Top 5 Places to Visit in Kyoto This Fall by Train
Kyoto is one of the most magical cities in Japan during autumn. From fiery red maple leaves to golden ginkgo trees, the city transforms into a breathtaking canvas. The best part? You can easily reach most of Kyoto’s top autumn destinations by train. Whether you’re here for a short holiday or planning a longer trip with a JR Pass, these five spots offer stunning views, delicious food, and unforgettable photo opportunities.
JR PASS 7 DAYSJR REGIONAL PASSFOODTIPS AND SECRETSHISTORICAL SITEKYOTO
Josh K
9/1/20254 min read
1. Arashiyama – Togetsukyo Bridge & Bamboo Grove
Why Visit in Fall:
Arashiyama is Kyoto’s most famous autumn destination. The mountains surrounding Togetsukyo Bridge are set ablaze with red, yellow, and orange leaves, creating one of the most iconic fall scenes in Japan.
Best Photo Spot:
Stand on Togetsukyo Bridge with the Katsura River in the background. Another must-visit is the Bamboo Grove—its tranquil green stalks look especially striking when contrasted with the warm fall foliage outside.
How to Get There by Train:
From Kyoto Station, take the JR Sagano Line to Saga-Arashiyama Station (approx. 20 minutes, covered by JR Pass).
Food to Try:
Warm up with local specialties like yuba (tofu skin) dishes, matcha soft serve, and grilled river fish along the Arashiyama shopping street.
2. Tofuku-ji Temple
Why Visit in Fall:
Tofuku-ji is legendary for its sea of fiery red maples, especially around Tsutenkyo Bridge. It’s one of Kyoto’s most popular leaf-viewing spots, so arrive early to avoid crowds.
Best Photo Spot:
The view from Tsutenkyo Bridge overlooking the valley of maples is breathtaking. You’ll feel like you’re floating above a crimson forest.
How to Get There by Train:
From Kyoto Station, take the JR Nara Line to Tofukuji Station (just 2 minutes, covered by JR Pass). The temple is a 10-minute walk.
Food to Try:
Try seasonal wagashi (Japanese sweets) with matcha at tea houses nearby. In autumn, chestnut-based sweets are especially popular.
3. Kiyomizu-dera Temple
Why Visit in Fall:
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is stunning year-round, but in autumn its wooden stage overlooking the city glows with vibrant red maples. Evening illuminations in November make it even more enchanting.
Best Photo Spot:
Capture the temple’s grand wooden stage framed by red leaves. At night, the illuminated maples create a dreamlike atmosphere.
How to Get There by Train:
From Kyoto Station, take the Keihan Line to Kiyomizu-Gojo Station (not covered by JR Pass). From there, it’s about a 20-minute uphill walk through historic streets lined with shops.
Food to Try:
Don’t miss yatsuhashi (Kyoto’s famous cinnamon mochi sweet) and seasonal matcha parfaits in nearby cafés.
Tofukuji Temple
Kiyomizudera Temple in Kyoto
Arashiyama
4. Eikando Zenrin-ji Temple
Why Visit in Fall:
Eikando is often called the “Maple Temple” of Kyoto. Its gardens and pond reflect thousands of fiery leaves, making it one of the city’s most beloved autumn gems.
Best Photo Spot:
The Tahoto Pagoda viewpoint offers a sweeping view of the temple grounds and the city beyond, framed by autumn colors.
From Kyoto Station, take the JR Nara Line to Tofukuji Station, transfer to the Keihan Line, and get off at Keage Station (not covered by JR Pass). Eikando is a 15-minute walk.
Food to Try:
After strolling the temple, head to Nanzenji nearby for yudofu (tofu hot pot), a classic Kyoto specialty best enjoyed on cool autumn days.
5. Kifune Shrine (Kibune)
Why Visit in Fall:
Nestled in the northern mountains, Kifune Shrine feels like a hidden autumn wonderland. Its lantern-lit stone steps framed by maples create a mystical atmosphere.
Best Photo Spot:
The approach to the shrine, lined with red lanterns and maple trees, is one of Kyoto’s most photogenic fall views.
How to Get There by Train:
From Kyoto Station, take the Eizan Railway from Demachiyanagi Station to Kibuneguchi Station (not covered by JR Pass). From there, it’s a short bus ride or 30-minute walk to the shrine.
Food to Try:
Try river fish dishes like ayu (sweetfish) or warm soba noodles at traditional restaurants along the Kifune River.
Eikando
Kifune Shrine
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Final Tips for Fall in Kyoto
🍁 Best Time to Visit: Mid-November to early December for peak colors.
🚆 Passes: The JR Pass is useful for JR lines, but for temples like Kiyomizu-dera and Eikando, local non-JR trains and buses are needed.
📸 Photo Tip: Arrive early morning or late afternoon for softer lighting and fewer crowds.
Whether you’re crossing the Togetsukyo Bridge in Arashiyama, gazing down from Kiyomizu-dera’s wooden stage, or climbing the lantern-lit steps of Kifune Shrine, Kyoto’s fall foliage is unforgettable. Travel by train makes exploring smooth and scenic—perfect for your autumn holiday in Japan.
You might also like this: Top 5 Places to Visit in Japan This Fall By Train – A Complete Guide for Autumn Lovers