In autumn, several Kyoto temples open in the evening, when the maple leaves are lit after dark. It feels different from a daytime visit, and it needs some planning, because the dates, hours and entry rules change by temple and by year. This guide covers how to plan your evening. For when the colors are expected, see our guide to Kyoto autumn leaves.

Step 1: Check the dates for 2026

Each temple sets its own period. These are the dates listed on three temples’ official websites in October 2026.

• Kodaiji: the autumn night viewing runs from October 23 to December 13. The lights come on at 5 pm. You can enter until 9:30 pm, and the gate closes at 10 pm.
• Eikando: the autumn night illumination runs from November 20 to December 6, from 5:30 pm. The last entry is at 8:30 pm, and the gate closes at 9 pm.
• Kiyomizu-dera: the autumn night viewing runs from November 21 to 30. The last entry is at 9 pm, and the gate closes at 9:30 pm.

Dates and hours can change, so check each temple’s official website before you go.

Step 2: Match the dates to the colors

The colors depend on the weather, so a night viewing early in a temple’s period may come before the leaves peak. Check the latest forecast, then choose an evening that falls inside the temple’s dates.

Step 3: Plan one or two temples

Plan one or two temples for an evening. Waiting at the entrance and walking between sites in the dark takes longer than most people expect. Kodaiji notes that once you leave through the exit, you cannot re-enter on the same ticket.

Step 4: Plan your way back

Buses in Kyoto can be crowded and slow in autumn. The EX100 limited express bus from Kyoto Station to Gion runs only on weekends, public holidays, the Obon period and the New Year holidays, according to the Kyoto City Official Travel Guide (March 2025). Check your route back, and the last trains and buses, before you set out. Staying close to the temples makes the evening easier. See our guide on where to stay in Kyoto in autumn.

Step 5: Plan dinner

Plan dinner before or after the viewing, and book ahead on busy evenings. If you want a traditional meal, see our guide to kaiseki in Kyoto.

Step 6: Consider a private guide

A private guide can plan the route and the timing for the evening and arrange transport between sites. See our guide on how to choose a private tour in Kyoto.

Step 7: Follow each temple’s rules

Rules on photography and on which areas are open differ by temple and are not always listed on the website. Follow the signs and the staff, and do not stop in narrow paths or block other visitors.

Where to book

Booking links will be added to this guide soon.

Sources: Kodaiji official website; Eikando official website (2026 Autumn Treasure Exhibition and Night Illumination); Kiyomizu-dera official website (2026 annual events); Kyoto City Official Travel Guide, The Limited Express Bus from Kyoto Station to Gion, Heian-jingu Shrine and Ginkaku-ji Temple (March 2025). Photos: Pexels (Guohua Song, AXP Photography).

Related guides

• Kyoto Autumn Leaves: When to Go and How to Plan Your Stay
• Kyoto Autumn Leaves by Area: Where to Go and How to Plan Your Day
• How to Choose a Private Tour in Kyoto

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