Nanzen-ji Temple Autumn Leaves 2026
Last updated: July 28, 2026. Typical viewing times and details below are compiled from official park, temple, city and tourism-association websites (linked at the end of this page). The dates of annual night light-ups are set each year — check the official site before you travel.
Maples turn crimson around the massive two-story Sanmon gate and against the red-brick arches of the Suirokaku aqueduct, giving one of Kyoto's most photographed autumn scenes.
Key Facts
| Typical peak | Mid-to-late November |
|---|---|
| Best months | November |
| Location | Kyoto, Kyoto |
| Nearest station | Keage Station (Subway Tozai Line) |
| Admission | Temple grounds are free; the Hojo Garden and the Sanmon gate each cost 600 yen for adults, with reduced student rates. Confirm current rates on the official site. |
| Night light-up | No autumn night light-up |
| Official site | https://nanzenji.or.jp/ |
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Highlights
- Climbing the great Sanmon gate for a view over the temple's maple canopy
- The Meiji-era Suirokaku aqueduct framed by red maples
- The Hojo dry-landscape garden by Kobori Enshu
Where to See the Autumn Leaves
Sanmon Gate upper gallery (Paid)
Climb the towering entrance gate for an elevated view across the grounds ablaze with maples.
Ticket bought at the gate; the temple grounds themselves are free to enter and walk.
Suirokaku Aqueduct (Free)
The picturesque brick aqueduct behind the main hall, especially photogenic under red maples.
Freely accessible on the temple grounds, a short walk past the Hojo.
Getting There
From Kyoto Station, take the Karasuma Subway Line to Karasuma-Oike, transfer to the Tozai Subway Line to Keage Station, then walk about 10 minutes; or take a city bus to the Nanzenji-Eikandomichi stop.
Crowd & Timing Tips
- The spacious grounds absorb crowds better than Kiyomizu, but weekends in November are still busy; go early
- The free grounds and aqueduct can be enjoyed even if the paid halls are crowded
About Nanzen-ji Temple
Founded in 1291, Nanzen-ji ranks above all other Kyoto Rinzai Zen head temples in prestige.
See more autumn-leaf spots: Kansai Autumn Leaves 2026 · Japan Autumn Leaves Guide 2026