[2018 Edition] 3 Must-Visit Spots in the Kansai Region for Fall Foliage in November

Fall Foliage in Japan

The act of viewing autumn leaves is called "momiji-gari" in Japanese. You can find places all over Japan that are famous for their beautiful autumn foliage, including easily-accessible places like city parks and temples to more remote locations like mountain peaks and deep forests. In other words, there should be a spot to satisfy everyone!

The above picture is a forecast map for Japan's fall foliage in 2018. If you're interested in practicing momiji-gari, you need to acquire a good, accurate forecast map. We've done our research, but please keep in mind that the dates are ultimately estimates.

This is the second part of the November edition of this series, but check out the article below to catch up on the October series (and see even more stunning photos of autumn foliage in Japan!). 

Enjoy the Fall Colors in Kansai this November

Savor the Beauty of Kyoto in the Fall at Arashiyama (Kyoto)

Arashiyama, a district on the outskirts of Kyoto, is one of the most popular sightseeing spots in Kyoto for its beautiful nature and several temples, such as Tenryu-ji, Jojakko-ji, Nishonin, and Gio-ji. 

Arashiyama is especially known for showing off a different, stunning landscape during each of the four seasons. In the fall, you will be spellbound by the view of the whole area painted in the golds and crimsons of autumn. 
 

One of the most popular spots to view the autumn foliage is from the famous Togetsu Bridge (pictured above). It is also possible to take a cruise on a river boat and enjoy the scenery from the water. Make sure to bring a coat though, as it can get quite chilly, even in the fall! 
 

If you're in the Arashiyama area for fall foliage viewing, why not stop by one of the best affordable steak restaurants in all of Kyoto? Read all about it in the following Weekly Digest article, which also covers some other topics trending on Japanese social media. 

Reflect on the Gorgeous View at Rurikoin Temple (Kyoto)

Rurikoin Temple is in the Yase district of Kyoto, which has been beloved as somewhat of a resting area for royalty and samurai ever since the Heian period (794 - 1185 A.D.). It is visited by many people, despite its limited visitation periods, who come to see the masterful way in which it incorporates the surrounding natural scenery into its design.
 

The view of the autumn colors from the drawing room, with the bright leaves reflected on the shiny surfaces of a polished table, is particularly famous. Come visit this temple during the momiji-gari season to see a truly unique autumn view in the calming atmosphere of this revered temple. 
 

Kyoto has a lot more to offer than this shrine or Arashiyama. If you've ever wanted a comprehensive list of things to do in Kyoto, check out the article below!

Take a Stroll Through the Grounds of Mii-dera Temple (Shiga)

Mii-dera Temple, formally called Onjo-ji, is a Buddhist temple located at the foot of Mt. Hiei in the city of Otsu in Shiga Prefecture, which neighbors Kyoto Prefecture to the east. The sando (road leading to a temple) is especially known for its beauty during the autumn foliage season, as it turns into a tunnel of bright orange and yellow.
 

There are many places to see within the temple grounds, including Niomon Gate (shown above), an official Important Cultural Property of Japan, as well as the Kondo (Main Sanctuary), three-tiered pagoda, and at least six statues of Buddha.  

Be sure to visit after dark, too, as there are special illuminations during autumn foliage season. 
 

Although relatively unknown, Shiga Prefecture is actually home to a lot of beautiful and interesting sightseeing spots. If you plan to visit this temple anyway, why not check out what else the prefecture has to offer? Read the article below for some inspiration!

Kansai is one of the most popular areas in Japan, and for good reason! In addition to the mega-popular cities like Kyoto, Osaka, and Nara, you can also find several lesser-known hidden gems in places like Shiga Prefecture. Kansai is a great place to visit all throughout the year, but you should especially try to visit in the fall to see some of the scenic views mentioned in this article, as well as many others. 

 

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