Kyoto's top autumn foliage spot is renowned far and wide

The charm of autumn in Kyoto can be found in every corner of the city, but the fame of Eikando Zenrinji Temple is such that for many, it is considered the best (and also famously crowded) place to appreciate the fall colors in Kyoto. The temple complex covers a large area and is known for its variety of buildings, gardens, and art pieces. The tour starts from the main gate (entrance fee in 2023 is 1,000 yen per adult, including an art exhibition), where visitors first enjoy the scenery of the main courtyard, dominated by the maple-framed gate and traditional architecture. Visitors must remove their shoes to enter the indoor areas (plastic bags are provided by the temple), and then proceed along the corridors to view the buildings, Buddha statues, sculptures, calligraphy, and paintings... Of course, most of the attention is focused on the courtyards and the splendid autumn colors on the hillsides along the way. The current wooden walkway extends from the Garyuro corridor all the way to the pagoda on the mountain. After taking in the full garden's autumn colors from the pagoda, you can put your shoes back on and descend the stone steps. Don't be in a hurry to leave; the courtyard at the base of the mountain is also worth lingering over. Finally, don't forget to look back when exiting (see the last photo).