Tofuku-ji Temple

東福寺

Kyoto's #1 autumn foliage temple with 2,000+ maple trees. Tsutenkyo Bridge offers iconic views of maple valley. Founded 1236, one of Kyoto's Five Great Zen Temples. Four beautiful gardens representing different eras. Extremely crowded November, peaceful other seasons.

Visit: 1-1.5 hours (2+ hours in November due to crowds)

Entrance: Temple grounds free, Tsutenkyo Bridge 600 yen (1,000 yen in November), Gardens 500 yen

Hours: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM (Apr-Oct until 4:30 PM)

Highlights & Must-See Features

Kyoto's #1 autumn foliage spot (2,000+ maples)
Iconic Tsutenkyo Bridge over maple valley
Four beautiful modern gardens (1939)
One of Five Great Zen Temples of Kyoto
Founded 1236
Dramatic photography spot
Hojo gardens with moss and stones

📍 How to Get There

Nearest Station

Tofukuji Station (JR Nara Line / Keihan Line) - 10 minutes walk

Step-by-Step Directions

1 From Kyoto Station: JR Nara Line to Tofukuji (1 stop, 2 min, 140 yen)
2 From Keihan Line: Tofukuji Station (Keihan Main Line)
3 From station: 10 minute walk (follow crowds in autumn)
4 November: Arrive before 8:30 AM opening or expect huge crowds and queues

Location & Maps

🗺️ Interactive map - zoom and pan to explore

Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors

Latitude: 34.97681

Longitude: 135.773773

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Best Time to Visit

Mid to late November for absolutely spectacular autumn colors - Kyoto's best foliage but VERY crowded. Arrive before 8:30 AM in November. Peaceful and beautiful other seasons.