A Guide to Autumn in Japan: Tokyo & Kyoto

Tokyo

Meiji Jingu Gaien Ginkgo Avenue — This wide boulevard is lined with 146 Golden Ginkgo trees. During foliage season, be sure to get there early morning before the crowds or go at night when the trees are illuminated.

Rikugien Gardens — This traditional garden has Japanese maples, ginkgos and a pond. The evening illumination during peak foliage season makes it even more special.

Meiji Shrine — Located in a wooded area near Harajuku, this is a great place to relax in nature while still being close to the city.

Senso-ji Temple & Nakamise Street — This is Tokyo’s oldest and most iconic Buddhist temple, and a must-see. Nakamise Street leads up to the temple, with plenty of shops and food vendors.

Shibuya Crossing — One of the world’s busiest and most iconic pedestrian crossings. Watch and take part in the crossing, where hundreds of people come from all directions. Try to get a view from above at Shibuya Sky.

Shibuya Sky — This iconic observation deck on top of a skyscraper offers spectacular views of Tokyo and is especially popular at sunset. Sunset tickets can sell out immediately and are released 28 days prior.

Harajuku — This area is known for street and youth fashion. Take a walk along Takeshita Street for boutiques and food vendors.

Day trip to Mt Fuji — Mt Fuji is an easy day trip from Tokyo. You can book public buses for a self-guided tour or take one of the many professionally guided day tours. Check the weather forecast to make sure it is visible on the day you choose. We waited until we knew it was a good viewing day and the public buses were sold out. We ended up on a guided tour, which was a nice break from doing everything ourselves.

Kyoto

Fushimi Inari Taisha — This is Kyoto’s most iconic Shinto shrine, and is famous for its thousands of red torii gates. I recommend heading there at sunrise for a peaceful and special climb. Sunrise is also your best time to get photos without big crowds.

Kiyomizu-dera Temple — This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a must-see at any time of year. Set high on a hillside with beautiful views and gorgeous fall trees, the temple is even more special in the autumn. Higashiyama Street leads up to the temple and has shops, food vendors and teahouses. Grab a matcha ice cream on the way back down from the temple.

Gion District — This is one of Japan’s most famous traditional neighborhoods. You may see Maiko and Geishas in the early evening as they walk to their appointments. Book a walking tour to learn more about the history of the area and Geisha culture.

Nishiki Market — Nishiki Market is a busy, narrow shopping street lined with food stalls and shops. You will find traditional Japanese foods like pickled vegetables, sushi, takotamago, daifuku and more. This is also a good spot for souvenir shopping, with stalls selling pottery, chopsticks and knives.

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove — Another place to go to at sunrise. It’s worth getting up early to beat the crowds. This path is surrounded by tall bamboo trees. Make sure to walk further and get a view of the valley and river. The Bamboo Grove is amazing however, the view of the foliage in the valley is equally or more spectacular.

Visit Tenryu-ji Temple on the outskirts of the Bamboo Grove. This is an important Zen Buddhist temple and UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it also has gorgeous gardens and a pond.

The Sagano Romantic train is also special during foliage season. Book early as tickets sell out quickly.

The Japanese use Tablelog for restaurant reviews. Anything above three stars should be good.

Tokyo

Azabujyuban Hatano Yoshiki — Splurge restaurant. Omakase (chef’s choice) is located in Azabujuban.

Udon Shin — A small udon shop located in the Shibuya area.

Omoide Yokocho — Traditional alley located near Shinjuku Station. Go here for the atmosphere, which includes small restaurants serving yakitori, beer and other traditional Japanese foods.

Harajuku area — Grab a crepe on Takeshita street.

A10 Ebisu — Fun speakeasy in the Shibuya area.

Golden Gai — Bar hop through the tiny bars and alleys in the Shinjuku district.

Kyoto

Kikunoi Honten — Michelin three-star restaurant with traditional Japanese food located in Gion.

Menbaka Fire Ramen — Dinner and a show. The chefs light the ramen on fire.

Nishiki Market — Eat your way through this market. There is something for everyone.

Tsujiri Tea House — Perfect stop for matcha desserts and tea.