Yuanshan Park's limited autumn maple viewing scenery 🍁

#September2025

Kyoto always brings to mind ancient temples and shrines, winding streets, and captivating scenery that changes with each season. This trip takes you to Maruyama Park, a prime spot for autumn viewing in Higashiyama District, blending the beauty of Arashiyama and Nene-no-michi. Whether you're looking to fully experience the atmosphere of the ancient capital or simply seeking unique autumn photo-ops, Maruyama Park is definitely worth a special trip!

🍁A Must-See Fall Foliage Viewing Spot in Kyoto—Highlights of Maruyama Park:
In autumn, Maruyama Park's maple leaves blaze with vibrant red, creating a completely different scene whether by day, dusk, or night. During the day, admire the century-old weeping cherry blossoms against the backdrop of layers of autumn leaves, radiating the unique elegance of this ancient capital from every corner. At night, the unique maple leaf illumination transforms the entire park into a fairytale world—shrouded in mist and illuminated by lights, creating a romantic and dreamy experience! The park is also close to the renowned Kiyomizu-dera Temple and Nene-no-michi, making it easy to combine it with your itinerary.

🏞️ Maruyama Park Recommendations
When visiting Maruyama Park, don't miss these four must-see photo spots:
1. Centennial Weeping Cherry Blossoms: Although spring is the season for cherry blossoms, the falling leaves beneath the trees in autumn offer a unique charm.
2. Night Maple Light-up: Every year during the autumn maple season (late October to late November), the park's nighttime illuminations are incredibly magical, a true treat for couples and photography enthusiasts.
3. Pondside Reflections: The central pond offers triple reflections of maple leaves, lights, and the ancient temple, creating postcard-worthy photos.
4. Nene-no-Michi, Arashiyama Style: The path leading into the park is lined with stone paths and dotted with small teahouses, embodying Kyoto's most relaxed atmosphere.

📍Address and Information:
Maruyama Park
Address: Maruyamacho, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0071, Japan
Opening Hours: Open all day, year-round

🌸Traveler's Insights + Practical Tips
The park is especially popular during autumn foliage viewing season. To avoid the crowds, arrive early in the morning or late in the evening for fresh air and a tranquil atmosphere of the ancient capital. Also, remember to bring a jacket as autumn nights can be chilly. Women are recommended to wear flat shoes; the stone paths in the garden are comfortable and safe to walk on. During the autumn foliage illumination period, nearby restaurants like Gion Koji and Japanese teahouses will extend their hours. After enjoying the autumn leaves, why not stop by and enjoy some authentic Kyoto wagashi or hot matcha?

🚇Transportation Tips
Maruyama Park is easily accessible: a 10-minute walk from Gion Shijo Station or a bus to Gion Station. We recommend staying in the Kawaramachi and Shijo areas for convenient transportation and dining options.

🍡Food Recommendations
After enjoying the fall foliage, why not enjoy a matcha sundae at Gion Tsujiri near the park, or try some grilled rice cakes at a roadside shop? Both are truly unique autumn delights.

Kyoto in autumn is truly magical—strolling through Maruyama Park's avenue of red maple leaves, gazing at the silhouettes and lights of ancient temples, surrounded by people who seem like young travelers enjoying life. This blend of timeless tranquility and modern romance creates the most unforgettable autumn scenery in Kyoto!

#KyotoAutumnViewing #MaruyamaPark #AutumnTravelStrategy #NightMapleLighting #LifeInTheOldCity