As indicated in the Imperial period Reiwa, we’ve loved flowers in spring and autumn leaves in fall for a long time.

Autumn leaves or autumn colors in English is called “紅葉 (pronounced as Momiji or Koyo) in Japanese. The word means “leaves turned red” these days.

However, Momiji in ancient times was described as “黄葉 (leaves turned red)” and  was pronounced as “Momichi.”

“Momishi” is a noun form of a verb “Momitsu (To turn yellow).” As plum blossom used to be considered as typical spring flower instead of Sakura, our sensitivity on seasons was different from the one we have today.

In Manyoshu, the oldest compilation of Waka poem in the 8th century, there are 92 poems about autumn leaves. And 88 out of 92 describe them as yellow leaves, i.e., yellow was a color of fall.

In those days, an poem called “秋風辞” written by Emperor Wu of Han dynasty had an effect on this idea.

The poem is found in the Wen Xuan, one of the oldest anthologies of Chinese literature, that was popular among the learned in our country. Actually, it is often said “Manyoshu was not compiled without Wen Xuan.”

The poem (excerpt) reads:

In ancient China, fall was sad season and implied something on decline. Our ancestors inherited this idea but they found something aesthetic in leaves of plants. They read many poems about them in Manyoshu though there no poem referring to autumn leaves in Wen Xuan. 　

The fierce Goryo turns the leaves red

In the 9th century, owing to Sugawara no Michizane paved the way for the word known as “紅葉”/ “Red leaves” today.  He is one of the most famous historical figures and Goryos and known as “The deity of learning” and a prominent poet of Waka and Kanshi (Chinese poem).

He wrote:

It is tough to translate this in English as to translate “Ode to a Nightingale” in Japanese and I tell you the situation.

He was on a journey and faced a mountain ornamented with autumn leaves (紅葉/ Red leaves). He decided to offer them to deity as “幣(Nusa).” Nusa is an offering to deity.

A poem of Du Mu, a Chinese poet of 9th century, had an impact on this poem. It reads:

He was a master of Kanshi and narrated the aesthetics in Japanese fall with the expression(s) of ancient China.

Autumn leaves these days

Strictly speaking, “紅葉” means the leaves turned red but it doesn’t mean a specific color usually. It stands for the leaves turned their colors in general. We admire the leaves of many kind of plants in red, yellow, green, and so on. And I guess many people prefer the red ones. The following is recommended places to visit. Enjoy them. 合掌

The best place to visit is Eikando Temple.

In Tenjuan temple, you can enjoy red and yellow leaves in Karesansui garden.

I prefer Korin-in temple. The most underrated place.

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 visit some underrated places on the outskirt of Kyoto: Kozanji, Saimyoji, and Jingoji temple.

Cozy places.

Start at Kyoto sta. or Shijo Karasuma

シカさん

The gray is for week days and the red in for weekends.

七里ヶ浜親方

The time tables may change. Check out them: JR BUS, and

Kyoto city bus.

The blue bus stop is Toganoh bus stop.

Kodaiji temple is the only world heritage site in Takao. It has Choju Jinbutsu Giga (鳥獣人物戯画), often referred as “the origin of Manga.”

シカさん

Check this out.

鳥獣人物戯画│世界遺産 栂尾山 高山寺 公式ホームページ

鳥獣人物戯画│世界遺産 栂尾山 高山寺は、京都市右京区の栂尾（とがのお）にある古刹である。建永元年（1206）明恵上人が後鳥羽上皇よりその寺域を賜り、名を高山寺として再興し、鳥獣人物戯画、日本最古の茶園として知られる。

kosanji.com

We can enjoy the autumn leaves in brilliant yellow.

七里ヶ浜親方

In Takao, the Migoro of Kozanji usually comes later than those of Jingji and Saimyoji temple.

Kozanji is also famous for a statue of Zaizen Dohji, one of the guardians of Buddhism.

たけちよ

We can buy many types of souvenirs of Choju Jinbutsu Giga.

お福さん

Around 10:00, we leave Kozanji for Saimyoji along with the red line.

At the red alien, there is a bridge. Over the bridge, there is a ticket booth.

Saimyoji temple 西明寺

About Saimyoji temple 西明寺について

Saimyoji is a small and overlooked temple and the best place to enjoy a tranquility in Takao. The view from the bridge is extraordinary.

たけちよ

Quiet and beautiful. Beyond description.

いちきしま　ひめ

Around 11:15, we leave Saimyoji for Jingoji along with the green line.

Around and after the entrance, there are traditional Japanese restaurants.

七里ヶ浜親方

Enjoy your lunch in the midst of the Autumn leaves.

シカさん

On the way to Jingoji, we may meet them.

Tanuki racoon dog brings us prosperity 信楽焼の狸と八相縁起につき英語で説明

Shigaraki Yaki Tanuki figurine brings us prosperity with its Hasso Engi, the Buddhist conception.

kyotokankoyagi.com

2024.08.19

Jingoji temple 神護寺

About Jingoji temple 神護寺について

Jingohi is the most famous temple in Takao. It also is one of the most important Buddhist temple because it has a close relationship with Kukai and Saicho. It enshrines a statue of Yakushi Nyorai, the 2nd statue registered as National Treasure.

七里ヶ浜親方

The statue is awesome.

The autumn leaves there are in red and yellow. As though they are translucent.

アフロさん

Around 14:10, we leave Jingoji for Takao bus stop along with the green line. The red bus stop is Takao bus stop.

Takao Bus stop 高雄バス停

七里ヶ浜親方

The next one leaves at 15:16.

Ryoanji temple 龍安寺

喫茶去

Ryoanji mae bus stop is located near the entrance of Ryoanji temple. Near the ticket booth, there are tea houses.

たけちよ

Take a short break.

About Ryounji temple 龍安寺について

Ryoanji is one of the famous temple in Kyoto, It is famous for the Rock Garden.

七里ヶ浜親方

ATTENTION!!! When Takao is in Migoro, Ryoanji is not in Migoro. 

Ryoajji would be in Migoro about a couple of weeks later.

シカさん

Check them out.

Kyoto Autumn leaves 2024 Itinerary 2: Zen temples, the best autumn leaves and night illumination

The itinerary to enjoy the autumn leaves in Zen temple in Kyoto 2024 in late November or early December: Tofukuji tempole, Komyoin temple, Korinin temple, Ryoanji temple, and Toji.

kyotokankoyagi.com

2024.09.22

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

In this post, I’ll show you an itinerary to visit some underrated places on the outskirt of Kyoto: Jisso-in temle, Rengeji temple, Sanzen-in temple, Jikko-in temple, and Hosen-in temple. At Sanzenin and Jikkoin, we can enjoy Sakuras (Not the same ones we can find in spring)

Sakuras in FALL?

Start at Kokusai Kaika station

Kokusai Kaikan station around 8:20

Arrive at Kokusai Kaikan station and take Kyoto Bus no.24 for IWAKURA JISSO-IN at BUS STOP 1.

七里ヶ浜親方

Kyoto Bus. Not Kyoto city/municipal bus, O.K. ? 

Check out the time table.

Time table

• Weekdays　8:45 Kokusaikaika mae bus stop →8:56　Iwakura Jissoin bus stop
• 土・休日　8:44　 Kokusaikaika mae bus stop→8:55　Iwakura Jissoin bus stop

Jisso-in Monzeki temple 実相院門跡

About Jissoin Monzeki temple 実相院について

Jissoin is some of Monzekis. Monzeki is a temple run by an abbot of the imperial lineage. It used to be located in Kamigyo and it moved to Iwakura due to Ohnin no Ran, the largest civil war and restored by Tokugawa Iemitsu, the 3rd Shogun of the Tokugwa Shogunate. The main hall has a modern Karesansui garden and a small stroll garden. It is a very quiet place and we can hear cheerful songs in week days from a kindergarten located near the temple.

Yuka Momiji 床紅葉

On the well-polished floor in the main hall, we can enjoy “Yuka Momiji (a kind of Mizukagami of the autumn leaves).”

七里ヶ浜親方

We can’t take photos. This is a photo of a post card available in the temple.

Kokono no Oniwa (The garden of hearts) 枯山水庭園「こころのお庭」

A unique Karesasui garden constructed by citizens. Taking advantage of Mt. Hiei as Shakkei, it has a “depth”.

シカさん

We say “depth” in Japanese and I have no idea how would I say in English. I mean the garden looks so large thanks to the mountain. For Japanese people, I guess 9 out of 10, find the garden large because they see the mountain as a part of the garden without conscious and intention. That’s the effect of Shakkei.

The stroll garden池泉回遊式庭園

The autumn leaves here are very exquisite. With beautiful mosses, we can under stand what calmness is.

For Rengeji temple 蓮華寺に向け出発

Leave Jisooin around 10:15  実相院出発

Leave Jissoin temple around 10:15.

Take Kyoto Bus no. 24 for Kokusai Kaikan

• Weekdays　10:29  Iwakura Jisso-in bus stop→10:38　Kamitakano bus stop
• Weekends and holidays　10:25  Iwakura Jisso-in bus stop→10:34  Kamitakano bus stop

At Kamitakano bus stop around 10:35

At Kamitakano bus stop, we change bus. Kyoto Bus no.24 to 19 for Ohara.

• Weekdays  10:47 Kamitakano bus stop→10:51 Kanbashi bus stop
• Weekends and holidays　10:48 Kamitakano bus stop→10:52　Kanbashi bus stop

Rengeji temple 蓮華寺

About Rengeji temple 蓮華寺について

Ohnin no Ran devastated Rengeji and it moved to Takano in the 17th century. It is one of the most underrated place in Kyoto. We can enjoy the tranquility there. The statue of Siddhartha Gautama enshrined used to belong to Enryakuji temple.

七里ヶ浜親方

One of my favorite places.

Rengeji temple in Kyoto with a tranquil garden supreme

Rengeji is one of the most underrated Buddhist temple with extraordinary garden suitable for meditation. The garden stands for a paradise in Buddhism and has amazing autumn leaves.

kyotokankoyagi.com

2019.02.16

The garden

We can admire a garden stands for Mt. Horai, the mysterious mountain found in Taoism. We can take photo of it only in a room of the temple. The scene makes a typical Gakubuchi Teien. In this art, we take pillars and beams as picture frames.

Near the Sanmon gate 山門付近

Near the entrance gate, there are gingko trees. The ground is covered with the leaves of them in late November or early December. Take our breath away.

For Sanzen-in temple 三千院に向け出発

At Kanbashi bus stop, take Kyoto Bus no.19 for Ohara.

Any day 　11:55 Kanbashi bus stop →12:12 Ohara bus stop

3. Lunch time

たけちよ

Lunch time, BAAAHHH!!!

It takes about 20 minutes to Sanzen-in temple

Near Ohara bus stop and on the way to Sanzen-in temple, there are many traditional Japanese restaurants.

Sanzen-in temple 三千院

About Sanzen-in temple 三千院について

Sanzen-in used to be a small temple called Enyubo and became a Monzeki temple in the 12th century. It has a large garden and we can enjoy beautiful flowers and plants in every season.

Yuseien garden 有清園

Sanzen-in has many garden and the most beautiful one in fall is Yusei-en stroll garden in front of Shinden. The ground with mosses is extraordinary when it is covered with fall leaves.

In Gokuraku Ohjoin in the garden, we experience what Gokuraku Jodo (the paradise in Buddhism) is.

In the garden, we meet famous Warabe Jizo, the tiny and kawaii Jizo Bostsu, the Buddhist deities.

The garden is adjacent to Konjikido hall. On the way to it, we can find Kanzakuras (Sakuras bloom in fall or winter).

For Jikkoin temple

It takes a couple of minutes (indicated in the blue line).

Jikko-in temple 実光院

About Jikko-in temple 実光院について

Jikko-in is a small temple located near Sanzen-in. In the 9th century, a Buddhist music called “Syomyo” imported from the Tang dynasty to Jikko-in. Due to this, many musical instruments exhibited. The same as Sanzen-in, we can enjoy beautiful flowers and plants in every season.

七里ヶ浜親方

This temple also is one of my favorite places with lots of beautiful flowers.

Kyu-Rikaku-in garden 旧理覚院庭園

In this garden, there are not many Kaede tress but the colors of their leaves are stunning. We can focus on them in tranquility.

In the garden, there are Fusan Zakuras in fall to spring.

シカさん

What a view! Autumn leaves, Sakuras and persimmons at the same time!

For Hosen-in temple 宝泉院に向け出発

It takes a couple of minutes (indicated in the blue line).

Hosen-in temple 宝泉院

About Hosen-in temple 宝泉院について

Hosen-in is also a small and quiet place famous among Kyoto-enthusiasts for a large pine tree and Chi-Tenjo. Chi-Tenjo means “Blooded ceiling.” The ceiling of the temple used to be a floor of Fushimi castle. In the 17th century, many Tokugawa Samurais choose the most respectful self-inflict death with their own sword. The floor has blood stains and Hosen-in enshrined it as a ceiling to relieve their souls. 合掌

Bankan-en garden 盤桓園

We can enjoy Bankan-en garden as a Gakubuchi Teien as we did in Rengeji temple.

Koukaku no Niwa garden 鶴亀の庭

A small garden with ornamented with the leaves in brilliant red.

In this post, I’ll show you an itinerary to enjoy the autumn leaves in extraordinary red in Kyoto: Eikando temple, Konkaikomyoji temple, Kitanotenmangu shrine, and Nison-in temple.

Start at Kyoto Subway Keage station

たけちよ

08:30 at Keage sta.

We head for Eikando temple. On foot as indicated in the map.

Around 10:30, we head for Eikando Temple.

1. Eikando temple 永観堂（禅林寺）の紅葉

About Eikando temple 永観堂について

About Eikando temple 永観堂（禅林寺）の特徴

Eikando is the most famous place to enjoy autumn leaves in Kyoto. Actually, we can admire many beautiful colors. If you can visit only one place to visit in fall, this is the place.

Eikando, Zenrinji in Kyoto: The best autumn leaves and night illumination 2024

Eikando/Zenrinji is the best autumn leaves and night illumination spot in Kyotoin 2024. The way to enjoy them, open hours, entrance fee, access are also available!

kyotokankoyagi.com

2018.10.08

七里ヶ浜親方

The most crowded place but worth visiting. Be there without fail.

As described, Eikando provides us with one of the most beautiful colors in Kyoto. In addition to it, there are many trees and Migoro goes on for a long time.

We can enjoy the autumn leaves in red and the ones near the big Gingko tree the best place. The tree is located near the exit of the garden.

To Konkaikomyoji Temple 金戒光明寺に向け出発

It takes about 20 minutes. We could visit there by way of Okazaki shrine.

2. Konkaikomyoji temple 金戒光明寺の紅葉

About Konkaikomyoji temple　金戒光明寺について

Sanmon Gate 山門

Konkaikomyoji is one of the most underrated place to enjoy autumn leaves in Kyoto. The garden belongs to the Hojo is open to us and we can admire the leaves in extraordinary red and the pond makes a Mizukagami. It also famous for “Afro Buddha” and the Afro Duckies but the duckies are missing now.

Afro Buddha in Kyoto アフロ大仏英語で説明

The real name of "Afro Buddha" is "Goko Shii Amidabutsu.（五劫思惟阿弥陀仏）" It means that a Buddha meditates forever. In this artile, you can learn the reason of its hair style and its features, souvenirs and so on.

kyotokankoyagi.com

2020.01.20

THE AFRO DUCKIES in Konkai Komyoji: MISSING 金戒光明寺のアフロアヒル英語で説明

The Afro duckies are messengers of AFRO BUDDHA in Konkai Komyoji temple. They make 3-D Raigozu to save those who in despair. 金戒光明寺のアヒルさんにつき、英語で説明申し上げます。合掌

kyotokankoyagi.com

2022.03.11

Sanmon Gate 山門

Konkaikomyoji has an iconic Sanmon gate as Nanzenji. In this fall we can visit it and have a good view of Kyoto. The leaves in front of it are in red.

The garden 方丈庭園

This is the place. The leaves are in dull red. We can find this color in any other places. The trees around the pond makes a perfect Mizukagami despite in the daytime.

To Kitano Tenmangu shrine 北野天満宮に向け出発

Head for Okazkimichi bus stop (red) or Okazaki jinja mae bus stop (blue).

3. Lunch time

たけちよ

Lunch time, BAAAHHH!!!

シカさん

12:00~13:00

七里ヶ浜親方

Get off at Kamishiciken bus stop and have a lunch in the restaurant in Kamishichiken destrict. We can enjoy the traditional Kyoto cuisine in calmness.

4. Kitano Tenmangu shrine 北野天満宮

About Kitano Tenmangu 北野天満天満宮の紅葉

Kitano Tenmangu is one of the most famous places among students due to and also one of the most underrated places for autumn leaves.

シカさん

It enshrines Sugawara no Michizane, the most learned court noble. He is a deity of study depending on the faith of Goryo. The faith was established in the 10th century and is still alive. Gion Matsuri takes place on the same faith.

The faith of Goryo 御霊信仰につき英語で説明

Mitama is a sprit of the deceased. Ancient people thought it caused natural disasters and epidemics. In this post, I'll show you how people managed them in order to accomplish to the peace. 合掌

kyotokankoyagi.com

2024.02.25

In fall, Odoi, the debris of bank that woudl make the border of ancient Kyoto city, open to us and there are many leaves in clear red. Of course other colors are amazing.

To Nisonin temple 二尊院に向け出発

Nishonin is located in Arashiyama. Take train at Randen Kitano Hakubaicho station. Change train for Arashiyama at Katabirano tsuji station.

Randen Arashiyama station is a final station. We go to Nison-in by way of the Bamboo forest. A souvenir shop near Nison-in, we can buy Tanuki figurines promise us prosperity.

Tanuki racoon dog brings us prosperity 信楽焼の狸と八相縁起につき英語で説明

Shigaraki Yaki Tanuki figurine brings us prosperity with its Hasso Engi, the Buddhist conception.

kyotokankoyagi.com

2024.08.19

5. Nison-in temple 二尊院

About Nison-in temple 二尊院の紅葉

Nison-in was established in the 9th century and is a one of the oldest temple in Kyoto. It was named “Nison-in (Temple with 2 deities)” because it enshrines 2 deities as the main one.  The Kaede leaves grow like a tunnel in the passage to the main hall.

“Dragon garden” belongs to the main hall also is a beautiful.

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.

In this post, I’ll show you an itinerary to enjoy the autumn leaves in Kyoto: Nanzenji temple, Tenjuan temple, Ginakkuji temple, Shisendo temple, and Enkoji temple.

Start at Kyoto Subway Keage station

たけちよ

08:20 at Keage sta.

We head for Nanzenji temple. On foot as indicated in the map.

1. Nanzenji Temple 南禅寺の紅葉

About Nanzenji temple 南禅寺について

Nanzenji is one of the most important Zen temple along with Tenryuji, Shokokuji , Kenninji, Tofukuji, and Manjuji temple.

The iconic Sanmon gate is referred in Sanmon Gosan no Kiri, a Kabuki play written in the 18th century. The man is Ishikawa Goemon, a leader of bandits in the 16th century and the ancestor of Ishikawa Goeon XIII in Lupin III.

The garden belongs to the Hojo was designed by Konori Ensyu, one of the most famous garden designer in Japan. The theme of garden is the same as that of Ryoanji temple.

The auumn leaves 南禅寺の紅葉の特徴

Sanmon Gate 三門

Near Hatto 法堂付近

Near the aqueduct 水道橋付近

Hojo garden 方丈庭園

We take advantage of Higashiyama Moutains as Shakkei.

Shakkei is an art to enjoy garden. We use something outside of a garden as a background.

Rokudo Tei garden 六道庭

The garden stands for the reincarnation in Buddhism.

For Tenjuan temple 天授庵に向け出発

Around 09:45, we head for Tenjuan Temple.

2. Tenjuan temple 天授庵の紅葉

About Tenjuan temple 天授庵について

Tenjuan is one of the most underrated places in Kyoto. It has a calm Karesansui garden and a stroll garden. Stroll garden has a pond and we can meet beautiful Nishikigoi carp there. One of my favorite places.

Tenjuan garden: Autumn leaves and night illumination in Kyoto

The precise info on Tenjuan garden in fall; Autumn leaves, night illumination, zen garden, the best time to visit, and more!

kyotokankoyagi.com

2018.10.03

The autumn leaves 天授庵の紅葉の特徴

Extraordinary red

Tenjuan temple is one of the places we really can enjoy red leaves. To our regert, many photos we encounter in many places are adjusted with apps.

Near the entrance gate 入口付近

Karesansui garden 方丈庭園

The south garden書院南庭園

七里ヶ浜親方

DO NOT MISS IT. MAGNIFIQUE.

Night illumination ライトアップ

七里ヶ浜親方

Not available these years.

For Eikando Temple 永観堂に向け出発

Around 10:30, we head for Eikando Temple.

3. Eikando temple 永観堂（禅林寺）の紅葉

About Eikando temple 永観堂について

About Eikando temple 永観堂（禅林寺）の特徴

Eikando is the most famous place to enjoy autumn leaves in Kyoto. Actually, we can admire many beautiful colors. If you can visit only one place to visit in fall, this is the place.

Eikando, Zenrinji in Kyoto: The best autumn leaves and night illumination 2024

Eikando/Zenrinji is the best autumn leaves and night illumination spot in Kyotoin 2024. The way to enjoy them, open hours, entrance fee, access are also available!

kyotokankoyagi.com

2018.10.08

七里ヶ浜親方

The most crowded place but worth visiting. Be there without fail.

The autumn leaves 永観堂（禅林寺）の紅葉の特徴

As described, Eikando provides us with one of the most beautiful colors in Kyoto. In addition to it, there are many trees and Migoro goes on for a long time.

Night illumination ライトアップ

The night illumination is beyond description.

For Ginkakuji Temple 銀閣寺に向け出発

Around 12:00, we head for Ginkakuji temple by way of the Philosopher’s path.

シカさん

Have a lunch in the restaurant near Ginkakuji temple. It takes about 30 minutes to get to Ginkakuji.

4. Ginkakuji temple 銀閣寺の紅葉

About Ginkakuji temple 銀閣寺について

Ginkakuji means “silver temple” but it has never been plated with silver, making a good contrast to Kinakakuji temple plated with gold. Both of them were constructed under the strong influence of Saihoji temple. Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, the founder of Ginkakuji and the 8th Shogun of Ashikaga Shogunate wanted to have Ginkakuji as “his own Saihjoji.”

The pavilion in the photo is Kannondo known as so-called Ginkakuji (silver pavilion) . Ginkakuji consists of many facilities including Kannondo.

The Ultimate Ginkakuji Temple Guide in Kyoto

IntroductionGinkakuji temple a.k.a. as the silver pavilion represents the origin of the Japanese cultural inheritance. L...

kyotokankoyagi.com

2017.10.03

The Autumn leaves 銀閣寺の紅葉の特徴

We can enjoy the autumn leaves in red, yellow and others in the extraordinary mosses. The garden was designed for visitors to admire Kannondo (so-called Ginkakuji) in any places in the garden.

For Shisendo temple 詩仙堂に向け出発

We head for Shisendo temple by TAXI.

シカさん

Don’t worry, we can take taxi easily around Ginkakuji.

5. Shisendo temple 詩仙堂の紅葉

About Shisendo temple 詩仙堂について

Shisendo used to be a villa belonged to Ishikawa Jozan served for Tokuagawa Ieyasu. One of the rooms is decorated with paintings of ancient Chinese poets. Today, it is a small and quiet Buddhist temple with many flowers. We can admire real red autumn leaves with green mosses and plants.

The Autumn leaves 詩仙堂の紅葉

たけちよ

We can admire many colors there.

For Enkoji temple 圓光寺へ向け出発

Around 15:45, we head for Enkoji temple on foot.

圓光寺の紅葉

About Shisendo temple 詩仙堂について

お福さん

ATTENTION! LAST YEAR RESERVATION NEEDED. The temple has not announced the reservation of 2024. Check out the website of Enkoji before you visit.

Enkoji was founded as a school by Tokugawa Ieyasu. In fall, Jyugyu no Niwa garden is ornamented with many colors. It implies the way for the enlightenment.

シカさん

Find Kawaii Ojizosan (Jizo, the Buddhist deity) there.

Leave Enkoji 圓光寺から出発

Head for Eiden Ichijoji station or Ichijoji Sagari Matsu bus stop.

Kyoto autumn leaves forecast 2025 and breaking report 12/27: Miosame

Kyoto autumn leaves forecast and breaking report of 2025. Tenjuan is in Migoro. So far, couples of days later than usual.

kyotokankoyagi.com

2019.09.04

What does “Autumn Leaves”  mean?

So-called “Autumn leaves” are Kaede leaves. In this chapter, let me show how they grow up.

In mid-April, Kaede flowers bloom.

Flowers fall off and the leaves grow up to Aomomiji in late-April or early March.

And leaves have seeds.

Around June, the leaves fall off and they are in Migoro.

Around late September, the green leaves start turning their colors.

Around mid-November, they are in Migoro.

The colors we admire

Red

We can find leaves in brilliant red easily on the web but hardly find them actually.

Vermilion

Most popular color.

Yellow

Not popular as vermillion ones.

Green

Some are in green.

Pink

It’s not easy to find beautiful ones.

Pale color

Some leaves are not in vivid colors.

Eikando

If you want to see all of them, Eikando is the best place.

How can we enjoy Autumn leaves?

Themselves

The basic way.

On the ground

Leaves on the ground. They are so beautiful on mosses.

Night illumination

They look quite different at night.

Mizukagami

Reflection on a pond. We love to admire something indirectly.

With Nishikigoi carp

Enjoy the leaves on a surface of a pond. Carps make them floating around.

On rainy day

Rain make the colors of leaves stand out.

Gradation

It seems as though they were growing up to Autumn leaves.

Reflection

Japanese people love to admire something indirectly. Mizukagami is one of the ways. There are famous places to enjoy “Reflection.”

七里ヶ浜親方

Rurikoin temple

The most famous place to enjoy reflection. We can enjoy the reflection of Exquisite leaves on the polished table. The Migoro is very short at Rurikoin.

シカさん

Yusai Tei

Yusai Tei is one of the most underrated places especially for foreign tourists.

When can we admire autumn leaves in Kyoto?

The times we can enjoy autumn leaves

Generally speaking, there are the periods to enjoy autumn leaves.

Migoro is the best time to admire something and it depends on the place you visit. The Migoro of autumn leaves lasts for a week. 

Migoro, the best time to enjoy Sakura and Autumn leaves 見頃につき英語で説明

In this post, I'll tell you the meaning of Migoro, the best time to enjoy/admire smth, of Ume/plum blossoms, Sakura/cherry blossoms, Aomomijis, and autumn leaves. 合掌

kyotokankoyagi.com

2023.11.03

たけちよ

Migoro is the best time to admire something, especially flowers and autumn leaves.

The places to visit

In this post, we define three areas in Kyoto.

1. Takao and Ohara are rural mountainous area and the leaves start turning colors earlier than those in 2.
2. Many famous places belong to So-called Kyoto.
3. Some places located in 2 though the leaves there turn their colors later than those in 2.
4. Some places located in 2 though the leaves there turn their colors in December those in 2.

How can we foresee Migoro?

Usually, the autumn season of the year started in early November and the Karesansui garden of Tenjuan temple is a great indicator.

七里ヶ浜親方

こんな塩梅よ but we cannot foresee Migoro and the others exactly.

Itineraries

Kyoto Autumn leaves 2024 Itinerary 1: Nanzenji, Tenjuan, Eikando, Ginkakuji, Shisendo, and Enkoji temple

In this post, I'll show you an itinerary to enjoy the autumn leaves in Kyoto: Nanzenji temple, Tenjuan temple, Ginakkuji temple, Shisendo temple, and Enkoji temple.

kyotokankoyagi.com

2024.09.16

Kyoto Autumn leaves 2024 Itinerary 2: Zen temples, the best autumn leaves and night illumination

The itinerary to enjoy the autumn leaves in Zen temple in Kyoto 2024 in late November or early December: Tofukuji tempole, Komyoin temple, Korinin temple, Ryoanji temple, and Toji.

kyotokankoyagi.com

2024.09.22

Kyoto Autumn Leaves 2024 Itinerary 3: IN BRILLIANT RED

In this post, I'll show you an itinerary to enjoy the autumn leaves in extraordinary red in Kyoto: Eikando temple, Konkaikomyoji temple, Kitanotenmangu shrine, and Nison-in temple. 

kyotokankoyagi.com

2024.09.30

Kyoto Autumn leaves 2024 Itinerary 4: Underrated, quiet places with Sakuras

Some underrated places in for autumn leaves. Jisso-in, Rengeji, Sanzen-in, Jikko-in, and Hosen-in. We can enjoy Sakuras in some places.

kyotokankoyagi.com

2024.10.07

Kyoto Autumn leaves 2024 Itinerary 5: Underrated, quiet places with the origin of Manga

In this post, I'll show you an itinerary to visit some underrated places in Takao on the outskirt of Kyoto: Kozanji, Saimyoji, and Jingoji temple.

kyotokankoyagi.com

2024.10.28

Kyoto Autumn leaves 2024 Itinerary 6: Iconic places never to be missed

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.

kyotokankoyagi.com

2024.11.02

Where can we admire autumn leaves in Kyoto?

Top 10 Famous places

Top 10 popular Autumn leaves spots in Kyoto 2025 京都紅葉名所英語で解説

As a forecast of the autumn leaves in Kyoto 2025, Kyoto Goat choose top 10 popular sites of 57 shrines and temples.

kyotokankoyagi.com

2018.09.24

Eikando, Tofukuji, Ryoanji, Kiyojmizudera temple, Kinkakuji temple, Ginkakuji temple, Toji temple, the shrines and temples in Arashiyama and other places.

Top 10 Underrated places

Top 10 underrated Autumn Leaves spot in Kyoto 2025: 京都紅葉穴場英語で解説

As a forcast of the autumn leaves in Kyoto 2025, Kyoto Goat choose top 10 underrated sites of 57 shrines and temples.

kyotokankoyagi.com

2018.09.28

Korinin temple, Tennjuan temple, Saihoji temple (not included in the link above), Komyoin. and other places.

Strongly Recommended places

#1 Korinin temple

It is the most underrated place where we can admire the best autumn leaves in the world. Beyond any descriptions.

#2 Eikando temple

Eikando is the most famous place to enjoy to autumn leaves in Kyoto. There are many kinds of trees and we can see Migoros come gradually. One of the most brilliant colors.

#3 Ryoanji temple

The most famous Karesansui garden on the planet. Behind the Rock Garden, there are extraordinary beautiful leaves.

#4 Tofukuji temple

Tofukuji has a large autumn leaves forest. We can enjoy the iconic view from Gaunkyo bridge.

#5 Saihoji Temple

At Saihoji, we can spot many brilliant leaves over Mofu-mofu (fluffy) mosses in the garden.

Strongly Recommended Night Illumination

#Toji temple

Toji is one of the most beautiful and crowded places in Kyoto. Enjoy the pagoda on the extraordinary Mizukagami.

#2 Eikando temple

Eikando is also special at night. The leaves in brilliant colors are illuminated in faschinated way.

#3 Konkai Komyoji temple

Konaki Komyoji is one of the most underrated places in Kyoto though we can find amazing red leaves.

#4 Kitano Tenmangu shrine

At the center of the faith of Goryo, we also can find amazing red leaves at Kitano Tenmangu in Odoy, the debris of the wall used as a border of Kyoto city.

#5 Kiyomizudera temple

At Kiyomizudera temple, the iconic view of the stage from Okunoin and other facilities are illuminated at night in fascinating way.

シカさん

Other places?

29 night illumination spots of Autumn leaves in Kyoto 2024

The top 29 sites to enjoy autumn leaves illumination in Kyoto. In 2024. You can learn what to see in each site, opening hours, entrance fee, and the ways to get there.

kyotokankoyagi.com

2018.11.08

Places not open to us these years

Post-COVID, some places are not open to us. In this chapter, I’ll show you some of them.

お福さん

Jikishian Temple

げきすせん

Rokuoin Temple

Sakura in fall

We can enjoy Sakuras in fall. They are Fusan Zakura or Jyugatsu Zakura and not the same ones in spring.

たけちよ

Sakura?

Comprehensive guide for Sakura in Kyoto 2026 京都の桜につき英語で説明

In this post, I'll show you the way to enjoy Sakura in Kyoto in 2026: When and where to see, kinds of Sakura the reason we love them, and top 5 places. 合掌

kyotokankoyagi.com

2024.03.29

This post is the comprehensive guide of Kyoto. The travel tips about the way visit shrines and temples, places to visit, Sakura, Autumn leaves, and so on.

We find spirit behind everything and detest anything anemic. These ideas make the foundations of our culture. Check out before visiting Japan.

What is Kami, or Shinto Deity? 神につき英語で説明

There are many Shinto shrines, Matsuri, ceremonies and rituals. We can't under stand them without the knowledge of Kami, or Shinto Deity. In this post, I'll show you what it is. 合掌

kyotokankoyagi.com

2024.01.26

What is Misogi and Harae? 禊と祓を英語で説明

Misogi and Harae is the ways to get rid of evilness in order to prepare for something sacred.  In this post, I'll show you what they are. 合掌

kyotokankoyagi.com

2023.12.31

Essential Japanese culture and traditions

Essential knowledge to understand our culture and traditions.

kyotokankoyagi.com

Places to visit: Shrines and temples　神社とお寺

Shinbutsu Shugo　神仏習合

Many “landmarks” in Kyoto are Shinto Shrines or Buddhist temple. Shinto is a religion indigenous to Japan originated thousands of years ago. Buddhism was originated in around 5th century B.C. It was introduced in the 6th century to Japan by way of China.Both have been fused with each other. We call this phenomenon Shinbutsu Sugo.

Sinbutsu Shugo :Shinto and Buddhism co-existence or fusion 神仏習合英語で説明

Shinbutsu Shogo (神仏習合) is a Shinto and Buddhism co-existence or fusion in Japan. It has over 1,600 years of history.

kyotokankoyagi.com

2021.09.02

Shinbutsu Shugo is still alive though both religion was separated in terms of law in 1868. Due to this, we sometimes can’t tell them exactly.

How can we tell the difference?　それぞれの違い

The easiest way to distinguish them is their name. They are suffixed with these words.

Goriyaku　ご利益

Goriyaku is a fortune deities enshrined in Shinto Shrine or Buddhist temple could give to us. Riyaku (Go is a prefix implies respect) is a term in Buddhism but it applies to Shinto and Buddhism.

The Goriyaku we could have depends on the deity enshrined. For example, in Shinto shrine, story in Japanese mythology, or ancient belief and so on. On the other hand, in Buddhism, Goriyaku depends on what we do. Deities would help us but the most important thing is our deeds because everything has cause and effect in Buddhism (Innen Shoki 因縁生起).

One of the most popular Goriyaku is Goen. Goen originally means Innnen Shoki but it usually means the bod between two things, especially persons. The latter is Goen for love seekers. There are many shrines and temples for Goen in this sense in Kyoto and popular ones are Yaska Shrine, Jisyu shrine (Now closed due to renovation), and Kifune shrine.

The way to visit and worship　参拝方法概説

There are ways to visit and worship Sinto shrine and buddhist temple individually but some ones are in common. Check out the following.

Torii Gate/ Sanmon　鳥居/山門

Shinto Shrine　神社

Torii Gate tells the sacred and the secular world. Every shrine has the main one. It is usually located in front of the main hall. In front of Torii, make a deep bow.

Buddhist  Temple　お寺

Make a deep bow and put your palms together (Gasho) in front of Sanmon gate.

Chozu washbasin　手水

たけちよ

In common

Chozu/ Temizu is a place we purify ourselves before entering Shinto shrine or Buddhist temple. This is based on Misogi in the stories in Japanese mythology. We do an abbreviated Misoghi at Chozu/ Temizu sha.

What is Misogi and Harae? 禊と祓を英語で説明

Misogi and Harae is the ways to get rid of evilness in order to prepare for something sacred.  In this post, I'll show you what they are. 合掌

kyotokankoyagi.com

2023.12.31

In Chozu/ Temizu sha, there a wash basin like this.

Sanpai 参拝方法

Shinto Shrine　神社

Deities are enshrined in the main hall. Usually, there is a Saisen  Box in front of the main hall. We donate Osaisen in the box and do Sanpai. Osaisen is offering to show gratitude for a fortune we are to have and Sanpai is a way for visit shrine or temple. It is usually translated as making wish but actually it is an act to show our gratitude to deity. If you have wishes, make wishes after that.

七里ヶ浜親方

She does 2~7. Many people throw coins away in to the box but it is a wrong way.

Buddhist temple　お寺

As Shinto shrine, deities are enshrined in the main hall. Usually, there is a Saisen Box in front of the main hall. We donate Osaisen in the box and do Sanpai. Osaisen is offering to show gratitude for a fortune we are to have and Sanpai is a way for visit shrine or temple. It is usually translated as making wish but actually it is an act to show our gratitude to deity. If you have wishes, make wishes after that.

Ema　絵馬

たけちよ

In common

Afrer Sanpai, let us make our wish come true. Ema means ” Pictured horse.” In ancient time, people donated a horse to Shinto Shrine. As time went by, it was abbreviated to a painted hors on a small board.

Today, many kind of pictures are painted. Usually, Eto of the year or something to do with a shrine.

七里ヶ浜親方

Write your wish on it. Be optimistic. DO NOT WRITE pessimistic words. We have Kotodama. Words have a spirit.

Ema is available at Syamusyo (Shinto shrine) or Jimusyo (Buddhist temple) where we can buy Omamori, Omikuji, and so on.

Omikuji　おみくじ

たけちよ

In common

Omikuji is a message from deity. Find a Shamusyo or Jimusyo. You’ll find a hexagonal prisms near there.

Many Omikuji is written in Japanese. Check out only 2 if you can’t understand Japanese. Omikuji in English are available in some places.

1. Usually, the name of Shinto shrine or Buddhist temple. This one is Omikuji of Kiyomizudera.
2. Kinds of fortune. 大吉 (Daikichi)＞吉 (Kichi)＞中吉(Chu Kichi)＞小吉 (Sho Kichi)＞凶 (Kyo)
3. Poem is a message from deity and the most important thing in Omikuij. It tells you the situation you are in and the way to cope with it.
4. Fortune telling is the interpretation of the poem.

At some places, Kawaii Omamori are available.

Omamori　お守り

たけちよ

In common

Omamori is amulet. The original one is a Jufu (Amulet of Taoism ) to protect people from epidemics.

"Chinowa kuguri" at Yasaka shrine/ 2025 茅の輪くぐり英語で説明

A guide of Chinowa Kuguri 2025 @ Yasaka shrine. A story about Somin Shorai says that the Deity save us from malady with it. We always find it in June and July but we also find it in March to prepare for coronavirus.

kyotokankoyagi.com

2018.06.24

Today, there are many kinds of Omamori. They are valid for a year. Have a new one one year later.

Transportation: Bus and Train　交通

There are many ways to go around Kyoto. The most convenient one is Kyoto City Bus. These days, the buses are crowded and take advantage of trains and taxi.

Kyoto Transport Guide with Route map: Getting around with city bus subways and trains.

In this post, I'll show you the ways to take Kyoto transport: Kyoto city bus and the routes to avoid crowded buses subways and trains.

kyotokankoyagi.com

2023.06.04

Top 5 places to visit　ベスト5

Kiyomizudera　清水寺

Founded in the 8th century, Kiyomizudera temple is one of the most popular places in Kyoto. Today, it is the most popular and crowded destination for tourists. The iconic stage was constructed in the 11th century. The main hall and the stage was renovated recently.

Kiyomizudera

Absolute guide, stage, renovation, Daikoku-san, Senju Kannon, Sennichi mairi, Seiryue

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Fushimi Inari Taisha　伏見稲荷大社

Fuhimi Inari Taisha also is a popular and crowded place. The iconic Torii gates are not the entrance but the offering of merchants.

Fushimi Inari

「Fushimi Inari」の記事一覧です。

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Kinkakuji temple　金閣寺

Kinkakuji was founded by Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, the thrid Shogun of the Ashikaga Shogunate in the 14th century. The wall is ornamented with sheets of gold. In 1951, it was renovated because a trainee monk set a fire the previous year.

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

Ryoanji temple　龍安寺

Ryoanji is famous for the Rock Garden built in 18th century. The garden is one of the best Karesansui garden in the world. It stands for a land scape of sea or river thug there are  many opinion about the meaning of it.

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

Arashiyama Bamboo forest　嵐山竹林の小径

Arashiyama Bamboo forest is also a well-known place in Kyoto.

Places not to be missed　おすすめ

Saihoji Temple　西芳寺

Saihoji temple, also known as Kodedera (Moss temple), is one of the most underrated place in Kyoto. Famous and important places like Kinkakuji, Ginkakuji, Ryoanji, and other places are under the strong influence of it.

Saihoji/ Kokedeara/Moss temple guide: 西芳寺英語で説明

In this post, you can learn about the meaning of the Zen garden of Saihoji, a.k.a. Kokedera or Moss temple.

kyotokankoyagi.com

2022.06.15

Rurikoin Temple　瑠璃光院

Rurikoin is famous for Yuka Momiji, the reflection of Autumn leaves on the lacquered table. The reflection is one of the Mizukagami, the way Japanese people enjoy landscapes. We can visit there only spring and fall.

Autumn leaves in Rurikoin in kyoto 2025: Make reservations to see "Yukamomiji." 瑠璃光院の紅葉英語で説明

In 2025, Rurikoin is open to us from 1 October to 14 December. We are not allowed to enter it without reservation to enjoy Autumn leaves and 'Yukamomiji."

kyotokankoyagi.com

2018.05.25

Rurikoin in Fresh Green Aomomiji 2025: 4/15~5/31 瑠璃光院青もみじ英語で説明

Rurikoin is one of the most underrated place to admire Aomomiji (Maple leaves in fresh green) though it established its reputation as a place to enjoy autumn leaves butIn this post, I'll show you how amazing it is.

kyotokankoyagi.com

2022.04.25

World Heritage site　世界遺産

Shinto shrine　神社

• Kamigamo shrine
• Shimogamo shrine
• Uji Kami shrine

Buddhist temple　お寺

• Kiyomizudera temple
• Toji Temple
• Enryakuji temple
• Daigoji temple
• Ninnaji temple
• Byodoin temple
• Kozanji temple
• Saihoji temple
• Tenryuji temple
• Kinkakuji temple
• Ginkakuji temple
• Ryoanji temple
• Honganji temple

Castle　城

• Nijo castle

Sakura　桜

Sakura is the most famous flower in Japan. There are many kinds of Sakura and Kawazu Zakura kicks off the Sakura season of the year in late January or  early February. Somei Yoshino, so-called Sakura blooms in late March or early April.

Sakkura/Cherry blossom

「Sakkura/Cherry blossom」の記事一覧です。

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Autumn leaves　紅葉

The Autumn leaves many people into Kyoto every year. Like Eikando or Tofukuji, there are many famous places to admire them but I recommend temples with small garden. Famous places are so crowded.

Autumn Leaves

The articles on Autumn leaves in Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples.

kyotokankoyagi.com

Matsuri　祭

What is Matsuri?　概説

Matsuri is a prolific word and have many meanings. One of the authentic aim is to make ourselves come alive with new-born Kami. We have many matsuri in Kyoto and the flowing is the famous ones.

Aoi Matsuri　葵祭

Aoi Matsuri is one of the oldest Matsuri in Japan. It is famous for the parade but the important rituals take place in Kamigamo and Shimagamo shrine. The authentic aim of it is to calm down Kamo no Ohkami in order to put down natural disasters.

Aoi Matsuri Festival

Posts on Aoi Matsuri and related ceremonies

kyotokankoyagi.com

Gion Matsuri　祇園祭

Gion Matsuri started to get rid of epidemics and prevent natural disasters in the 9th century. It is famous for Yamahoko parade but the most important ritual is Mikoshi Togyo. The deities visit us to save us.

Gion Matsuri Festival

Articles on the reason why Gion Matusri is cerebrated, Mikoshi, Yamahoko Parade, Schedule, and others

kyotokankoyagi.com

Jidai Matsuri　時代祭

Jidai Matsuri is not a like Aoi Matsuri or Gion Matusri. In 1868, Emperor Meiji left Kyoto and the capital moved to Tokyo as a matter of fact. Kyotoites afraid to be forgotten, and started Jidai Matsuri in 1895. In the parade, we can enjoy the history of Japanese outfits.

Jidai matsuri festival 2025: Gyoretsu parade and schedule 時代祭英語で説明

Jidai matsuri festival takes place in 2025, In this post, I'll show you the various historical figures in the parade.

kyotokankoyagi.com

2018.09.11

Other Matsuris　その他の祭

Not famous, but interesting ones.

Awata Matsuri2025: Schedule and must-sees 粟田祭英語で説明

Awata Matsuri is one of the most underrated Matsuri in Kyoto though Kenbokos have something to do with Yamaboko floats of Gion Matsuri. In this post, I'll show you the schedule of 2023 and must-sees. 合掌

kyotokankoyagi.com

2023.09.26

Kurama no Himatsuri/ Himatsuri in Kurama 2025 : History, schedule, must-sees 鞍馬の火祭英語で説明

In this post, I'll show you the ways to enjoy Kurama no Himatsuri 2025/ Himatsuri in Kurama, Short history, schedule, must-sees and so on. 合掌

kyotokankoyagi.com

2023.10.11

“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.