By Alex
Kyoto’s most stunning autumn foliage spots are often found in its temples and shrines, some of which have become “classic tourist routes.” While these are especially popular with visitors, they can also feel a bit clichéd. In fact, if you venture a little farther out, there are smaller temples around Kyoto where you can sit indoors and admire the autumn leaves through the window — offering a completely different experience.
▲ Kinkaku-ji (photo by eno_noe_22 @IG)
Located in Ohara, Kyoto, Ryōan-ji (Japanese: 瑠璃光院) is open only during early summer and late autumn each year (entrance fee: 2,000 yen, about HK$146). Gazing at the autumn leaves outside from the study room is already moving, but the main highlight for visitors is the reflection of the red leaves on the low table. In photos, the autumn leaves outside the window are complemented by their reflections, with the window frame adding emphasis — the entire composition is unforgettable, which is why it caused a sensation on social media a few years ago.
▲ Kinkaku-ji (photo by ramumi8 @IG)
▲ Kinkaku-ji (photo by youpv @IG)
Photographer @wasabitool also offers another option. About 30 minutes by train from Kyoto Station, you’ll find the former Chikurin-in Temple in Otsu, Shiga Prefecture. Just across from Kinkaku-ji and separated by Mount Hiei, this former temple sees fewer visitors due to its slight distance from Kyoto, and the entrance fee is also cheaper (320 yen, about HK$23). Visitors can enjoy the autumn leaves in a relatively tranquil atmosphere.
▲ Former Chikurin-in Temple, Otsu, Shiga (photo by TakahiroBessho @Twitter)
▲ Former Chikurin-in Temple, Otsu, Shiga (photo by wasabitool @Twitter)
▲ Former Chikurin-in Temple, Otsu, Shiga (photo by wasabitool @Twitter)
▲ Nansho-so, Morioka, Iwate (photo by sfctaco @IG)
▲ Tenshu-an, Nanzen-ji, Kyoto (photo by youpv @IG)
▲ Hodou Temple, Kiryuu, Gunma (photo by traveler_sui @IG)
Sources: Breathtaking Japan, Grapee