About
Known for its illuminated evening maple displays and dramatic autumn scenery across its wooded grounds.
Eikando Temple is a temple in Kyoto, in the Kansai Region of Japan. It is known above all for its autumn scenery: the wooded grounds turn dramatic shades in the season, and the maple trees are a major part of the visit.
What to expect
- Illuminated evening maples. The temple lights its maple trees in the evening, so the colours can be seen after dark as well as in daylight.
- Wooded grounds. The temple's gardens and paths run through trees, giving a quiet, green setting within the city.
- Autumn views. The foliage is the main draw, and the grounds are at their most striking when the leaves change.
Planning the visit
Eikando suits visitors who want to see Kyoto's seasonal landscape, especially those travelling in autumn. Because the evening illuminations are a highlight, it is worth considering a visit after sunset as well as during the day. Kyoto itself offers many other temples, gardens and neighbourhoods to explore in the same part of the city, so a visit here can be combined easily with a wider day of sightseeing.
