https://flic.kr/p/zNeu8a

Leaves turn red in autumn. In this season, Japan’s old capital, Kyoto’s scenery becomes the brightest, most beautiful in all seasons and there are many attractive events you can take part in.
I’d like to introduce one of these events “autumn leaves night show” at Kodaiji.


https://flic.kr/p/hVvj8n

This temple possesses a lot of objects as important cultural assets, but one of the highlights of this temple is beautiful Japanese garden. Though it goes without saying that autumn’s garden view is amazingly beautiful, it is worth visiting there throughout the year. You will be amazed by the breathtakingly splendid scenery.

Kodaiji is usually closed after 5pm, however, during a specific period, visitors are allowed to enter Kodaiji to see lighted up autumn leaves. (From 21th of October to 11th of December)
During 4th of October to 15th of December, a special exhibition which is related to history of Kodaiji, will also take place. The exhibition and autumn leaves light-up show are held in the same period, so please check your travel days if you want to take part of this event.

Kodaiiji was established in 1606 by Nene, who is wife of one of the most famous shogun (general) in Japan, Toyotomi Hideyoshi. In this temple, you can listen to him and his wife’s tragic story.


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At Kodaiji, there are a lot more than just the autumn leaves show, you can also experience Zazen (in Zen Buddhism, seated meditation) which you can learn traditional Japanese method of manner, mental concentration using deep breath and meditation. They absolutely welcome a first-user, so don’t hesitate to try that!


https://flic.kr/p/AGPVFN

If you are planning to stay at hotels around Kodaiji, you should make an appointment in an earlier time, and if you are curious about visiting there, you should do stop by Kiyomizu temple too, which also take place autumn light up show (12th of November to 4th of December) If you have read a guidebooks about Japan, you have definitely seen the picture of the temple, which are established in 778, and registered as a world heritage.

You can find pages written about Kiyomizu temple and other historical temples, please check these on Fun!Japan.

〈INFORMATION〉
・Address
〒605-0825 Kyōto-fu, Kyōto-city, Higashiyama-district,
・Time
Autumn leaves light up show starts from 5:30pm, until 9:30pm
・Entrance fee
Night 500yen / Midday 600yen
・Access
From Kyoto station by train 20min, by bus 15min, by 15min
(In order to avoid traffic congestion, I recommend using Bus or train.)
・Google Map