Kyoto Tofukuji Maple Viewing Trip: A Sea of Red Leaves and Serene Zen Atmosphere

Every autumn, Kyoto transforms into an ocean of red leaves, and one of the most iconic spots to enjoy the autumn foliage is Tofukuji Temple. This ancient temple, with a history of nearly 800 years, is renowned for its magnificent maple scenery, attracting countless visitors every November to witness the autumn beauty from the Tsutenkyo Bridge. This visit coincided with the peak of Kyoto's autumn foliage, and stepping into the temple felt like entering a world painted red by autumn. A Feast of Red Leaves on Tsutenkyo Bridge The most famous spot in Tofukuji is undoubtedly the Tsutenkyo Bridge. This wooden bridge spans a valley of maple trees, and from the bridge, you can look down to see the entire valley covered in layers of red leaves, like a captivating painting. When the breeze blows, maple leaves fall, and sunlight filters through the gaps in the branches, casting a warm glow, creating a breathtakingly dreamy scene. Although there were many people on the bridge, everyone slowed down to quietly appreciate this autumn feast. Standing in the middle of the bridge, you can hear the sound of the stream flowing beneath and the rustling of the maple leaves swaying in the wind, creating the purest autumn symphony. Hojo Garden: A Blend of Zen and Autumn Colors In addition to the maple scenery on Tsutenkyo Bridge, the Hojo Garden within the temple is also worth savoring. Designed by Mirei Shigemori, this garden combines traditional karesansui (dry landscape) with modern aesthetics, using minimalist sand patterns, stone arrangements, and moss to present a serene and harmonious Zen atmosphere. In the backdrop of autumn, the garden's scenery becomes more layered. Red leaves fall on the white sand garden, contrasting with the tranquil stone landscape, bringing a unique autumn beauty. Standing by the garden, quietly feeling this peacefulness, makes one forget the passage of time. One of Kyoto's Most Spectacular Autumn Foliage, Not to Be Missed This visit to Tofukuji allowed me to witness the ultimate beauty of Kyoto's autumn foliage. Compared to other famous maple viewing spots, the density of maple trees here is higher, and the view from Tsutenkyo Bridge spreads out like a red carpet, stunning and magnificent. If you plan to visit Kyoto in autumn, it is recommended to avoid weekends and noon, and choose to come in the early morning or late afternoon for a more leisurely appreciation of this autumn beauty. Although there are many people, the scenery of this maple valley is worth the wait, no matter how long. When leaving Tofukuji, looking back at the red leaves still shining with the autumn twilight, I was filled with emotion and reluctance. The red leaves here are not just scenery, but a dialogue about Zen, the changing seasons, and the tranquility of time. If you have the chance to visit Kyoto in autumn, Tofukuji is definitely worth a visit!