• By: admin
• Oct 05, 2026
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Planning Japan for the red leaves? This year, you’ll want to go later than usual.

Every autumn, Japan’s temples, gardens and mountains turn red, orange and gold. The Japanese even have a word for going out to see them: momijigari, which means “hunting for red leaves.” And in 2026, the hunt starts late.

Why the leaves are late this year

Leaves change colour when the nights get cold. After a hot year across Japan, the Japan Meteorological Corporation released its forecast on 2 September 2026 and said the leaves will peak somewhat later than normal.

The forecasters track trees at 700 locations around the country, so these dates are a good guide for planning.

2026 peak dates

Yellow leaves (like ginkgo trees) usually peak first. Red maples come a little later.

• Kyoto: yellow around 27 November, red around 11 December
• Tokyo: yellow around 26 November, red around 29 November
• Osaka: yellow around 24 November, red around 4 December

So for Kyoto, the sweet spot this year is roughly the first two weeks of December.

Best places to see autumn leaves in Kyoto

Tofuku-ji

Famous for its wooden bridge that looks over a valley full of maples. One of the most photographed autumn views in Japan.

Eikan-do

A temple known for its maples and its evening light-ups, when the trees are lit after dark.

Kiyomizu-dera

The big wooden stage on the hillside sits above a sea of red trees, with the city behind.

Arashiyama

On the west side of the city. Combine the leaves with a river boat ride and the nearby bamboo grove.

How to get there

Fly into Osaka’s Kansai Airport, then take the train to Kyoto in about 75 minutes. Or fly into Tokyo and ride the bullet train, which takes just over two hours.

Tips for autumn in Kyoto

• Go early. Popular temples get very busy by 10 am in peak season.
• Try a night light-up. Many temples open in the evening and light the trees. It’s magical and a little less crowded.
• Book hotels early. Autumn is one of Kyoto’s busiest seasons.
• Check the live colour reports. Leaves change fast, and a warm week can shift things again.
• Bring a light jacket. December mornings in Kyoto are chilly.

Quick facts

• Kyoto was Japan’s capital for over 1,000 years.
• The city has around 1,600 Buddhist temples.
• Maple leaves are sometimes deep-fried and eaten as a snack in Osaka.

A simple 3-day autumn plan

• Day 1, east Kyoto: Kiyomizu-dera in the early morning, then walk down the old streets of Higashiyama. End with Eikan-do’s evening light-up.
• Day 2, south Kyoto: Tofuku-ji first thing, then Fushimi Inari’s red gates in the afternoon. The higher you climb, the quieter it gets.
• Day 3, west Kyoto: Arashiyama for the river, the bamboo grove and the hills covered in colour. Take the scenic train if you have time.

Want fewer crowds? Try smaller temples away from the big names, or head north to Kurama and Kibune, two mountain villages linked by a forest trail.

Your challenge

When will Kyoto’s red maples peak in 2026? Early October, early November, around 11 December, or January? Answer on my latest post at @explor_shan.

Then try the AI prompt challenge and create your own Kyoto autumn temple.

FAQ

Is autumn or cherry blossom season better in Japan?
Both are beautiful. Autumn is often a little less crowded and the colours last longer.

Will I miss the leaves if I go in late November?
Probably not. You’ll catch the yellow peak and the early reds.

Do I need a car?
No. Kyoto’s buses and trains reach all the main spots.

Spring blossoms or autumn leaves? Save this and tag your Japan trip buddy.

Explore with me every day. Follow @explor_shan on Instagram for the daily challenge, and comment EXPLORE on any post to get the guide in your DMs.