There are fewer places more beautiful than Kyoto, Japan, during the fall season. I visited Sandy in Japan while she was working in Asia for a few months and I'm thankful we made time for Kyoto. Here, the fall foliage doesn't really peak until late November or early December. This photo was taken on November 21st, so you can see the leaves are just starting to change at that time. I can only imagine what it was like there a week later!
Another nature masterpiece in Kyoto is the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest. As the article states, it is one of the most photographed places in Kyoto, and for a good reason. The day we went it was a bit difficult to capture the bamboo the way I wanted due to how the sunlight was hitting (I only had my old iPhone), but trust me, it is a sight worth seeing in person. You can learn about the different routes, temples, shrines, and directions about the bamboo grove by clicking here.
Aside from its beauty, Kyoto is famously known for its matcha. I must say, it was MUCH different from the matcha I have had in the U.S. and it was really good and tasteful. Many places will give you a dessert with you matcha, too. This one below was a red bean-filled dessert that I didn't think I would like, but it ended up being pretty yummy! We also did a matcha tasting at another shop and I ended up buying a couple types to bring home. The shelf life is about six months if you want to maximize the power of matcha. They can send you home with instructions and give you a lesson in person on how to make it correctly.
It's also no surprise that Kyoto has amazing food. I'm not a huge sushi or seafood fan, but I can always be down for a good noodle dish. Whether it’s a bowl of steaming ramen, delicate soba, or rich udon, the city offers an authentic taste of Japanese cuisine in an atmosphere steeped in history. Many noodle shops are tucked away in quiet alleys or near ancient temples, allowing you to savor the food in serene surroundings. The texture of freshly made noodles, combined with deeply flavored broths, captures the essence of Kyoto’s culinary heritage. It was one of our highlights of dining in Kyoto.
Kyoto in the fall is a breathtaking experience, as the city transforms into a vibrant display of red, orange, and gold. The ancient temples and serene gardens become even more magical, surrounded by the fiery hues of autumn foliage. Visiting iconic sites like Kiyomizu-dera and Tofuku-ji during this season offers stunning views of the changing leaves, reflecting Kyoto’s timeless beauty. Whether you’re wandering through the Arashiyama bamboo groves or exploring Gion, the crisp autumn air and seasonal delicacies make fall the perfect time to experience Kyoto’s charm and history.
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