A beautiful strolling path in northern Higashiyama between Eikan-do Temple in the south, and Ginkaku-ji Temple in the north, to explore while admiring the beauty of autumn colors.
10-minute walk (0.8 km) from Keage station on the subway Tozai Line
1. Nanzen-ji Temple(南禅寺)
A huge temple is famous for a large aqueduct on the grounds.
Nanzen-ji is one of the best spot for autumn color in Kyoto. Visitors can enjoy beautiful autumn foliage along with many temple buildings, a dry sand garden, and a large brick aqueduct in its huge precincts.
Hours : 8:40 to 17:00 (till 16:30 in DEC) , Admission : 500 yen (Hojo garden)
5-minute walk (0.4 km)
2. Eikan-do Temple(永観堂)
Eikan-do is probably the best place for viewing autumn color.
It is probably the most popular spot, well-known as “Eikan-do in Maple Leaves”, because of its beautiful stroll-style garden filled with 3,000 maple trees. In late November, You can enjoy the scenery with bright red autumn leaves. The temple has a long history, and there are a variety of buildings you can explore.
Hours : 9:00 to 16:00 (Lit-up 17:30 to 20:30), Admission : 1,000 yen (during the season)
4-minute walk (0.3 km)
4. The Path of Philosophy (哲学の道)
A pleasant canal path stretch from Eikan-do to Ginkaku-ji
You can peacefully stroll along the canal. The path is most popular in spring when its cherry tree-lined canal bloom, but it’s also beautiful especially with reflection of bright red color on the water.
15-minute walk (1.1 km) along the walking path
5. Honen-in Temple(法然院)
A small peaeful temple provide calm atmosphere. Visitors can see beautiful autumn leaves along an amazing scenic approach with a moss-covered thatched gate.
10-minute walk (0.8 km)
6. Ginkaku-ji Temple(銀閣寺)
Another world heritage site have the finest garden in Kyoto.
The silver Pavilion with a unique dry sand garden, known as the “Sea of Silver Sand”, with a massive sand cone. Visitors can enjoy walking the path along a circular route around temple’s grounds, and catch glimpses of the Pavilion and gardens along with autumn foliage from different points.
Hours : 8:30 to 16:30, Admission : 500 yen
Take the Kyoto city bus from Ginkaku-ji mae bus stop to Demachiyanagi station on the Keiham Line
Nansen-ji-Ginkaku-ji route map
Length : 3.5 km required Time : 4.0 hours