The Art of Koyo
Exploring Kyoto's Autumn Foliage and its Cultural Significance
November in Kyoto is synonymous with koyo, the viewing of autumn foliage, which transforms the ancient capital into a sea of brilliant reds, golds, and oranges. But beyond the visual splendor, koyo is deeply rooted in Japanese cultural and spiritual traditions, embodying the country’s profound connection to nature and the cycle of life.
This tradition of appreciating autumn leaves has been practiced for centuries, and in Kyoto — the cultural heart of Japan — it takes on an even deeper significance, blending aesthetic appreciation with historical and spiritual reflection.
The breathtaking autumn foliage of Arashiyama, woven by the grandeur of nature
At the core of Japan’s appreciation of autumn leaves is the concept of “Mono-no Aware,” the poignant awareness of the impermanence of all things. In Kyoto, this philosophy manifests in the way people view the changing leaves, not just for their beauty, but for the reminder they offer of life’s fleeting nature.
The bright colors of the maples (momiji) evoke a sense of beauty tinged with melancholy, as the viewer knows that the leaves will soon fall. This reflective approach to nature is central to Japanese art, literature, and spirituality, and Kyoto’s landscapes have long inspired poets, painters, and monks to contemplate these themes.
The cultural practice of appreciating autumn foliage dates back to the Heian period (794-1185), when the aristocracy of Kyoto would gather at places like the imperial gardens to view the leaves and compose poetry. The imperial court’s fascination with nature was not simply about aesthetics — it was tied to Shinto beliefs that deities inhabited the natural world. This reverence for nature continues to be central to Kyoto's autumn rituals, where festivals and ceremonies are often timed with the peak of the season.
For visitors to Kyoto in November, koyo is more than just a sightseeing opportunity, it's also a chance to engage with centuries of tradition, philosophy, and spirituality. The beauty of the autumn leaves is a reminder of nature’s power to inspire awe and introspection, much like the ancient temples and gardens themselves. The experience of koyo in Kyoto is a profound one, inviting all who witness it to pause, reflect, and embrace the transient beauty of the world around them.
Several temples and gardens in Kyoto are renowned for their autumn foliage, each offering a unique atmosphere and perspective on the season. Among the most iconic is Tofuku-ji Temple (map D, I-5), a Zen temple known for its massive Tsuten-kyo Bridge, which spans a ravine filled with dense maples. The view from the bridge offers a kaleidoscope of red leaves, with the centuries-old temple structures standing quietly amid the riot of color. Tofuku-ji’s design, with its large gardens and careful placement of trees, reflects a deliberate harmony between architecture and nature—a balance that is quintessentially Kyoto.
Another highlight is Eikan-do Zenrin-ji Temple (map D, D-8), often considered the crown jewel of Kyoto’s koyo spots. The temple is particularly famous for its night illuminations, where the fiery leaves of the maples are reflected in the temple's pond, creating a mesmerizing spectacle. Eikando’s maple-lined paths lead visitors through a contemplative journey of stillness, light, and shadow, offering moments of serene reflection.
Temples like Tofuku-ji and Eikando are not just beautiful backdrops for nature's transformation but serve as spiritual sanctuaries where nature and meditation intersect. In Zen Buddhism, with its emphasis on mindfulness and impermanence, the changing of the leaves becomes a metaphor for the transient nature of life. The act of visiting these temples during autumn becomes not only a visual experience but also a spiritual one, where the viewer is encouraged to contemplate their place in the world and the passage of time.
Special Night Time Light-up Locations in Kyoto
Nov. 1-24: Lantern Lit-up in Kibune Area: Eizan Railway will illuminate the “Momiji Maple Tunnel” between Ichihara and Ninose Stations. Trains passing through the stunning colored-foliage will run at a slower speed with the lights inside the train turned off, so that passengers can see the fantastically illuminated autumn leaves.
Nov. 9-Dec. 8 Kitano Tenmangu Shrine: Visitors can enjoy superb views from the observatory overlooking the shrine grounds, including the vermilion-lacquered bridge and the main shrine hall. 9:00-21:00 (last entry 19:30); 1,200 yen (with tea & sweets); Kyoto City Bus #50, get off at Kitano Tenmangu-mae Stop.
Nov. 11-Dec. 1 Eikan-do Temple: The temple precinct, home to many maple trees, will be lit up. 17:30-20:30; \700; Kyoto City Bus #5, get off at Nanzenji Eikando-mae.
Nov. 18-30 Kiyomizu Temple: The views of the city from this temple’s famous wooden veranda, overlooking a valley of maple leaves, are magnificent. 17:30-21:00; 500 yen; Kyoto City Bus #206, get off at Kiyomizu-michi.
Nov. 22-Dec. 1 Daigo-ji Temple: The area around the pond is the most brilliant spot for viewing the autumn leaves, with the vermilion-lacquered hall and the autumn leaves reflected in the water. 18:00-20:50; 1,000 yen; A 12-min. walk from subway Daigo Sta..