The reflection of maple leaves at Kodai-ji Temple at night is a fantastic experience✨

#September2025

When it comes to Kyoto's autumn foliage viewing, the ancient temples and Zen gardens are always a must-see. But if you only visit during the day, it's a real shame! This time, I'd like to share a truly dreamy autumn night experience in Kyoto: Kodai-ji Temple's special nighttime maple display—a perfect spot for a nighttime stroll in Kyoto in autumn. Green bamboos juxtapose crimson leaves, the reflections of the Wolong Pond, and the illuminated temple grounds, like a parallel universe of Japanese gardens, leave you feeling incredibly tranquil and delightfully surprised!

🌙 Highlights of an Autumn Night Walk at Kodai-ji Temple

Kodai-ji Temple, located in Higashiyama, is one of Kyoto's most iconic temples, boasting a truly zen-like atmosphere. During its autumn nighttime display, the Wolong Pond within the temple becomes a natural canvas, reflecting crimson leaves and intertwining with the breeze-blown bamboo forest. The lights illuminate the Kawaramachi area at night, giving the gardens an even more magical atmosphere than during the day. For photography enthusiasts, every snap here will create a captivating masterpiece!

Recommended Attractions

1. Wolong Pond

The reflections of the crimson leaves are one of the most beautiful sights every autumn. Sit by the pond and admire the scenery, and many photography enthusiasts even come to watch the night lights.

2. Tranquil Bamboo Forest

The bamboo forest beside the pond takes on a tranquil atmosphere at night, creating a striking contrast with the crimson leaves. Experience Kyoto's uniquely Zen-like atmosphere, perfect for those seeking spiritual relaxation.

3. Main Hall Courtyard

The dry landscape garden in front of the main hall takes on a unique atmosphere under the night lights. The lines and shadows of the stones stretch into the depths, creating a tranquil retreat from the hustle and bustle, perfect for a late-night stroll.

📍Kodai-ji Temple (Address: 526 Kodai-ji Shimogawara-cho, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0825, Japan)
⏰Opening Hours: 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM year-round (last admission at 5:00 PM)
⏰Special Night Viewing (limited to autumn each year; check the official website for availability in advance)

✨Travel Tips

I've personally experienced that Kodai-ji Temple is much less crowded at night than during the day, eliminating the need for long lines and allowing for a more tranquil experience of appreciating the crimson reflections of the maple leaves. The paths within the temple grounds are dimly lit, so it's recommended to wear comfortable, non-slip shoes and bring a flashlight. It's recommended to use night mode for photography, and avoid using flash near Wolong Pond to avoid disrupting the autumnal scenery. Temperatures can be low at night at the temple, so bring an extra jacket to prevent catching a cold.

🍡Food Recommendations

After viewing the autumn leaves, walk along Kiyomizu-michi, where you'll find numerous teahouses and sweet shops. We recommend visiting the long-established Japanese confectionery shop "Nanajo Kanshundo" near Kodai-ji Temple. Try their chestnut yokan or matcha ice cream, perfect for the autumnal atmosphere.

🚇 Transportation Guide

Kodai-ji Temple is a 20-minute walk from Gion-Shijo Station, allowing you to experience the quaint atmosphere of the Higashiyama district along the way. Alternatively, take Kyoto City Bus No. 202 to the "Higashiyama Yasui" stop, a 5-minute walk away.

🌿 Useful Tips

- During Kodai-ji Temple's nighttime fall foliage viewing, surrounding temples like Maruyama Park and Kiyomizu-dera Temple are also illuminated, making it a great spot for a short trip.
- Some sections of the park's grounds can be slippery, so please exercise caution when enjoying the fall foliage.
- It's recommended to book tickets online in advance or check the official website for any capacity restrictions.

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