A day trip to Ninnaji Temple – Chasing Autumn Colors

While the temperatures sharply decline in November, the Kyoto city transforms into a vibrant canvas during the peak of autumn foliage.

It’s not too much to say that
this ancient city eagerly awaits this seasonal event
more than any other city in Japan.

I visited a lot of shrines and temples to chase the leaves. I finally came across the burning red-colored leaves in the third week at Ninnaji Temple. Let me share those beautiful sceneries.

About Ninnaji Temple

仁和寺 Ninnaji Temple
Fee: ¥800~ / Open: 9am – 5pm

The temple, a World Heritage Site, is situated in the northern part of Kyoto in a tranquil area with crisp air. It might be inconvenient a bit to reach from the city center.

But personally, I like this place. The sparse crowds, expansive grounds, clear sky…you can have a peaceful time.

Getting There

Access: Keifuku Omuro Ninnaji Sta. 2min

Whether by train or bus, the estimated travel time from the city center is about 40-50 minutes. Although buses go directly, trains may involve 2-3 transfers. In my case, I opted for the relatively accessible Hanazono Station and took a taxi from there (approximately ¥700).

Good news for the night owls! Since it’s not as crowded, you don’t need to get up in the early morning. Have a relaxing breakfast time at your hotel before starting your journey.

Five-story Pagoda

The symbol of Ninnaji Temple, the five-story pagoda, stood in a picturesque scene with the autumn leaves. While Toji Temple near Kyoto Station is famous for the same structure. The connection lies in the monk Kukai, also known as Kobo Daishi.

The five-story pagoda symbolizes the five elements
—earth, water, fire, wind, and sky—
and expresses a Buddhist cosmological view.

For Japanese language learners: there are good manga about Kukai and Buddhism.
・沙門空海唐の国にて鬼と宴す
・ 阿・吽

Ninnaji Imperial Palace Garden

In addition to the five-story pagoda, Ninnaji Temple boasts another popuar attraction—the Ninnaji Temple Imperial Palace Garden.

The temple is renowned as an Imperial Monastery, where the Emperor lived after renouncing the world. Hence, the elegant garden. Pine trees at the entrance, the soothing sound of water, the bright white sand…Feel the traditional Japanese atmosphere.

Burning Red leaves

And then, the crimson foliage. In November, after touring various places, I finally encountered these fully color-changed maple leaves.

“Is this the actual color of nature?”
I’m grateful to be able to see the beauty of nature like this every year just by being alive. A sentiment I didn’t have when I was younger though.

Lunch

御室左近 Omuro Sakon
Set Meal Lunch ¥2,500-

Look at this lovely Ninna-ji view…! This is the restaurant for the purpose of this small trip and is actually owned by the family of my English leaner friend.

I had a whitefish set meal lunch, and you can also reserve a course lunch for a leisurely afternoon. It seems like a convenient spot for a stroll for adults. They said that they also have many customers from abroad.

Gochisosamadeshita!

Places to Visit Nearby

It is a little insufficient for travelers to visit only Ninna-ji Temple. Now, let’s check out some destinations nearby.

Have a wonderful trip!