When we think of autumn, “Kyoto’s fall foliage” comes to mind. Many people from Kansai and all over Japan visit Kyoto to see the beautiful autumn leaves. While Kyoto’s fall colors are stunning, the cost can be a concern. Many popular spots require entrance fees, and visiting several places can get expensive. Some locations charge over 1,000 yen per person, which isn’t very wallet-friendly. Plus, there are transportation costs to consider.
In recent years, with rising living costs, many people, including those on a tight budget and students, are looking to save money. That’s why we’ve put together a list of Kyoto’s autumn leaf spots that are free to visit. There are actually many beautiful places you can see without any cost, allowing you to enjoy Kyoto’s fall foliage while saving money.
List of Free Kyoto Autumn Leaf Spots
Note: Details may be added or changed.
Parking fees are not included (they may be required separately).
While some gardens and main halls may require an entrance fee, the following spots offer free areas where you can still enjoy the autumn foliage.
Kyoto Gyoen National Garden (Kyoto City)
The first place that comes to mind for free spots is here. The vast grounds are filled with beautiful maple and ginkgo trees. It’s a lovely place to relax, and best of all, it’s free to visit.
Shinnyo-do Temple (Kyoto City)
A hidden gem in an area known for popular fall foliage spots. The temple grounds feature many beautiful autumn leaves. You can also enjoy the stunning combination of the three-story pagoda and the colorful foliage.
Philosopher’s Path (Kyoto City)
A walking path about 1.5 to 2 kilometers long, connecting Ginkaku-ji Temple and Wakaoji Shrine. It’s known for beautiful cherry blossoms in spring and stunning autumn leaves in fall. Best of all, it’s free to enjoy.
Nanzen-ji Temple (Kyoto City)
Nanzen-ji Temple is famous for its picturesque brick aqueduct, the “Suirokaku.” While the garden and Sanmon gate have entrance fees, the temple grounds are free to enter. The autumn leaves within the grounds are also very beautiful, making it a popular spot visited by many.
Myokyo-ji Temple (Kyoto City)
The garden requires an entrance fee, but the temple grounds are free to enter. The autumn leaves on the grounds are also quite beautiful.
Shimogamo Shrine’s “Tadasu no Mori” (Kyoto City)
Tadasu no Mori, part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site “Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto” at Shimogamo Shrine (Kamo Mioya Shrine), is also a great spot for autumn leaves. It’s free to visit and very beautiful. The peak foliage might be a bit later compared to other places
Oharano Shrine (Kyoto City)
Famous for its stunning autumn leaves. The beauty is remarkable, and entrance is free, including during the evening illuminations. However, parking is not free.
Around Togetsukyo Bridge in Arashiyama (Kyoto City)
Arashiyama, a popular spot for autumn leaves, has many paid attractions like Tenryu-ji Temple and the Sagano Scenic Railway. However, you can enjoy the area around Togetsukyo Bridge for free. The bridge area has beautiful maple trees, and the view of the mountains beyond the bridge is also lovely. Additionally, Nonomiya Shrine nearby is free to visit.
Genji Monogatari Museum (Uji City)
The museum itself has an entrance fee, but the autumn leaves planted around the building can be enjoyed for free. They are truly beautiful, even though the view is free. Note that parking is not free.
hobo-ji Temple (Wazuka Town)
Both parking and entrance are free. Despite the few visitors, it is very beautiful. However, access is difficult, and it’s hard to reach without a car.
Joruri-ji Temple (Kizugawa City)
It’s incredibly beautiful here. While there is a fee for parking and for entering the main hall, you can access the temple grounds for free. The autumn leaves planted throughout the grounds are lovely and can be enjoyed at no cost. You might also see some friendly local cats around the area, so please be kind to them.
Nagaoka Tenmangu Shrine (Nagaokakyo City)
Famous for its bright red Kirishima azaleas, this spot is also known for its beautiful autumn leaves. You can enjoy the free autumn garden, “Kin-kei-en,” and the evening illuminations are also free. Note that parking is not free.
Hiyoshi Shrine (Muko City)
The stone-paved approach to the shrine features a stunning autumn foliage tunnel. I believe parking is also free.
Omiya Kannon-ji Temple (Kyotanabe City)
The main hall and autumn leaves are beautifully illuminated, creating a magical atmosphere. Parking is free, and you can enjoy the autumn foliage at no cost.
Nishi Hongan-ji Temple (Kyoto City)
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Nishi Hongan-ji Temple is famous for its ginkgo trees. The large ginkgo tree here is designated as a Natural Monument by Kyoto City. Entrance to the temple is free.
Ginkgo Tree Lined Avenue on Horikawa Teranouchi (Kyoto City)
On the central reservation of Horikawa Street between Imadegawa and Shimei, there are about 70 ginkgo trees that create a beautiful sight. It’s free to enjoy. Just be careful of traffic.
Ikihara Pass Ginkgo Tree (Kyotango City)
Next to the Kyoto Tango Railway, there is a ginkgo tree around 50 years old. The tree is illuminated at night, and both the view and the lighting are free to enjoy.