Want to experience the golden hues of Kyoto in autumn? This guide compiles 12 of Kyoto's most beautiful ginkgo viewing spots, providing information on transportation, best viewing times, and key photo opportunities. Whether it's your first time in Kyoto or you're looking for a tranquil retreat away from the crowds, this guide makes planning your ginkgo viewing route easy. Follow this guide to witness Kyoto's most dazzling golden moments in November.
Autumn Colors in Kyoto | Golden Ginkgo Leaves Illuminate the Ancient Capital's Streetscape
Every November, Kyoto is not only ablaze with the vibrant reds of autumn leaves, but also a gentle golden hue. As the ginkgo leaves gradually change color, the entire city, from the Imperial Gardens to the temple gardens, is draped in a golden veil. Unlike the fiery passion of the maple leaves, the beauty of the ginkgo is more serene and elegant; when fallen leaves carpet the stone paths, pedestrians feel as if they have stepped into a poem or painting.
Kyoto's ginkgo season lasts from mid-November to early December, with clear skies and gentle sunlight, making it the perfect time of year for strolling and photography. At this time, the ancient capital doesn't require deliberate searching; simply turning into any alleyway might reveal a dazzling golden spectacle.
If you also want to create golden memories in Kyoto during autumn, then follow this route and embark on a leisurely journey exclusively for the ginkgo season.
Kyoto Ginkgo Map | 12 Scenic Spots for a Three-Day, Two-Night Journey Through Golden Autumn Colors
To fully experience the beauty of Kyoto's ginkgo trees, consider planning a "three-day, two-night golden walking route"—from classic temples in the city center to academies and shrines in the northern part of the city, and then to secluded mountain temples in the suburbs. This route combines twelve popular and hidden gems, allowing you to feel the changing layers of autumn in Kyoto under different lights and at different times of day.
The grandeur of the golden avenues, the tranquility of the silvery leaves at the academy, and the carpet of fallen leaves at the mountain shrine each display a unique charm. As you move through the city, you'll discover that its autumn colors are not only in the scenery, but also in the slow pace and quietude, becoming the softest scene in your travel memories.
DAY 1｜Classic Ginkgo Tree Tour in Kyoto (Around Kyoto Station)
This route covers some of the most famous and easily accessible ginkgo spots in Kyoto, making it perfect for the first day of your trip.
| Sights | Best viewing period | Transportation | Attractions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nishi Honganji Temple | Late November to early December | Approximately 15 minutes walk from JR Kyoto Station | [Must-see classic] The 400-year-old "upside-down ginkgo" has a unique and spectacular shape. |
| Bukkoji Temple | Mid-to-late November | 5-minute walk from Shijo Station on the Karasuma Subway Line | 【Heart-Shaped Ginkgo】 The fallen leaves form a heart-shaped carpet, making it a very popular romantic photography spot in recent years. |
| Dingmiao Temple | Mid-to-late November | It's about a 10-minute walk from Higashiyama Station on the Tozai Line of the Tokyo Metro. | [Ancient Temple Atmosphere] The ginkgo trees and the ancient Nichiren sect temple architecture create a solemn autumn scene. |
| Inside Horikawaji Temple | Mid-August to early September | Get off at either the "Horikawa-dera no Nai" or "Horikawa-Imadegawa" stop on the city bus. | 【Golden Avenue in the City】 Rows of trees line the road, and the golden tunnel is perfect for a stroll. |
Nishi Honganji Temple
Nishi Honganji Temple is home to a massive ginkgo tree, approximately 400 years old, renowned for its historical significance and imposing presence. Known as the "Reverse-Growing Ginkgo" for its unique growth habit, its branches grow straight upwards before extending outwards and downwards from the middle section, creating a majestic appearance. Legend has it that during temple fires, the tree would spray water from its trunk to extinguish the flames, hence its other name, "Water-Blowing Ginkgo." It is the temple's most important fire-resistant tree and a subject of much legend.
- Address: Honganji Monzen Town, Shimo-Honganji Monzen Town, Horikawa Tonghanaya-machi, Shimokyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture
- Transportation: Take city bus number 9 from JR Kyoto Station and get off at the "Nishi Honganji-mae" stop; or walk for about 15 minutes from Kyoto Station.
- Phone: +81 753-71-5181
- Business hours: 05:30～17:00
- Google Maps:https://maps.app.goo.gl/jK7c5aNnR4gjJhr36
Bukkoji Temple
Located in the heart of Kyoto, near the bustling Shijo Kawaramachi district, Foko-ji Temple enjoys convenient transportation, yet maintains a rare tranquility within its grounds. The ginkgo trees here are mainly concentrated in front of the Amida Hall within the temple grounds, with a huge ginkgo tree known as "Foko-ji's Ginkgo."
The most popular attraction at Fo Guang Temple is the way staff or tourists cleverly sweep fallen ginkgo leaves into a giant heart shape. This golden heart, framed against the backdrop of the ancient temple architecture, has become a romantic "limited-time" photo spot in autumn.
- Address: 397 Shinkaicho, Shimogyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture
- Transportation: Take the Karasuma Subway Line to Shijo Station, or take the Hankyu Kyoto Line to Karasuma Station, then walk for about 5 to 10 minutes.
- Phone: +81 75-341-3321
- Google Maps:https://maps.app.goo.gl/4N5wGc2rAcoqeMu96
Dingmiao Temple
Dingmiao Temple boasts numerous tall ginkgo trees, with two particularly striking ones standing side-by-side in front of the main hall, and another magnificent ginkgo tree to the left of the Niwang Gate. Originally a fire-resistant tree, the ginkgo trees at Dingmiao Temple were planted during the temple's historical relocation. They typically begin to turn yellow from mid to late November, and in the morning or afternoon light, the yellow leaves intertwine with the ancient temple architecture to create a serene yet warm autumn scene. Located on Niwang Gate Street, Dingmiao Temple is relatively uncrowded, making it a well-known and beloved spot for photographers to admire the ginkgo trees.
- Address: 96 Oikokucho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture
- Transportation: Approximately 5 minutes walk from Sanjo Station on the Keihan Railway; approximately 5 minutes walk from Sanjo-Keihan Station on the Tozai Subway Line.
- Phone: +81 75-771-0562
- Business hours: 09:00-16:00
- Google Maps:https://maps.app.goo.gl/ZtPskRhjUKJBS4ir9
Inside Horikawaji Temple
Horikawa-dori (around Teranonai) is a hidden gem of autumn scenery cherished by Kyoto residents, and widely recognized as one of Kyoto's most spectacular ginkgo avenues. Tall, row-like ginkgo trees are planted on the central median of the wide road. This median has also been designated as "Horikawa Seseragi Park," allowing visitors to stroll beneath the trees.
- Address: Takeyacho, Kamigyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture
- Transportation: Take the Karasuma Subway Line to ""Immediately Departing from Sichuan Station"After getting off the train, it's about a 15-minute walk; or from JR Kyoto Station, take city bus number 9, 12, or 101 and get off at the "Horikawa-dera no Nai" or "Horikawa-Imadegawa" stop.
- Google Maps:https://maps.app.goo.gl/dtzs8Hg7NEVcRQX98
DAY 2｜Luobei College and Shrine Tour (Culture × Food)
This route is located in the Kita Ward of Kyoto City, centered around universities and shrines, and it is recommended to take the subway and buses for connections.
| Sights | Best viewing period | Transportation | Attractions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kyoto Imperial Palace | Mid-to-late November | It is located right next to "Imadegawa Station" on the Karasuma Subway Line. | [Royal Grandeur] Ginkgo trees cover the royal garden, and the lawns are spacious and the atmosphere is tranquil. |
| Kyoto University | Mid-to-late November | It's about a 10-minute walk from Demachiyanagi Station on the Keihan Railway or Imadegawa Station on the subway. | [Academic Avenue] The most classic spot is the ginkgo tree and its branches in front of the Centennial Clock Tower. |
| Imamiya Shrine | Mid-to-late November | Get off at the "Imamiya Shrine" stop on the city bus. | [Food Pairing] Ginkgo scenery paired with aburi mochi is a poetic autumn scene in Kyoto. |
| Kitano Tenmangu Shrine | Mid-August to early September | Get off at the "Kitano Tenmangu Shrine" stop on the city bus. | 【Plum Garden Famous Spots】 In addition to plum blossoms, golden ginkgo leaves and red leaves also intertwine in autumn. |
Kyoto Imperial Palace
Kyoto Imperial Palace Gardens is the most representative spot in the city for viewing ginkgo trees. Every November, the tree-lined avenues surrounding the palace turn a dazzling golden yellow, with fallen leaves carpeting the paths, making it feel like walking on a golden carpet. The area around the Sakaimachi Imperial Gate and the Tomikoji intersection is particularly spectacular. With its gentle terrain and convenient access, this area is a top choice for first-time visitors to enjoy ginkgo viewing, photography, and leisurely strolls.
- Address: 3 Kyoto Imperial Palace, Kamigyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture
- Transportation: Approximately 5 minutes walk from Exit 3 of Imadegawa Station on the Karasuma Subway Line.
- Phone: +81 75-211-1215
- Business hours: 09:00～15:20 (closed on Mondays)
- Google Maps:https://maps.app.goo.gl/LMn4SdBvQQGeh1b56
- Unboxing Experience at the Tourist Attraction:Kyoto Imperial Palace | Free Guided Tours and an Autumn Stroll Amidst the Imperial Atmosphere
Kyoto University
Kyoto University is not only a renowned academic institution but also boasts one of the most beautiful ginkgo-lined avenues in Kyoto. The ginkgo trees lining the route from the main gate to the Clock Tower Plaza turn a dazzling golden yellow in mid-November, perfectly complementing the red-brick architecture of the university. The campus is open to the public, and the afternoon sunlight filtering through the treetops creates a particularly enchanting atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for photography and leisurely strolls.
In addition, visitors can take advantage of their visit to dine at the Central Dining Hall or the Main Campus Dining Hall on campus, experiencing Kyoto University student life at an affordable price. Nearby attractions also include the Hyakuben Chion-ji Temple and the famous konpeito (Japanese candy) shop, "Ryokjuan Kiyomizu," which are worth visiting.
- Address: Yoshida Honmachi, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture
- Transportation: It is about a 10-minute walk from "Imadegawa Station" on the Karasuma Subway Line or "Demachiyanagi Station" on the Keihan Railway to reach the main gate of the campus.
- Phone: +81 75-753-7531
- Google Maps:https://maps.app.goo.gl/8H63m2jtTHeomQzw9
Imamiya Shrine
Imamiya Shrine, located in Kita Ward, Kyoto, is an ancient shrine renowned for its prayers for longevity and health. In autumn, the ginkgo trees within the shrine grounds turn a bright golden yellow, creating an elegant Kyoto scene when paired with vermilion torii gates and stone lanterns. After your visit, don't miss the two famous shops side-by-side in front of the shrine, "Ichimonji-ya-wasuke" and "Kazariya," to sample the long-established aburi mochi, a miniature baked rice cake filled with sweet miso sauce, a unique local culinary tradition.
- Address: 21 Murasano Imamiya-cho, Kita-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture
- Transportation: Take the municipal bus system 46 (towards Kamigamo Shrine) from Kyoto Station and get off directly at the "Imamiya Shrine" stop.
- Phone: +81 75-491-0082
- Google Maps:https://maps.app.goo.gl/aokM6mdNbSQuHJWX6
Kitano Tenmangu Shrine
Kitano Tenmangu Shrine is the head shrine of all Tenmangu shrines in Japan, primarily enshrining Sugawara no Michizane, the god of learning. Every autumn, it attracts not only tourists to admire the autumn leaves but also students and test-takers who come to pray for good luck in their exams and increased wisdom. Besides the Autumn Foliage Garden, the shrine grounds also feature several tall ginkgo trees. The golden leaves shimmer and dapple the red maple leaves, creating distinct layers of autumn color. In the early morning, when there are fewer people, one can leisurely stroll under the golden shade of the trees.
- Address: Kitano Tenmangu Shrine Office, Bakucho, Kamigyo-ku, Kyoto City
- Transportation: From JR Kyoto Station, take city bus number 50 or 101.
- Phone: +81 75-461-0005
- Google Maps:https://maps.app.goo.gl/4KEUmYQR66URsM74A
- Unboxing Experience at the Tourist Attraction:Kitano Tenmangu Shrine in Kyoto | Otoi Residence Maple Garden: A Secluded Paradise for Autumn Foliage Viewing
DAY 3｜Fushimi and its hidden suburban gems (Tranquility × In-depth experience)
This route is for tourists who want to explore the outskirts of Kyoto and seek out hidden scenic spots.
| Sights | Best viewing period | Transportation | Attractions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mitsu Shrine Eight Great Dragon Kings Benjamin | Late November to early December | After getting off at Yodo Station on the Keihan Railway, it's about a 12-15 minute walk. | [Waterfront Reflections] The ginkgo trees along the riverbank cast golden reflections, creating a serene atmosphere. |
| Iwato Rakuba Shrine | Mid-to-late November | Take the JR bus (Kaohsiung/Keihoku Line) to "Onogo" station and walk for 10 minutes. | 【Carpet Secret】 The ground is covered with fallen leaves, forming a golden carpet, as beautiful as a poem or a painting. |
| Suzu Ginkgo Avenue, Miyazu City | Mid-July | Take the JR or express bus towards Amanohashidate; you can arrange a separate day for this. | 【Stunning Scenery in the Suburbs】 The ginkgo avenue stretches for hundreds of meters, offering a magnificent rural landscape. |
Mitsu Shrine
Mitsu Shrine, an ancient shrine dating back to the Asuka period, is located in Fushimi Ward, Kyoto City. Within the shrine grounds stands a massive ancient ginkgo tree, designated a Kyoto City Preservation Tree. Every late autumn, its golden leaves fall from the sky, carpeting the shrine grounds with a thick layer of gold. Far from the hustle and bustle of the city, with few tourists, it exudes a solemn and tranquil atmosphere, making it a hidden gem in Fushimi that travelers who enjoy photography and leisurely strolls shouldn't miss.
- Address: 83 Shimomitsu Castle Nomae-cho, Yokooji, Fushimi-ku, Kyoto City
- Transportation: By public transportKeihan trainto"Zhongshu Island Station」下車，轉乘市巴士(19、20、22、81、南3、南5系統)往「橫大路車庫前ゆき」方向，於「下三栖」站下車後，步行約10分鐘即可抵達。
- Phone: +81 75-601-1101
- Google Maps:https://maps.app.goo.gl/ziiDc8F1tvJw8jP7A
Eight Great Dragon Kings Benjamin
Located in Yoko, Fushimi Ward, Kyoto City, the Hachidairyūō Benzaiten (Eight Great Dragon Kings Benzaiten) is a famous site for praying to the dragon god and Benzaiten. Within its grounds stands a massive ginkgo tree designated as a "Kyoto City Citizen's Praise Tree," its canopy towering high. In late autumn, the golden ginkgo leaves intertwine with the surrounding pond water and its reflections, creating a tranquil scene. Surrounded by lush greenery and a serene atmosphere, this is an autumn destination not to be missed by photography enthusiasts and travelers alike.
- Address: Yodogawagancho, Fushimi-ku, Kyoto Prefecture
- Transportation: Take the Keihan Railway to "Yodo Station" and walk for about 15 minutes.
- Google Maps:https://maps.app.goo.gl/WDuG9RVT6zT2wBP4A
Iwato Rakuba Shrine
Iwato Rakuba Shrine, located in the northern suburbs of Kyoto (Rakuhoku), is a famous ginkgo shrine renowned for its fallen leaves. Two enormous sacred ginkgo trees within the shrine grounds are centuries old and are considered Kyoto's preserved trees. When autumn arrives, the golden leaves flutter down, covering the entire shrine grounds in a soft, shimmering gold, creating a scene reminiscent of a mythical world. The best time to view the ginkgo leaves is from mid to late November each year, when the carpet of fallen leaves is its most striking feature. Although situated in the suburbs, its spectacular scenery and tranquil atmosphere make it well worth a special trip.
- Address: 170 Ono Iwato, Kita-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture
- Transportation: From the JR bus stop in front of the central exit of Kyoto Station, take the Takao-Keihoku Line to "Onogo" station, and walk for about 8 minutes to reach the shrine.
- Google Maps:https://maps.app.goo.gl/yNPFpLTELJRtbipT9
Suzu Ginkgo Avenue, Miyazu City
In late autumn, the country roads of Suzu in Miyazu City transform into dazzling golden tunnels, with rows of tall ginkgo trees lining both sides, their golden leaves falling like carpets of gold leaf. Far from the hustle and bustle of the city, the fresh air and sparse crowds make this a legendary spot for photographers to admire the ginkgo trees. Driving is highly recommended, as you can easily visit Amanohashidate and Ine Funaya along the way, experiencing a completely different autumn in Kyoto on the northern coastline.
- Address: Suzu, Miyazu City, Kyoto Prefecture
- Transportation: Take the JR San'in Main Line from Kyoto Station to Fukuchiyama Station, then transfer to the Kyoto Tango Railway and get off at Iwatakiguchi Station. It is about an 8-minute walk from there.
- Google Maps:https://maps.app.goo.gl/oXmQPuQFKftTwmcx6
Conclusion | Let Kyoto's autumn remain in golden memories
No matter which route you choose, Kyoto's ginkgo trees have their own rhythm. Whether it's the golden avenues in the city center, the tranquil silver leaves in the Gakuin district, or the carpet of fallen leaves at suburban shrines and mountain temples, each offers a fresh perspective on the colors of autumn. If time permits, you can also adjust the order and dates according to the year's weather to capture the city's autumn in your lens and memory.
To take postcard-perfect photos of ginkgo trees with your phone, you can use a few tricks.
- It is recommended to shoot during the backlighting period in the morning or afternoon, when the sunlight shines through the leaves, making the golden color most translucent.
- When shooting, try a low-angle composition, using fallen ginkgo leaves as the foreground to create a visual effect of a golden carpet.
- If you have companions with you, you can have them stand under the tree as a scale, which will add depth and emotion to the picture.
- Enabling HDR mode when shooting with a mobile phone can balance the brightness of leaves and sky, and slightly adjusting the white balance to be warmer can make the gold color more saturated.
In addition, clothing colors can also make photos stand out.
Wearing dark or neutral colors, such as coffee, khaki, gray, or navy, will make the golden ginkgo leaves stand out more. To add depth to the image, red or orange clothing that echoes the ginkgo leaves will create a beautiful contrast. However, it's advisable to avoid overly bright fluorescent colors, as they might overshadow the background scenery. Finally, if you want to shoot a short video, try slowly zooming in or shooting in a circular motion, accompanied by natural ambient sounds. This will capture the atmosphere and dynamism of Kyoto's autumn more effectively than still photos.
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