Eikando Zenrin-ji
永観堂（禅林寺）
A Pure Land Buddhist temple known as “Eikando of the Autumn Leaves”. About 3,000 maple trees surround its halls, Hoju Pond, and corridors. It is considered Kyoto's top foliage spot.
Eikando's official name is Zenrin-ji. It was founded in 853 and is famous for the saying “In autumn, Eikando is for maple leaves.” The precinct has about 3,000 maple trees. In autumn, the release pond, the Tahoto pagoda, and the corridors are surrounded by red leaves, and climbing the Tahoto offers views over the foliage and the city of Kyoto. The principal image is a rare “Looking-Back Amida” statue, whose Buddha turns his head to the left, symbolizing a waiting for those who fall behind. Regular admission is about 600 yen, and during autumn treasure exhibitions it is about 1,000 yen. Night illumination requires a separate ticket. Lines can be long on weekends during foliage season, so it is best to arrive when the gates open. Getting there: from the city bus stop Nanzenji-Eikando-michi, it is about a 3-minute walk. The temple is next to Nanzen-ji and the Philosopher's Path and can be combined with them for a one-day route through northern Higashiyama.
Opening hours
09:00–17:00 (last admission 16:00); autumn night visits announced separately