese maple, maple

Comments Local Guide
If you look closely at the moss carpet (moss garden), you will see that it is arranged to resemble the Oi River (Katsura River) and Togetsukyo Bridge. You can also enjoy a miniature version of Arashiyama.
Nonomiya Shrine
  • 住所1 Saganomiyacho, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture MAP
  • アクセスApproximately 10 minutes on foot from Arashiyama Station on the Keifuku Electric Railroad
  • 営業時間Free to visit

The contrast between the architectural beauty of wabi-sabi and the autumn colors is stunning

The thatched roof of the Niomon Gate is decorated with autumn leaves
The thatched roof of the Niomon Gate is decorated with autumn leaves

This temple, located on the slopes of Mount Ogura, has been praised as a famous spot for viewing autumn leaves in numerous poems since the Heian period. Said to have been built during the Keicho era (1596-1614), the Niomon Gate, with its glaring Nio statues created by the Buddhist sculptor Unkei, is the oldest building on the temple grounds. Its thatched roof is rare for a Niomon gate, and the combination of the wabi-sabi style of the building and the autumn leaves is renowned as a stunning sight.

There are many places worth seeing for autumn leaves, including the bell tower, the steps in front of the main hall, and the garden with over 200 maple trees. The 12-meter-tall pagoda (an important cultural property) behind the main hall, blending into the colorful Mt. Ogura, has been featured in many media outlets. The observation deck at the very back of the temple grounds is also a highly recommended spot for a spectacular view of the Kyoto cityscape in autumn.

Every year, from mid- to late November, when the autumn leaves are at their peak, a "Special Opening of the Main Hall" is held. You can also enter the Shoin study, which is normally closed to the public, and view the garden, which has remained unchanged since the Edo period.

[Start of coloring] Early November every year
[Best time to see] Mid-November to late November
[Types of autumn leaves] Japanese maple, Japanese maple, etc.

▼Special viewing of the main hall
Date and time: November 18th (Tuesday) to November 30th (Sunday), 2025
Fee: Main hall special viewing fee 500 yen
Location: Jojakkoji Temple Main Hall/Shoin

Comments Local Guide
If you visit during the special viewing period of the main hall, you will be given a special talisman with a picture of Shaka Nyorai.
Jojakkoji Temple
  • 住所Kyoto City, Ukyo Ward, Saga Ogurayama Oguramachi 3 MAP
  • アクセスApproximately 17 minutes on foot from Arashiyama Station on the Keifuku Electric Railroad
    Approximately 18 minutes on foot from JR Saga-Arashiyama Station
  • 営業時間9:00-17:00 (reception closes at 16:30)
  • 入場料Admission fee: 500 yen

One of Kyoto's most famous autumn foliage spots, which has delighted people since the Heian period

Togetsukyo Bridge with Arashiyama in autumn as a backdrop
Togetsukyo Bridge with Arashiyama in autumn as a backdrop

This 150m-long bridge spans the Oi River (Katsura River), which separates Sagano and Arashiyama. The view of Arashiyama against the backdrop is truly fascinating, and it is one of Kyoto's most representative landscapes.

In the early Heian period, Togetsukyo Bridge was located about 200 meters upstream from its current location. The bridge was given its name after Emperor Kameyama, who was watching the moon change over the bridge, commented that it looked like the moon was crossing without a cloud.

If you want to enjoy the view while avoiding the crowds during the autumn foliage season, we recommend a spot a little east of the north end of the bridge. From the "Arashiyama Park Rinsenji District," which stretches along the Oi River between the Togetsukyo Bridge intersection on Prefectural Route 29 and the Kiyotakimichi Sanjo intersection, you can see Togetsukyo Bridge with the colorful Arashiyama mountainscape in the background.

The Arashiyama Momiji Festival is held every year on the second Sunday of November. Elegant boats, such as modern boats and Heian-style boats, anchor off the banks of the Oi River near Togetsukyo Bridge, and perform performing arts that are associated with the Arashiyama area.

[Start of coloring] Usually mid-November
[Best time to see] Usually from late November to early December
[Types of autumn leaves] Japanese maple, Japanese maple, maple, etc.

▼Arashiyama Maple Festival
Period: Sunday, November 9, 2025
Time: 10:00-15:00 (cancelled in case of rain)
Location: Oi River (near Togetsukyo Bridge)
URL:https://ja.kyoto.travel/event/single.php?event_id=4066

Comments Local Guide
At the Nakanoshima District of Arashiyama Park (commonly known as Nakanoshima Park), located on an island in the river, food stalls are set up during the autumn foliage season, so you can enjoy viewing the autumn leaves while eating and drinking.
Togetsukyo Bridge
  • 住所Saga Nakanoshimacho, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto City, Kyoto PrefectureMAP
  • アクセスApproximately 2 minutes' walk from Arashiyama Station on the Keifuku Electric Railroad

Enjoy a ride on a trolley through the red and yellow-hued valley

Sagano Scenic Train: Enjoy the beauty of the autumn leaves in the valley from the train window
Sagano Scenic Train: Enjoy the beauty of the autumn leaves in the valley from the train window

The upper reaches of the Hozu River, which flows alongside Arashiyama, are known as Hozukyo Gorge, a famous spot for viewing autumn leaves. If you want to fully enjoy Hozukyo Gorge in autumn, we recommend taking a ride on the Sagano Torokko Train, a sightseeing train that runs along the valley. You can enjoy the beauty of the valley as you leisurely ride the approximately 7km one-way trip from Torokko Saga Station, the starting station on the Kyoto City side, to Torokko Kameoka Station on the Kameoka City side, taking about 25 minutes.

Approximately 1,000 maple trees, including Japanese maples, mountain maples, and other autumn trees, are planted along the line, and as autumn deepens, the leaves of the trees turn a vibrant red and yellow, painting the view from the train window vividly.

All seats on the five-car train are reserved, and tickets can be purchased at all stations (same-day tickets only) except for Torokko Hozukyo Station, or in advance online. Car No. 5 is an open-top car with no windows, allowing you to enjoy the pleasant breeze and the murmuring of the river in the valley.

[Start of coloring] Early November every year
[Best time to see] Mid-November to early December
[Types of autumn leaves] Japanese maple, Japanese maple, maple, etc.

Comments Local Guide
From autumn to winter, the "Light Fantasy Train" operates from 4:30 PM until the last train. The autumn leaves and mountains on the opposite bank are illuminated, creating a truly magical experience.
Sagano Scenic Train
  • 営業時間Operating dates: March 1st to December 29th
    Travel time: Torocco Saga - Torocco Kameoka approx. 25 minutes
  • 定休日All services may be suspended on Wednesdays. *Services may also run on Wednesdays during peak seasons.
  • 入場料Adults (12 years and over) 880 yen, Children (under 12 years old) 440 yen
  • TEL075-861-7444（嵯峨野観光鉄道テレフォンサービス）
  • メモTickets are sold on a first-come, first-served basis at the ticket counters of all stations except Torokko Hozukyo Station. Tickets can also be pre-ordered on the website.

A hidden ancient temple in Sagano where you can enjoy picturesque autumn foliage

You can take picturesque photos from the corridor north of the main hall
You can take picturesque photos from the corridor north of the main hall

This ancient temple is located about 1km north of Togetsukyo Bridge. The Niomon Gate at the entrance to the temple is a blend of Japanese and Zen styles, and its upright two-story gate is also known as the "face of Saga."

The main temple is also known as "Saga Shakado" because it houses the national treasure "Shaka Nyorai Statue." There are many things to see within the temple grounds, such as the Tahoto Pagoda and Amida Hall.

There are many autumn foliage spots scattered throughout the temple grounds, including the garden believed to have been created by Kobori Enshu. Near the Bentendo Hall behind the main hall, you can enjoy the vivid contrast between the red maples and the green trees surrounding the hall.

If you want to capture beautiful autumn foliage on camera, we recommend the corridor north of the main hall. You can use the windows as a frame to capture a painting of the Bentendo Hall decked out in autumn leaves.

[Start of coloring] Usually late October
[Best time to see] Early to late November
[Types of autumn leaves] Japanese maple, etc.

Comments Local Guide
We also recommend viewing the autumn leaves along the earthen wall south of Prince Shotoku Hall and on Kawanakajima Island west of Bentendo Hall.
(Image courtesy of Seiryoji Temple)
(Image courtesy of Seiryoji Temple)
Seiryoji Temple
  • 住所46, Saga Shakado Fujinokicho, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto City MAP
  • アクセスApproximately 12 minutes on foot from JR Saga-Arashiyama Station
    Take a Kyoto Bus or City Bus from JR Kyoto Station, get off at the "Saga Shakado-mae" bus stop, and walk for about 1 minute.
  • 営業時間9:00～16:00
  • 定休日None (visits may not be possible during events such as memorial services)
  • 入場料Adults 500 yen, middle and high school students 400 yen, elementary school students 300 yen
  • TEL075-861-0343
  • 駐車場Available (standard-sized car 800 yen/day)

Admire the autumn colors at this nationally designated scenic spot associated with Emperor Saga

From the east side of Osawa Pond, you can see the Godaido Hall, the Heart Sutra Pagoda, Momiji Road, and more on the opposite bank of the pond.
From the east side of Osawa Pond, you can see the Godaido Hall, the Heart Sutra Pagoda, Momiji Road, and more on the opposite bank of the pond.

Built at the beginning of the Heian period as a detached palace for Emperor Saga, it is currently the head temple of the Daikakuji school of Shingon Buddhism. It is a historic temple where Kobo Daishi, also known as Kukai, performed incantations and prayers.

The vast temple grounds are divided into the "Odo Area" and the "Osawa Pond Area," and in the Odo Area you can see the Shinden Hall, an Important Cultural Property, and the Godaido Hall, the main hall.

Osawa Pond is said to have been constructed by Emperor Saga, and is designated as a national scenic spot as Japan's oldest artificial garden pond, retaining traces of the early Heian period. Maple and cherry trees are planted alternately around the pond, and during the autumn foliage season, the reflection of the leaves on the water's surface makes it even more beautiful.

There are many places around Osawa Pond where you can enjoy viewing the autumn leaves, but the most popular spot is the "Momiji Road" that runs from the "Shinkyo Pagoda Square" to the "Nagoso Falls Ruins." The bright red leaves of Japanese maples cover your head, and walking along the path gives you the feeling of being surrounded by autumn leaves.

[Start of coloring] Early November every year
[Best time to see] Mid-November to early December
[Types of autumn leaves] Japanese maple, Somei Yoshino cherry, wild cherry, ginkgo, etc.

Comments Local Guide
Every year in November, the Saga Chrysanthemum Exhibition is held, a seasonal autumn feature. Be sure to enjoy the wild chrysanthemums unique to Sagano that grew wild during the time of Emperor Saga.
Daikakuji Temple
  • 住所Kyoto Prefecture, Kyoto City, Ukyo Ward, Saga Osawacho 4 MAP
  • アクセスApproximately 20 minutes on foot from JR Saga-Arashiyama Station
    Take a Kyoto bus or city bus from JR Kyoto Station, get off at the Daikakuji bus stop, and walk for about 1 minute
  • 営業時間9:00-17:00 (reception closes at 16:30)
  • 入場料Hall area: Adults 500 yen, elementary, junior high and high school students 300 yen
    Osawa Pond area: 300 yen for adults, 100 yen for elementary, middle and high school students
  • TEL075-871-0071
  • 駐車場Paid
  • メモAdmission fees will be revised from April 1, 2026
    Hall area: Adults 800 yen, elementary, junior high and high school students 400 yen
    Osawa Pond area: Adults 500 yen, elementary, junior high and high school students 100 yen (no change)

The autumn leaves on the approach to the shrine, known as the "Autumn Leaves Baba," are a sight to behold

The approach leading from the main gate is called "Autumn Leaves Baba" and is one of Kyoto's most famous spots for viewing autumn leaves.
The approach leading from the main gate is called "Autumn Leaves Baba" and is one of Kyoto's most famous spots for viewing autumn leaves.

Located at the foot of Mount Ogura, this historic temple was built by Jikaku Daishi Ennin in the early Heian period. The tiled main gate at the entrance was relocated from Fushimi Castle in 1613 (Keicho 18), and you can see how the temple has grown over the years.

Beyond the main gate, the wide approach to the temple is lined with alternating Japanese maples and cherry trees, and in the cool autumn weather, the path is covered in autumn leaves that jut out from both sides. The vibrant red and yellow leaves overlap one another in layers, creating a veritable tunnel of autumn leaves. Since ancient times, it has been affectionately known as "Autumn Leaves Baba" by people in the capital, and is one of the most famous autumn foliage spots in the Arashiyama area.

The maple trees around the main hall and the Imperial Gate are also popular for their beauty, and you can enjoy the autumn scenery everywhere in the vast grounds.

[Start of coloring] Early November every year
[Best time to see] Mid-November to early December
[Types of autumn leaves] Japanese maple, Japanese maple, Japanese maple, etc.

Comments Local Guide
The trick to taking a beautiful photo is to use the tiled main gate as a frame to capture the approach leading to the back of the temple.
Nison-in Temple
  • 住所27 Nagagamicho, Saga Nison-in Temple, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture MAP
  • アクセスApproximately 15 minutes on foot from Arashiyama Station on the Keifuku Electric Railroad
    Take a Kyoto Bus or City Bus from JR Kyoto Station, get off at the "Saga Shakado-mae" bus stop, and walk for about 10 minutes.
  • 営業時間9:00-16:30 (last entry)
  • 入場料Adults (junior high school students and above): 600 yen, elementary school students and below: free
  • TEL075-861-0687

A spectacular spot where you can look down on the autumnal Hozukyo Gorge from the observation deck

Boats floating on the river and autumn leaves looming on both banks. You can take pictures with a charming composition from the observation deck.
Boats floating on the river and autumn leaves looming on both banks. You can take pictures with a charming composition from the observation deck.

The Kameyama area of Arashiyama Park, which spreads out to the southeast of Ogurayama, is located on the hills northwest of Togetsukyo Bridge and is affectionately known as "Kameyama Park" by local residents.

The garden is dominated by red pine trees, with cherry blossoms and maples mixed in, and a lush array of flowers, including mountain azaleas, growing in clusters beneath the trees. There are walking paths throughout the garden, and visitors can enjoy the changing colors of the trees from the plaza and rest areas.

When sightseeing, we recommend entering the park from near the boat disembarkation point along the Hozu River. After walking up the promenade for about 15 minutes, you will reach the summit where you will find an observation deck from which you can enjoy a panoramic view of the autumn foliage of Hozukyo Gorge, which has been selected as one of the "100 Best Spots for Autumn Foliage in Japan."

[Start of coloring] Usually mid-November
[Best time to see] Usually from late November to early December
[Types of autumn leaves] Maple, cherry blossom, etc.

Comments Local Guide
The great thing about Kameyama Park is that you can stroll around whenever you like. Early mornings are recommended as there are fewer people around. You can enjoy a stroll in the clear air as you climb up to the observation deck.
Arashiyama Park Kameyama District Observation Deck (Kameyama Park)
  • 住所Saga, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto City, Kyoto PrefectureMAP
  • アクセスApproximately 10 minutes on foot from Keifuku Electric Railroad Arashiyama Station (to the park entrance along the Hozu River on the Arashiyama side)

The approach to the shrine, where you can enjoy the contrast between the green moss and the crimson autumn leaves, is a must-see

The stone-paved approach leading from the main gate to the inner gate
The stone-paved approach leading from the main gate to the inner gate

This temple was built as the founding tower of Hodo-ji Temple, which was constructed by Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, the third shogun of the Muromachi shogunate. You can see valuable cultural assets such as the reception hall, which has a plaque written by Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, and the Buddha Tooth Relic Hall, which houses the tooth of Buddha.

The stone-paved approach to the temple that stretches from the main gate to the inner gate is particularly beautiful during the autumn foliage season. Green moss grows along the sides of the approach, and as autumn deepens, you can enjoy the contrast between the green of the moss and the fiery autumn leaves.

Additionally, the Rokuoin Garden within the temple grounds is said to be Japan's first flat-style dry landscape garden, and has been designated a Kyoto City Place of Scenic Beauty. As autumn deepens, you can enjoy viewing the autumn leaves throughout the garden, with the Arashiyama mountain range dyed red and yellow as a backdrop.

Every year during the autumn foliage season, the approach to the temple and the garden are lit up for a special night viewing.is enveloped in soft light.

[Start of coloring] Usually mid-November
[Best time to see] Usually from late November to early December
[Types of autumn leaves] Japanese maple, Japanese maple, etc.

▼Rokuo-in Temple Special Night Viewing 2025
Period: Friday, November 21, 2025 to Sunday, December 14, 2025
Time: 17:00-19:30 (last admission 19:00 *Advance reservations required, 150 groups per day)
Nighttime admission fee: 3,500 yen (includes tea and sweets)
Location: Rokuo-in Temple approach and garden
Note: Tickets can be purchased on the official Rokuoin website
URL: https://mzt3p.hp.peraichi.com/

Comments Local Guide
The lights that illuminate the temple grounds during special evening viewings are said to represent "a path of light that leads from reality to the world of Buddha."
Rokuo-in Temple
  • 住所24 Saga Kitaboricho, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture MAP
  • アクセスApproximately 3 minutes on foot from Rokuoin Station on the Keifuku Electric Railroad
    Approximately 6 minutes on foot from JR Saga-Arashiyama Station
  • 営業時間9:00～17:00
  • 入場料Adults: 600 yen, elementary and junior high school students: 300 yen
  • TEL075-861-1645

The beautiful autumn garden can only be seen during special viewing hours

Autumn leaves covering the garden like a canopy
Autumn leaves covering the garden like a canopy

It is a sub-temple of Tenryu-ji Temple, the most prestigious of the Kyoto Five Mountains. It houses the Lion's Roar Garden, which was created by Zen master Sakugen Shuryo, who traveled to China twice during the Muromachi period.

Shishiku Garden is a strolling landscape garden with Arashiyama as a backdrop, and is full of highlights such as the Homaru-gaki fence, which is characterized by its shape resembling a series of peaks, and the huge lion-shaped rock, Shishi-iwa. In autumn, the Japanese maples, whose branches extend to cover the garden, turn a brilliant color all at once, making it particularly beautiful.

You can only enter Hogon-in Temple during special viewings held several times a year. During the autumn special viewing, you can look around the Shishiku Garden and gaze upon the colorful garden from the calming atmosphere of the teahouse "Muian."

During the peak autumn foliage season from mid-November to early December, special nighttime viewing is held. You can enjoy the tranquil yet dazzling beauty, which is different from the vibrant foliage during the day.

[Start of coloring] Usually mid-November
[Best time to see] Mid-November to early December
[Types of autumn leaves] Japanese maple, giant maple, Enkianthus campanulatus, ginkgo, etc.

▼Special Autumn Visit in 2025
Period: Saturday, October 4th, 2025 to Sunday, December 14th, 2025
Time: 9:00-17:00 (last entry 16:45)
Admission fee (garden): 700 yen for adults, 300 yen for elementary and junior high school students (*A separate admission fee is required for the special opening of the Hogon-in main hall)
Location: Hogon-in Temple Garden
URL: https://hogonin.jp/event/

▼Special night viewing in autumn 2025
Period: Friday, November 14th, 2025 to Sunday, December 7th, 2025
Time: 17:30-20:30 (last entry 20:00)
Admission fee: 1,000 yen for adults, 300 yen for elementary and junior high school students (daytime and nighttime admissions are switched: daytime admission tickets cannot be used for nighttime admissions or re-entry)
Location: Hogon-in Temple Garden
URL: https://hogonin.jp/event/

Comments Local Guide
The illuminated autumn leaves in Shishiku Garden are truly on fire, creating a fantastical feeling as if you have wandered into another world.
Hogon-in Temple
  • 住所36, Munonobabacho, Sagatenryuji, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture MAP
  • アクセスApproximately 3 minutes walk from Arashiyama Station on the Keifuku Electric Railroad
  • 営業時間Varies depending on special viewing times
  • 定休日Except during special viewing periods
  • 入場料Varies depending on special viewing times
  • TEL075-861-0091
  • 駐車場Tenryu-ji Temple visitor Parking available

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