Kyoto Autumn Foliage 4-Day Escape
Momiji season in the old capital — vermilion maples at Tōfuku-ji, an Arashiyama river morning, and lantern-lit temple illuminations after dark.
Trip overview
- Higashiyama classics
- Arashiyama morning
- Golden & vermilion
Best time to visit
Kyoto's autumn foliage typically peaks from mid-November to early December — book accommodation early, it's the busiest scenic window after cherry blossom season.
Day-by-day itinerary
Day 1 · Higashiyama classics
- ⛩️10:00Kiyomizu-dera & Sannenzaka lanes
- 🍱13:00Lunch in a machiya café
- 🍁15:00Kodai-ji maple garden
- 🏮18:00Gion lantern walk at dusk
- ⛩️
Day 2 · Arashiyama morning
- 🎋07:30Bamboo grove before the crowds
- 🏯10:00Tenryū-ji temple & garden
- 🚣13:00Hozugawa river boat ride
- 🐒16:00Monkey Park Iwatayama sunset
- 🎋
Day 3 · Golden & vermilion
- 🦊09:00Fushimi Inari torii hike
- 🍵13:00Uji matcha stop
- ✨15:30Kinkaku-ji golden pavilion
- 🍁18:30Evening illumination at Tōfuku-ji
- 🦊
Day 4 · Nishiki & Nara option
- 🍢09:00Nishiki Market food walk
- 🏰11:00Nijō Castle interiors
- 🦌14:00Day trip to Nara's deer park
- 🍶19:00Pontocho farewell dinner
- 🍢
Budget
Estimated total cost: 560 USD for 4 days.
Includes accommodation, local transport, food, and activities. International flights not included.
Travel tips
- Kyoto's autumn foliage typically peaks from mid-November to early December — book accommodation early, it's the busiest scenic window after cherry blossom season.
- Carry local currency for small eateries and street food; cards are widely accepted in cities.
- Book popular restaurants in advance during peak season.
- Use public transit where possible — most stops in Kyoto are tourist-friendly.
Recommended restaurants
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