BEST OF: Autumn Night Illuminations & Special Openingsin Kyoto

Reikan-ji Temple © Kyoto City Tourism Association

“If the year was tucked inside of a clock, then Autumn would be the magic hour.” -Victoria Erickson

...and autumn in Kyoto is magical to say the least! From watching the brightly coloured leaf foliage on a romantic train ride along the scenic Hozu River Valley to admiring panoramic autumn vistas on a hike throughout the mountainous Takao area, Kyoto's autumn charm is enticingly diverse.

A yearly highlight not to be missed are the many special autumn events, temple openings and night illuminations that put an additional touch of magic on the city's stunning temples and gardens.

The mild temperatures and vivid colours make this the perfect season to stroll the charming streets of the cultural capital of Japan and photograph some of its hidden gems along the way.

Autumn's Finest....
Coloured foliage wonderlands by day and charming light spectacles by night, Kyoto's gardens and temples offer nothing but the most breathtaking settings to view autumn leaves. Here are our Top 5 Special Openings and Night Illumination Events:

Joju-ji Temple Autumn Special Opening (23 Nov-8 Dec 2019): Located near the “Moss Temple” Koke-dera, Suzumushi-dera Temple, and the “Bamboo Temple” Jizo-in, this is an autumn must visit. Price for adults: ¥600

Special Opening Light-up of Konkaikomyo-ji Temple's Mie-do Hall, O-hojo Hall & Garden (4 Nov-8 Dec 2019): The grounds at Konkaikomyo-ji Temple will be lit up for this event, beginning with "The Garden of Violet Clouds". Price for adults: ¥800

Reikan-ji Temple Special Autumn Opening (16 Nov-1 Dec 2019): Autumn Leaves at the Monzeki Temple "Imperial Palace of the Valley," where Successive Generations of Imperial Princesses Lived as Abbesses. Price for adults: ¥600

Autumn Light-up at Shosei-en Garden (15 Nov-15 Dec 2019): Visitors can enjoy the sights together with nightly traditional music performances. Price for adults: ¥500

Nighttime Illumination & Special Opening at Entoku-in Temple (25 Oct-5 Dec 2019): Enjoy the quiet and relaxing nature of this beautiful temple and gardens. Price for adults: ¥500

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