We can't wait to visit some of Japan’s most beautiful autumn destinations this season and Kyoto is always high on our travel list. While the historical city is beautiful at any time of year, some of Kyoto’s temples will be lit up in the evening this autumn to add an extra touch of magic to the scenery.
The illuminations take place at different times and dates for each venue. Here are all the participating temples and shrines, along with a rundown on what to expect at each spot.
Kiyomizu-dera Temple
From November 18 to November 30, Kyoto's Kiyomizu-dera Temple will be hosting special nighttime visits, where the temple’s structures and surrounding foliage are illuminated for a mesmerising display. While Kiyomizu-dera usually closes at 6pm, it will extend its hours until 9.30pm (last entry 9pm). General admission is ¥500 for adults and ¥200 for junior high and elementary school students.
Toji Temple
From October 26 to December 8, you can see the autumn leaves around Toji Temple lit up between 6pm and 9.30pm (last entry 9pm). Entry costs ¥1,000 (¥500 for middle school students and under).
Byodoin Temple
Byodoin Temple in Uji will be lit up from 6pm to 8.30pm for six days only: November 16, 17, 23, 24 and 30 as well as December 1. Entry costs ¥1,500 (high school students and under ¥1,000) and it’s limited to 1,500 people per day. Tickets must be booked in advance online.
Hogonin Temple
Hogonin Temple next to Arashiyama will be open after hours from 5.30pm to 8.30pm (last entry 8pm) from November 15 to December 8. The trees and pathways will be lit up with golden lights and lanterns. Entry costs ¥1,000 for adults and ¥300 for junior high school and primary school students.
Ninnaji Temple
On Fridays through Sundays and holidays from October 25 to December 8 (except November 1, 2, 15, 30 and December 1), Ninnaji Temple will be lit up with iridescent lights from 6.30pm to 9pm (last entry 8.30pm). Tickets cost ¥2,800 (free for high school students and under), with the proceeds going towards the preservation of its cultural properties.
Rokuoin Temple
It’s not often that you get to step inside a historical Kyoto temple after sundown, but Arashiyama’s Rokuoin Temple will be opening its doors for special evening visits from November 15 to December 8. The light up is open from 5.30pm to 8pm (last admission at 7.30pm). Tickets cost ¥3,000 per person; it includes a serving of matcha tea and wagashi (traditional Japanese sweet).
Kurodani Temple
Kurodani Temple's back garden boasts some of the best foliage on the grounds, but it's usually closed to the public. However, the temple will open the area up for a limited time between November 15 and December 8. Evening visits (¥1,000, children ¥500) run from 5.30pm to 8.30pm. You can also book a premium plan (¥2,000, children ¥1,500), which allows you to enter the temple grounds 30 minutes before general admission.
This article was published on October 13 2021 and updated on October 3 2024.
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