The Beauty of Green Maples Rivals That of Red Leaves—Kyoto’s Top Four Green Maple Scenic Spots

By the MOOK Scenic Spots Editorial Department

As the cherry blossom season gradually comes to an end, the streets of Kyoto temporarily return to tranquility. As we transition from late spring to early summer—the most pleasant season of the year—the shimmering green maples also begin to shine brightly. Kyoto is a popular destination for viewing maple leaves, not only in autumn for its red foliage but also in spring and summer when the green maples are equally stunning, complemented by the glass-like glow of temple architecture, making it a highly worthwhile visit.

1. Shisendō
Shisendō is a temple where Ishikawa Jōzan, a warrior-retainer of the Tokugawa clan, spent his later years. Ishikawa Jōzan was also a well-known garden designer. The garden at Shisendō exudes Zen aesthetics and is renowned for its azaleas in early summer as well as its green maples and red leaves in autumn. In 1986, Britain’s Prince Charles and the late Princess Diana visited here, which has since made it highly favored among international tourists.
 
Address: 27 Ichijōji-Komonchō, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture
Hours: 9:00 - 17:00 (last entry at 16:45)

2. Tōfuku-ji
Tōfuku-ji is the head temple of the Tōfuku-ji branch of the Rinzai school of Buddhism and ranks third among the Five Great Zen Temples of Kyoto. It is also one of the most famous and popular spots to admire Kyoto’s autumn foliage, with the maple trees along the Tsutenkyō Bridge being the highlight.

Tōfuku-ji is renowned for its beautiful garden landscapes, which incorporate moss and stones into their design. Among its outstanding Buddhist architecture stands a 22-meter-tall Sanmon gate, built in 1425, which is the oldest main gate of a Zen temple in Japan. The bathroom west of the Sanmon gate is constructed in a classical style and has been designated as an Important Cultural Property by the Japanese government. 

Address: 15-778 Honmachi, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto
Hours: 9:00 - 16:00 (8:30 - 16:30 from November to early December)

3. Saihō-ji
Saihō-ji is a serene temple surrounded by ancient trees and lush moss. The temple grounds are densely forested, often casting the buildings in deep shade. It is home to a nunnery mentioned in Japan’s famous classic literary work The Tale of the Heike, and to this day, the tragic love story continues to be passed down, reflecting the temple's significant place in Japanese history and literature. 

Address: 32 Komatsucho, Sagaboriimoto, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture
Hours: 9:00 - 17:00 (counter service until 16:30)