The best autumn leaves in Kyoto in 2026 are at Tofuku-ji's Tsutenkyo bridge, Eikando with its evening illuminations, Kiyomizu-dera's hillside, Arashiyama and the quiet grounds of Shinnyodo. Kodai-ji's lit-up gardens, Daigo-ji's red bridge and Nanzen-ji's aqueduct round out a season that usually peaks in mid to late November.
Kyoto's maples usually peak from mid to late November, and many temples hold evening illuminations. Expect huge crowds; go at opening or choose quieter temples like Shinnyodo.
A sea of maples below the Tsutenkyo bridge.
Tofuku-ji's Tsutenkyo bridge looks over a valley of around 2,000 maples, Kyoto's most famous autumn view.
Photos are restricted on the bridge at peak times.
Good to know: Go at opening.
15-778 Honmachi, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto 605-0981
Kyoto's 'temple of autumn leaves', lit up at night.
Eikando is famous for its maples and evening illuminations reflected in its pond.
It is near Nanzen-ji.
Good to know: Book or arrive early for the night illumination.
48 Eikandocho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto 606-8445
Maples around the famous wooden stage.
Kiyomizu-dera's stage looks over a hillside of red maples, with night illuminations in autumn.
It is very crowded.
Good to know: Visit for the evening illumination.
1-294 Kiyomizu, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto 605-0862
Hillsides of color along the river.
Arashiyama's mountains turn red and gold; Tenryu-ji and Hogon-in are highlights.
Take a boat on the river for views.
Good to know: Visit Hogon-in's illumination.
Togetsukyo Bridge, Sagatenryuji, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto 616-8385
A quiet temple with brilliant maples.
Shinnyodo is a peaceful temple with a pagoda and maples, much less crowded than its famous neighbors.
It is a local favorite.
Good to know: Combine with Ginkaku-ji.
82 Jodoji Shinnyocho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto 606-8414
Illuminated gardens and a bamboo grove.
Kodai-ji's gardens and bamboo grove are illuminated in autumn, with projections on its dry garden.
It is near Ninenzaka.
Good to know: Go for the evening light-up.
526 Shimokawaracho, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto 605-0825
A red bridge framed by maples.
Daigo-ji's Bentendo hall and red bridge over a pond are framed by maples in autumn.
It is less crowded than central temples.
Good to know: Allow time to explore the large grounds.
22 Daigohigashiojicho, Fushimi Ward, Kyoto 601-1325
Maples around a giant gate and brick aqueduct.
Nanzen-ji's Sanmon gate and brick aqueduct are surrounded by maples.
Much of the grounds are free.
Good to know: Climb the Sanmon gate for the view.
86 Nanzenji Fukuchicho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto 606-8435
Usually mid to late November, with some spots into early December.
Tofuku-ji and Eikando are the most famous.
Yes, at Eikando, Kodai-ji, Kiyomizu-dera and others in season.
Go at opening time, on weekdays, or to quieter temples like Shinnyodo.
Yes, especially the hills and Hogon-in, though very busy.