Itinerary Reference:

08:00 Meet at Nipponbashi Exit 2. Please arrive 10‑15 minutes early

▶The guide will not contact participants in advance. If needed, you may exchange contact details with the guide on‑site on the day 

▶Vehicle plate number and guide details can be found in the email sent 1 day before departure between 16:00‑22:00 (Japan time). If multiple emails are received, the latest one prevails. No refunds for late arrivals or no‑shows. Please arrive 15 minutes before departure time

09:00 2 hours free time, Katsuō‑ji Temple, located in the mountains of Minō, Katsuō‑ji is Kyoto's renowned "sacred site for victory prayers." The red Daruma dolls symbolise good luck and resilience. Strolling through the temple grounds allows visitors to experience serene Zen tranquillity. With approximately 2 hours of ample time, visitors can pray for victory and happiness, take photos, or get stamped postcards as souvenirs. In autumn, the red maple leaves add a dreamy touch

12:10 50 minutes free time, Otagi Nenbutsu‑ji Temple, Otagi Nenbutsu‑ji Temple in Saga‑no, Kyoto, is famous for its 1,200+ stone Rakan statues, with scenery reminiscent of "Spirited Away." Starting from November 2025, it is closed every Wednesday and Saturday. If closed, the itinerary will be adjusted to Jōjakkō‑ji Temple, requiring approximately 20 minutes on foot from the parking area (Jōjakkō‑ji has no parking facilities)

13:10 3 hours free time, Arashiyama, Arashiyama Station Foot Bath, Tenryū‑ji Temple, Sagano Scenic Railway Arashiyama Station, Arashiyama Bamboo Grove Path, Arashiyama offers ample time to hike along the bamboo grove path and enjoy the autumn foliage. You may also choose to take the scenic railway to admire the valley views (recommended departures: outbound 14:02~14:25, return 14:30~14:56). The itinerary may be adjusted based on group size or weather conditions, with only some attractions visited

17:00 Kyoto Station Hachijō‑guchi Parking Area

▶Return begins at 16:20. Return time is for reference only and may be earlier due to smooth itinerary progress, good traffic conditions, etc. ▶Actual arrival time at the disbanding point may vary depending on traffic conditions ▶To avoid any loss, please do not arrange other activities for the evening of that day. We appreciate your understanding

18:00 Kintetsu Nipponbashi Exit 2

▶Return begins at 16:20. Return time is for reference only and may be earlier due to smooth itinerary progress, good traffic conditions, etc. ▶Actual arrival time at the disbanding point may vary depending on traffic conditions ▶To avoid any loss, please do not arrange other activities for the evening of that day. We appreciate your understanding

*Itinerary is subject to adjustment based on traffic and weather conditions

Itinerary Highlights

Hike to explore Kyoto's hidden autumn foliage routes and experience the serene beauty of Kyoto in autumn.

Stroll among the stone Buddha statues at Otagi Nenbutsu‑ji Temple and experience the fantastical atmosphere of "Spirited Away."

Pray for victory and happiness at Katsuō‑ji Temple, made even more solemn and romantic against the backdrop of maple leaves.

Take a leisurely walk through Arashiyama's bamboo grove and enjoy the beauty where nature and culture blend seamlessly.

Departing from Osaka, easily explore Kyoto's hidden autumn gems.

Departing from Osaka, travel round trip with ease — no driving required! No need to spend time figuring out transit connections. Enjoy a one‑stop tour of Kyoto's hidden autumn spots. This curated route gathers mountain temples, autumn foliage, and whimsical Zen atmosphere all in one day — an immersive maple‑viewing journey not to be missed when visiting Kyoto in autumn 2026.

The first stop is Katsuō‑ji Temple in the mountains of Minō, Japan's renowned sacred site for victory prayers. The red Daruma dolls throughout the grounds intermingle with layers of autumn maples, with crimson leaves framing the vermilion Buddha statues, creating an atmosphere both solemn and dreamlike. Why not get a Daruma doll and make a wish, praying for success in your career, exams, and daily life, while enjoying a peaceful moment of prayer amidst the mountains.

Next, step into the depths of Saga‑no to hike and enjoy the autumn foliage at Otagi Nenbutsu‑ji Temple. Walking slowly along winding mountain paths and stone steps, hundreds of stone Buddha statues with varied expressions stand quietly among the maple forest, surrounded by red leaves — as if entering the fantastical world of "Spirited Away." Roam this hidden gem, capture unique Zen‑inspired scenes, and easily snap standout autumn foliage photos unlike any other.

⚠️Important note: Otagi Nenbutsu‑ji Temple is closed every Wednesday and Saturday. On those days, the itinerary will be adjusted to visit Jōjakkō‑ji Temple instead; Jōjakkō‑ji has no parking facilities, so you will need to walk approximately 20 minutes from the parking area.

Finally, arrive at Arashiyama for free time. Walk through the famous bamboo grove path, stroll across Togetsu‑kyō Bridge, and admire the stunning scenery where streams and valleys blend with the ancient capital's charm. You can wander freely to take photos, find a distinctive café for a break, and soak in the tranquil romance unique to Kyoto in autumn. If you wish to experience the Sagano Scenic Railway, recommended departures are: outbound 14:02–14:25, return 14:30–14:56.

This single trip combines prayer, hidden‑gem hiking, and classic sightseeing, steering clear of crowded mainstream attractions for an in‑depth experience of Kyoto's autumn foliage season. Perfect for couples and friends travelling together — create unforgettable autumn memories in Kansai that are truly your own.