2025 Kyoto Autumn Foliage and Ginkgo Biloba Dual Experience Guide: A Route to Enjoy Both Arashiyama's Crimson Leaves and the City's Golden Ginkgo!

Looking to soak up the breathtaking autumn colors of Kyoto? Imagine strolling through vibrant red maple leaves in Arashiyama, then wandering beneath the glowing golden ginkgo trees scattered throughout the city—all in a single, seamless journey. This carefully designed 2025 Kyoto autumn itinerary takes you to iconic spots where the fiery mountain foliage meets the shimmering temple ginkgo, offering an unforgettable glimpse of the season’s finest hues in this timeless capital.

If you’re planning a trip to Kyoto to soak in the stunning autumn colors, timing really is key! From what we’ve seen in past years, the sweet spot for catching the city’s fall foliage in 2025 will likely be from mid-November through early December. But here’s the thing—Kyoto’s autumn palette unfolds like a living painting. The leaves start turning first up in the mountains near Kifune Shrine, then gradually spread down to the city streets, where ginkgo trees light up in golden hues. So, the peak colors can vary a bit depending on where you are. To make sure you don’t miss the best views, keep an eye on the latest leaf forecasts on sites like Japan Weather Corporation. Mornings in Kyoto during autumn are refreshingly crisp, but as the sun climbs, it warms the air beautifully. Dressing in layers is a smart move—think cozy jackets for those early misty mornings and comfortable clothes for wandering around under the magical evening lights. This way, you’ll stay comfy and ready to enjoy every breathtaking moment.

If you’re dreaming of autumn in Kyoto, Arashiyama should be at the very top of your list. Picture this: a whole mountain cloaked in vibrant shades of red, set against the backdrop of ancient temples and serene waterways. It’s like stepping into a living postcard, where every spot you turn to is begging for a photo. So, grab your camera and join us on a journey through Arashiyama’s stunning maple leaf scenery—let’s capture some truly unforgettable moments!

Stretching gracefully over the Hozu River, Togetsukyo Bridge stands as the quintessential symbol of Arashiyama. If you’re an early riser, make your way here around 7 AM when the first soft sunlight kisses the mountain tops, casting a warm golden-red glow over the entire maple forest. This magical light dances on the Katsura River’s surface, creating a scene that’s nothing short of breathtaking. To truly soak in the peaceful atmosphere and avoid the crowds, early morning is the perfect time to visit. For photographers, a handy tip: use the vibrant maple leaves along the riverbank to frame the bridge and mountains in the distance—this simple trick adds amazing depth and dimension to your shots!

If you’re looking for the ultimate maple leaf experience in Arashiyama, Chōjigō-ji Temple should be at the top of your list. This hidden gem offers a quiet, yet captivating escape. As soon as you pass through the mountain gate, you’ll find yourself walking through what feels like an endless tunnel of fiery red maple leaves that frame the stone steps. The sunlight peeks through the foliage, creating playful shadows on the path, while a soft blanket of fallen leaves cushions your every step. Make your way up to the Tahōtō pagoda, where you’re rewarded with stunning views of Kyoto’s autumn palette stretching out below. The peaceful vibe here makes it an ideal spot for anyone wanting to soak in the season’s beauty without the crowds.

If you find yourself exploring Tenryu-ji’s serene grounds, don’t miss the charming Baoyan-in temple and its famous "Shishi-ō Garden." When autumn arrives, this garden transforms into a breathtaking canvas of fiery maple leaves, shifting from bright orange to rich crimson. The vibrant foliage beautifully complements the lush moss, quaint stone bridges, and gentle streams that weave through the space. But the real magic happens after dark—when the garden is softly illuminated. The glowing lights dance on the leaves and shimmer across the still water, crafting a surreal reflection that blurs the boundary between the real world and a dream. It’s an unforgettable experience that invites you to lose yourself in nature’s own fairy tale.

When autumn rolls around in Kyoto, it’s easy to get caught up in the fiery reds of the maple trees. But don’t miss the city’s dazzling ginkgo trees, which burst into a radiant golden display that’s nothing short of magical. Visiting these ginkgo hotspots feels like stepping into a movie scene, where you’re surrounded by shimmering golden leaves and a soft, yellow carpet underfoot—pure autumn bliss!

Just a stone’s throw from Kyoto Station lies Nishi Honganji, home to a truly unique natural wonder—the "Reverse Ginkgo" tree, which has stood proudly for over 400 years. Unlike your typical ginkgo that shoots straight up, this ancient beauty stretches its branches wide, creating a sprawling canopy. Come autumn, the tree bursts into a dazzling display of golden leaves, lighting up the blue sky like a giant, shimmering firework. Legend has it that during a temple fire, this very tree sprayed water to shield the sacred grounds, earning it a revered spot in the hearts of locals. With only a ten-minute stroll from Kyoto Station, it’s an easy and unforgettable stop, especially when the ginkgo leaves are turning their iconic shade of gold!

Just a short stroll from Nishi Hongan-ji, you’ll find Higashi Hongan-ji, home to the awe-inspiring "Mikage Hall"—the largest wooden structure on the planet. As you stand before this grand temple, look down and you’ll be greeted by a shimmering blanket of golden ginkgo leaves, fallen from towering trees above. It’s like walking on nature’s own golden carpet, a scene so stunning it’s hard to put into words. For a truly memorable day, why not plan a "Kyoto Station Ginkgo Duo" route? This way, you can easily experience two breathtaking spots where autumn’s golden magic shines brightest.

If you’re on the hunt for a peaceful spot to soak up the stunning autumn colors, Kyoto Gyoen should be at the top of your list. This sprawling park, once home to the Emperor, has transformed into a cherished public retreat. Come fall, the maple and ginkgo trees burst into a brilliant display of reds and yellows that simply take your breath away. One gem you can’t miss is the “Mother and Child Forest” in the northeast corner—here, the ginkgo trees stretch skyward, their golden leaves sparkling in the sunlight, creating a serene vibe that’s perfect for unwinding. Best of all, there’s no entrance fee, and the wide-open spaces are ideal for spreading out a picnic blanket and savoring a snack beneath the glowing canopy. It’s hands down one of Kyoto’s most relaxing spots to enjoy autumn’s beauty!

Kyoto is stunning by day with its timeless charm, but when night falls, the city truly comes alive in a whole new way. As autumn sets in, the seasonal illuminations cast a spell over the ancient temples, transforming them into ethereal scenes where light and shadow dance together. The fiery red maple leaves glow with an almost otherworldly beauty, creating a magical atmosphere that’s sure to leave a lasting impression on any traveler visiting Kyoto in the fall.

Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Kiyomizu-dera is a must-visit spot for anyone wanting to enjoy the breathtaking beauty of maple leaves after dark. When night falls, the Kiyomizu Stage and the iconic Three-Storied Pagoda are bathed in warm lights, transforming the scenery into a stunning three-dimensional masterpiece that perfectly blends with the fiery autumn colors. Adding to the atmosphere is a serene blue beam piercing the night sky, symbolizing the compassion of Kannon, which lends a peaceful and almost mystical vibe to the whole experience. Here’s a little insider advice: try to get there around dusk to soak in the last golden rays of sunset before the enchanting illumination takes over!

• Mark Your Calendar for 2025: From Saturday, November 22 to Sunday, December 7, enjoy this magical display from sunset until 9:30 PM.

When night falls at Gotaiji Temple, the maple trees around Wulong Pond come alive with enchanting illumination. Known for the flawless reflection of the fiery red maples on the pond’s surface, this spot transforms into a magical mirror world—where it feels like you’re walking on a sea of vibrant leaves. Each year, the light show brings a fresh theme, beautifully enhanced by surrounding bamboo groves and tunnels of maple leaves. It’s a dreamy, romantic setting that’s perfect for couples looking to share a special evening together!

If you’re looking for a place that truly captures the magic of fall, Yongguantang is an absolute must-visit. Nicknamed the "Yongguantang of Maple Leaves," this valley isn’t just dotted with a few maples—it’s bursting with over three thousand of them! Come autumn, the entire area transforms into a fiery sea of red, especially around the serene Release Pond. Here, the vivid crimson leaves reflect perfectly on the water’s surface, creating a stunning scene that feels both peaceful and breathtakingly beautiful. And if you think daytime views are impressive, wait until you experience the nighttime maple viewing—an event so popular it draws visitors non-stop. Once you see those glowing red leaves, as if laid out for a grand feast, you’ll realize every moment spent waiting was more than worth it!

Nestled in the northern reaches of Kyoto, Kifune Shrine is a hidden gem famous for its stone steps lined with glowing red lanterns. Come autumn, the fiery hues of maple leaves perfectly blend with the lanterns’ warm light, casting an enchanting and almost mystical ambiance. Thanks to its location in the mountains, the maple foliage here turns vibrant earlier than in the city, giving visitors a first glimpse of autumn’s beauty. During the annual "Kifune Maple Lantern Festival," wandering along this softly illuminated path surrounded by radiant leaves is truly a magical experience you won’t want to miss.

• Mark Your Calendar for 2025: November 7 to November 24, from sunset until 8:30 PM.

If you want to dive deep into Kyoto’s iconic autumn beauty without rushing, this one-day itinerary is made just for you. It blends the vibrant maple leaves of Arashiyama with the golden ginkgo trees scattered throughout the city, giving you a rich and seamless fall experience in Kyoto that you won’t forget!

• Morning: Kick off your day with a ride on the Sagano Scenic Railway. This charming train meanders alongside the Hozu River Gorge, treating you to spectacular views of fiery autumn leaves right outside your window. Because this is a popular time to visit, make sure to secure your tickets well ahead of time!
• Afternoon: Once you hop off the train, dive into the excitement of the "Hozu River Boat Ride." Drifting down the river, you'll get a fresh perspective of the mountains dressed in their autumn best. Back in the lively Arashiyama shopping area, take a break with a coffee at "% ARABICA," where you can admire the iconic Togetsukyo Bridge. Or, if you’re craving something sweet, treat yourself to some heavenly French toast at "Bread, Espresso & Arashiyama Garden" to fuel your afternoon explorations.
• Afternoon: Next up, enjoy a peaceful walk across Togetsukyo Bridge and lose yourself in the magical Bamboo Grove, where sunlight dances through the towering stalks. Then, make your way to Jojakkoji Temple, a quiet spot surrounded by maple trees that offers a perfect moment of calm and reflection.
• Evening: If you have some extra time, wrap up your Arashiyama adventure by soaking in the stunning night-time glow of the maple trees at Daikakuji Temple — a truly unforgettable sight.

• Morning: Kick off your Kyoto adventure at the serene Ginkaku-ji, then take a gentle walk along the famed Philosopher’s Path. This charming trail, lined with vibrant maple trees and accompanied by the calming babble of a nearby stream, links iconic spots like Eikando and Nanzen-ji, setting a truly poetic scene. Feeling a bit weary? Pause at a cozy café along the way, sip your coffee, and soak in the dazzling autumn colors around you.
• Afternoon: Next, make your way to Tofuku-ji to experience Kyoto’s stunning “Maple Leaf Sea.” From the Tsuten-kyo bridge, look down onto a breathtaking valley where a riot of red, yellow, and green maples spreads out like an artist’s palette—an unforgettable spectacle that feels almost divine.
• Afternoon: Later, head back near Kyoto Station to explore Nishi Hongan-ji and Higashi Hongan-ji, where majestic golden ginkgo trees stand tall. After admiring these natural giants, unwind on the soft grass at Kyoto Gyoen, basking in the gentle autumn sunlight surrounded by a sea of fiery red and golden leaves.
• Evening: Save the grand finale for Kiyomizu-dera. Arrive just as dusk falls to witness the ancient temple glowing beneath a canopy of crimson leaves bathed in the sunset’s warm hues. Then, join the enchanting Night Special Visit, where the temple and maple trees are illuminated in a magical blue light—an autumn evening in Kyoto you’ll never forget.

Planning a trip to Kyoto this autumn? Our editors have put together some handy tips to help you make the most of the stunning maple season in 2025!

• Book Early to Secure the Best Deals: Kyoto’s autumn foliage attracts visitors from all over the world, making it a busy season. Flights and hotels can get pricey and sell out fast, so when you spot a good deal, don’t hesitate—lock it in! Also, popular experiences like the Arashiyama Scenic Train fill up quickly, so booking ahead is a smart move.
• Choose the Right Transport Passes: If your journey covers several cities, the "Kansai Area Railway Pass" is a great option. But if you’re mostly exploring Kyoto itself, grab the "Kyoto City Bus One-Day Pass"—it’s a budget-friendly way to get around the city efficiently.
• Bring Comfortable Shoes: Expect to do a fair bit of walking, especially around temple gardens where stone paths and steps are common. A sturdy, comfy pair of shoes will keep you going longer and let you soak in more sights.
• Don’t Forget to Taste Kyoto’s Autumn Flavors: While soaking up the colorful scenery, treat yourself to local specialties like yudofu (tofu hot pot), soba noodles, or a refreshing matcha soft serve from Arashiyama’s charming shops. It’s the perfect way to experience the season through your taste buds.

Kyoto’s fall colors in 2025 promise to be breathtaking—from the fiery red maples of Arashiyama to the golden ginkgo trees scattered across the city, and the magical glow of illuminated temples at night. These moments will surely become treasured highlights of your travel story. So why wait? Start planning your autumn adventure now and dive into the timeless beauty of this historic city! For a detailed look at exploring Arashiyama, check out our One-Day Trip Guide to Arashiyama, Kyoto.

Useful Passes and Tickets:
Osaka Amazing Pass – One-Day or Two-Day Pass | Includes Top Attractions | E-Ticket
Keihan Train Kyoto-Osaka Sightseeing Pass – 1-Day or 2-Day | Pickup at Keihan Stations
Kansai Airport KIX Haruka Express Ticket