Kyoto's Autumn Foliage Highlight: Tofukuji Temple

Located in the southeastern part of Kyoto City, Tofukuji Temple is one of Kyoto's most famous spots for autumn foliage. It is conveniently accessible, just one stop away from JR Kyoto Station on the Nara Line. After alighting at Tofukuji Station, it’s about a 10-minute walk to the temple. Built during the Kamakura period, Tofukuji is one of Kyoto's Five Great Zen Temples, renowned for its magnificent temple architecture and seasonal scenery. The autumn foliage here is particularly breathtaking, with over 2,000 maple trees on the temple grounds. Every mid to late November, the hillsides are ablaze with fiery red leaves, drawing countless visitors. The most iconic viewing spot is the Tsutenkyo Bridge, a wooden bridge spanning a valley with the Washi-no-tama Stream below. In autumn, the valley is filled with vibrant red leaves, creating a sea of crimson that is simply mesmerizing. Another bridge, the Gaunkyo Bridge, offers a distant view of the Tsutenkyo Bridge and the surrounding foliage, making for a stunning composition. Within the temple grounds, the Hojo Garden features a minimalist Zen design of moss and white sand, which contrasts beautifully with the autumn leaves, offering a serene and tranquil aesthetic. Visitors to Tofukuji can explore the main attractions in sequence, including the Tsutenkyo Bridge, the Hojo, and the gardens. With its exceptional terrain and diverse maple tree varieties, Tofukuji Temple creates one of Kyoto's most iconic autumn landscapes, making it a must-visit destination during the fall season.