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🍁🎌 AUTUMN COLORS GUIDE: Japan's Lesser-Known Temples 🏯🍂

Autumn in Japan reveals these temples' true character—where spirituality meets natural beauty in perfect harmony.

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Plan V
August 08, 2025

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Japan's autumn season typically spans from September to November, with October being the peak month for vibrant maple leaves.

While millions flock to famous temples during this season, a lesser-known fact is that Japan experiences "momiji-gari" (autumn leaf hunting), a centuries-old tradition where people specifically travel to witness the changing colors, making autumn in Japan not just visually stunning but culturally significant.

Why Visit Japan's Hidden Temples This Season?

Beyond the crowds at popular destinations, Japan's lesser-known temples offer intimate encounters with history, culture, and nature. These sacred spaces provide authentic experiences where you can appreciate the profound connection between Buddhism, Shintoism, and Japan's natural beauty during the spectacular fall season.

🍂 Autumn Facts

  • Momijigari (autumn leaf hunting) actually draws more domestic tourists.

  • Foliage season stretches from September to December due to the country's length and varied elevation.

  • The oldest known Japanese maple trees are over 1,000 years old.

🥮 What to eat? (seasonally)

  • Matsutake Gohan: rice cooked with matsutake mushrooms, which only grow wild in autumn.

  • Sanma Shioyaki: Grilled Pacific saury fish with just salt.

  • Kaki no Tempura: Tempura-battered and fried persimmons.

5 Hidden Temple Gems for Your Autumn Journey

Sanzen-in Temple, Ohara (Kyoto Prefecture)

Founded in 1118 by priest Genshin, this Tendai Buddhist temple served as a retreat for imperial family members who became monks. The temple played a crucial role in preserving Buddhist teachings during political upheavals.

Represents the fusion of aristocratic and monastic cultures, showcasing how Buddhism adapted to Japanese sensibilities.

Why It's Less Visited: Located 90 minutes from central Kyoto, its remote mountain location deters casual tourists.

  • Hours: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM (March-November).

  • Cost: 700 yen (5 USD).

  • Best Time to visit: Early to mid-November.

Eiho-ji Temple, Tajimi

Eiho-ji Temple, Tajimi (Gifu Prefecture)

Established in 1313 during the Kamakura period, this Zen temple was built by monk Kokei Sozei. It survived numerous wars and natural disasters, maintaining its original architectural integrity.

One of Japan's finest examples of early Zen architecture, influencing temple design nationwide.

Why It's Less Visited: Lacks major tourist infrastructure and requires local transportation knowledge.

  • Hours: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM.

  • Cost: 300 yen (2 USD).

  • Best Time: Late October to early November.

SPANISH SECTION:

Estas son las playas nudistas en México más populares

La primera playa nudista oficial se abrió en la isla de Rab, Croacia en 1934. En esa época el movimiento naturista europeo buscaba espacios de libertad y conexión con la naturaleza. Esta filosofía se extendió por todo el mundo como un estilo de vida que abraza la simplicidad y el respeto por el cuerpo humano.

El concepto de playas nudistas en México llegó durante los años 60. Justo cuando un grupo de viajeros encontró en Zipolite, Oaxaca, todo lo que busacaba. Una gran playa virgen, sin construcciones y con arena dorada. Bajo el lema amor y paz se convirtió en un refugio bohemio para locales y extranjeros.

Rinnai-ji Temple, Nikko (Tochigi Prefecture)

Founded in 766 by priest Shodo Shonin, this temple complex served as the mausoleum for Tokugawa shoguns, though it remains overshadowed by nearby Toshogu Shrine.

Bridges Shinto and Buddhist traditions, demonstrating Japan's syncretic religious practices.

Why It's Less Visited: Often overlooked due to Nikko's more famous attractions.

  • Hours: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM.

  • Cost: 400 yen (2.70 USD).

  • Best Time: Mid to late October.

Jojakko-ji Temple, Saga-Toriimoto (Kyoto Prefecture)

Built in 1596 by Sumitomo Ryoi, a wealthy merchant, this Nichiren Buddhist temple was designed as a peaceful retreat away from Kyoto's bustling center.

Represents the merchant class's growing influence on religious architecture during the Edo period.

Why It's Less Visited: Requires a scenic but time-consuming journey through Arashiyama's bamboo groves.

  • Hours: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM.

  • Cost: 600 yen (4 USD).

  • Best Time: Mid-November.

Jojakko-ji Temple.

Hogonji Temple, Shiga Prefecture

Established in 741 during Emperor Shomu's reign, this temple was part of a nationwide network of provincial temples designed to protect Japan through Buddhist prayers.

Exemplifies state Buddhism's role in unifying the country under imperial rule.

Why It's Less Visited: Remote lakeside location with limited public transportation access.

  • Hours: 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM.

  • Cost: 500 yen (3.40 USD).

  • Best Time: Early November.

See you next time,

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