Kyoto City, as well as Kyoto City Tourism Association are working with local organizations to create a sustainable approach to tourism during the autumn season. Our goal is to welcome visitors while ensuring that tourism remains in harmony with the daily life of citizens.
The list of helpful information for your autumn visit to Kyoto is available below.
*This webpage is regularly updated.
Transportation and avoiding the crowds
Subway & Bus 1-Day Pass tickets
Make use of the convenient “Subway & Bus 1-Day Pass” ticket when sightseeing in Kyoto! You can use it to board all subway and city bus lines, as well as any Kyoto Bus, Keihan Bus, and West Japan JR Bus and for one day with no limits. The holders of this ticket additionally receive discounts and other perks at around 50 facilities in the city.
Digital map of Kyoto City and Kyoto Station
Make use of these two digital maps to navigate Kyoto easier!
Kyoto Smart Navi is a website showcasing information helpful for sightseeing, such as real-time crowding levels at different tourist destinations and information on the current state of autumn leaves throughout the city.
Kyoto Station Smart Navi provides comprehensive information on the location of services, coin lockers and bus stops found within Kyoto Station.
No prior registration or app download is required to use either of these websites.
Traveling without burden
Luggage storage and delivery services
Advance reservations for luggage storage and delivery services
At Kyoto Station, you can easily store your luggage or have it sent to your accommodation on the same day. By using the Kyoto Smart Navi or Kyoto Station Smart Navi websites, you can secure your spot by making a reservation in advance. The websites are available in seven languages and do not require any app downloads or account registration.
*Some luggage delivery and storage counters also allow prepayment by credit card. You can easily pay for the service from your smartphone as well.
Enjoying the season to its fullest
KYOTO TOURISTSHIP
KYOTO TOURISTSHIP is a campaign that shares simple travel etiquette and tips to help you enjoy a fun and seamless trip to Kyoto. A little mindfulness goes a long way in making Kyoto a better place for everyone!
Support the campaign and take part in a Travel Etiquette Quiz to receive an exclusive Kyoto mobile wallpaper, plus a chance to win a hotel stay!
Autumn treasure hunt in Kyoto's hidden gems
Discover the beauty of Kyoto’s hidden gem areas such as Yamashina, Daigo and Okazaki by following two routes showcased in our recently released articles. They will take you through historic temples, stunning waterside scenery and popular dessert shops, among others.
Desks where you can collect stamps will be set up around these locations from October 1 through December 13, 2026. Layering all of them together will create a colorful picture that you can use to receive fun rewards!
Yamashina & Daigo Route: Discovering Local Temples and Sweets
Autumn Leaves Calendar
Each year, we release an up-to-date calendar of the current state of autumn foliage. This year’s version is scheduled to release on October 30. Please make use of it during the autumn season to see which area is worth visiting.
Autumn illumination events
Photo of To-ji Temple’s autumn illumination event
In order to make the most of the beautiful autumn leaves, many temples, shrines and gardens organize special illumination and opening events between October and December. See the page linked below to view the 2026 list.
Festivals and events
*Photo showcases the Gion Odori autumn dance performance.
Autumn is a season of many traditional festivals and exciting events in Kyoto. Check our “Festivals & Events” page and the “Events in Kyoto” brochure for an overview of the recommended upcoming events.
