【Autumn Leaves Special】Kyoto – More Than Just Maple Trees!(Part 1)

It’s that time of year again for the autumn leaves, and previously we at Fever Travel introduced to youJapanHokkaido andAomorias hidden gems for autumn foliage,and this time we’ve prepared some great places to enjoy the fall colors in Kyoto!

Located in the Kansai region, Kyoto became theJapanesecapital as early as the 8th century, maintaining its status as theJapanesecapital for over a thousand years,leaving behind numerous temples and shrines that took years to construct. Among them, 17 historic sites including Kiyomizu-dera and Nijō Castle have been designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites and are also popular attractions familiar to many.

Photo by hk43
Kiyomizu-dera is the oldest temple in Kyoto and one of its most popular attractions.

However, as travel photography enthusiasts,our exploration certainly doesn’t stop at Kiyomizu-dera. This time, Fever Travel will take you on a stroll through Kyoto to uncover its hidden autumn leaf spots.

Venturing deep into Arashiyama – Adashino Nenbutsu-ji

Photo source:Adashino Nenbutsu-ji official website

Arashiyamais located in the western suburbs of Kyoto and wasone of ancientJapan’sroyal family’s favorite places for enjoying mountains and waters. When people think ofArashiyama,they might think of popular spots like Togetsukyo Bridge andthe Sagano Romantic Train, but actually, deep in the Saga Arashiyama area lies Adashino Nenbutsu-ji. This temple is built against a mountain and features 1,200 stone Rakan statues. When framed by the red maple leaves in autumn, it offers a uniquely charming scene.

Listed as a World Heritage Site – Daigo-ji Temple

Photo by pangonon

Daigo-ji Temple is located in Fushimi Ward, Kyoto City, and is the head temple of the Daigo branch of Shingon Buddhism. It is included in the list of World Heritage Sites. Cherry blossoms, fresh greenery, and autumn leaves are not the only attractions of Daigo-ji Temple—its winter charm is also truly unique.

The King’s Choice – Tōfuku-ji

Search online for Tōfuku-ji, and you’ll often see it hailed as “Japan’s No.1 maple spot” or “the top Kyoto maple destination.” Just how good is it? Tōfuku-ji is the head temple of the Tōfuku-ji school of the Rinzai sect of Zen Buddhism. It was founded in 1236 under the orders of Kujo Michiie, a politician from the Kamakura period. Its Sanmon gate is revered asJapan’snational treasure and isJapan’soldest surviving Zen temple gate structure. And every autumn, it becomes a major hotspot for maple viewing.

Photo by Miracles

Want to see if this “No.1 Kyoto maple” title holds up? It’s simple — just check out theuser reviewson our Fever Travel channel. And besides Tōfuku-ji, we’ve also prepared 34 other Kyoto attractions to help you plan your next memorable trip.

Other Top Autumn Foliage Spots
Eikan-dō Temple
Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine
Nanzen-ji Temple
Mount Kurama
Enkaku-an Hermitage

Related Reading

[Expert Guide] Preparing for Your Maple Leaf Trip – Kyoto Edition

[Expert Guide] A One-Day Maple Viewing Adventure in Saga-Arashiyama (Route, Photo Album, Video)