Enchanting Autumn in Japan: A Journey through Kyoto’s Arashiyama and Kiyomizu-dera, and Tokyo’s Meiji Jingu Gaien

Autumn is one of the most beautiful seasons in Japan. As the maple leaves turn red and the ginkgo trees turn yellow, the entire country seems to be cloaked in a golden and crimson robe. During this time of year, Japan’s historic sites and parks become prime spots for enjoying the autumn foliage.

This article will guide you through three of Japan’s most famous autumn destinations: Arashiyama and Kiyomizu-dera in Kyoto, and Meiji Jingu Gaien in Tokyo. Whether you are strolling through the historical atmosphere of ancient Kyoto or wandering in the bustling streets of Tokyo, these spots will let you fully appreciate the enchanting charm of Japan’s autumn.

Additionally, we’ll introduce LuggAgent’s luggage transfer service, which helps you move effortlessly between the Airport and the Hotel, Tokyo and Kyoto, making your autumn journey even more enjoyable.

Kyoto Arashiyama: The Romantic Beauty of Autumn Leaves

Arashiyama, resource: souda-kyoto

Arashiyama, located in the northwestern part of Kyoto, is known for its stunning natural scenery and rich cultural heritage. Every autumn, the mountains and riverbanks of Arashiyama are covered in brilliant red leaves, creating a breathtaking scene.

The best time to see the autumn foliage here is usually from mid to late November to early December, though the exact timing can vary depending on the weather each year. Planning a visit during this period will ensure that you witness the beauty of Arashiyama in autumn.

A recommended route for enjoying the autumn leaves in Arashiyama starts at the Togetsukyo Bridge. This iconic bridge crosses the Katsura River, offering a poetic view of the river and the surrounding red leaves. You can stroll along the riverbank, admire the maple trees on both sides, and then head to the Sagano Bamboo Forest. This famous bamboo path is equally stunning in autumn, with the green bamboo contrasting beautifully with the red leaves, creating a unique visual effect.

At the end of the Sagano Bamboo Forest path is Tenryu-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site with a beautiful Japanese garden. In autumn, the garden is dotted with red leaves, enhancing its already breathtaking scenery. The Sogenchi Garden within Tenryu-ji is an ideal place to admire the autumn colors. The pond reflects the surrounding red leaves and mountain views, creating a mirror-like effect that is simply mesmerizing.

While exploring Arashiyama, you can also visit the Arashiyama Monkey Park. The summit of this park offers a panoramic view of Kyoto and Arashiyama, making it an excellent spot for taking in the autumn scenery. After descending from the park, head to the nearby Togetsu Path, a tranquil trail full of natural beauty, perfect for relaxing and unwinding.

Recommended Itinerary and Duration of Stay

It is recommended to spend at least one day in Arashiyama to fully enjoy the natural beauty and cultural heritage here. If you have more time, consider staying overnight in Arashiyama.

The next morning, you can visit nearby Nison-in Temple or Seiryo-ji Temple. These places are quieter in the early morning, allowing you to experience a more peaceful and serene autumn foliage viewing.

The Convenience of Luggage Delivery: Seamlessly Arrive in Kyoto and Start Your Autumn Foliage Tour

When you arrive in Kyoto or Osaka, ready to embark on an anticipated autumn foliage tour, LuggAgent's luggage delivery service brings unparalleled convenience. With the temperatures in Japan gradually dropping during the fall, travelers often need to carry a significant amount of warm clothing and photography equipment. Combined with shopping treasures, the luggage load can become quite heavy.

LuggAgent is the only company offering luggage delivery services from Kyoto/Osaka airports to hotels, meaning you can simply hand over your luggage at the airport, and they will ensure it is safely delivered to your hotel on the same day.

This allows you to head straight from the airport and dive into the beautiful autumn scenery without having to lug around your bags. Whether you plan to visit Kiyomizu-dera, Arashiyama, or other famous foliage spots, LuggAgent’s service enables you to travel light and focus entirely on enjoying the autumn beauty of Kyoto without the hassle of managing your luggage.

Kiyomizu-dera: Kyoto’s Harmony of History and Nature

Kiyomizu-dera, resource: souda-kyoto

Kiyomizu-dera is one of Kyoto’s most iconic temples, attracting countless visitors each year. This ancient temple, built in 798 AD, is famous for its wooden stage that juts out from the hillside. In autumn, the maple leaves around Kiyomizu-dera turn the entire hillside red, creating a stunning contrast with the rustic wooden architecture.

The best time to view the autumn leaves at Kiyomizu-dera is usually from mid-November to early December. Early morning or late afternoon is the best time to visit, as there are fewer visitors, making it perfect for taking photos and enjoying the scenery. You can walk along the temple’s approach to the hillside of Otowa Mountain, where you can take in the panoramic view of Kyoto city and the surrounding forested hills.

Besides Kiyomizu-dera, the nearby Jishu Shrine is also worth a visit. This shrine, dedicated to love and matchmaking, is another excellent spot to enjoy the autumn leaves. You can pray for good fortune in relationships and stroll along the surrounding paths, where red leaves are scattered throughout the trees.

From Kiyomizu-dera, you might want to walk along the historic streets of Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka. These ancient streets have preserved Kyoto’s traditional atmosphere, with old houses and red leaves creating a charming blend of history and nature.

Recommended Itinerary and Duration of Stay

It is recommended to spend half a day to a full day exploring Kiyomizu-dera and its surrounding attractions. In the morning, you can enjoy the autumn leaves at Kiyomizu-dera and Jishu Shrine. In the afternoon, explore Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka, and finish the day at Yasaka Shrine. If you have time, consider taking a break at a traditional tea house near Kiyomizu-dera to enjoy a cup of matcha and experience Kyoto’s tea culture.

The Convenience of Luggage Delivery: Effortlessly Travel Between Tokyo and Kyoto

After taking in the beautiful sights of Kyoto, if you plan to continue your autumn foliage tour in Tokyo, don’t miss out on LuggAgent’s intercity luggage delivery service.

LuggAgent, in exclusive collaboration with ANA (All Nippon Airways), offers luggage delivery services between Tokyo and Kyoto, making it easy and stress-free to move between the two cities. You only need to hand over your luggage to LuggAgent, and they will ensure that it is delivered to your next hotel on the same day, allowing you to fully enjoy your journey without the burden of carrying your bags.

Tokyo Meiji Jingu Gaien: The Perfect Blend of Maple and Ginkgo Leaves

Meiji Jingu Gaien, resource: The National Gardens Association

Returning to Tokyo from the ancient charm of Kyoto, we will head to Meiji Jingu Gaien, located in the heart of the city. This is one of Tokyo’s famous spots for autumn foliage and ginkgo viewing. Every autumn, the entire Gaien is painted in golden and red hues, attracting many visitors.

The Ginkgo Avenue at Meiji Jingu Gaien is one of its most famous attractions. The ginkgo trees lining both sides of the avenue turn golden yellow in autumn, forming a dreamlike golden tunnel. Right next to the Ginkgo Avenue is the maple tree area, where the red and yellow leaves create a perfect backdrop for photography.

In addition to enjoying the autumn foliage, Meiji Jingu Gaien is also close to Aoyama-itchome and Omotesando, Tokyo’s fashion shopping districts. You can go shopping while enjoying the autumn scenery, experiencing the urban charm of Tokyo.

Recommended Itinerary and Duration of Stay

The autumn foliage tour at Meiji Jingu Gaien can be completed in a day. It is recommended to visit Meiji Jingu and the Ginkgo Avenue in the morning, and then head to Omotesando and Aoyama-itchome in the afternoon for shopping and dining. If time allows, consider visiting nearby Shinjuku Gyoen. The autumn foliage here is equally beautiful, and it’s relatively less crowded, offering a more tranquil environment for viewing the leaves.

For those interested in shopping in Tokyo, you can refer to the previous article “Tokyo’s Ultimate 2024 Shopping Guide: Top Districts to Explore.”

Whether it’s Arashiyama and Kiyomizu-dera in Kyoto, or Meiji Jingu Gaien in Tokyo, these autumn foliage spots will deeply immerse you in Japan’s natural beauty and cultural richness.

By planning your itinerary carefully and utilizing luggage transfer services, you can explore these beautiful places with ease and joy, capturing the full beauty of the season. Planning to stay for several days to fully experience the unique features and charm of each area will make for an unforgettable autumn journey in Japan.