Arashiyama Tsuki Toro is the long lost illumination of Arashiyama Bamboo forest took place in October, 2025. The last time we saw Arashiyama Bamboo forest illuminated was four years ago.

The goal of the illumination is “the appeal of Arashiyama bamboo forest” and “the resolution of the over-tourism” as the press release says (in Japanese only).

たけちよ

For example, in order to achieve them, the forest will be preserved with the profit.

Arashiyama Tusuki Toro was named after Arashiyama Hana Toro ended in the winter of 2021. The official English title is “Arashiyama Bamboo Path” but “Arahsiyama Tsuki Toro” sounds like “Arashiyama (Bamboo forest in) Moonlit Lanterns” in Japanese.

Not the illumination of Arahsiyama Hanatoro, only an enclosed area in the bamboo forest is illuminated. The photo is a flyer. Light-up is a Japanese word that means night illumination. The blue lines are illuminated with lanterns and the bamboo trees illuminated are available along the red line. We enter the green “paid-area” with a charge (1,500 JPY).

たけちよ

The ticket booth is located on the other side of the Torii gate of Nonomiya shrine. Cash and credit cards available.

七里ヶ浜親方

The “paid-area.”

The “paid-area”

In the enclose place in the bamboo forest, there are many art works.

Across the rail roads and you’ll find the entrance.

Find the lantern and show your ticket to the stuff.

In front of the “box,” the stuff takes photos of you. Wait in line.

There are no staffs around this.

Look up in the sky.

The bamboo forest illuminated

In this event, this iconic place is not illuminated.

We can enjoy the ones illuminated near Nonomiya shrine instead.

The beacon.

Arashiyama Hana Toro and Higashiyama Hana Toro

Arashiyama Hana Toro and Higashiyama Hana Toro used to be the popular events in winter and spring.Both of them ended couples of years ago. Enjoy them in the videos and posts.

Arashiyama Hanatoro 2020 in Kyoto: The night illumination is alive though COVID-19

Arashiyama Hanatoro is held in Arashiyama district in mid-November. We can enjoy lots of night illumination and other events. This article shows you the best way to enjoy them.

kyotokankoyagi.com

2019.09.26

Higashiyama Hanatoro doesn't take place in 2026: ENDS in 2022 東山花灯路英語で解説

Higashiyama Hanatoro doesn't take place in 2026. It ended in 2022. Enjoy the last one we had in the absolute guide of Higashiyama Hanatoro held in Kyoto every spring.

kyotokankoyagi.com

2019.03.04

How to get to Arashiyama Tsuki Toro

I’ll show you the easiest way (the green line in the map).

Go to Saga Arashiyama sta. After the ticket gate, turn left and climb down the stairs and turn right.

You’ll find this after a couple of minutes walk.

You’ll find the restaurant and turn left.

Find SNOOPY CHCOLAT shop and turn right.

Go straight ahead to Nonomiya shrine. The ticket booth in located on the other side of the road.

You can reach the forest by way of Randen Arashiyama sta.(the blue line) and Hankyu Arashiyama sta.(the purple line)

THE GIST OF THIS ARTICLE

• Page 1    Introduction, Kiyomizudera, Kinkakuji
• Page 2　Eikando, Tenjuan, Nanzenji, Eikando night illumination, Kiyojmizudera Night illumination.

The following is the contents of this article

Introduction

In this post, I’ll show you an itinerary to enjoy the autumn leaves in iconic places: Kiyomizudera, Kinkakuji, Eikando, Nanzenji, Tenjuan, and the night illumination of Eikando and Kiyomizudera.

ICONIC PLACES

たけちよ

We visit famous places and this itinerary would be behind schedule. I can’t guarantee you can visit all the places.

Kyoto sta. bus stop @ 05:31 京都駅発　5時31分

たけちよ

This itinerary begins at Kyoto sta. bus stop. In case you don’t start at Kyoto sta., be Niohmon gate of Kiyomizudera around 06:00.

At Kyoto sta. D2 bus stop (the red circles), take no. 206 for Gion via Kiyomizu-dera temple. 

シカさん

No. 206 is a loop line. There are 206s depart at A3 for the opposite direction. Don’t take them. TAKE 206 AT D2 BUS STOP.

七里ヶ浜親方

Be on time. We visit Kiyomizudera before it gets crowded with tourists.

Kiyomizu michi bus stop @ 05:43 清水道バス停　5時43分着

The nearest bus stop is Kiyomizu Michi bus stop. It takes about 20 minutes to Kiyomizu-dera.

たけちよ

Check this out.

Kyoto station to Kiyomizudera by bus: To avoid busy route

Kiyomizudera temple is the most popular destination for tourist in Kyoto. From Kyoto station, the route 206 bus is always crowded. In this post, I'll show you the other ways to avoid that busy route. 

kyotokankoyagi.com

2023.01.17

Kiyomizudera is one of the most famous places to visit in Kyoto. Actually, it is always crowded with many tourists.

We can enjoy the extraordinary autumn leaves on the iconic stage.

たけちよ

Check out the video. The renovation was finished on the day before. Enjoy them on the brand-new stage, BAAAAH!!!!!

There are many Momiji trees near the stage and we can admire them on the stage of Okuno-in.

七里ヶ浜親方

Kiyomizudera has many facilities. We are on the stage of Okuno-in around 10:00. Check the video out.

KIYOMIZUDERA temple guide: Deities, stage, renovation, mainhall, must-sees 清水寺につき英語で説明

The absolute guide of Kiyomizudera temple. Deities, stage, renovation, main hall and othre must-sees, all the things available.

kyotokankoyagi.com

2018.08.14

シカさん

There are many things to see there.

Gion bus stop @ 07:40 祇園バス停　7時40分頃

Be at Gion bus stop B around 07:40. It takes about 30 minutes from Kiyomizudera temple. Take no.12 for Kinkakuji at 07:50 (weekdays) or 07:49 (weekends and holidays).

We’ll gat to Kinkakuji michi bus stop around 08:30.

シカさん

There are 3 Gion bus stops and bus stop B is located in front of Japan Kanji Museum and Library. You’ll find this gate on the right.

Kinkakuji @ 08:45 金閣寺着　8時45分頃

There are 3 Kinkkauji michi bus stops. No. 12 arrives at the red one. The red alien is the entrance of Kinkakuji temple.

シカさん

Walk in the same direction the bus you were on goes. Turn right at the second traffic light (indicated as 金閣寺前/ Kinkakujimae) and you’ll find the entrance.

Kinkakuji opens up the gate at 09:00. In the autumn leaves seasons, we usually wait in line to enter.

たけちよ

I would takes hours to enter. I waited about 2 hours couples of years ago. Kinkakuji is a large place and it takes about 1 hour to get through to the exit. So, I planed to leave there around 11:00.

Kinkakuji temple 金閣寺

About Kinkakuji temple 金閣寺について

Kinkakuji is also a famous place to visit in Kyoto and crowded especially in the autumn leaves season. It has many faculties in a large garden.

七里ヶ浜親方

The red octopus is the entrance and the yellow one is the exit. It takes about 1 hour to reach the exit in this season.

At the red octopus, we can see the golden pavilion. Kinkakuji is designed to enjoy on boat and there are few Momijis to be enjoyed with it.

The garden under the strong influence of  is a beautiful one with many autumn leaves.

シカさん

About Kinkakuji？

Kinkakuji, the Golden Temple/Pavilion 金閣寺英語で説明

 Kinkakuji temple a.k.a. as the golden pavilion in Kyoto is one of the best place to see in Kyoto. Let us learn about what to see like the golden, dry garden, and its history.

kyotokankoyagi.com

2017.10.09

Leave Kinkakuji around 11:00 金閣寺発　11時半

Take no.12, 102, 204, or 205 for Kitaoji Bus Terminal at bus stop C.

We head for Kyoto shiyakusho-mae sta. as following:

In this post, I’ll show you an itinerary to enjoy the autumn leaves in Kyoto in late November or early December: Tofukuji tempole, Komyoin temple, Korinin temple, Ryoanji temple, and Toji. We can enjoy the best autumn leaves and night illumination. The 4 out of 5 destinations are Zen temples.

Start at JR/ Keihan Tofukuji sta.東福寺駅からスタート

JR/ Keihan Tofukuji station at 8:10

たけちよ

The view on Gaunkyo bridge.

It takes about 10 minutes to Tofukuji usually but it would take 20 minites in autumn leaves season due because we take photos on Gaunkyo bridge (the red annotation on the map).

1. Tofukuji temple 東福寺の紅葉

About Tofukuji temple 東福寺について

Tofukuij used to be have thousands of Sakura trees. And they were cut down in the 15th century because Sakura admirers visited the temple and they prevented the monks from Buddhist training in calmness every spring. Later, the temple planted Kaede trees. Today, it was known as one of the most poplar and crowded place to enjoy autumn leaves in Kyoto despite the monk’s will.

Tofukuji has 2 places to visit. The stroll garden and Honbo garden.

Tsutenbashi bridge　通天橋付近

The stroll garden is located in Sangyoku Kan valley in the temple (Tofukuji is a large complex of facilities),

います。）雑誌などでみると、東福寺の紅葉は色彩が有無を言わさず迫ってくるような印象を受けますが、実際は繊細さが際立っています。

シカさん

Tsutenkyo bridge

There is a bridge called Tsutenkyo bridge. First, we stroll around the valley and admire the iconic view from the bridge.

お福さん

Tsutenkyo is abridge over the stream in the valley.

七里ヶ浜親方

The iconic view from Tsutenkyo bridge. The one in the photo is Gaunkyo bridge we crossed on the way to Tofukuji temple.

There are beautiful mosses. Enjoy the leaves fell off on them.

Honbo garden　本坊庭園

Honbo means a main facility in a temple. The one of Tofukuji is surrounded by  four gardens designed by Shigemori Mirei, the prominent garden artist in the 20th century.

たけちよ

My favorite garden artist.

In the north garden, we can enjoy extraordinary “Gradation” if we can visit there in proper time.

The south garden is a very impressive Karesaunsui. It stands for Hassou Jodou, the eight important events in the life of Siddhartha Gautama.

Tsytenkyo bridge from Honbo.

To Komyoin temple 光明院に向け出発

It takes about 5 minuites on foot.

2. Komyoin temple 光明院の紅葉

About Komyoin temple 光明院について

Komyoin temple is one of the most underrated place in Kyoto. It is a sub-temple of Tofukuji. As referred before, the garden was designated Shigemori Mirei. He is known as “Sessyu in Showa period.”

たけちよ

Sessyu is a Zen monk and artist in the 15th century. He is a master of Japanese ink painting. Mirei is a Karesansui garden designer and Karesansui is a developed Japanese garden under the influence of Chinese ink painting imported in the 14th century.

Komyoin is also known as “Niji no Kokedera (A moss temple in the rainbow)” and we can admire beautiful mosses.

Komyoin temple, the best Zen garden in Kyoto

Komyoin is solemn, uderrated temple but has the best Zen garden to meditate in Kyoto. Let us visit there in four seasons and enjoy cherry blossoms, autumn leaves, and snow!

kyotokankoyagi.com

2018.04.25

Hashintei garden 波心庭

They are exquisite autumn leaves in the Karesansui Avant-garde.

Near the entrance アプローチ付近

The path to the entrance is an extravaganza.

To JR Kyoto sta.  JR京都駅に向け出発

We head for JR Kyoto sta. by way of JR Tofukuji sta.

3. Near JR Kyoto sta.

たけちよ

Lunch time, BAAAHHH!!!

Have a lunch in the restaurant near the station.

4. Subway Kyoto sta.　地下鉄京都駅

Around 13:00, we take subway Karasuma line for Kokusai Kaikan. Get off at Kitaoji sta. and go to Kitaoji bus terminal located next to the station.

At Kitaoji bus terminal, go to BLUE BUS STOP E or G.

• E: 205
• G; 204, 206

Take 204, 205, and 206 and get off at Daitokuji mae bus stop.

It takes about 5 minutes from Daitkuji mae bus stop to Korin in temple.

5. Korinin temple 興臨院の紅葉

About Korinin temple 興臨院について

ドラゴン船

In 2024, we can visit Korinin from 9/28 to 12/15.

Korinin is a sub-temople of Daitokuji temple and the best and the most underrated place to admire autumn leaves in Kyoto. It is not open to public usually but it opens up the gate for us in spring and fall.

七里ヶ浜親方

THE BEST PLACE ON THE PLANET. DO NOT MISS IT, RIGHT?

The garden in front of Hoji is a Karesansui and the one located in the backyard is extraordinary. We can enjoy the exquisite colors in the exquisite leaves every year without fail.

The ground with mosses is covered with the fallen leaves casually.

シカさん

EXQUISITENESS in TRANQUILITY. Sakuras in Haradanien and autumn leaves in Korinin are spectaculars.

To Ryoanji temple 龍安寺に向け出発

6. Ryoanji temple 龍安寺の紅葉

About Ryoanji temple 龍安寺について

Ryoanji has the most famous Karesansui garden called “The Rock Garden” and we can admire the autumn leaves there. It also has a large stroll garden and we can enjoy beautiful ones there.

The Rock Garden 石庭

The Rock Garden is a garden belongs to Hojo. Karesansui garden has no plants usually but we can admire the autumn leaves as Shakkei. Shakkei is an art of appreciating Japanese garden. We take advantage or the object as a background.

The meaning of Ryoanji Zen Rock Garden

No one tells the meaning of "The Rock Garden" of Ryoanj in Kyoto precisely despite its fame. Fortunately, we have some hypotheses. In this article, we make an inspection on the garden with them.

kyotokankoyagi.com

2019.08.05

The Rock Garden of Ryoanji hides religious syncretism in Japan

The Zen garden/Rock Garden of Ryoanji temple is one of the most famous gardens in Japan. In this article, we learn about the religious syncretism (Shinto, Buddhism) it hides behind.

kyotokankoyagi.com

2022.02.22

The Back yard 方丈庭園

The hojo also has a backyard garden as Korinin temple. The Rock garden is crowded but the backyard is very quiet.

This is a wash basin located there.

The Kanjis read in clockwise;

“吾”(ware)

“唯”(tada)

“足”(taru)

“知”(siru)

“吾唯知足” read “ware tada taru wo shiru.”

The following are my translation:

I already have all I want to have./ I’ve just find I have what I want to have.

シカさん

Famous Zen words.

The stroll garden and Kyotchi pond 鏡容池

We stroll around Kyochi pond. The pond used to be more famous than the rock garden in the old days.

To JR Kyoto sta. 京都駅に向け出発

七里ヶ浜親方

Not the one we got off some 1 hour before, right?

7. Near Kyoto sta. 京都駅

たけちよ

Dinner time, BAAAH!!!

After dinner, we head for the night illumination at Toji temple. About 10 minutes walk.

8. Toji (Night illumination)　東寺の紅葉 （ライトアップ）

About  about temple 東寺について

Toji is famous for so-called 3-D mandala and the pagoda. The night illumination in spring and fall is one of the best night illuminations in Kyoto. We can enjoy the pagoda in Mizukagami in both season.

Toji temple autumn leaves night illumination 2025

Toji provides us with autumn leaves night illumination and special night visit to Kodo hall in 2024. We can admire so-called "3-D mandala" at night.

kyotokankoyagi.com

2022.10.31

Toji temple Sakura/ Cherry blossom night illumination 2026

Toji offers us the most amazing Sakura illumination in Kyoto. In this article, you can learn the ways to them with introduction of the temple.

kyotokankoyagi.com

2018.09.17

Mizukagami is an art of admiring something. In fall, there usually no wind and we can enjoy a clear Mizukagami.

シカさん

Mizukagami is a reflection. Check this out.

What is Mizukagami, a.k.a., reflection 水鏡につき英語で説明

Mizukagami is a reflection on water, especially pond. In this post, I'll show you what it is and the idea hiding behind it. 合掌

kyotokankoyagi.com

2023.11.12

Toji is one of a few places the autumn leaves in vivid red.

Schedule of 2024

七里ヶ浜親方

Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and National holidays only. Not weekdays, right?

Introduction 概説

In 2024, Ninnaji temple provides us with Aomomiji night illumination. In this post, I’ll show you the way to enjoy it, 合掌。

あ

From twilight to night 夕暮れから夜に至る経緯

For Ao Momji night illumination, the gate is open to us at 18:00. In May, we are still in dusk.

Around 20:00, we find ourselves in the darkness.

I do love the color of the sky. We can admire it only in early summer.

七里ヶ浜親方

The color is peculiar to the twilights from early May to Sakimatsuri of Gion Matsuri. When Atomatsuri started, the sky contains blue and red.

We have an opportunity to enjoy both of them in Ninnaji this year.

There is a place to rest. Automated vending machine and benches are available there.

Omuro Cherry 御室さくらんぼ

Ninnaji is famous for Omuro Zakura cherry blossoms for centuries. In early summer, we can admire tiny cherries on Omuro Zakura trees.

お福さん

Omuro Zakura? Check these articles. Haradanien, the Sakura Paradise, also has Omuro Zakura.

Omuro Zakura in Ninnaji temple and its forecast 2026: 御室桜英語で説明

Generally speaking, Omuro Zakura of Ninnaji is the last-blooming Sakura in Kyoto. It is in full-bloom in mid-April usually. You can learn about the Sakura and the way to enjoy it in this article.

kyotokankoyagi.com

2020.03.12

Haradanien garden 2026: Cherry blossom supreme in Kyoto 原谷苑の桜英語で説明

The guide of Haradanien 2026. It is one of the most beautiful places to admire Sakura and the most popular destination among Kyoto-enthusiasts.

kyotokankoyagi.com

2019.02.28

シカさん

Of course we can enjoy Omuro Zakura there. In pictrure!

Only restricted places 参拝は仁王門から金堂まで

In the night illumination, we are not allowed to visit the halls in Ninnaji. We can be in the path lead us to Kondo, the main hall.

This is Nioh mon gate. We can enter the temple in the door though the gate is closed.

In side the gate, there is a reception place. Pay entrance fee there (1,000 yen for adult)

Receptionist gave us this. It shows us the path we can walk (Indicated by the red allow.)

It says when guides wait for us we can take photo of Kondo following their advice.

After the reception place, we walk towards Kondo catching a glimpse of the pagoda with 令和 Reiwa.

あ

Flashe photos prohibited,

うん

right?

This kind of things means “DO NOT ENTER.”

Kondo used to be a Shisinden of Imperial palace. It was constructed in 1612 and is the oldest one. Shisinden is the main hall in Imperial palace. Important ceremonies, like Sokui Rei (Enthronement of Emperor), are held there.

Now it works as the main hall of Ninnaji and a statue of Amitabha and those of its gradians are enshrined.

Special Ao Momiji Goshuin 青もみじライトアップ限定御朱印

We can have it at the reception place for 500 yen.

How to get to Ninnaji temple?

Kyoto City bus: No. 10, 26, and 59: Omuro Ninnaji bus stop

Randen (Keifuku railways): Omuro Ninnnaji station

たけちよ

From Kyoto sta., No. 26 is convenient.

About Ninnaji temple

“We show our gratitude for all the medical workers fight against COVID-19.”

Tofkuji is one of the most famous place to admire autumn leaves in Kyoto. In 2021, it provides us with the first Aomomiji night illumination for the first time in its history. I’ll show you what’s going on there, 合掌

いちきしま　ひめ

This site and article don’t recommend outing though the state of emergency was lifted. Make your decision with extreme care.

This site cannot guarantee your safety.

The information of shrines and temples are subject to be changed.

This site is not responsible for any disadvantages you have at all.

外出されるか否かは十分な情報を収集の上、ご自身で判断なさってください。本投稿、並びに本サイトは読者の皆様の外出を喚起・推奨するものではなく、三密回避やソーシャルディスタンスなどの確保を保証するものではありません。また、本投稿内の記載事項は変更されることがありますので、ご注意ください。上記、並びに本サイトから起因する一切の不利益に対し、本サイトはいかなる責任も負いません。かならずご自身でご決断・確認ください。

シカさん

Remember! The entrance gate will be closed at 20:00!

Places we can visit 拝観できる場所

We are to go along the route Tofukuji prepared. It is a one way route but not a strict one. In Tsuten Bashi bridge (通天橋) and Sengyokukan (洗玉澗) area and Hobo Teien garden, we can admire extraordinary Aomomji (Green Maple leaves).

I’m sure you are familiar with this view. The bridge in the photo is Tsuten Bashi bridge and I shoot it on the Gaunkyo bridge(臥雲橋).

Tsuten Bashi bridge is over Sengyokukan vally and located in the area of Tofukuji. On the other hand, Gaunkyo bridge is located outside of the area of it.

Usually, we go to Tofukuji by way of the bridge from the JR/Keihan Tofukuji station admiring a good view of Sengyokukan and Tsuten Bashi bridge.

During the night illumination, the bridge is covered with tarp as you see in the photo for the purpose of preventing people from gathering there.

The entrance is Nikkamon gate. In front of the main hall there is a reception. A special device take your temperature and a staff sprays some hand sanitizer on your hands.

After these, you can have a brochure and a piece of Aomomiji Monaka.

We walk around Sengyokukan vally, admire Aizendo and enter the Zen gardens by way of Tsuten Bashi bridge. Then, we admire the main hall and Sanmon bridge.

たけちよ

Now let us get down to business, BAAH!!!

Sengyokukan Vally 洗玉澗

Sengyokukan is a valley lies under Gaunkyo and Tsutenbashi bridge and one of the most famous places to admire autumn leaves and, of course, Aomimiji thouth it used to be filled with Sakura.

七里ヶ浜親方

In the 14th century, a monk named Mincho (明兆) of Tofukuji painted extraordinary Nehanzu (涅槃図). Nehanzu is a picture shows us a moment in which Gautama Buddha’s death.

Ashikaga Yoshimochi, the 3rd Shogun of the Ashikaga Shogunate, highly acclaimed it.

He wanted to give him reward and asked Mincho, “What do you want?”

He replied, “Cut off all the Sakure trees. I want them to be cut because lots of people gather around them in Spring. They are very noisy and annoy monks.”

Yoshimochi made his wish came true.

シカさん

Yoshimochi is a son of Ashikaga Yoshimitsu who founded Kinkakuji temple.

I’m in the Nehanzu he painted, ニャー（In Nehanzu, people and animals cry around Gautama Buddha. Usually, we cannot find cat in Nehanzu.）

On June 13, Ajisai (紫陽花), or hydrangea, were in full bloom

シカさん

Sengyokukan in night is such a beautiful place to see. If Kyo no Tanabata were canceled, it would be the best place to visit instead.

It reminds me of Polly Brown’s So Much in Love.

アフロさん

Enjoy Sengyokukan in fall.

Aizen doh hall 愛染堂

Aizen Myo Oh, a Deity who brings us LOVE,  is enshrined there. 。

たけちよ

煩悩即菩提

Tsuten Bashi bridge 通天橋

Tsuten Bashi bridge is the most famous place in Tofukuji to admire Autumn leaves in Sengyokukan vally. In Aomomiji season, it gives us incredible views as it does in fall.

Tofukuji has 3 great bridges. Gaunkyo, Tsutenbashi, and Engetsukyo bridge. On Tsutenbashi, we can find Engetsukyo bridge illuminated on the opposite direction of Gaunkyo. Engetsukyo is a bridge to visit Ryoginan(龍吟庵) which has the oldest Hojo. Hojo is a place which monks live in. Engetsukyo and Ryoginan are illuminated thougth we cannot enter them.

七里ヶ浜親方

The view from Tsutenbashi in fall.

Honbo Teien gardens 本坊庭園

アフロさん

Honbo Teien garden is open to us by July 25.

We cannot visit Honbo Teien gardens with shoes on. At the entrance, take your shoes off and put them in a plastic bag prepared for you.

Honbo Teien gardens called “Hasso no Niwa.” They describe 8 stories in the life of Gautama Buddha.

The south garden is so-called Zen garden.

The east garden is also a Zen garden. These 7 poles stand for the big dipper.

In the west garden, well-trimmed Satsuki make check patterns.

At Tsutendai located near the west garden, we can have a good view of Tsutenbashi and Sengyokukan.

In the north garden, stones and mosses make check pattern.

シカさん

There is a Satsuki trimmed in heart-shape.

The main hall 本堂

The main hall was constructed in 1934 after the fire happened in 1881. It enshrines a statues of Gautama Buddha and those of his guardians. On the ceiling, there is a huge dragon painted.

We can take photos of them though usually strictly phohibited.

Sanmon gate 三門 (National Treasure)

It is constructed by Ashikaga Yoshimochi as his donation. It is the oldest Sanmon gate of Zen temple. Sanmon means “the gate for enlightenment” and usually located in front of the main hall.

About Tofukuji temple 東福寺基本情報

How to get to Tofukuji? 東福寺へのアクセス

About 10 minutes walk from JR/Keihan Tofukuji station.

Sennichi Mairi in the Nainaijin hall 千日詣り本堂内々陣特別拝観

Nainaijin is a forbidden area in the main hall. Kiyomizudera let us visit there for a week every year.

たけちよ

Jisyu shrine in Kiyomizudera is still under renovation.

Night illumination

In the days of the night illumination, we can visit Nainaijin at night.

What is Sennnichi Mairi? 千日詣りとは？

Sennnichi Mairi is a way to visit Shito shrines and Buddhist temples to make our important wish come true. With strong desire, we visit a shrines or temple to pray 1,000 times.

The one Kiyomizu-dera temple offers is a special and abbreviated one: We visit the temple on a day in Obon season and our visit and pray is considered as 1,000 ones.

たけちよ

On 8/14, 15 and 16, special night visits are available.

七里ヶ浜親方

The renovation? Don’t you worry, finished.

Kiyomizu-dera renovation finished in 2020

Kiyomizudera consists of about 15 buildings and some of them were renovated in the name of "Heisei no Daikaisyu 2008-2020(Reconstruction in Heisei period). "

kyotokankoyagi.com

2019.03.06

Goriyaku of Sennichi Mairi 千日詣りのご利益

Kiyomizu dera enshrinesJuichimen Senju Kannon 「十一面千手観音菩薩像」. He has Goriyaku (good fortune)  for our health, love affair, and easy delivery.

シカさん

Lots of guide books don’t refer to easy delivery. But Kiyomizu-dera is known as Goriyaku for that. For example, in Kiyomizu-dera Sankei Mandara (In Japanese) , we can find a married couple pray on the stage.

In Nainaijin 内々陣から参拝可能

In the Senninchi Mairi of Kiyomizu-dera, we can be in the Nainaijin. Nainaijin is the most important place in Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples because Deities are enshrined there. Usually, especially in Shinto shrine, Nainaijin is so sacred that we cannot be there.

お福さん

Take a look at this. The white line is a floor of the Nainaijin. The black one is a floor of Naijin. They consists of Seido. The blue one is a floor of Raido. We can be Raido but cannot be Seido because of its sacredness.

シカさん

The led line is a corridor and the green one is the stage. A is Jishu shrine.

The Deities of Kiyomizu-dera 須弥壇上の御本尊

Kiyomizu-dera enshrines Juichimen Senju Kannon 「十一面千手観音菩薩像」as Gohonzon, the most important Deity. It also enshrines Shoteki Bishamonten 「勝敵毘沙門天像」and Gunsyo Jizo Bosatsu 「勝軍地蔵菩薩像」.

There is a story on these Deities. Sakanoue no Tamuramaro, the founder of Kiyomizu-dera, was in the middle of the toughest battle against Ezo, the ancient ethnic group in the Tohoku region. Tamuramaro asked help for Juichimen Senju Kannon of Kiyomizu-dera. A monk Shoteki Bishamonten and Gunsyo Jizo Bosatsu on behalf of him.

In Nainaijin, there are three Zushi ( housing looks Mikoshi) . They are enshrined there.

In front of the one located in center, we can find replica of the statue of Juichimen Senju Kannon. The authentic one is in the Zushi.

There are no statues of the other Deities. Don’t worry. In the beam of the Raido, there are three disks called Mishotai. We can see the three Deities on them.

シカさん

Between Zushis, there are lots of the statues. They are Niju Hachibushu gardians.

The way of Sennichi Mairi 千日詣りの仕方

Usually, we enter Nainaijin with shoes off. Behind Zushi, we offer Tomyo Candle for the Deities. After that, we pray in front of them.

七里ヶ浜親方

At night, Kiyojmizu-dera is so amazing. Enjoy it with Aomomiji.

About Kiyomizu-dera 清水寺基本情報

Access to Kiyomizu-dera 清水寺へのアクセス

The nearest bus stop is Kiyomizu Michi bus stop. It takes about 20 minutes to Kiyomizu-dera.

THE GIST OF THIS ARTICLE

• Page 1 Introduction, Yasaka shrine, Plum blossom, and Sakura 1
• Page 2 Sakura2
• Page 3 Sakura 3
• Page 4 Sakura 4
• Page 5 Aomomiji and Summer
• Page 6 Autumn leaves 1
• Page 7 Autumn leaves 2

The following is the contents of this article.

Introduction

In Kyoto, we can enjoy night illuminations all year long. Sakura, Aomomiji, Matsuri, and Autumn leaves in four seasons. In this post, I’ll show you all of them for a starting point. 合掌

Yasaka shrine 365 days

Highlight

Yaska shrine is illuminated 365 days. The Komagata Chochin lanterns of Buden and lights are always lit except Omitama Utsushi in Gion Matsuri.

七里ヶ浜親方

Omitama Utsushi take place 2 times; On 15/8 and 24/8. Nearly half an hour each.

たけちよ

Usually, there are no Mikoshis in Buden.

How to get to Yasaka shrine?

Kyoto city bus: Gion bus stop. No. 100, 203, 206, and other lines are available.

Keihan railways: Gion Shijo station.

Hankyu railways: Kawaramachi station.

It would be better to take trains to keep social distancing,

About Yasaka shrine

Plum blossom 梅

Plum blossoms tells us winter is nearly ending. In ancient times, people admired plum blossoms as the flower of spring. In Manyoshu, the oldest compilation of Waka, has many poems about it.

たけちよ

Our new Imperial period was named after a poem describes plum blossoms in Manyoshu.

The meaning of Reiwa, the new Japanese Imperial period

Reiwa (令和), what does the new Imperial period/era mean? Why are Japanese people delighted because it was quoted the Manyosyu?

kyotokankoyagi.com

2019.04.01

Kitano Tenmangu shrine

Highlight

Kitano Tenmangu shrine illuminates its Baien garden (Plum garden) in early spring.  There are no places to enjoy plum blossoms illuminated except the shrine though there are many places to enjoy Plum blossoms in Kyoto.

In addition to it, the garden is illuminated with candles.

七里ヶ浜親方

Candle night illuminations are available only in Kitano Tenmangu and on my head!

シカさん

You could enjoy Wadaiko performance. (It didn’t take place last 3 years).

How to get to Kitano Tenmangu shrine?

Kyoto city bus: Kitano Tenmangu mae bus stop.

Randen: Kitano Hakubaicho station

About Kitano Tenmangu shrine

Cherry blossom 桜

Cherry blossoms is a flower of spring. We have many kinds of Sakura to enjoy in Kyoto. Shrines and temples hold night illumination events.

Toji temple

Highlight

たけちよ

Best Sakura illumination, EVAAAH!!!

Toji temple is one of the oldest temple in Kyoto. It remains the same place when Heiankyo city was built. In Kondo building, statues of Buddhist Deities make so-called 3-D mandala. The Illumination of Toji in spring is the best one in Kyoto.

The most famous 120 years old weeping cherry blossom in Toji. It welcomes us at the entrance of the garden.

Mizukagami is an art to admire something. We see reflection on surface of water. Toji provides us with extraordinary Mizukagami.

How to get to Toji temple?

Kyoto city bus: Toji Higashimon mae or Toji michi bus stop

JR West: Kyoto station

Kintesu rail ways: Toji station

About Toji temple

Kiyomizudera temple 清水寺

Highlight

Kiyomizudera temple is one of the most popular places and also known as one of the best Sakura places.

We can visit the main hall, the pagoda, Okunoin as we do in during the daytime.

Visiting at the twilight time is strongly recommended.

How to get to Kiyomizudera temple?

Train: Keihan Gion shijo/Gojozaka station or Hankyu Kawaramachi station.

Kyoto city bus: Sijo Kawaramachi/Gion bus stop. Gojyozaka and Kiyomizu michi bus stop is not available because they are so crowded.

About Kiyomizudera temple

In this post, I’ll show you the ways to enjoy Kurama no Himatsuri/ Himatsuri in Kurama, Short history, schedule, must-sees and so on. 合掌

The last train for Demachiyamagi sta. leaves Kurama sta. at 23:24. Don’t miss it. The train leaves the station on time. 

A short history of  Kurama no Himatsuri? 鞍馬の火祭の歴史

Overview

Kurama no Himatsuri/ Himatsuri in Kurama is a ceremony of Yuki shirne in Kurama. Himatsuri means “Fire matsuri.”

Yuki Daimyoji is a deity enshrined in Yuki shrine and used to be enshrined in the Imperial court. On October 9, 940, emperor Suzaku decided to move the deity to Kurama for the peace of Kyoto and Japan.

七里ヶ浜親方

Kurama is a Kimon of Kyoto. Kimon is north est and a weak direction in Onmyodo. Ancient people believed Oni (a creature represents something bad) came from Kimon. And they put something north est to prevent Oni from entering, their house, city and so on. I suppose emperor Suzaku put Yuki Daimyojin in Kurama as a guardian of Kyoto and Japan.

When Yuki Daimyojin moved to Kurama, the villagers welcomed him with Hasyomyoji, the deity indigenous to the village on Mikoshi and many torches. Today, Kurama no Himatsuri recreates this event.

シカさん

We believe torches, ah, exactly fire, have a mysterious power to get rid of evil things. For example, in Mikoshi Arai of Gion Matsuri, huge torches purify the road for Mikoshi. I’m sure the torches of Kurama no Himatsuri and those of the event in 940 play the same role.

Shichikumi Nakama 七組仲間

Kurama no Himatsuri is carried on by groups called Shichikumi Nakama. They were inherited from generation to generation. It is said that a  the monks of Kurama temple started to live in Kurama and they formed the groups with other inhabitants.

Schedule of 2024 日程

Kurama no Himatsuri map 鞍馬の火祭マップ

• Red Alien　Entrane of Yuki shrine 由岐神社石段
• Blue Alien  Otabisho 　御旅所
• Red line  After 18:00, we keep walking in the area. One way
• Blue Line  Kamizaichi area 上在地
• Purple Line Nakazaich area　中在地
• Green Line Shimzaich area　下在地

5 restrooms available

How to get to Kurana no Himatsuri? 火祭へのアクセス

たけちよ

Jidai Matsuri takes place on the same day. When the parade leave Kyoto Imperial place, go to Eiden Demachi Yanagi sta.

 

Kurama station is the nearest station to Yuki shire.

Every year, the last train to Demachi Yanagi sta. around 24:00. Check out the website of Eiden (in English).

たけちよ

The last train to Demachiyanagi sta. leaves Kurama sta. at 23:24.

七里ヶ浜親方

If miss that one, you’ll never get another one on the day.

Extra buses are available around 21:00~23:00 at Kibune Guchi bus stop (the blue alien itn the map) Check out the website of Kyoto Bus(in Japanese).

七里ヶ浜親方

It takes about 15 minutes from Otabisho to the bus stop.

Must see 1 Reisai at Yuki shrine 9:00  例祭　於由岐神社

On 9:00, a ceremony is held at Yuki shrine. The priests bring the sprits of the deities to the Mikohsis.

Must see 2 Byobu Kazari  in Zaichis 屏風飾りなど

The blue and green lines in the map shown previously.

Many houses in Kurma prepares for torches and Kenbokos. We can find beautifurl Samurai armors and art works at some of them. This small exhibition is called Byobu Matsuri.

In front of one of them, near the roof, we’ll find Ohake. This indicates the deities stay in the house.

シカさん

Oheke is an object deity descend to.

There are 7 Kenbokos: Kiku, Kiri, Cho, Aoi, Ohtori, Mukade, and Tera. The most exquisite one is Aoi. Shoren-in temple gave it to the villagers. There is a beautiful Raden Aoi leaf in the rod.

Raden is a decorative technique. In the rod, the mother of pearl inlay draws an Aoi leaf.

The villagers used to parade with the torches on these armors.

Must-see 4 Jinji Bure in Zaichi areas 18:00 神事触れ

A young man stroll around in Zaichis shouting “神事にまいらっしゃーれ! Jinji ni Mairashare! (The ceremony is starting, come on!”  The torches are lit and each Nakama heads for Yuki shrine. The Matsuri begins.

Must-see 4  Torchies and Kenbokos near Yuki shrine 19:00 松明往来、鉾差し

Near the stair steps for Yuki shrine, many torches move around and Keibokos appear preparing for the departures of Mikosis.

シカさん

Check out the following events in this video.

Must-see  5 Shimenawa Kiri at Otabisho 20:10  注連縄切

In Otabisho, the sacred area is enclosed. The Shimenawa rope of the entrance is cut off for Mikoshis.

シカさん

Around 2:20 in the video.

Must-see 6　Choppen no Gi ceremony at the entrance of Yuki shrine 20:40 チョッペンの儀など

Tayu Nakama cuts off Shimenawa and the Mikoshis heads for Otabisho. When the Mikoshis start, Choppen no Gi takes place. I

七里ヶ浜親方

Chopenn no Gi is takes place when the Mikoshis climb down the slope. A Mikoshi has two rods called Nagae and people put their shoulders under one of them and carry it.

In Choppen no Gi, a man put his shoulder under the Nagae. He raise his legs to the sky and men called Choppen hold his legs and back to carry the Mikoshi.

Each Mikoshi has ropes in its back and young ladies hold them. The deities promises them easy carriage.

Must-see 7 Kagura at Otabisho 23:15 神楽奉納など

Around 23:00, the Mikoshis arrive at Otabisho. To celebrate the arrival, Kagura performance is dedicated to the deities.

About Yuki shrine 由岐神社基本情報

Arashiyama Hanatoro is held in Arashiyama district in mid-November. We can enjoy lots of night illumination and other events.

2020, it is to be held from Dec. 11th to 20th.

　いちきしま　ひめ

This site and article don’t recommend outing though the state of emergency was lifted. Make your decision with extreme care.

This site cannot guarantee your safety.

This site assumes no responsibility or liability for anything arising from the use of this article and the information it contains.This site is not responsible for any disadvantages you have at all.

The information in this article is to be changed.

たけちよ

This year, the night illumination of bamboo forest is canceled due to COVID-19 but we can stroll arond there with lantern becons.

東山花灯路2026は開催されません。2022/令和4年を以て終了：最後の狐の嫁入りなどの見どころ、デートコース、おすすめ情報教えます。

東山花灯路2026年は開催されません。2022年を以て終了しました。最後の花灯路を楽しんでいただくべく、清水寺や高台寺周辺で開催される、狐の嫁入りなどのみどころや、周辺寺社のライトアップ、おすすめコースについて解説します。

kyotokankoyagi.com

2017.01.26

We have Higashiyama Hanatoro in every spring.

お福さん

We have some confusion in Weekends. Check the link below.

Arashiyama bus and train guide: Bus stops and stations

How can we take buses in Arashiyama? It's a difficult question to answer because the routes buses take depend on a day of the week. In this article, I'll show you the way you take. In addition to it, I'll also show you the train station in Arashiyama because buses sometimes crowded.

kyotokankoyagi.com

2020.10.08

The map for Arashiyama Hanatoro

The following is the information of the last year. It will be updated soon.

The vermilion line: “The path with flower and illumination”「灯りと花の路」

The red flowers: “The Ikebana promenade” 「いけばなプロムナード」

The green line: A path in the Bamboo forest. We walk through from east to west on week-ends and week-days with many visitors.

The blue line: A path in Kameyama park. We cannot enter it except week-days.

The red alien: Warm places. We can enjoy food or stove.

The blue alien: Shuttle bus to JR Saga Arashiyama sta. and the red cat in the map.

たけちよ

Be sure where the restrooms are!

We can have a brochure (only in Japanese).

New!!

Ogura-ike pond illumination

At the Ogura-ike pond (the blue octopus in the map), there are Yuzen- lantern. Yuzen is dyeing technique for Kimono. These lanterns wear patterns of it.

Arashiyama Shoryuen Wagasa illumination

Across the street, Randen Arashiyama station faces a modern building. We can enjoy Wagasa illumination there. Wagasa is Japanese traditional umbrella and their illumination gained popularity these years.

The illumination in the Bamboo forest 竹林の小径

Bamboo forest is one of the most famous place in Kyoto. Almost all of the Kyoto-visitors thirst for strolling a path there. It is illuminated only in Arashiyama Hanatoro. The path is one-way on week-ends and week-days with many visitors.

七里ヶ浜親方

Remember, one-way on week-ends, right?

There is a Shinto shrine in the bamboo forest.( The annotation near the green line in the map.) The bamboo trees near there is illuminated in white. It is SO FANTASTIC!!

やぎももさん

DO NOT MISS THEM!

Togetsu-kyo Bridge illuminated 渡月橋のライトアップ

The iconic Togetsu-kyo bridge is also illuminated. It glitters gold against Mt. Arashiyama illuminated in purple and green. We can walk on this stunning bridge. At the purple alien in the map, we have a good view of it.

七里ヶ浜親方

Be there!

 “The path with flower and illumination” ロームが灯す「灯りと花の路」

Small lanterns guides us in the streets and paths indicated in the vermilion line in the map. They give out dim lights and shows us the most amazing Arashiyama.

We have Japanese camellia in bloom.

げきすせん

So romantic!

Ikebana promenade 　いけばなプロムナード

Ikebana is a traditional flower arrangement. The Ikebana in Hanatoro are very modern though it is well-established art.

We usually enjoy Ikebana in Tokonama (Japanese alcove) but the Ikebana of Arashiyama Hanatoro are placed in path and street with illumination.

あ

DO NOT MISS THEM!

Kotonoha lantern コトノハ行灯

Kotonoha (言の葉)　means language, or poem in ancient Japanese language. Ha（葉 in 言の葉) means leaf. We write our hope on a leaf-shaped sticker and put it on a large lantern.

やぎももさん

We also have “Kotonaha lantern” in Higashiyama Hanatoro. We have Sakura-shaped sticker because it is held in early spring.

Last year the lanterns is placed in Chojin no Mori forest (the red alien in the map).

Lantern painting お絵かき行灯

We can make lantern to place it in Arashiyama Hanatoro!

At Nakanoshima park near Togetsu-kyo bridge, we painted a picture and made a paper lantern. We ornamented the park with it. As souvenir, we had a small paper lantern which had the same picture you had made.

　いちきしま　ひめ

17:00～20:30

たけちよ

FOR FREE!

七里ヶ浜親方

Only 100 person a day.

Stamp collection ご当地キャラスタンプラリー

There are stamp places in Arashiyama destrict. We collected stamps indicated in the picture.

たけちよ

Higashiyama Hanatoro doesn’t take place in 2026.

七里ヶ浜親方

Higashiyama Hanatoro ended in 2022. 

Check the offical website:Higashiyama Hanatoro (In Japanese)

Enjoy the last opportunities with the Beach Boys’ Disney girls!!!

シカさん

♪the warmth i missed, for the things i wished, they’re all coming true~

たけちよ

Thanks for lots of memories for 17 years, BAAAH!!!

What is Higashiyama Hanatoro? 東山花灯路とは？

Overview

Higashiyama Hanatoro is a series of night illumination in Higashiyama district. It focuses on “Akari (灯り).” The word is usually translated as “light” but it actually means “subtle, warm light” in Japanese language.

Now let us make a small inspection on the video.

　いちきしま　ひめ

Attention！

This article is written on Higashiyama Hanatoro 2019.

Is Higashiyama Hanatoro crowded?

Except week-ends, we don’t have many visitors.

たけちよ

We can enjoy early spring in Kyoto in calmness.

The events of Higashiyama Hanator 2019

Attention: The following photos and information

Akari to Hanano michi「灯りと花の路」

During Higashiyama Hanatoro, streets and paths are illuminated with LED lanterns. These lanterns are made of Washi, the Japanese paper, bamboo, and woods.

The photo above is my favorite place in Higashiyama. It is near Ninenzaka. If you climbed down the street, you could see Yasaka pagoda. It reminds us of the 1st Higashiyama Hanatoro held 16 years ago.

Ikebana promenade「いけばなプロムナード」

Kyoto Ikebana kyokai presents us lots of Ikebana along the streets. Ikebana may be common thing in Japan but we don’t have see it illuminated on the streets usually.

In 2019, we have two exhibitions: From March 8th to 12th and from 13th to 17th. We can enjoy different Ikebana in each period.

Modern Ikebana 「現代いけばな展」

At Maruyama park, we can also enjoy Ikebana. As Ikebana promenade, we have two  exhibitions: From March 8th to 12th and from 13th to 17th. We can enjoy different Ikebana in each period.

Maiko san dance「舞妓による奉納舞踊」

At Yasaka shrine, Maiko san dedicate their dances to the Deities of Yasaka shrine on March 9th, 10th, 15th, 16th, and 17th. Their dedication begin at 18：30、19：00、19：30 each day.

やぎももさん

Omachi shitemasu.

Aokusu no niwa あおくすの庭

It is a small garden located near Shorenin temple. It is so quiet place with small lanterns.

Sakuhana Andon サクハナ行灯

In Aokusu no niwa, there ara illuminated tubes. We put cherry blossom shaped pieces of paper on them. On the paper, we right down our hope. The words on the photo say “May each one’s small happiness embrace the world.”

University students works 大学の街京都・伝統の灯り展

An exhibition of university students art works at Otani Sando.

March of children 火の用心・お囃子組

Elementary school children parade from Shorenin at 18:00 and arrives Kiyomizu-dera temple at 20:15 and play Hanaichi monme, a popular play among Japanese kids.

Oekaki lantern お絵かき行灯

At Kodaiji koen park, we can make original lantern.

Incense  香りのさんぽ路

At Kodaiji and other five places in Higashiyama Hanatoro, you will taste incense burnt. If you found the same one burnt in Kodaiji, you would have a gift named “Kaori no shiori (fragrant bookmark).”

東山花灯路 de 「花咲想（はなさかそう）」

Takii Syubyo co., gives us seed of flowers.

Awata Daitoro「粟田大燈呂」

Awata Daitoro is a huge lanterns we enjoy in Awatasai of Awata shrine. At Maruyama park, an exhibition of the last year’s lanterns is held at Maruyama park.

Shrines and temples illuminated 寺社仏閣のライトアップ・特別拝観

Overview

During Higashiyama Hanatoro period, Shinto shinres and Buddhist temples are illuminated.

Attention: Open hours, entrance fee, etc, are subject to be changed.

Kiyomizudera temple 清水寺

Kiyomizudera temple offers us night visit and illumination.

Before the renovation, Kiyomizudera temple looked like this.

Now the main hall is under construction and it is covered with cage. The famous stage is also under construction but we can be there.

During Higashiyama Hanatoro period, we could admire plum blossoms.

いちきしま ひめ

Kiyomizudera on Hanatoro

Open hours: 18:00~21:00

Entrance fee: 400 yen

Website: Kiyomizudera official

Yasaka pagoda 法観寺（八坂の塔）

Yasaka pagoda offers us illumination.

Open hours: 10：00～16：00

Entrance fee: 400 yen

Phone no. 075-551-2417

Website is not available.

Kodaiji temple 高台寺

Kodaiji offers us night time visit, illumination, and projection mapping.

Kodaiji always provides us with extraordinary projection mapping every single season.

げきすせん

Enjoy them!

In 2017, Yokai projection mapping was casted on the wall of coffee shop.

During the Hanatoro period, ROBOT KANNON teaches us HEART SUTRA.

For more info, see Kodaiji website (Japanese langauage only)合掌。

Kodaiji has small bamboo forest.

いちきしま ひめ

Kodaiji on Hanatoro

Open hours: 10:00〜21:30

Entrance fee: 600 yen

ヒヒヒ

My recommendation: Special ticket for Kodaiji, Entokuin, and Syo musium: 900 yen

Phone no. 075-561-9966

Website: Kodaiji official

Entokuin 圓徳院

Entokuin offers us night time visit, illumination. We experience Zen activities there FOR FREE!

いちきしま ひめ

Entokuin on Hanatoro

Open hours: 10:00〜21:30

Entrance fee: 600 yen

ヒヒヒ

Special ticket for Kodaiji, Entokuin, and Syo musium is also

available!

Phone no. 075-525-0101

Website:Entokuin official (English)

Ohtani Sobyo 大谷祖廟

A passage to Ohtani Sobyo temple is illuninated.

Along the passage, there are artworks.

Daiunin temple 大雲院（祇園閣）

It is not open to public except special occasion. During hanatoro, it is illuminated.

Yasaka shrine 八坂神社

Yasaka shrine is open to us 24 hours a day with lamp posts.

We cannot find the portable shrines in the video during Hanatoro.

いちきしま ひめ

Yasaka shrine on Hanatoro

Open hours: 24 hours

Entrance fee: Free

Phone no.　075-561-6155

Website:

Yasaka shrine official (English)

青蓮院

Shorenin offers us night time visit and illumination. The illumination is excellent because it changes colors.

We can enjoy tea admiring illuminated small pond.

We can enjoy plum blossoms and bamboo, too.

いちきしま ひめ

Shorenin on Hanatoro

Open hours: 10:00〜21:30

Entrance fee: 800 yen

Phone no.　075-561-2345

Shorenin official (English)

Kitsune no Yomeiri　狐の嫁入り巡行

“Kitsune no Yomeiri” means supernatural phenomenon in which we see a string of fire. In ancient time, a family of bridegroom welcomed a bride with many lanterns. The phenomenon was so mysterious that ancient people thought a fox family welcomed a fox bride.

Higashiyama Hanatoro has “Fox bride parade” 2 times a day during the period.

This is a route of the parade. It starts at Chionin (the red paw) to Kodaiji temple (the blue paw).

19：00/20：00　at the red alien 知恩院三門前出発

In front of the Sanmon gate of Chonin temple, the parade departs.

19：20/20：20頃　At the blue alien 円山公園音楽堂付近

This is the most recommended place to see the parade. You can enjoy the parade in mysterious atmosphere.

19：30/20：00頃　The orange alien 春光院前

It is a small hill and you can see whole parade there.

19：40/20：40頃　At Kodaiji temple 高台寺到着

She prays at Kodaiji tenmangu shrine and goes to Kodaiji temple.

19：40/20：40～　 At the blue kettle 湖月茶屋

At the blue kettle in the map, there is a tea house called Kogetysu chaya. Enjoy Japanese sweets there!

How to get to Higashiyama Hanatoro?　東山花灯路への行き方

Kyoto city bus 市バス

To Yasaka shrine, about 15 minutes walk from Shijo Kawaramachi bus stop. To avoid crowds, I don’t recommend to you Gion, Kiyomizumichi and other bus stop located near Hanatoro area.

Kyoto city subway 地下鉄

To Shorenin, about five minutes walk form Higashiyama station.

市営地下鉄東西線東山駅下車し、徒歩約15分で知恩院へ。

Hankyu railways 阪急

To Yasaka shrine, about 15 minutes walk from Kawaramachi station.

京阪

To Yasaka shrine, about 15 minutes walk from Gion Shijo station.

自動車

高台寺に駐車場がありますが、混雑します。

その他、付近には清水坂観光駐車場、円山公園駐車場がありますが、ここも混みます。

すこし離れた場所に岡崎公園駐車場があります。徒歩で青蓮院まで15分くらいです。岡崎ループという系統で平安神宮から青蓮院前まで行けますが、18：12発が最終です。歩いても構わないのであればここが良いでしょう。

おすすめは京都市御池地下駐車場です。京都市役所前駅から地下鉄東西線に乗り、東山駅で降りるとよいでしょう。