Five days after our previous report from Kyoto, I returned to the city to confirm that the peak of the autumn color season has been reached there in the meantime.

While the colors may not be the best of the century due to the intense heat of the past summer, they provided a breathtaking seasonal spectacle across the city, attracting huge numbers of tourists.

I expect the peak of the season to continue for another week or so.

Arashiyama

Peak Color

The autumn color season is peaking in the popular Arashiyama district on the outskirts of the city, and today - a sunny Sunday - must have been one of the busiest days in the year. Accordingly, large numbers of policemen and security personnel tried to keep pedestrian and car traffic moving - with mixed success.

Much effort was made to keep the pedestrian crowds under control
Pedestrian traffic on the Togetsukyo Bridge was rigidly regulated
But due to a badly timed traffic light, the main intersection remained free of traffic for extended time periods, seemingly causing additional congestion

The forested mountain slopes behind the iconic Togetsukyo Bridge were colorful, albeit not as intense as in past years. I suspect that the muted intensity is partially explained by many trees having lost their leaves prematurely this year due to the intense summer heat. The sight was impressive, nevertheless.

The forested mountain slopes behind the iconic Togetsukyo Bridge
Togetsukyo Bridge

A 5-10 minute walk from the bridge, Tenryuji Temple's garden also felt to have a few more bald spots than in past years, but the seasonal colors were vibrant and spectacular, nevertheless.

Many peaking maple trees along the approach to Tenryuji
Fascinating contrast between two garden styles
Lagging a bit behind
Autumn paradise
It was crowded at Tenryuji this morning
Nice colors around the central pond
Interplay between maples and bamboo
The bamboo forest behind Tenryuji Temple was packed

The highlight of my visit to Arashiyama was - as usual - Jojakkoji Temple, a smaller temple, a ten minute walk from Tenryuji. The colors were not only peaking but also at par with past years.

Intense colors around the Niomon Gate
Not that many leaves have fallen on the moss yet
Main hall
Tahoto Pagoda

Eikando Temple

Peak Color

The autumn colors at Eikando Temple were also at their peak today. Nightly illuminations are held until December 3 (entry until 20:30).

Entrance area to Eikando
The maple tunnel still has potential to get even more colorful
View from the pagoda
Hojo Pond
Maple trees over a carpet of fallen, golden ginkgo leaves
A thin-leaved maple tree variety
Spectacular views at Eikando

Nanzenji Temple

Peak Color

The colors were at a similarly spectacular state at nearby Nanzenji Temple. Here, too, the peak of the spectacle should last another week or so.

Sanmon Gate
Massive gate pillars
Enjoying the season
Peak of the season

Kiyomizudera Temple

Peak Color

A final highlight of the day was Kiyomizudera, where the main hall was surrounded by many intensely red maple trees. No wonder that the temple grounds and the approach to it were as busy as Shinjuku Station during peak hours. Nightly illuminations at Kiyomizudera continue until November 30 (entry until 21:00).

The main hall floating in a sea of red maple trees
View from the main hall towards the Koyasu Pagoda
As busy as Shinjuku
Waiting in line for the iconic photo
View towards the city center
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