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  7. Autumn Leaves Day Tour | Komyo-ji Temple, Ikkyu-ji Temple, World Heritage Byodo-in Temple | Depart/Return Kyoto Station
Product #123089
10
Komyoji Temple's autumn leaves one-day tour in Kyoto, featuring vibrant red and yellow maple archways intertwined with the rustic temple entrance, creating a stunning fall foliage experience.
Stone steps at Nagaokakyo Komyoji Temple blanketed with a vibrant red carpet of fallen maple leaves, showcasing Kyoto's unique and limited-time autumn foliage path experience.
Komyoji Temple's straight stone path in Kyoto, lined with lush greenery and fiery red maple trees, guiding visitors deeper into the autumnal beauty of Nagaokakyo.
View through an ancient temple archway revealing a path leading to a bridge, enveloped by vivid autumn maple leaves, showcasing Kyoto Nagaokakyo's unique fall foliage scenery.
The grand temple gate of Komyoji or Ikkyu-ji, a famous Kyoto autumn leaf viewing spot, embraced by fiery red maple leaves, with fallen leaves covering the stone path, revealing serene autumn beauty.

Autumn Leaves Day Tour | Komyo-ji Temple, Ikkyu-ji Temple, World Heritage Byodo-in Temple | Depart/Return Kyoto Station

Japan-Ikkyu-ji Temple , Byodo-in Temple , Kansai , Kyoto , Kyoto Station Area
4.7Excellent
Booking confirmed 1 day(s) after ordering
Duration:7 hour(s)
Guided language: Japanese
Free cancellation 8 day(s) prior to experience date
Please present the e-voucher on-site
  • Easily visit famous autumn leaf spots in Nagaokakyo and Minamiyamashiro by bus
  • Enjoy the exclusive 'Kinshu Gozen' lunch at Ippukutei, available only for this course
  • Limited-time operation
[5% App discount] Code: APP5OFF , HK: APP15HK

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Sightseeing Tours

Tour TypeShared tour
Minimum participant requirement1 traveler
Tour typesNone
Meal arrangementLunch included
Family-friendlyFree for children under 6 (no seat)
SeasonalAutumn Maple
Sightseeing typeTemples & shrines, Bus tour
TransportBus tour

Product Info

－ Spot Introduction －

  • Komyo-ji Temple
    The head temple of the Nishiyama Jodo sect. It began in 1198 when Kumagai Naozane, a disciple of Honen Shonin, opened the Nenbutsu Zammai-in here. It is known as the 'origin of the Pure Land gate,' where Honen Shonin first preached the teachings of the Nenbutsu. Various halls stand on the vast 18,000-tsubo grounds, and it is famous as a prime spot for autumn foliage, featuring two approaches: the 'Maple Approach,' with its beautiful tunnel of autumn leaves after passing through the main gate, and the 'Women's Slope.'

  • Ikkyu-ji Temple (Shuon-an)
    A Zen temple in Minamiyamashiro where it is said that Ikkyu-san spent his later years. After passing through the main gate, a stone-paved path lined with maple trees continues. The contrast with the well-maintained moss is also beautiful. Within the spacious grounds, the autumn leaves nestled against the main hall and the Kaisan-do hall are also atmospheric. It is a hidden gem where you can enjoy the autumn leaves at a leisurely pace.

  • Kyoto Cuisine Ippukutei
    A Kyoto cuisine and bamboo shoot specialty restaurant adjacent to Komyo-ji Temple. Please enjoy the 'Kinshu Gozen,' a special menu exclusive to the Kyoto Sightseeing Regular Bus.

Purchase Notice

[Travel conditions]

Departure/Destination: Kyoto

Length of trip: Day trip

Transportation: Chartered bus

Operating bus company: Keihan Bus Co., Ltd.

Meal conditions: Breakfast 0 times, Lunch 1 time, Dinner 0 times

Available accommodation: None

Minimum number of participants: 1

Tour conductor: 1

Guides: 0

[Travel planning/implementation]

Company name: Keihan Bus Co., Ltd.

Address: 5 Minami Ishidacho, Higashikujo, Minami Ward, Kyoto City

Registration number: Kyoto Prefectural Governor Registered Travel Agency No. 2-192

Reminders

  • Meals are not included for children under the age of 6

  • Please note that the time spent at each spot and the order may change depending on traffic conditions and weather on the day.

  • Children under 6 years old travel free of charge, but we will not provide them with a seat on the bus or a meal. For older children who are difficult to hold on your lap, we recommend reserving a seat for them. In that case, you will be charged the child fare.

  • The time spent getting off the bus includes the walking time to the sightseeing spot.

  • The time spent visiting Byodoin Temple is included in the free walking time.

  • There is a separate fee for admission to the interior of Byodo-in Temple's Phoenix Hall. Also, due to restrictions on the number of people allowed inside the hall, you may not be able to enter the hall.

  • Please note that due to climate and natural conditions, the peak viewing period for autumn leaves may not align with the itinerary (photo images). Thank you for your understanding.

Cancellation Policy

  • Cancellations 8 day(s) (inclusive) before the selected date are allowed. Unused orders can be canceled for free
  • For cancellations made 2 to 7 days prior to selected date, a cancellation fee of 5% will apply
  • Cancellation is not allowed between 0–1 days from the selected date. Orders cannot be canceled or modified, and refunds will not be granted.
NOTE
  • Due to time zone differences, the confirmed cancellation date is based on the supplier’s local time. Please allow 2–5 business days to process your cancellation request, after which the cancellation fee will be charged according to the product’s cancellation policy. Once your refund request is confirmed, KKday will initiate the refund to your original payment method within 15 days. The actual refund timing depends on your card-issuing bank’s policy.

FAQ

1. How long should I plan for visits at Komyo-ji Temple, Ikkyu-ji Temple, and Byodo-in Temple?

For Komyo-ji Temple, allow approximately 60-90 minutes to fully appreciate its maple-lined approach and garden. Ikkyu-ji Temple typically requires about 45-60 minutes to explore its tranquil grounds and autumn colors. Byodo-in Temple, a World Heritage Site, usually needs 60-90 minutes to view the Phoenix Hall, museum, and gardens. A day tour often allocates specific times to ensure a comprehensive experience at each location without feeling rushed, typically with bus transport between sites.

2. What unique autumn foliage experiences does Komyo-ji Temple offer?

Komyo-ji Temple is renowned for its "Maple Leaf Approach," a stunning pathway completely canopied by vibrant red and yellow maple leaves, creating a spectacular tunnel effect. Visitors can enjoy walking through this picturesque path, often considered one of Kyoto's most beautiful autumn spots. The temple grounds also feature serene gardens, providing peaceful viewing opportunities of the autumn colors reflected in ponds and surrounding natural landscapes.

3. What makes Byodo-in Temple a World Heritage Site, and what are its main features?

Byodo-in Temple is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its exceptional architecture and historical significance, dating back to the Heian period. Its most iconic feature is the Phoenix Hall (Hoo-do), a rare example of Heian-period architecture housing a statue of Amitabha Buddha. The temple's elegant design, symmetric layout, and beautiful Jodo-style garden with a large pond perfectly reflect classical Japanese aesthetics and religious devotion.

4. What is the best time to visit Komyo-ji, Ikkyu-ji, and Byodo-in Temples for autumn foliage?

The peak season for autumn foliage at Komyo-ji Temple, Ikkyu-ji Temple, and Byodo-in Temple typically ranges from mid-November to early December. During this period, the maple trees transform into brilliant shades of red, orange, and gold, offering breathtaking scenery. Exact timing can vary slightly each year depending on weather conditions, so checking local foliage forecasts closer to your travel date is recommended for the most vibrant views.

5. How is transportation handled for Komyo-ji Temple, Ikkyu-ji Temple, and Byodo-in Temple from Kyoto Station?

This autumn foliage day tour simplifies transportation by providing comfortable bus travel directly from and returning to Kyoto Station. Instead of navigating public transport or transfers, guests are conveniently transported between Komyo-ji Temple, Ikkyu-ji Temple, and Byodo-in Temple. This dedicated bus service allows for efficient travel to these famous spots in Nagaokakyo and Minamiyamashiro, maximizing time spent enjoying the sights without logistical worries.

6. What viewing experience can I expect at Ikkyu-ji Temple during the autumn season?

Ikkyu-ji Temple offers a tranquil and historically rich autumn foliage experience. Known for its connection to the Zen monk Ikkyu-san, the temple grounds feature beautiful moss gardens and traditional buildings surrounded by vibrant maple trees. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful stroll through the contemplative gardens, where the colorful leaves create a serene atmosphere. The foliage often frames the temple structures, providing stunning photographic opportunities and a sense of calm.

7. Are Komyo-ji, Ikkyu-ji, and Byodo-in Temples accessible for visitors with limited mobility?

Accessibility at these temples can vary. Byodo-in Temple has pathways and some accessible routes, particularly for viewing the exterior of the Phoenix Hall and the museum. Komyo-ji and Ikkyu-ji Temples, being older, traditional sites, may have uneven paths, stairs, or gravel areas that could pose challenges for visitors with limited mobility. It's advisable to wear comfortable shoes. On a bus tour, direct transportation to the temple entrances can mitigate some walking distances.

8. What are the key differences between the autumn foliage attractions at Komyo-ji Temple and Ikkyu-ji Temple?

Komyo-ji Temple is celebrated for its dramatic "Maple Leaf Approach," an iconic long pathway completely canopied by vibrant autumn leaves, making it ideal for grand, picturesque views. Ikkyu-ji Temple, on the other hand, offers a more subdued and serene autumn experience, with its classical Zen gardens and temple buildings providing a tranquil backdrop for the colorful foliage. Ikkyu-ji's beauty lies in its quiet contemplation, while Komyo-ji is known for its spectacular, expansive canopy.

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