Tofuku-ji: Kyoto's Sea of Autumn Maples
How to visit Tofuku-ji in Kyoto: the Tsutenkyo bridge, the modern Hojo gardens, autumn crowds and photo rules, and getting there from Kyoto Station.
Quick answer
- What it is: a large Zen temple in southeast Kyoto, founded in the 13th century.
- Famous for: the Tsutenkyo bridge over a valley of about 2,000 maple trees.
- Gardens: bold modern rock and moss gardens by Shigemori Mirei, made in 1939.
- Time needed: 1 to 2 hours.
- Best time: mid to late November for autumn colour.
- Map: Open Tofuku-ji in Google Maps
In autumn, Tofuku-ji turns into a sea of red. From the covered wooden bridge, you look down on thousands of maples filling the valley below.
Why Tofuku-ji is a wonder
Tofuku-ji is one of Kyoto's great Zen temples, with huge halls and one of Japan's oldest Zen gates. The Sanmon gate is a National Treasure.
Its maple valley, Sengyokukan, is crossed by the Tsutenkyo and Garyukyo bridges. In autumn the view is one of the most famous in Kyoto.
The checkerboard gardens
The garden designer Shigemori Mirei made the gardens around the abbot's hall in 1939. He mixed old Zen ideas with modern design.
Look for the checkerboard of moss and stone squares, and the raked gravel with tall standing rocks.
What to see
| Spot | What you see | Time (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Tsutenkyo bridge | The famous view over the maple valley | 20 minutes |
| Hojo gardens | Four modern Zen gardens around the abbot's hall | 30 minutes |
| Sanmon gate | One of the oldest Zen gates in Japan | 10 minutes |
| Garyukyo bridge | A quieter bridge over the same valley | 10 minutes |
| Kaisan-do | The founder's hall and its gardens | 15 minutes |
When to go
- Mid to late November: peak autumn colour and big crowds.
- Early morning in autumn: arrive before opening to beat the queues.
- Spring and summer: fresh green maples and calm gardens.
- Rainy days: the moss and stone look especially rich.
Our tip: In peak autumn, photography on the Tsutenkyo bridge itself may be banned to keep people moving. Take photos from the Garyukyo bridge or the valley paths instead.
Getting there
- From Kyoto Station: one stop on the JR Nara Line to Tofukuji, then about 10 minutes on foot.
- By Keihan train: Tofukuji Station is about 10 minutes' walk away.
- From Fushimi Inari: one stop on the JR Nara Line, or a 20 minute walk.
Visiting respectfully
- Follow staff directions on the bridges in peak season.
- Stay on the paths and do not touch the gardens.
- Keep your voice low in the temple halls.
- Check the temple's site for current fees and hours.
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to visit Tofuku-ji?
Mid to late November for autumn colour.
Can you take photos on the Tsutenkyo bridge?
Not always. Photography on the bridge may be banned in peak autumn.
Is Tofuku-ji near Fushimi Inari?
Yes. It is one train stop or a 20 minute walk away.
Who designed the Tofuku-ji gardens?
Shigemori Mirei, in 1939.
Lake Toya
A round caldera lake with an island in the middle and fireworks every night in summer.
We check this guide regularly. Prices, hours and rules in Japan can change, so confirm with the official sources below before you travel. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.