Kyoto’s Best Places to View Autumn Leaves at Peak Fall Foliage

The best time to travel to Kyoto, Japan is during the crisp autumn season! The air was cool and refreshing, and the Kyoto autumn foliage was painted in fiery shades of red, orange, and yellow. Our family couldn’t wait to explore the city’s many temples and gardens in fall, particularly during the best time to visit Kyoto in autumn, late November.

Top things to do in Kyoto during Autumn, the peak of the Japanese maple season:

Our first stop was at Eikan-do, a tranquil Buddhist temple nestled in the hills of Kyoto. As we strolled through the temple’s grounds, we were mesmerized by the vibrant hues of the maple leaves that adorned the trees and cascaded down the pathways like a carpet of fiery colors. The temple’s meditation hall, with its traditional Japanese architecture and tranquil atmosphere, was a perfect spot to take a break and soak in the beauty of the surroundings.

Next on our list was Fushimi Inari Taisha, a sprawling shrine dedicated to the Shinto god of rice and sake. Here, we hiked up the iconic vermilion torii gates, taking in the spectacular views of Kyoto city and the maple-covered hills beyond. It was a breathtaking experience, and we were grateful to have witnessed such natural beauty in all its glory.

We also visited Kiyomizu-dera, a UNESCO World Heritage site perched on a hilltop, with sweeping views of the city. The temple’s wooden veranda, built without the use of nails or any other metal fasteners, was a true feat of engineering and a testament to Japan’s rich cultural heritage. As we walked through the temple’s gardens, we marveled at the serene beauty of the maple trees and the tranquil ponds that reflected the autumn colors.

Toji Temple, another UNESCO World Heritage site, was another highlight of our trip. The temple’s towering pagoda, one of the tallest in Japan, was an awe-inspiring sight to behold. We also enjoyed strolling through the temple’s gardens, which were ablaze with the vivid colors of the maple leaves.

Of course, no trip to Kyoto would be complete without a visit to the famous Arashiyama monkey park. Here, we watched as playful monkeys scampered around the maple-covered slopes, nibbling on sweet potato treats and enjoying the crisp autumn air. It was a charming and memorable experience, and one that we will always treasure.

And what can I say about the food? Kyoto is known for its delicious cuisine, and we indulged in all sorts of local delicacies, from piping-hot bowls of ramen to crispy, savory tempura. We also sampled some of the finest sushi and sashimi we’ve ever had, and savored the delicate flavors of Kyoto-style kaiseki cuisine. Our stomachs were satisfied and our taste buds delighted!

All in all, our trip to Kyoto during the peak of the Japanese maple season was a truly unforgettable experience. The stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and delicious food made for a perfect family vacation. We left Kyoto with full hearts, happy memories, and a newfound appreciation for the autumn season in Japan.

Thanks for Watching!
♡, Jacque

Just me & my little family from Hawaii adventuring in this beautiful world, and sharing them with you.
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