Kizugawa City: Ancient Temples & Autumn Splendour in Southern Kyoto

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On the hunt for breathtaking autumn foliage? Kizugawa City delivers with a wealth of stunning spots to discover. Tucked into southern Kyoto right on Nara's doorstep, the city brings together two of Japan's most beloved destinations — and it boasts a rich history and fantastic attractions all its own. Here's why you shouldn't miss it.

Note: All photos shown are from previous seasons. Please check current foliage conditions before your visit.

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Kaijusenji Temple: A National Treasure Worth the Journey

At Kaijusenji Temple (20 Reihei Kaijusen, Kamo-cho, Kizugawa City), you'll encounter Japan's only surviving five-storied pagoda from the Kamakura Period — a designated National Treasure completed in 1214.

It's the second-smallest outdoor five-storied pagoda in the country, distinguished by elegant mokoshi (skirt-like roof structures) beneath its lowest eaves.

Nestled in the mountains, the temple grounds also reward visitors with sweeping views over the Mikanohara plain, where the ancient capital of Kunikyo once stood.

This is the perfect place to lose yourself in centuries of history while the changing seasons work their magic around you.

Why not make some memories here? A special autumn exhibition of the temple's treasures runs through Sunday, November 30th.

Gansenji & Joruriji: Two More Must-See Temples

Beyond Kaijusenji, autumn foliage season calls for visits to Gansenji Temple (43 Iwafune Kaminomon, Kamo-cho, Kizugawa City) and Joruriji Temple (40 Nishio Futaba, Kamo-cho, Kizugawa City).

Gansenji, believed to have been founded in 729, is home to a seated Amida Nyorai statue standing roughly three metres tall — its gentle expression is said to bring comfort to all who gaze upon it.

Joruriji Temple, meanwhile, houses an extraordinary collection of National Treasures: its Main Hall, a three-storied pagoda, nine statues of Amida Nyorai, and a set of Four Heavenly Kings.

Both temples host special autumn exhibitions. Even better, a dedicated bus operates on Saturdays, Sundays and national holidays through December 7th, ferrying visitors on a temple pilgrimage route from JR Nara Station's west exit and Kintetsu-Nara Station.

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