Kyoto is one of the most popular destinations in Japan for autumn foliage.
Temples, gardens, and streets turn into a sea of red and gold, attracting travelers from all over the world.
But here’s the latest update — in 2025, Kyoto’s autumn colors are expected to arrive much later than usual.
2025 Autumn Forecast: A Warmer Autumn Delays the Colors
According to the Japan Meteorological Agency, western Japan will experience warmer-than-average temperatures through October,
with normal temperatures in November and slightly cooler weather in December.
Because of this, the fall foliage season in Kyoto will start later than usual.
- Mountain areas: Early November to early December
- Flat areas (city center): Late November to mid-December
That means travelers visiting in December will have the best chance to see Kyoto at its most colorful.
Kyoto’s Peak Foliage: Around December 12, 2025
The latest forecast predicts that Kyoto’s autumn leaves will peak around December 12, 2025 —
about one week later than average, and even later than last year’s peak (December 5, 2024).
In other words, Kyoto’s best fall foliage this year will be in mid-December.
If you plan to visit in late November, you might still find many green leaves — so December trips are recommended.
Why So Late This Year?
Autumn leaves start turning red when temperatures drop below 8°C (46°F).
However, this fall has been unusually warm, delaying the chemical process (anthocyanin production) that makes the leaves change color.
Once the temperature begins to drop in late November, Kyoto’s trees will rapidly transform into vivid shades of red, orange, and yellow.
2025 Kyoto Light-Up Events
This year’s later foliage means the temple light-up events will perfectly overlap with the best viewing period.
Here are the main Kyoto autumn illumination schedules for 2025:
Kiyomizu-dera Temple Light-Up
📅 November 22 (Sat) – December 7 (Sun), 2025
🕕 18:00 – 21:30
Kodaiji Temple Special Night Viewing
📅 October 24 (Fri) – December 14 (Sun), 2025
🕕 Sunset – 22:00 (Last entry 21:30)
Eikando (Zenrin-ji) Light-Up
📅 November 15 (Sat) – December 10 (Wed), 2025
🕕 17:30 – 20:30
✨ With this timing, travelers visiting early to mid-December can enjoy both the light-up events and peak autumn colors — a rare and beautiful overlap.
Travel Tips for Kyoto Autumn 2025
Best time to visit
December 5–15, 2025 is expected to be the ideal window to experience Kyoto’s most vibrant autumn scenery.
Book early
Because the peak is later this year, hotels and transportation will be busiest in early to mid-December — not November as usual.
Enjoy Kyoto in any weather
Don’t worry if it’s cloudy or rainy — soft light actually makes the autumn colors appear deeper and richer.
And if the weather isn’t great, indoor cultural experiences like tea ceremony, wagashi (Japanese sweets) making, or Zen meditation are perfect alternatives.
For private and authentic cultural experiences in Kyoto,
visit BASE KYOTO for tailor-made activities with locals.
