By HowToTrip Editorial Team
In Japan, the changing of tree leaves to red in autumn is called "momiji" (red leaves). The deep crimson hues of momiji last longer than cherry blossoms, often for about a month. During this time, simply stepping into any major temple or shrine will reveal a breathtaking sea of red. Scenic spots such as Arashiyama’s Sagano and Mount Kurama offer especially spectacular views of these vibrant leaves.
The Kyoto Japan Walking App is now available. Please search for “Kyoto Walking Japan” on the App Store. (Image provided by HowToTrip Editorial Team)
Sanzen-in is the most beautiful ancient temple in the Ohara area and also a renowned spot for both cherry blossoms and maple leaves. The temple’s Buddha Hall enshrines three Buddha statues: Amida Buddha in the center, Kannon the Bodhisattva of Mercy on the right, and Fudō Myōō on the left. There is also a painting depicting the Buddha guiding all beings to the Pure Land. Eikando is equally famous for its autumn foliage and is even nicknamed “Momiji no Eikando” (Eikando of Maple Leaves). The temple’s main hall houses a famous statue of Amida Nyorai, notable for the fact that the deity’s face is not looking forward but turned left and backward — hence its name “Amida Looking Back.”
Momiji no Eikando. (Image provided by HowToTrip Editorial Team)
Kiyomizu-dera is a well-known mountain temple in Kyoto celebrated for its maple foliage. It was here that Kūkai (also known as Kōbō Daishi) spread Buddhist teachings, and the site is also considered the origin of Japanese Buddhism during the Heian period, giving it a revered status in the Japanese Buddhist community.
Chōshō-ji is an ancient temple famed for its red leaves, located at the foot of Mount Komagatake. Surrounded by serene, dense green forests, the founding monk chose this location for its seclusion and suitability for meditation. The temple’s name, Chōshō-ji, carries deep Zen meaning — it is one of the Four Lands in Tendai Buddhism, signifying an ideal realm in Buddhism. During the autumn maple season, Chōshō-ji is especially noted for its ground covered in fallen crimson leaves, evoking a uniquely splendid and tranquil atmosphere compared to leaves still on the branches.
The garden scenery of Shisen-dō is most enchanting in late May when the azaleas bloom and again in autumn when the maple leaves turn. In late November, the red leaves and green bamboo share the landscape in equal measure, and through the misty mountain air, the seasonal colors reach their most poetic splendor.
The red leaf scenery of Chōshō-ji. (Image provided by HowToTrip Editorial Team)
Kōdai-ji was built in 1605 (the 10th year of the Keichō era) as a place for Tokugawa Ieyasu’s wife, Nene, to spend her later years in seclusion and spiritual practice after the death of the shogun. Structures such as the Kaisan-dō (Founder’s Hall), Reimeiden (Spirit Hall), Sento-tei (Umbrella Pavilion), and Shigure-tei (Shower Pavilion) are all designated as national treasures. Kōdai-ji is also one of Kyoto’s renowned spots for cherry blossom and maple viewing. Especially popular is the annual night illumination event, a much-anticipated seasonal spectacle among visitors.
The annual night illumination event is a much-anticipated seasonal spectacle among visitors. (Image provided by HowToTrip Editorial Team)
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