2026 Fall Foliage Forecast
Colour Begins
Nov 5–10
Peak Colour
Nov 18–28
End of Season
Dec 5–10
Peak timing varies by location — higher elevation temples peak earlier. The Japan Meteorological Agency publishes weekly foliage updates from October.
Best Momiji Spots in Kyoto
Tofuku-ji Temple
東福寺
Kyoto's most celebrated autumn vista — the Tsutenkyo Bridge view over a sea of crimson and orange maples is iconic.
Eikando Temple
永観堂
Known as the "temple of autumn leaves" for centuries — stunning night illuminations turn the grounds into a glowing dreamscape.
Arashiyama
嵐山
Entire mountainsides ablaze with colour — the view from Togetsukyo Bridge at peak is unforgettable.
Kiyomizu-dera
清水寺
The famous wooden stage surrounded by waves of red maple — special night illuminations cast the temple in ethereal light.
Nanzen-ji Temple
南禅寺
Grand Zen complex where maples frame the famous brick aqueduct — one of Kyoto's most photogenic autumn compositions.
Kodai-ji Temple
高台寺
Stunning pond reflections of illuminated maples and a bamboo grove that glows gold at night.
Autumn Tips
Beat the crowds
Arrive at Tofuku-ji exactly at the 8:30 AM opening — it fills by 10 AM. Weekdays in November are far calmer than weekends. Evening illuminations thin out after 8 PM. Try secondary spots like Jojakko-ji or Shisen-do for meditative calm.
Photography
Overcast skies produce richer, more saturated colours than bright sun. After rain, fallen leaves on wet stone paths create stunning compositions. Golden hour light gives maples a warm glow. A polarizing filter reduces glare and deepens reds.
Planning
Book accommodation 2–3 months ahead — November is Kyoto's busiest month. Peak dates shift by 1–2 weeks annually based on temperature. Check Kiyomizu-dera's official site for autumn illumination dates and special evening hours. Weather is comfortable (10–18°C) but bring layers for cool mornings and evenings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Peak colour typically falls between November 18–28, though it varies by 1–2 weeks each year depending on autumn temperatures. Higher-elevation temples (like those in Arashiyama) peak slightly earlier. Check the Japan Meteorological Agency for weekly updates from October.
Often yes. Mid-November sees colour beginning, but late November (around the 20th–28th) usually brings the most intense, saturated reds. The last week of November is frequently the sweet spot.
Extremely crowded, comparable to cherry blossom season. Tofuku-ji can see 10,000+ visitors per day at peak. Book accommodation 2–3 months ahead. Visit at dawn or on weekdays. Try secondary spots like Jojakko-ji or Shisen-do for calmer experiences.
Overcast days produce more saturated colours than bright sun. Golden hour (early morning and late afternoon) gives warm light. After rain, fallen leaves on wet stone paths create stunning compositions. A polarizing filter reduces glare and enhances colour.
Continue exploring
Autumn colors linger longer than cherry blossoms — you have a two- to three-week window. For the best light, visit east-facing temples like Tofuku-ji in the morning. Our 3-day itinerary includes the top foliage spots.