Tofuku-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.
Roughly two thousand maples fill the Sengyokukan ravine that cuts through the temple, and the covered Tsutenkyo bridge floats over a sea of crimson and gold foliage that ranks among Kyoto's most famous autumn views.
Key Facts
| Typical peak | Mid-to-late November |
|---|---|
| Best months | November |
| Location | Kyoto, Kyoto |
| Nearest station | Tofukuji Station (JR Nara Line / Keihan Main Line) |
| Admission | During the autumn special-viewing period (mid-November to early December) Tsutenkyo and Kaisando cost 1,000 yen for adults and 500 yen for children; outside that period it is 600 yen / 300 yen. The Honbo Garden is separate. Confirm current rates on the official site. |
| Night light-up | Late November, evenings (reservation-only night viewing) (exact 2026 dates set each year — confirm on the official site) |
| Official site | https://tofukuji.jp/ |
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Highlights
- The view down into the Sengyokukan valley from Tsutenkyo Bridge
- The rare golden-leafed 'tsuten' maples with three-pointed leaves
- Framing the valley from the older Gaun-kyo bridge, free to cross
Where to See the Autumn Leaves
Tsutenkyo Bridge and Kaisando Hall (Paid)
The signature covered walkway across the Sengyokukan ravine, with the best elevated views over the maple canopy.
Enter via the temple's Nikkamon gate; a ticket covers Tsutenkyo and the Kaisando founder's hall.
Gaun-kyo Bridge (Free)
A free public bridge on the approach that looks straight across to Tsutenkyo above the valley of maples.
On the walking route into the temple grounds, before the ticket gate.
Getting There
From Kyoto Station, take the JR Nara Line or Keihan Main Line to Tofukuji Station, then walk about 10 minutes.
Crowd & Timing Tips
- Autumn is extremely crowded; arrive at opening (8:30 during the autumn viewing period) to beat the lines at Tsutenkyo Bridge
- Photography is restricted on Tsutenkyo Bridge itself during peak season to keep visitors moving
Autumn Illumination
Late November, evenings (reservation-only night viewing) The exact 2026 dates are announced each year, so confirm them on the official site before planning an evening visit.
About Tofuku-ji Temple
Founded in 1236, Tofuku-ji is the head temple of the Tofukuji branch of the Rinzai Zen sect and one of Kyoto's great Zen monasteries.
See more autumn-leaf spots: Kansai Autumn Leaves 2026 · Japan Autumn Leaves Guide 2026