Tofuku-ji Temple — Autumn Maple Sea

Published: Jun 2, 2026

Updated: Jun 2, 2026

Tofuku-jiautumn foliagemaple treesTsutenkyo BridgeZen garden

Tofuku-ji Temple (東福寺) is Kyoto's premier autumn foliage destination, featuring 2,000 maple trees that create a 'sea of red' (紅葉の海) visible from the temple's Tsutenkyo Bridge (通天橋). The covered wooden bridge spans a valley filled with maples, providing elevated views over the crimson canopy — one of Japan's most photographed autumn scenes.

The temple is one of Kyoto's Five Great Zen Temples, with extensive grounds including multiple gardens designed by modern landscape architect Mirei Shigemori (1896–1975). The gardens combine traditional karesansui (rock gardens) with bold modern patterns.

Getting There

Access Information

15-778 Honmachi, Higashiyama Ward. 15-min walk from Tofukuji Station or JR Tofukuji Station. Entry: ¥600 (Tsutenkyo Bridge + garden), ¥500 additional for Hojo gardens. Hours: 9:00–16:00 (until 16:30 Apr–Oct). Best foliage: mid-November to early December. Photography prohibited on Tsutenkyo Bridge during peak season.

Insider Guide

Premium

**Autumn foliage timing:** Peak autumn colors occur mid-November (typically Nov 15–30, varies ±1 week annually). The temple publishes color reports on its website. Visit weekday mornings (9:00–10:00)