Who says there’s no stunning autumn scenery in Shanghai? The maple leaves at Hōzan-ji Temple are so beautiful they make you forget you’re in the city

🇯🇵 Nara Ikoma｜Hōzan-ji Temple’s Stunning Maple Leaf Season🍁 Who says there’s no autumn colors in Shanghai? Come here and instantly feel like you’re in Kyoto!

Who says you can’t see breathtaking autumn colors in the city? The maple leaves at Hōzan-ji Temple made me forget I was in an urban area! Chinese-style architecture paired with red leaves, every shot looks like a masterpiece 🤳

📍Address: 1-1 Monzencho, Ikoma, Nara
🚇Transport: 15-minute walk from Kintetsu Ikoma Station
⏰Opening Hours: Open all day

📸Must-shoot spots:
1️⃣ Temple Main Gate
Vermilion gate + golden maple leaves, full of ancient charm! Recommended to come early morning to capture the sunlight filtering through the leaves
2️⃣ Back Mountain Trail
A hidden gem few people know about! The ground is carpeted with red leaves, wear light-colored clothes for better photos

🍁Best Viewing Period: Mid-November to early December (peak maple leaf season!)

💡Tips:
- Arrive before 8 AM for soft light and fewer people
- There is a water dispenser inside the temple, remember to bring an empty bottle
- Don’t miss the night lighting season! From 6:00 PM to 8:30 PM, the maple leaves are illuminated

Who says you have to go to Kyoto to see maple leaves? Isn’t this little-known temple in Ikoma amazing? Fewer crowds, beautiful scenery, and free entry—go now!