Fall in Kyoto: My Favorite Autumn Spots (Kid-Friendly)
Last Updated on September 6, 2025 by Kay
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When we first moved to Osaka in the autumn, I knew I wanted to take in the beautiful fall foliage, especially in Kyoto. I had already visited Kyoto several times in the past during autumn, and it was nothing short of magical. And now that I live nearby, it has become even easier to see everything Kyoto has to offer during autumn. After all, Kyoto is only an hour away from Osaka by train!
So, in this article, I thought I would share my top spots for experiencing fall in Kyoto. These places are more off the beaten path in Kyoto, meaning that you’re likely not to encounter massive crowds, such as at popular temples like Kiyomizudera or areas like Arashiyama. I think that’s a huge reason why these are my favorite places to experience fall in Kyoto.
I’ve visited all of these spots with my child as well, from when she was two years old up until age five, so if there are any parents reading this, feel reassured that these fall spots in Kyoto are family-friendly as well.
Where to Experience Fall in Kyoto (Family-Friendly)
Here are my favorite places to experience autumn in Kyoto. These areas are quieter, and unless someone popular on social media has shared them, you won’t be overwhelmed by crowds. And of course, all of these spots are kid-approved as well!
Kiyomizudera Temple
If you’re visiting Japan for the first time, you might want to visit Kiyomizudera Temple during autumn. This is one of the most famous temples in Japan, so I feel like you cannot go to Kyoto and not see it.
However, know that due to its popularity, it is incredibly crowded, so I suggest going as early in the morning as possible to avoid crowds.
Kitano Tenmangu Shrine
Now, the shine is beautiful, but what truly took our breath away was the maple garden, which is open from around the second week of November until the second week of December. (For exact dates, please visit their website.)
Note that it costs an additional fee to get into the maple garden, but it’s absolutely worth it.
Check out my article on Kitano Tenmangu Shrine to find out more.
Shimogamo Shrine
Kamomioya Shrine, also known as Shimogamo Shrine, was a really pleasant surprise for our family. The shrine is connected to a small forest, so my daughter had a lot of fun running through the colorful autumn trees and collecting leaves.
Youkoku-ji Temple
Youkoku-ji Temple is among the most beautiful I have visited in Japan. The grounds are large and surrounded by fiery maple trees.
I loved walking throughout the temple grounds with my family and taking cute photos of my daughter, especially on this adorable bench with a heart on it.
The temple also uses seasonal foliage to decorate its premises, which makes for amazing photos.
(If you have kids, make sure they don’t grab the ladle and scoop out the leaves! It’s for looking only, not touching.)
Genko-an Temple
Genko-an is one of the most interesting temples I have ever visited. It’s most famous for its windows, a round one called Satori no Mado (Window of Enlightenment) and a rectangular window called Mayoi no Mado (Window of Confusion). During autumn, you can have a perfect photo of yourself sitting in front of the window, looking at the autumn leaves.
However, a bigger reason (for me at least, because I am somewhat morbid) to visit this temple is because of its history. If you look up, you’ll see dried blood on the ceiling. The ceiling was originally flooring from Fushimi Momoyama Castle, where a battle took place back in 1600. See if you can find the bloody handprints and footprints, which are haunting reminders of the violence that unfolded over 400 years ago.
Oharano Shrine
Located on the west side of Kyoto, Oharano Shrine is most known for its dedication to deer, which are considered sacred in Japan. However, it’s also a beautiful place to visit during autumn in Japan.
This is a lesser-known shrine that’s not very large, so it was very quiet when we visited. You don’t need much time here, perhaps only an hour.
Ruriko-in Temple
Next to Kiyomizudera Temple, Ruriko-in Temple is probably the next most popular fall foliage spot in Kyoto. It can definitely be crowded with long lines to get inside; however, we visited about an hour before closing, and there weren’t that many people.
What makes this temple especially unique is not only that it resembles a house, but also because of a table inside that reflects the surrounding trees.
My daughter enjoyed walking through the temple because she loves Japanese-style houses (my husband and I are convinced she’s a reincarnation of someone’s grandmother). I was also able to get some nice photos of her.
The surrounding area is also absolutely stunning when it comes to fall foliage. Actually, we got distracted by it, which is why we ended up arriving at Ruriko-in Temple later than we wanted.
Before you go, though, know that the entrance fee for this temple is a whopping 2000 yen per person, and the inside can be very crowded. If you’re looking for a peaceful experience, this isn’t it.
Tips for Experiencing Fall in Kyoto
Visiting Kyoto in autumn? Here are some important questions and answers that everyone should know before they go.
When is fall in Kyoto?
In recent years, the leaves have started changing color at the end of November. Expect them to be at their peak (red and vibrant) around the first two weeks of December.
When is the best time to see fall foliage in Kyoto?
This completely depends on where you’re going. For instance, leaves start changing earlier in areas located at higher altitudes with cooler temperatures, such as Mount Hiei or Arashiyama.