FreeSep 12 (Sat) – Dec 20 (Sun)
Things to do in Kyoto: events, temple light-ups and exhibitions
Events in Kyoto you can go to now: autumn temple light-ups and special night openings, museum exhibitions, handmade markets and winter festivals. Dates, hours and prices follow the official announcements.
As of Nov 11: 144 events, 34 free.
Quick answer
As of Nov 11 (Wed), Kyochika lists 144 matching events in Kyoto, 34 of them free. Highlights: Soshi Matsunobe: Wall at Kyoto City KYOCERA Museum of Art (Kyoto City KYOCERA Museum of Art, The Triangle, Sep 12 (Sat) – Dec 20 (Sun)); Special Exhibition: Kan'ei — Beauty Nurtured by an Age of Peace at The Museum of Kyoto (The Museum of Kyoto, Sep 19 (Sat) – Nov 15 (Sun)); Forms of Love — The Rediscovered Erotic Scroll Chigo Zoshi at Fukuda Art Museum (Fukuda Art Museum, Sep 19 (Sat) – Jan 17 (Sun)). Every listing is checked against the official page, with hours, prices and nearest stations.
At a glance
144 events · 34 free · 4 for kids
Festival & seasonal event 65 · Art exhibition 54 · Market 16 · Food event 6 · Live music 2 · Pop-up 1
Highlights
- Soshi Matsunobe: Wall at Kyoto City KYOCERA Museum of Art Kyoto City KYOCERA Museum of Art, The Triangle · Sep 12 (Sat) – Dec 20 (Sun)
- Special Exhibition: Kan'ei — Beauty Nurtured by an Age of Peace at The Museum of Kyoto The Museum of Kyoto · Sep 19 (Sat) – Nov 15 (Sun)
- Forms of Love — The Rediscovered Erotic Scroll Chigo Zoshi at Fukuda Art Museum Fukuda Art Museum · Sep 19 (Sat) – Jan 17 (Sun)
- 140th Birth Anniversary: Seika Yamaga — Imagination in Flight at Kyoto City KYOCERA Museum of Art Kyoto City KYOCERA Museum of Art, Main Building, South Wing, 1st Floor · Sep 19 (Sat) – Dec 20 (Sun)
- Autumn Special Opening 2026 at Hogonin Temple Hogonin Temple · Oct 3 (Sat) – Dec 6 (Sun)
Art exhibition
Claude Monet: 100 Years After His Death (30th Anniversary Exhibition), Asahi Group Oyamazaki Villa Museum of Art
Asahi Group Oyamazaki Villa Museum of Art, Underground Gallery (Yamazaki Sta.)
Mar 20 (Fri) – Apr 11 (Sun) 10:00 – 17:00
All eight Monet works owned by Asahi Group, including five Water Lilies and The Japanese Footbridge, shown over a full year for the first time in ten years. They hang in a round gallery designed by Tadao Ando for the Water Lilies.
Details →Art exhibition
Architecture Shaped by Time: TIME'S and Tadao Ando (Kyoto Architecture Center)
Kyoto Architecture Center (inside TIME'S) (Sanjo Sta.)
Sep 2 (Wed) – Nov 23 (Mon) 10:00 – 18:00 (details on the official site)
The first exhibition of the Kyoto Architecture Center, opened in September 2026 inside TIME'S, the 1984 Tadao Ando building on the Takase River. Photos from before and after construction, period magazines, drawings and models trace his design thinking.
Details →Festival & seasonal event
Kaikai YOKAI Festival 2026 at Toei Kyoto Studio Park
Toei Kyoto Studio Park (Uzumasa Eigamura) (Uzumasa-Koryuji Sta.)
Sep 12 (Sat) – Nov 29 (Sun) 10:00 – 21:00
The third autumn yokai festival, with the 2026 theme of dancing spooks. On weekends and holidays at 19:30 the Uzumasa Hyakki Yako parade winds through the renewed Edo-period streets, and at the finale visitors dance along. Choreography is by TERUPOP. The attraction plaza and floors 2-3 of Padios close at 18:00 (most areas stay open to 21:00 on weekends and holidays); rides cost extra.
Details →Art exhibition
Soshi Matsunobe: Wall at Kyoto City KYOCERA Museum of Art
Kyoto City KYOCERA Museum of Art, The Triangle (Higashiyama Sta.)
Sep 12 (Sat) – Dec 20 (Sun) 10:00 – 18:00
A contemporary art exhibition that reexamines the way we perceive everyday objects through lines, shadows, backgrounds, and the unconscious. Open to all visitors.
Details →Art exhibition
Autumn 2026 Exhibition: Sakamoto Ryoma and the Satsuma-Choshu Alliance at Ryozen Museum of History
Ryozen Museum of History (Bakumatsu Ishin Museum) (Gion-Shijo Sta.)
Sep 16 (Wed) – Nov 23 (Mon) Last entry 17:00. Closed Mondays (open November 2 and 23)
An exhibition for the 190th anniversary of Sakamoto Ryoma's birth and the 160th anniversary of the Satsuma-Choshu Alliance. It introduces recent research that re-examines Ryoma's role using records from Satsuma, Choshu and the shogunate. The second period runs from October 27.
Details →Festival & seasonal event
Daitokuji Jukoin Autumn Special Opening
Jukoin, Daitokuji Temple (Kitaoji Sta.)
Sep 18 (Fri) – Dec 6 (Sun) Last entry 15:30; preschool children not admitted
On view are replicas of the National Treasure main hall paintings by Kano Eitoku and Kano Shoei, Senju Hiroshi's Waterfall fusuma paintings and the Hyakuseki garden, a designated Place of Scenic Beauty. Closed November 21-22 and 27-29; preschool children are not admitted.
Details →Art exhibition
Special Exhibition: Kan'ei — Beauty Nurtured by an Age of Peace at The Museum of Kyoto
The Museum of Kyoto (Karasuma Oike Sta.)
Sep 19 (Sat) – Nov 15 (Sun) 10:00 – 18:00
Commemorating 400 years since the imperial visit of 1626 during the Kan'ei era, this exhibition explores Kyoto's culture in the early Edo period. Open until 7:30 PM on Fridays.
Details →Art exhibition
Forms of Love — The Rediscovered Erotic Scroll Chigo Zoshi at Fukuda Art Museum
Fukuda Art Museum (Arashiyama Sta.)
Sep 19 (Sat) – Jan 17 (Sun) 10:00 – 17:00
An exhibition of Japanese art highlighting the erotic illustrated scroll Chigo Zoshi. Visitors under 18 are not permitted. Some works will change between the first and second exhibition periods.
Details →Art exhibition
140th Birth Anniversary: Seika Yamaga — Imagination in Flight at Kyoto City KYOCERA Museum of Art
Kyoto City KYOCERA Museum of Art, Main Building, South Wing, 1st Floor (Higashiyama Sta.)
Sep 19 (Sat) – Dec 20 (Sun) 10:00 – 18:00
The first retrospective in 40 years devoted to textile artist Seika Yamaga. The second exhibition period begins November 3, with some works replaced. Last admission at 5:30 PM.
Details →Art exhibition
Autumn Exhibition: Fumonji Temple of Higashi-Mikawa at Ryukoku Museum
Ryukoku Museum, Ryukoku University (Kyoto Sta.)
Sep 19 (Sat) – Nov 23 (Mon) Last entry 16:30. Closed Mondays (open on November 23)
Buddhist statues and historical documents from Funakatayama Fumonji, a mountain temple in Toyohashi, Aichi. The exhibition marks the temple's 1,300th anniversary in 2027 and includes late Heian-period statues designated Important Cultural Properties.
Details →Art exhibition
30th Anniversary: Georges Rouault, Loving Gaze and Brushstrokes of Prayer at Asahi Group Oyamazaki Villa Museum of Art
Asahi Group Oyamazaki Villa Museum of Art (Yamazaki Sta.)
Sep 19 (Sat) – Dec 6 (Sun) Last entry 16:30. Closed Mondays (open November 23, 24 and 30)
A 30th-anniversary exhibition of 41 works by Georges Rouault (including rotations): the museum's own four works plus about 35 from the Panasonic Shiodome Museum of Art, including religious scenes and clowns. The same ticket also covers the Claude Monet 100th memorial exhibition.
Details →Festival & seasonal event
Rurikoin Autumn Special Opening 2026
Rurikoin Temple (Yase-Hieizanguchi Sta.)
Oct 1 (Thu) – Dec 13 (Sun) 10:00 – 17:00
The moss garden and study hall open to the public in maple season. Reservations required Nov 13 to Dec 6; not needed on other days. Last entry 4:30 PM, open every day during the period.
Details →Festival & seasonal event
Autumn Special Opening 2026 at Hogonin Temple
Hogonin Temple (Arashiyama Sta.)
Oct 3 (Sat) – Dec 6 (Sun) 09:00 – 17:00
Explore the Shishiku Garden, which incorporates the Arashiyama mountains into its scenery, and wall paintings by artist Noriko Tamura. Last admission to the garden is 4:45 PM; the main hall is open until 4:30 PM.
Details →Art exhibition
Martine Franck: A Gaze on Her Time (Kahitsukan Kyoto Museum of Contemporary Art)
Kahitsukan Kyoto Museum of Contemporary Art (Gion-Shijo Sta.)
Oct 3 (Sat) – Jan 17 (Sun) 10:00 – 18:00 (details on the official site)
Sixty signed original prints by Magnum photographer Martine Franck (1938–2012) from the Kahitsukan collection, including candid portraits of her husband, Henri Cartier-Bresson.
Details →Art exhibition
Tanomura Chokunyu and Modern Kyoto Nanga: Ambience of Nature at The Museum of Kyoto
The Museum of Kyoto, 2F Gallery (Karasuma Oike Sta.)
Oct 3 (Sat) – Nov 29 (Sun) 10:00 – 19:30
Marking 130 years since the Japan Nanga Association was founded and 120 years since the death of its leader Tanomura Chokunyu (1814-1907). Works and materials mainly from the Kyoto Prefecture collection introduce the literati painting of modern Kyoto. Last entry 7:00 PM; closed Mondays (open November 23, closed November 24).
Details →Art exhibition
Zen and Ghibli at Kyoto City KYOCERA Museum of Art
Kyoto City KYOCERA Museum of Art, Higashiyama Cube (Higashiyama Sta.)
Oct 3 (Sat) – Dec 6 (Sun) 10:00 – 18:00
An immersive exhibition exploring Zen philosophy through Studio Ghibli films. Reservation priority begins October 31. From November 1, the museum opens at 9:00 AM on most Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays, with some exceptions.
Details →Art exhibition
Discover Kyoto Through Art — See More, Enjoy More at Saga Arashiyama Museum of Arts and Culture
Saga Arashiyama Museum of Arts and Culture (Arashiyama Sta.)
Oct 3 (Sat) – Feb 28 (Sun) 10:00 – 17:00
Explore artworks depicting Kyoto's seasonal traditions and culture. Displays change between the first and second exhibition periods, featuring subjects such as geiko and maiko, Kyoto vegetables, and traditional Japanese confectionery wrappers.
Details →Art exhibition
Special Exhibition: The Tale of Genji — Splendor of the Imperial Court at Kyoto National Museum
Kyoto National Museum, Heisei Chishinkan Wing (Shichijo Sta.)
Oct 6 (Tue) – Nov 29 (Sun) 09:00 – 17:30
Open until 8:00 PM on Fridays. A major rotation of exhibits takes place on November 3. The National Treasure Tale of Genji Scrolls will be displayed during different periods depending on the scenes.
Details →Festival & seasonal event
Daitokuji Obaiin Autumn Special Opening
Obaiin, Daitokuji Temple (Kitaoji Sta.)
Oct 9 (Fri) – Dec 6 (Sun) Last entry 15:45
Opened for Daitokuji's 700th anniversary, this subtemple shows the Jikichu-tei garden attributed to Sen no Rikyu and the Sakumu-ken tea room in the taste of Takeno Joo. The kuri (Important Cultural Property) is also open, and extra closing days may be added for temple services.
Details →Art exhibition
[2026 Fall] Collection Room Special Display: A Museum's Story - The Birth of the Kyoto City Museum of Art
Kyoto City KYOCERA Museum of Art, Main Building North Wing 1F (Higashiyama Sta.)
Oct 9 (Fri) – Dec 13 (Sun) 10:00 – 18:00
Traces the founding of the museum, opened in 1933 as the Kyoto Enthronement Memorial Museum of Art, and its earliest collection through works and archives, including Takeuchi Seiho's Bear and Tokuoka Shinsen's Wheat. Also on view: Animals in the Art Museum and Autumn Foliage. Last admission 5:30 PM.
Details →Art exhibition
Chrysanthemum Offering Exhibition at Nishi Hongwanji
Nishi Hongwanji Temple (Kyoto Sta.)
Oct 12 (Mon) – Nov 23 (Mon) 05:30 – 17:00
Chrysanthemums are displayed in the grounds of the World Heritage temple, open from 5:30 a.m. and within walking distance of Kyoto Station.
Details →Art exhibition
60th Anniversary Special Exhibition II: The Muses Who Modeled for Insho Domoto
Insho Domoto Museum of Fine Arts (Kitano-Hakubaicho Sta.)
Oct 15 (Thu) – Dec 20 (Sun) 09:30 – 17:00
A special exhibition celebrating the museum's 60th anniversary, exploring depictions of women that artist Insho Domoto pursued throughout his career.
Details →Art exhibition
Maruyama Okyo and Ito Jakuchu at Shokokuji Jotenkaku Museum
Shokokuji Jotenkaku Museum (Imadegawa Sta.)
Oct 17 (Sat) – Feb 14 (Sun) 10:00 – 17:00
The first exhibition phase presents works by Maruyama Okyo and Ito Jakuchu. The artworks on display vary by exhibition period.
Details →Art exhibition
NAKED meets Nijo Castle 2026 at Former Imperial Villa Nijo Castle
Former Imperial Villa Nijo Castle (Nijojo-mae Sta.)
Oct 23 (Fri) – Dec 5 (Sat) 18:00 – 22:00
A night art exhibition marking 400 years since the Kan'ei imperial visit, exploring the aesthetics of Kan'ei-era culture that shaped kimono and everyday design. Inspired by the sensibility of Tokugawa Kazuko, it reinterprets traditional beauty as artworks, with audio guides in Japanese and English. Last entry 9:00 PM; open daily, rain or shine. Students and Kyoto City residents get a 500 yen cashback on site.
Details →Festival & seasonal event
Nijo Castle Festival 2026 (daytime program) at Former Imperial Villa Nijo Castle
Former Imperial Villa Nijo Castle (Nijojo-mae Sta.)
Oct 23 (Fri) – Dec 6 (Sun) 08:45 – 17:00 (details on the official site)
Autumn at the World Heritage castle: a foliage stamp rally at four spots through Dec 6, guided tours of the Kamo seven stones (Nov 15), and a Nov 23 program with a miniature imperial procession and a kimono runway. The evening light-up is a separate event, NAKED meets Nijo Castle 2026.
Details →Art exhibition
Entokuin Temple: Teikan-zu Folding Screens and Autumn Night Light-Up
Entokuin Temple (Kodaiji sub-temple) (Gion-Shijo Sta.)
Oct 23 (Fri) – Dec 13 (Sun) 10:00 – 22:00
The sub-temple of Kodaiji where Nene, the wife of Toyotomi Hideyoshi, spent her final years. It shows the Teikan-zu folding screens handed down in the Toyotomi family, and in autumn lights up its pond-stroll and dry landscape gardens at night. Lights come on at 17:00, last entry is 21:30 and the gate closes at 22:00, with no day/night changeover. Closed December 11 and 12 for temple services.
Details →Oct 23 (Fri) – Dec 13 (Sun) 17:00 – 22:00
See illuminated autumn gardens at Kodaiji, founded by Nene, the wife of Toyotomi Hideyoshi. Projection mapping also transforms the garden in front of the Hojo Hall. Last admission at 9:30 PM.
Details →Festival & seasonal event
Manpuku-ji Temple Special Night Viewing & Light Art Installation at Obaku Zen Head Temple Manpuku-ji
Obaku Zen Head Temple Manpuku-ji (Obaku Sta.)
Oct 23 (Fri) – Feb 21 (Sun) 17:00 – 21:00
Night viewing of Manpuku-ji, founded by Ingen Ryuki in 1661, with lighting designed to bring out the shapes of the halls and Buddhist statues, the texture of the wood and the shadows. In its second year the lit area extends deeper into the temple grounds; open mainly on Fridays to Sundays until February 21, 2027.
Details →Art exhibition
Autumn Special Exhibition 2026: Tea Culture of the Kan'ei Era (Part 2), Nomura Art Museum
Nomura Art Museum (Keage Sta.)
Oct 24 (Sat) – Dec 6 (Sun) 10:00 – 16:30 (details on the official site)
The second half of a special exhibition on tea culture in the Kan'ei era (early 17th century), with utensils linked to Kobori Enshu, Sen Sotan, Kanamori Sowa and potters such as Ninsei. Highlights include Enshu's tea scoop named 'Ryo', the Iga tea bowl named 'Suneichi' and a Daitokuji Goki tea bowl. Last entry 4:00 PM.
Details →Art exhibition
Collection Exhibition No. 3 (FY2026), National Museum of Modern Art, Kyoto
National Museum of Modern Art, Kyoto (MoMAK), 4F Collection Gallery (Higashiyama Sta.)
Oct 24 (Sat) – Jan 17 (Sun) 10:00 – 18:00 (details on the official site)
199 works chosen from a collection of about 17,000, shown in nine sections: Tsuchida Bakusen on the 90th anniversary of his death ('Punishment' in Part 1, 'Ohara Women' in Part 2), Kojima Yuji, Felice 'Lizzi' Rix-Ueno, Kawai Kanjiro from the Kawakatsu Collection and more. Part 1 runs to Nov 29, Part 2 from Dec 1. Open until 8:00 PM on Fridays.
Details →Art exhibition
Who Does Jewelry Dream Of? at The National Museum of Modern Art
The National Museum of Modern Art, Kyoto (Higashiyama Sta.)
Oct 24 (Sat) – Jan 17 (Sun) 10:00 – 18:00
Open until 8:00 PM on Fridays. Advance-ticket and evening discounts are available, plus a ¥100 discount on same-day tickets for visitors wearing jewelry.
Details →Festival & seasonal event
Ninnaji Temple Autumn Leaves Sea-of-Clouds Light-Up (Night Viewing)
Ninnaji Temple (Omuro-Ninnaji Sta.)
Oct 24 (Sat) – Dec 13 (Sun) 18:30 – 21:00
A night viewing of the National Treasure Kondo hall and autumn leaves, wrapped in a sea-of-clouds effect across the temple grounds. The 2026 theme is a 528Hz healing sound garden. Held on Fridays, weekends and public holidays only, with no viewing on November 8 and November 28. Entry is accepted 18:00-20:30 (from 18:30 on November 20).
Details →Festival & seasonal event
Sagano Scenic Railway Light Fantasy Train (Autumn Foliage Light-up)
Sagano Scenic Railway (Torokko Saga to Torokko Kameoka) (Saga-Arashiyama Sta.)
Oct 24 (Sat) – Dec 29 (Tue) 16:30 – 19:28
Autumn leaves and mountains along the Hozu Gorge are lit after dark for views from the train windows. The current cars retire on December 29, so this is the last season to ride them. Lights on from the 4:30 PM departure from Torokko Kameoka.
Details →Art exhibition
Special exhibition: Maekawa Bunrei and three generations of painters at Furusato Museum Yamashiro
Furusato Museum Yamashiro (Kyoto Prefectural Yamashiro Local History Museum) (Kamikoma Sta.)
Oct 24 (Sat) – Dec 13 (Sun) 09:00 – 16:30
A special exhibition on Maekawa Bunrei, a Shijo school painter who admired Yosa Buson, and the three generations of his painting lineage. Lectures on November 14 and 28 at 13:30 (65 seats, first come on the day). Closed Mondays (next weekday after a holiday).
Details →Art exhibition
Toraya Collection Exhibition: Animals That Soothe the Heart
Toraya Kyoto Gallery (Imadegawa Sta.)
Oct 24 (Sat) – Nov 23 (Mon) 10:00 – 17:00
Animal-themed works from the collection of the wagashi maker Toraya: folding screens, hanging scrolls, tea bowls and netsuke. The gallery is next to Toraya Karyo Kyoto Ichijo, about a 7-minute walk from Exit 6 of Imadegawa subway station.
Details →Art exhibition
Tea, Japanese Sweets, and Bonbonnieres at Art Space Fukujuen
Art Space Fukujuen (7th Floor, Fukujuen Kyoto Main Store) (Karasuma Sta.)
Oct 29 (Thu) – Jan 31 (Sun) 11:00 – 17:30
Closed Mondays through Wednesdays and on New Year's Day.
Details →Oct 30 (Fri) – Nov 22 (Sun) 09:00 – 16:30
Sennyuji, the imperial family's temple known as Mitera, displays chrysanthemum offerings in its grounds until November 22.
Details →Oct 30 (Fri) – Nov 15 (Sun) 11:00 – 20:30
A pop-up shop showcasing handmade creations from around 70 brands, with opportunities to buy directly from the makers.
Details →Art exhibition
NAKED GARDEN NIGHTS at Higashi Honganji and Shoseien
Higashi Honganji and Shoseien Garden (Kikokutei) (Kyoto Sta.)
Oct 31 (Sat) – Dec 6 (Sun) 18:00 – 22:00
A special autumn night viewing at Higashi Honganji and its detached garden Shoseien, themed on spending a Kyoto night with five scenes. Higashi Honganji: last entry 9:00 PM, closes 9:20 PM; Shoseien closes 10:00 PM. On November 6-8 and 25, only Shoseien is open.
Details →Festival & seasonal event
Toji Autumn Illumination and Special Night Viewing of Kondo and Kodo Halls
Toji Temple (Kyo-o-gokoku-ji) (Kyoto Sta.)
Oct 31 (Sat) – Dec 13 (Sun) 18:00 – 21:30
The five-story pagoda and around 200 maple trees at World Heritage-listed Toji are illuminated at night. Special evening access is also available to the National Treasure Kondo Hall and Important Cultural Property Kodo Hall, home to the three-dimensional mandala. Last admission at 9:00 PM; open daily throughout the event.
Details →Art exhibition
Sumitomo Shunsui 100th Memorial Special Exhibition: The Sumitomo Collection of Modern Art at Sen-oku Hakukokan Museum
Sen-oku Hakukokan Museum (Kyoto, Shishigatani) (Keage Sta.)
Oct 31 (Sat) – Dec 20 (Sun) Last entry 16:30. Closed Mondays (open November 23, closed November 24)
Marking 100 years since the death of Sumitomo Tomoito (Shunsui), the 15th head of the Sumitomo family, the exhibition shows the modern paintings and crafts he collected, including Claude Monet's Parc Monceau and Itaya Hazan's Important Cultural Property porcelain vase.
Details →Art exhibition
Special Exhibition: Nijo Castle and the Founding of the Edo Shogunate, the Kyoto Castle from Keicho to Kan'ei
Kyoto City Archives, First Floor Gallery (Jingu-Marutamachi Sta.)
Oct 31 (Sat) – Jan 17 (Sun) 09:00 – 17:00 (details on the official site)
A joint exhibition with the Nijo Castle office tracing the castle from the Keicho to the Kan'ei era, with a copy of the Kan'ei construction plans, the Shogun's Journey to Kyoto scroll, and scrolls of the imperial visit to Nijo Castle.
Details →Festival & seasonal event
62nd Kyoto Special Opening of Non-Public Cultural Properties at Shimogamo Shrine
Shimogamo Shrine (Kamo-mioya Jinja) (Demachiyanagi Sta.)
Oct 31 (Sat) – Dec 6 (Sun) 09:00 – 16:00 (details on the official site)
Part of the 62nd autumn special opening run by the Kyoto Association for the Preservation of Old Culture. At Shimogamo Shrine you can see the main sanctuary (National Treasure) plus the Mitsui Shrine, Oidono kitchen hall and Shinpukuden (all Important Cultural Properties), the ice house, the Ura-no-kairo corridor, the site of the shrine's former Buddhist temple and the Shuhosha archive. Reception 9:00 to 16:00 (until 14:30 on Nov 23). No reservation needed; groups of 15 or more should contact the office first.
Details →Art exhibition
Kyoto Special Opening of Cultural Properties: Omotesenke Kitayama Kaikan (first-ever opening)
Omotesenke Kitayama Kaikan (Kitayama Sta.)
Oct 31 (Sat) – Dec 6 (Sun) Reception 9:30 to 16:00
Opened to the public for the first time in this autumn's special openings: exhibits and commentary on the history of the tea ceremony and its tea gatherings, plus a chance to step inside a small tea room. 5 minutes on foot from Kitayama Station on the Karasuma subway line.
Details →Food event
Prague Sweets Fair: 30th Anniversary of the Kyoto-Prague Sister City Partnership at Nine pastry shops and cafes across Kyoto
Nine pastry shops and cafes across Kyoto, including Amber Court at Hotel Nikko Princess Kyoto (Shijo Sta.)
Nov 1 (Sun) – Nov 30 (Mon) Hours: please check with the organizer
Kyoto and Prague became sister cities in 1996. For the 30th anniversary, nine shops in the city sell Czech-inspired sweets such as medovnik and vetrnik through November. Hours: please check with each shop.
Details →Festival & seasonal event
Nanzen-ji Autumn Special Opening 2026: Nanzen-in Garden and Hatto Inner Hall
Nanzen-ji Temple, Nanzen-in and Hatto (Keage Sta.)
Nov 1 (Sun) – Nov 30 (Mon) Hours: Nanzen-in hours not listed by the temple (Hatto inner hall 9:00-16:00, closed 12:00-13:00)
The Nanzen-in garden, closed for a long time during landscaping work, opens for November only. The inner sanctum of the Hatto (Dharma Hall) opens Nov 16-29 (closed Nov 26).
Details →Nov 1 (Sun) – Nov 23 (Mon) 09:00 – 18:00 (details on the official site)
A City of Kyoto trial linking Pontocho Park to the Kamo River with a temporary staircase, plus chairs and a lawn corner. On Nov 13 and 14 only, food stalls serve craft beer, sake, kamameshi rice, shumai and takoyaki from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Rain date: Nov 15.
Details →Art exhibition
Saga Chrysanthemum Exhibition at Daikakuji Temple
Daikakuji Temple (Former Saga Imperial Palace) (Saga-Arashiyama Sta.)
Nov 1 (Sun) – Nov 30 (Mon) 09:00 – 17:00 (details on the official site)
Daikakuji shows its heirloom Saga chrysanthemums, whose thin petals stand straight up like brush tips, throughout November.
Details →Festival & seasonal event
Ginkakuji Autumn Special Viewing (Main Hall, Togudo, Rouseitei)
Ginkakuji Temple (Jishoji) (Ginkakuji-michi (bus stop) Sta.)
Nov 1 (Sun) – Dec 5 (Sat) 10:00 – 16:00 (details on the official site)
Guided 30-minute tours into rooms normally closed to visitors, with sliding-door paintings by Yosa Buson and Ike no Taiga and the four-and-a-half-mat Dojinsai study. Six tours a day, about 20 people each, first come first served on the day.
Details →Art exhibition
Chorakuji Temple Autumn Special Exhibition (with evening viewing)
Chorakuji Temple (behind Maruyama Park, Higashiyama) (Higashiyama Sta.)
Nov 1 (Sun) – Dec 13 (Sun) 10:00 – 17:00 (details on the official site)
An autumn display of temple treasures at Chorakuji, set midway along Kyoto's Higashiyama hills. See seven Important Cultural Property statues of the Jishu sect's Yugyo-shonin leaders, starting with founder Ippen, and a letter from the Ashikaga family. Evening viewing runs 6:00–8:00 PM from November 23 to December 6.
Details →Nov 2 (Mon) – Nov 29 (Sun) 17:30 – 21:30
An immersive night walk through Heian Shrine in autumn colors, with light shows in five areas such as LUNAR BLOOM, FLORAL GLOW and LUNAR MIRROR. Last entry 9:00 PM; may be canceled in bad weather. No dedicated parking.
Details →Art exhibition
Autumn Special Exhibition: Nanban - Memories of Kyoto Where Foreign Cultures Met
Kyoto Sangyo University Gallery (Musubiwaza-kan, 2F) (Tambaguchi Sta.)
Nov 2 (Mon) – Dec 12 (Sat) 10:00 – 16:30 (details on the official site)
Traces the Portuguese and Spanish 'Nanban' visitors to Japan in the 16th and 17th centuries, East-West exchange, and the ban and persecution of Christianity through historical materials. 2026 marks 450 years since the 'Nanbanji of the capital' (Church of the Assumption) was dedicated in Kyoto in 1576; it was later destroyed under the ban. Part 1 runs Nov 2-22 and Part 2 Nov 25-Dec 12, with some items changed. No parking or bicycle parking at the venue.
Details →Festival & seasonal event
Keihanna Commemorative Park autumn leaves light-up
Keihanna Commemorative Park (Suikeien Garden) (Hosono Sta.)
Nov 3 (Tue) – Nov 29 (Sun) Sunset to 21:00 (last entry 20:30). Nara Kotsu bus from Hosono or Shin-Hosono stations
The Japanese garden Suikeien in this prefectural park in Kansai Science City lights up its autumn maples from sunset to 21:00 (last entry 20:30), rain or shine. On November 3 the garden is open free of charge.
Details →Nov 3 (Tue) – Dec 20 (Sun) 10:00 – 19:30
A major retrospective of Kaj Franck, one of Finland's leading designers, showcasing glassware and ceramics that combine functionality and beauty.
Details →Art exhibition
Kota Tonoike Collage Exhibition at Rendez-vous Gallery & Cafe
Rendez-vous Gallery & Cafe (Nijo Sta.)
Nov 3 (Tue) – Nov 29 (Sun) Hours: please check with the organizer
An exhibition by Kyoto collage artist Kota Tonoike. A collage workshop (reservation required) runs on November 14 from 2:00 to 5:00 PM.
Details →Art exhibition
Kyoto ddd Gallery Exhibition No. 254: Superplay — Graphic Design from Rotterdam
Kyoto ddd Gallery (Shijo Sta.)
Nov 4 (Wed) – Jan 13 (Wed) Tuesday–Friday 11:00 AM–7:00 PM; Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays 11:00 AM–6:00 PM
A graphic design exhibition featuring Rotterdam-based studios Studio Spass and Team Thursday.
Details →Art exhibition
FOCUS #7 Koki Tanaka: No Time to Sleep / Time to Sleep 2026 at Kyoto Art Center
Kyoto Art Center, North and South Galleries (Shijo Sta.)
Nov 6 (Fri) – Jan 11 (Mon) 10:00 – 20:00 (details on the official site)
Closing your eyes, dropping things, sleeping and doing nothing become exercises in this solo show by Koki Tanaka. The South and North galleries are named the Time Gallery and the Sleep/Dream Gallery, with a video of a paper cup thrown until it stands and a sculpture the weight of a child.
Details →Art exhibition
Miriam Cahn Exhibition: STILL LEBEN at Yuuhisai Koudoukan
Yuuhisai Koudoukan (Marutamachi Sta.)
Nov 6 (Fri) – Nov 15 (Sun) 10:00 – 17:00
Exhibition admission is free. A special tea service is available separately for an additional fee and requires a reservation.
Details →Art exhibition
Shinichiro Yoshida: The White of Consciousness 2026 at HOSOO GALLERY
HOSOO GALLERY (HOSOO FLAGSHIP STORE 2F) (Karasuma Oike Sta.)
Nov 6 (Fri) – Mar 20 (Sat) 10:30 – 18:00 (details on the official site)
More than 1,000 reference materials are stripped back into a new installation of two white cloths, hemp and ramie. Born in Kyoto Prefecture in 1948, Yoshida met Joseph Beuys in West Germany in 1977 and later turned to researching hemp cloth of the Edo period.
Details →Festival & seasonal event
Autumn Night Special Viewing (Shoren-in)
Shoren-in Temple (Higashiyama Sta.)
Nov 6 (Fri) – Dec 6 (Sun) 18:00 – 22:00
Evening illumination of the pond garden, bamboo grove and giant camphor trees, inspired by the light of the temple's principal deity. Last entry 9:30 PM; day and night admissions are separate.
Details →Art exhibition
Mariko Mori: Shrine II — Topology of Inner Light (Time-Do Gallery)
Time-Do Gallery (Marutamachi Sta.)
Nov 6 (Fri) – Mar 31 (Wed) 11:00 – 18:00 (details on the official site)
In two connected Taisho-era townhouses southwest of the Kyoto Imperial Palace, Mariko Mori shows her installation Shrine II and eight hanging scrolls. The work pays homage to the sacred stone beneath Mizuya Shrine, a sub-shrine of Kasuga Taisha.
Details →Festival & seasonal event
Eizan Railway Autumn Slow Run & Illumination (Momiji Tunnel)
Momiji Tunnel, Eizan Railway Kurama Line (between Ichihara and Ninose) (Ichihara Sta.)
Nov 7 (Sat) – Dec 6 (Sun) 16:30 – 21:00 (details on the official site)
On the Kurama Line between Ichihara and Ninose stations, about 280 Japanese maples line roughly 250 m of track. Trains slow down through this 'maple tunnel', and after dark it is lit up: catch trains leaving Demachiyanagi from about 4:30 PM or Kurama from about 4:49 PM. The period may be extended depending on the foliage.
Details →Festival & seasonal event
Ryoginan (National Treasure) Autumn Special Opening at Tofukuji
Ryoginan, a sub-temple of Tofukuji (Tofukuji Sta.)
Nov 7 (Sat) – Dec 6 (Sun) 09:00 – 16:30 (details on the official site)
A special autumn opening of Ryoginan, timed with Tofukuji's maple-viewing season. See the abbot's hall, the oldest surviving building of its kind and a National Treasure, and three gardens by Shigemori Mirei: the bare white-sand 'Garden of Nothingness', the 'Dragon Garden' where stones show a dragon rising from the sea through black clouds, and the 'Garden of Inseparability' tied to a childhood legend of the founder Mukan Fumon. Last entry 16:00.
Details →Festival & seasonal event
Daioin (Myoshinji) Autumn Special Viewing 2026 with Tatsuya Kinoshita Tanka Exhibition
Daioin, a sub-temple of Myoshinji (Hanazono Sta.)
Nov 7 (Sat) – Nov 29 (Sun) 10:00 – 16:00 (details on the official site)
An autumn special viewing at Daioin, inside the Myoshinji temple complex. See the sliding-door paintings by Shibata Zeshin in the main hall, the 'Senbon no Hana no Maru' sliding doors and the garden, alongside an exhibition of tanka poems by poet Tatsuya Kinoshita. General admission needs no reservation; the exhibition events (Nov 7, 8, 9, 27, 29), a Chinese tea gathering (Nov 27-28), a baobab concert (Nov 28, 18:30) and brush-written temple seals require booking. Closes at 14:00 on Nov 8.
Details →Festival & seasonal event
Chisan Momijitsuki: Autumn Leaves Light-up at Chishakuin
Chishakuin Temple (Shichijo Sta.)
Nov 7 (Sat) – Dec 6 (Sun) 17:00 – 21:00
A new autumn light-up at Chishakuin, head temple of the Chisan school of Shingon Buddhism. Colored maples are joined by 3,000 bamboo lanterns filling the grounds and a sea of mist clouds, created by the team behind Arashiyama Tsukitoro and Toji Tsukikairo. Last entry 8:40 PM; tickets on sale daily from 5:00 PM on the grounds.
Details →Festival & seasonal event
Jinzoji Temple Autumn Leaves Light-Up 2026 at Asahiyama Jinzoji Temple
Asahiyama Jinzoji Temple (Kameoka Sta.)
Nov 7 (Sat) – Nov 29 (Sun) Hours: please check with the organizer
The longest of the three temple and shrine light-ups on the Kameoka tourism association's 2026 list, scheduled for 23 days from sunset to 8:00 PM. It ends early once the autumn colors have passed their peak, so the later dates are not guaranteed.
Details →Art exhibition
Naoko Tosa: Things That Are Generated — The Present of Art and Technology 2026 at Kyoto City KYOCERA Museum of Art
Kyoto City KYOCERA Museum of Art, Main Building 1F Hall of Light (Higashiyama Sta.)
Nov 7 (Sat) – Nov 22 (Sun) 10:00 – 18:00
In Naoko Tosa's work, sound, air and vibration make the image rather than the artist's hand. Four chapters run from her 1980s video, including An Expression (acquired by MoMA in 2011), to the 2026 folding screen Tosa Rinpa: Fujin, created from sound vibration and shown here for the first time.
Details →Festival & seasonal event
Kifune Shrine Autumn Leaves Illumination
Kifune Shrine, main approach to the Main Shrine (Kibuneguchi Sta.)
Nov 7 (Sat) – Nov 24 (Tue) Lit from sunset until 8:30 PM
The autumn leaves along the main approach to Kifune Shrine's Main Shrine are lit up from sunset. Admission is free; the amulet office is open 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
Details →Art exhibition
UYAMA Painting Exhibition: From the Depths of My Heart at Kaikonoyashiro no Ouchi
Kaikonoyashiro no Ouchi (Kaikonoyashiro Sta.)
Nov 9 (Mon) – Nov 15 (Sun) 10:00 – 17:00
Located very close to Randen's Kaikonoyashiro stop, just a three-minute walk from Exit 4 of Uzumasa Tenjingawa subway station.
Details →Festival & seasonal event
2026 Special Autumn Foliage Viewing at Enkoji Temple
Enkoji Temple (Ichijoji Sta.)
Nov 10 (Tue) – Dec 10 (Thu) 09:00 – 17:00
Enjoy autumn foliage at a Zen temple whose origins trace back to an educational institution founded by Tokugawa Ieyasu. Date-and-time reservations are required.
Details →Festival & seasonal event
Myokakuji Temple Hoshien Garden Special Opening and Autumn Light-up
Myokakuji Temple (Kuramaguchi Sta.)
Nov 10 (Tue) – Dec 6 (Sun) 10:00 – 15:30
A head temple of the Nichiren school founded in the Muromachi period, once used by Oda Nobunaga as his lodging in Kyoto. The mossy Hoshien garden is open by day, and from November 21 to December 6 it is also illuminated from 6:00 to 8:00 PM, when the Kahoto stupa hall is opened. Closed 3:30-6:00 PM for changeover; last entry 3:00 PM by day and 7:30 PM at night.
Details →Nov 10 (Tue) – Nov 14 (Sat) 17:00 – 20:00
A five-day light-up in Kameoka, running November 10 to 14 from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Buses in the area are infrequent, so the local tourism association suggests a taxi at some hours.
Details →Art exhibition
Akiko Yada Solo Exhibition: Clear Vision at cafe co.co. & gallery ATTA!
cafe co.co. & gallery ATTA! (Shichijo Sta.)
Nov 11 (Wed) – Nov 15 (Sun) 10:00 – 17:00
Open 10:00 AM–5:00 PM on weekdays and 10:00 AM–6:00 PM on Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays.
Details →Food event
Christmas Sweet Moments — Step into a Magical Christmas World at Hilton Kyoto
Hilton Kyoto, 1st Floor, All-Day Dining Teori (Kyoto Shiyakusho-mae Sta.)
Festival & seasonal event
Autumn Special Opening: Night Viewing at Kurodani Konkai Komyo-ji
Kurodani Konkai Komyo-ji Temple (Keage Sta.)
Nov 13 (Fri) – Dec 6 (Sun) 17:30 – 20:30
Maples reflected in the pond of the Shiun Garden, with the main hall, gate, bell tower and approach lit up. Live koto and shinobue performances three times each night. Last entry 8:00 PM.
Details →Festival & seasonal event
Maple Garden at the Historic Odoi Earthworks: Autumn Illumination at Kitano Tenmangu Shrine
Kitano Tenmangu Shrine, Odoi Maple Garden (Kitano-Hakubaicho Sta.)
Nov 13 (Fri) – Dec 6 (Sun) Sunset–8:00 PM (last admission 7:40 PM)
Around 350 maple trees color the historic Odoi earthworks built by Toyotomi Hideyoshi. Illumination runs from sunset until 8:00 PM, with last admission at 7:40 PM. Admission includes a sweet inspired by the historic Kitano Grand Tea Gathering.
Details →Festival & seasonal event
Hogon-in Temple Autumn Night Illumination
Hogon-in Temple (Tenryuji) (Arashiyama Sta.)
Nov 13 (Fri) – Dec 6 (Sun) 17:30 – 20:30 (details on the official site)
The Shishiku garden of Hogon-in in Arashiyama is lit up at night for the autumn leaves. Night entry is separate from daytime visits; last entry 8:00 PM.
Details →Festival & seasonal event
Umekoji Park Autumn Leaves Festival (Suzaku Garden Light-Up)
Umekoji Park, Suzaku Garden (Umekoji-Kyotonishi Sta.)
Nov 13 (Fri) – Nov 29 (Sun) 17:00 – 21:00
The maples and pines of Suzaku Garden, the Japanese garden in Umekoji Park, are lit up at night. The dark pond turns into a mirror for the trees, and a path runs under maples close enough to touch. Last entry is 20:30. Show a same-day ticket stub from Kyoto Aquarium, Kyoto Railway Museum or VIVA SQUARE KYOTO for 100 yen off.
Details →Art exhibition
Kyoto Special Opening of Cultural Properties: Kushoin, a sub-temple of Kenninji
Kushoin (Kenninji sub-temple) (Gion-Shijo Sta.)
Nov 13 (Fri) – Nov 30 (Mon) Last entry 16:00
This Kenninji sub-temple opens for the autumn special openings: the abbot's hall and its garden, a statue of founder Sanko Shoeki, the study hall Koshoken, the tea room Enshu Betsugonoseki, and a painting of the Battle of Nagashino by Ukita Ikkei. About 8 minutes on foot from Gion-Shijo Station on the Keihan line.
Details →Festival & seasonal event
Special Autumn Foliage Viewing 2026 at Tentokuin Temple
Tentokuin Temple (Tofukuji Sta.)
Nov 14 (Sat) – Dec 6 (Sun) 09:00 – 20:30
A special viewing of moss gardens and autumn leaves at a subtemple of Tofukuji. Admission is accepted until 8:00 PM, with illumination beginning around 4:00 PM.
Details →Festival & seasonal event
LOTUS WEEKEND 2026 at Shojokein Temple
Shojokein Temple, Head Temple of Jodo Buddhism (Demachiyanagi Sta.)
Nov 14 (Sat) – Nov 15 (Sun) 10:00 – 16:00
Held rain or shine. Check the fees and participation requirements for individual activities.
Details →Festival & seasonal event
Kyoto Botanical Gardens Autumn Night Illumination
Kyoto Botanical Gardens (Kitayama Sta.)
Nov 14 (Sat) – Dec 13 (Sun) 18:00 – 21:30
An evening stroll among lit-up autumn leaves and reflections on the water. Last entry 8:30 PM. Hand lanterns ¥1,500 extra.
Details →Festival & seasonal event
Momiji Week 2026 at Yanagidani Kannon Yokokuji Temple
Yanagidani Kannon Yokokuji Temple (Nagaokakyo Sta.)
Nov 14 (Sat) – Dec 6 (Sun) Goshuin reception until 16:30, Kami-shoin until 15:30. Private night viewing on December 5 and 6 (reservation required, 10 people per session, 17:00-18:30 and 18:40-20:00, offering 10,000 yen per person)
An autumn leaves event at Yokokuji in Nagaokakyo, known as the birthplace of hanachozu (flower-filled water basins). Flower basins are set out at five places in the grounds, and in the Kami-shoin hall the autumn garden is reflected on polished desks. The period may be extended depending on the leaves.
Details →Festival & seasonal event
Tofukuji Temple autumn foliage viewing (Tsutenkyo Bridge and Kaisando)
Tofukuji Temple (Tofukuji Sta.)
Nov 14 (Sat) – Dec 6 (Sun) Last entry 16:00 (Hojo gardens open from 9:00)
Autumn viewing season at Tofukuji, one of Kyoto's best-known maple spots: Tsutenkyo Bridge opens at 8:30 and the Hojo gardens at 9:00, last entry 16:00, gates close 16:30. No combined ticket is sold during this period.
Details →Festival & seasonal event
Unryuin Temple Autumn Special Opening and Light-up
Unryuin Temple (Sennyuji) (Tofukuji Sta.)
Nov 14 (Sat) – Nov 30 (Mon) 09:00 – 17:00
A quiet hidden spot for autumn leaves in Higashiyama, a sub-temple of the imperial family temple Sennyuji. The usually hidden Fudo Myoo triad is unveiled, and garden maples can be viewed from the study halls. On November 20-23 the temple is lit from sunset to 9:00 PM, and the four shoji windows of the Renge-no-ma room frame camellia, a lantern, maples and pine. No day/night changeover; last entry 4:30 PM by day, 8:30 PM at night.
Details →Food event
Autumn Market Thanks Festa at Kyoto City Central Wholesale Market
Kyoto City Central Wholesale Market (Umekoji-Kyotonishi Sta.)
Nov 14 (Sat) – Nov 15 (Sun) 09:00 – 15:00
Explore Kyoto's central wholesale market through food stalls, fresh produce shopping, and market tours. The November 15 event starts at 10:00 AM.
Details →Festival & seasonal event
Autumn Special Viewing at Shorinji Temple
Shorinji Temple, a Subtemple of Tofukuji (Tofukuji Sta.)
Nov 14 (Sat) – Dec 6 (Sun) 10:00 – 16:00
See a special display of the standing statue of Bishamonten, the guardian deity protecting Tofukuji's northeast direction. Other highlights include the main hall relocated from the Konoe family estate and the autumn foliage.
Details →Nov 14 (Sat) – Nov 23 (Mon) 17:30 – 21:30
Murin-an, the former villa of statesman Yamagata Aritomo, opens at night only during the autumn leaf season. Each session includes a short talk by a garden concierge, a stroll through the illuminated garden, and cafe service with matcha or sparkling wine and original sweets. Two sessions (17:30 and 19:30) with 30 places each, booking required on a first-come basis. A day runs only if at least 14 people book. No parking.
Details →Festival & seasonal event
Autumn Leaves Special Admission at Komyoji, Nagaokakyo
Komyoji, head temple of the Seizan Jodo sect (Nagaokakyo Sta.)
Nov 14 (Sat) – Dec 6 (Sun) 09:00 – 16:00 (details on the official site)
A special admission period held only in the autumn-leaf season. Tickets are sold at a temporary booth in front of the Somon gate from 9:00 to 16:00; allow about 40 minutes. There is no parking at all in the leaf season, so come by train and bus (Hankyu Bus from Hankyu Nagaoka-tenjin or JR Nagaokakyo stations to 'Asahigaoka Home-mae'). Park-and-ride users of the municipal lot west of Nagaokakyo Station pay 400 yen by showing their parking ticket. No eating, pets or tripods on the grounds; no photos inside the halls or the treasure exhibition.
Details →Market
Chazuna de Marche at Tea and Uji Town History Park
Tea and Uji Town History Park (Chazuna) (Uji Sta.)
Nov 14 (Sat) 10:00 – 15:00 (details on the official site)
A regular market at the history park in Uji, with handmade goods, food and performances by local people. A 4-minute walk from Keihan Uji Station. The next date after Nov 14 is Dec 20, same hours.
Details →Festival & seasonal event
Satoyama Culture Festival: Meet the World's Trees in a Forest Like a Botanical Garden at Kamigamo Experimental Station
Kamigamo Experimental Station, Field Science Education and Research Center, Kyoto University (Kitayama Sta.)
Nov 14 (Sat) 10:00 – 16:00 (details on the official site)
A family forest-education day at a Kyoto University research forest with about 750 tree species. Hands-on booths include shrine-carpenter work, a forestry shooting game and Kitayama cedar magnet making. Forest walks (15 people each) need advance booking.
Details →Festival & seasonal event
Nagaoka Tenmangu Shrine: Kinkeien Garden Autumn Illumination
Nagaoka Tenmangu Shrine (Kinkeien Garden) (Nagaoka-Tenjin Sta.)
Nov 14 (Sat) – Dec 6 (Sun) 16:30 – 20:00 (details on the official site)
The Kinkeien maple garden inside Nagaoka Tenmangu Shrine is lit from late afternoon until 8:00 PM. Maples around a small waterfall are reflected in the pond.
Details →Nov 15 (Sun) 08:00 – 16:00
A handmade crafts market held on the grounds of Hyakumanben Chion-ji Temple.
Details →Nov 17 (Tue) – Dec 6 (Sun) 17:30 – 21:30
The illuminated highlights of the head temple of Jodo Buddhism include the Sanmon Gate, Yuzen-en Garden, and Miei-do Hall. In 2026, visitors can also access the corridor on the upper level of Sanmon Gate. Last admission at 9:00 PM.
Details →Festival & seasonal event
Shinnyodo Exclusive Night Viewing
Shinnyodo (Shinsho Gokurakuji) Temple (Demachiyanagi Sta.)
Nov 18 (Wed) – Dec 8 (Tue) 17:30 – 19:30
The first night illumination of the grounds in seven years: the three-storey pagoda, stone approach and maples. Booked through JR Central's EX travel service (membership required). Main hall interior not open. Last entry 7:00 PM.
Details →Art exhibition
Nijo Castle Wall Paintings: Original Works, Winter Display (Kuroshoin First and Second Rooms)
Nijo Castle Wall Paintings Exhibition and Storage Hall (Nijojo-mae Sta.)
Nov 19 (Thu) – Jan 17 (Sun) 09:00 – 16:45 (details on the official site)
The original wall paintings of Nijo Castle are shown in rotation at this storage hall inside the castle grounds. The winter display, running 57 days, presents the originals from the first and second rooms of the Kuroshoin.
Details →Art exhibition
KYOTO Ekinaka Art Project 2026 (Student Art in Subway Stations) at 11 Kyoto City Subway stations
11 Kyoto City Subway stations (Karasuma Oike and others) (Karasuma Oike Sta.)
Nov 20 (Fri) – Jan 27 (Wed) Hours: please check with the organizer
Students from 13 Kyoto universities install works on the theme UPDATE in 11 subway stations, with a keyword rally across the stations.
Details →Festival & seasonal event
Agnes Illumination at Heian Jogakuin University
Heian Jogakuin University, Kyoto Campus (Marutamachi Sta.)
Nov 20 (Fri) – Dec 25 (Fri) 16:30 – 21:00
The 22nd annual illumination display created by students and faculty, themed around 'Love.' The lights switch on at 6:05 PM on the opening day. Power supplied by next-generation vehicles is planned for December 10–12.
Details →Festival & seasonal event
Daigoji Temple (World Heritage) Autumn Night Viewing
Daigoji Temple (Daigo Sta.)
Nov 20 (Fri) – Dec 6 (Sun) 18:00 – 20:50
A limited-time evening visit inspired by the maple-viewing party Toyotomi Hideyoshi dreamed of but never held. Walk past the illuminated National Treasure Golden Hall and Five-Story Pagoda and the autumn colors of the Rinsen and Muryoju-en gardens. Day and night visits are separate; last entry 8:10 PM.
Details →Festival & seasonal event
Daimido Kannonji Light-up 2026
Daimido Kannonji Temple and surroundings (Miyamaki Sta.)
Nov 20 (Fri) – Nov 23 (Mon) 17:00 – 20:00
For four evenings the temple and its surroundings in Kyotanabe are lit from 5 p.m., with a special night viewing of the National Treasure Eleven-Headed Kannon statue and bamboo lanterns carrying visitors' written wishes.
Details →Festival & seasonal event
Eikando Autumn Illumination and Special Night Viewing
Eikando Temple (Zenrin-ji) (Keage Sta.)
Nov 20 (Fri) – Dec 6 (Sun) 17:30 – 21:00
Enjoy around 3,000 maple trees glowing with autumn colors around a traditional strolling pond garden. Last admission at 8:30 PM; lights out and gates close at 9:00 PM.
Details →Nov 20 (Fri) – Dec 6 (Sun) 10:00 – 16:30 (details on the official site)
A normally closed imperial nunnery temple in Shishigatani opens for the autumn leaves. See the large Reikanji maple, moss gardens, and a guided study hall with Kano-school paintings and palace dolls.
Details →Festival & seasonal event
Izumo Daijingu Shrine Autumn Leaves Light-Up 2026
Izumo Daijingu Shrine (Kameoka Sta.)
Nov 21 (Sat) – Nov 23 (Mon) 17:00 – 20:00
Tanba Province's first-ranked shrine lights its autumn leaves for just three days, November 21 to 23, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Buses in Kameoka are infrequent, so plan your return in advance.
Details →Festival & seasonal event
Koseiji Temple Autumn Special Opening with Night Viewing
Koseiji Temple (Nijo Sta.)
Nov 21 (Sat) – Nov 23 (Mon) 18:00 – 20:00
The evening session of Koseiji Temple's three-day autumn special opening in Kamigyo Ward. A tea service is offered for ¥800; last entry at 7:30 PM.
Details →Festival & seasonal event
Myoken-ji Temple Illumination & Special Night Viewing
Myoken-ji Temple (Kuramaguchi Sta.)
Nov 21 (Sat) – Dec 13 (Sun) 18:00 – 20:30
Autumn illumination and special night viewing at Myoken-ji, a Nichiren Buddhist temple in Kamigyo Ward. Last entry at 8:00 PM.
Details →Art exhibition
Stories by Master Heinz Werner — The Porcelain Art of Modern Meissen at Hosomi Museum
Hosomi Museum (Higashiyama Sta.)
Nov 21 (Sat) – Jan 31 (Sun) 10:00 – 17:00
Explore the porcelain artistry and imaginative storytelling of Heinz Werner, a leading figure in modern Meissen.
Details →Market
Kobo-ichi Market at Toji Temple (November 21)
Toji Temple (Kyo-o-gokoku-ji) grounds (Toji Sta.)
Nov 21 (Sat) Hours: please check with the organizer (Mieku service in the Mieido hall from 10:00)
On the 21st of every month, the memorial day of Kobo Daishi, nearly 1,000 stalls fill the grounds of Toji. Dango, firewood, charcoal, pots and other daily goods are sold, and the Mieku service is held in the Mieido hall from 10:00.
Details →Festival & seasonal event
Kiyomizu-dera Jojuin Garden Special Viewing (Autumn Nights)
Jojuin, Kiyomizu-dera Temple (Kiyomizu-Gojo Sta.)
Nov 21 (Sat) – Nov 30 (Mon) 18:00 – 20:30
The garden of Jojuin, a sub-temple of Kiyomizu-dera, opens at night during the same period as the main temple's autumn night viewing. Admission closes at 8:30 PM.
Details →Festival & seasonal event
Autumn Special Night Viewing at Kiyomizu-dera Temple
Kiyomizu-dera Temple (Kiyomizu-Gojo Sta.)
Nov 21 (Sat) – Nov 30 (Mon) 17:30 – 21:30
Special evening viewing with illuminated autumn foliage in Kin'un Gorge and the National Treasure Main Hall. Last admission at 9:00 PM; gates close at 9:30 PM.
Details →Market
32nd Tofukuji–Sennyuji Potters' Autumn Maple Festival and Grand Pottery Market
Pottery Workshops between Tofukuji and Sennyuji Temples (Tofukuji Sta.)
Nov 21 (Sat) – Nov 29 (Sun) 10:00 – 16:30
A pottery market spread across the traditional ceramic workshops between Tofukuji and Sennyuji temples. Pottery-making experiences and tastings of local Kyoto sake are also featured.
Details →Festival & seasonal event
Daigoji "A Night Watched Over by Buddhas": Meditation Yoga, Shojin Dinner and Night Viewing
Daigoji Temple (Reihokan Museum) (Daigo Sta.)
Nov 21 (Sat) – Nov 23 (Mon) 18:15 – 20:50 (details on the official site)
Three nights only: meditation yoga among National Treasure Buddhist statues, an autumn vegetarian temple dinner, then a walk through the illuminated autumn grounds. 50 people per night, advance booking required.
Details →Nov 22 (Sun) 09:00 – 15:00
A handmade market held within the grounds of Kamigamo Shrine. On November 22, the market will take place in a different area from its usual location.
Details →Market
10th Kokohana Marche at Shinka-ji Temple
Shinka-ji Temple, Kinko Benzaiten Shaka Hall (Iseda Sta.)
Nov 23 (Mon) 09:30 – 15:00
Held on the same day as the Shinka-ji Temple Festival. The venue is in Uji City, not Kyoto City.
Details →Festival & seasonal event
40th Anniversary 'Circle of En' — A Courtyard Installation Celebrating Connections at The Prince Kyoto Takaragaike
The Prince Kyoto Takaragaike (Kokusaikaikan Sta.)
Nov 25 (Wed) – Dec 25 (Fri) 17:00 – 23:00
A festive Christmas courtyard installation celebrating the hotel's 40th anniversary. A symbolic Christmas tree and illuminations decorate the circular courtyard designed by architect Togo Murano.
Details →Market
Tenjin-ichi Market (November 25) at Kitano Tenmangu Shrine
Kitano Tenmangu Shrine (Kitano-Hakubaicho Sta.)
Nov 25 (Wed) Hours: please check with the organizer (stalls open all day; grounds lit up from sunset)
The 25th of every month is the shrine's fair day, known as Tenjin-san no Hi, with stalls lining the approach all day and the grounds lit up from sunset. The last one of the year, on December 25, is called Shimai Tenjin.
Details →Live music
Special Noh Performance "Hagoromo" by Yamamoto Noh Theater at Tokuzenji (Daitokuji)
Tokuzenji Temple, Daitokuji (Kitaoji Sta.)
Nov 26 (Thu) 13:30 – 15:00 (details on the official site)
An introduction to Noh with chanting practice, masks, costumes and instruments, followed by a performance of the Noh play Hagoromo, led by Kanze-school actor Yamamoto Akihiro.
Details →Food event
Kyoto Prefecture Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries Festival 2026
Kyoto Pulsplaza (Takeda Sta.)
Nov 28 (Sat) – Nov 29 (Sun) 10:00 – 16:30 (details on the official site)
About 100 Kyoto producers sell vegetables, Uji tea and seafood, with a bluefin tuna cutting show and a mock fish auction.
Details →Art exhibition
Eternal Spirits: Go Nagai - Go Nagai Wonderland Revival (Kyoto) at The Museum of Kyoto
The Museum of Kyoto, 3rd-floor gallery (Karasuma Oike Sta.)
Nov 28 (Sat) – Jan 11 (Mon) 10:00 – 18:00 (details on the official site)
An exhibition on Go Nagai, creator of Mazinger Z, Devilman and Cutie Honey. Its core is the original art and figures recovered from the burned Go Nagai Wonderland museum in Wajima after the 2024 Noto Peninsula earthquake. Highlights include the quake-damaged large Great Mazinger figure, the restored Mazinger Z original art, the unrestored Demon Lord Dante art, a display on the Wajima Taisai (Kiriko) festival, and new manga Nagai drew for the show. Advance tickets on sale until Nov 27.
Details →Festival & seasonal event
Autumn Leaves Photo Walk in Yawata at Meeting point: Tourist Information House at Iwashimizu-hachimangu Station gates
Meeting point: Tourist Information House at Iwashimizu-hachimangu Station gates (Keihan) (Iwashimizu-hachimangu Sta.)
Nov 28 (Sat) – Nov 29 (Sun) Hours: please check with the organizer
A photo walk through the autumn colors of Yawata run by the city tourism association, limited to 20 people per day. Hours: please check with the organizer.
Details →Nov 29 (Sun) 10:00 – 16:00
A handmade market held in the public green space in front of Higashi Honganji Temple, selling original creations including accessories, fabric goods, pottery, and wooden crafts.
Details →Festival & seasonal event
Kencha-sai Tea Offering Ceremony, Kitano Tenmangu
Kitano Tenmangu Shrine (Kitano-Hakubaicho Sta.)
Dec 1 (Tue) Ritual from 10:00 (about 1 hour); tea rooms 9:00 – 15:00
A tea offering held in memory of the Great Kitano Tea Gathering of 1587, served in 2026 by the Urasenke school. Tea rooms are set up in the shrine grounds and in Kamishichiken. The ritual starts at 10:00 AM (about an hour); tea rooms 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM.
Details →Live music
Kichirei Kaomise Kogyo (December Grand Kabuki), Minamiza
Minamiza Theatre (Gion-Shijo Sta.)
Dec 1 (Tue) – Dec 24 (Thu) 10:30 – 21:10
Kyoto's year-end kabuki tradition. Matinee from 10:30 AM (ends around 3:15 PM), evening show from 4:00 PM (ends around 9:10 PM). The matinees on Dec 12, 19 and 20 and the evening show on Dec 18 are private bookings.
Details →Art exhibition
Kyoto State Guest House Autumn Evening Extended Opening
Kyoto State Guest House (Imadegawa Sta.)
Dec 4 (Fri) – Dec 7 (Mon) Open until 7:15 PM (last entry 6:15 PM); check the official site for the opening time
For four days only, the national guest house inside Kyoto Gyoen is open until 7:15 PM. Admission closes at 6:15 PM; children of elementary school age and under cannot enter.
Details →Dec 4 (Fri) 10:00 – 16:00
Scheduled market dates during the featured period are November 6 and December 4, not every day. Up to around 160 stalls gather against the backdrop of Heian Jingu Shrine. Held even in rainy weather.
Details →Market
Kyoto Handmade Marche 2026
Kyoto International Exhibition Hall (Miyako Messe), Exhibition Hall 3 (Higashiyama Sta.)
Dec 5 (Sat) – Dec 6 (Sun) 11:00 – 17:00
Browse and shop for handmade creations by artists from across Japan, with exhibitions, sales, and workshops. Around 1,000 booths are planned.
Details →Market
Arashiyama Little Forest Connect Marche (Nishikyo CONNECT) at River Plaza by Hankyu Arashiyama Station
River Plaza by Hankyu Arashiyama Station (Arashiyama Sta.)
Dec 5 (Sat) 10:00 – 16:00 (details on the official site)
A one-day market for the 50th anniversary of Nishikyo Ward, gathering selected local cafes and bakeries beside Hankyu Arashiyama Station.
Details →Market
Umekoji Park Handmade Market — December 5
Umekoji Park, Shichijo Entrance Event Plaza (Umekoji-Kyotonishi Sta.)
Dec 5 (Sat) 09:00 – 16:00
The market takes place on November 7 and December 5 during the featured period, not daily. Held rain or shine, this outdoor market features handmade goods sold directly by their creators.
Details →Market
Le Marché — Marché de Noël at Institut français du Kansai — Kyoto
Institut français du Kansai — Kyoto (Demachiyanagi Sta.)
Dec 12 (Sat) – Dec 13 (Sun) 11:00 – 19:00
A festive Christmas market at a French cultural center, featuring organic produce, European foods, flowers, and lifestyle goods.
Details →Market
be Kyoto Antenna Shop — Machiya Handmade Department Store
Machiya Gallery be Kyoto (Imadegawa Sta.)
Dec 12 (Sat) – Dec 13 (Sun) 11:00 – 17:00
An indoor handmade market held in a traditional Kyoto townhouse. A candy-sculpting workshop is also scheduled for December 13.
Details →Festival & seasonal event
Kyoto Railway Museum Special Tour: Experience Everything About the Series 500 Shinkansen!
Kyoto Railway Museum (Umekoji-Kyotonishi Sta.)
Dec 12 (Sat) – Jan 23 (Sat) 09:30 – 10:00
This special tour is held on only two dates: December 12 and January 23. Before the museum opens, join a curator to explore the driver's cab and learn about the pantograph of the Series 500 Shinkansen.
Details →Festival & seasonal event
Yamashina Gishi Festival at Bishamondo Temple – Iwayaji Temple – Oishi Shrine
Bishamondo Temple – Iwayaji Temple – Oishi Shrine (Yamashina Sta.)
Dec 14 (Mon) 10:00 – 15:00
A procession of 47 participants dressed as the legendary Ako loyal retainers walks through historic sites connected with them in Yamashina. A performance reenacting their famous raid is also held at Kyoto City Eastern Cultural Hall.
Details →Art exhibition
Hakuin's Zen — A Studio Ghibli Exhibition in Kyoto
Kyoto City KYOCERA Museum of Art, Higashiyama Cube (Higashiyama Sta.)
Dec 17 (Thu) – Jan 11 (Mon) 10:00 – 18:00
An exhibition about Zen master Hakuin Ekaku, planned and produced by Studio Ghibli. Discover Edo-period Zen paintings alongside video presentations.
Details →Festival & seasonal event
Kamigyo Culture Scroll No. 13: Lecture and Cultural Property Tour at Kitano Tenmangu
Kitano Tenmangu Shrine (Bundo Kaikan and main sanctuary grounds) (Kitano-Hakubaicho Sta.)
Dec 19 (Sat) 13:30 – 15:30 (details on the official site)
A lecture by a Kitano Tenmangu priest on the shrine's history and its Han-Mando Festival, followed by a formal visit to the National Treasure main sanctuary and guided group tours. First 100 applicants; applications run Nov 20 to Dec 18. Preschool children cannot apply.
Details →Art exhibition
The 119th Nitten Exhibition, Kyoto
Kyoto City KYOCERA Museum of Art, Main Building (Higashiyama Sta.)
Dec 19 (Sat) – Jan 16 (Sat) 10:00 – 18:00
The Kyoto showing of one of Japan's largest open juried art exhibitions, with about 500 works in five categories: Japanese-style painting, Western-style painting, sculpture, applied arts and calligraphy. Includes touring works and pieces by Kyoto and Shiga artists. Last admission 5:30 PM; closed Dec 28 to Jan 2.
Details →Dec 21 (Mon) 08:00 – 15:00
The final Kobo Market of the year, originating from the monthly memorial day of Buddhist monk Kukai. Stalls throughout the temple grounds sell antiques, vintage clothing, household goods, plants, and lucky decorations for the New Year.
Details →Art exhibition
New Year Special Exhibition: All About Sheep — Celebrating the Zodiac at Kyoto National Museum
Kyoto National Museum, Heisei Chishinkan Wing, Gallery 2F-2 (Shichijo Sta.)
Dec 22 (Tue) – Feb 7 (Sun) 09:30 – 17:00
Discover cultural treasures featuring sheep, the zodiac animal of 2027. Open until 8:00 PM on Fridays. The same admission ticket provides access to all exhibitions in the Heisei Chishinkan Wing on the day of your visit.
Details →Art exhibition
Special Feature: Tea Utensils and Their Accompaniments (Kyoto National Museum)
Kyoto National Museum (Shichijo Sta.)
Dec 22 (Tue) – Mar 22 (Mon) 9:30 – 17:00 (Fridays until 20:00); last entry 30 min before closing
A feature exhibition of tea utensils with their boxes, pouches and other accompaniments. Open until 8:00 PM on Fridays; last entry 30 minutes before closing.
Details →Market
Shimai Tenjin: Year-End Tenjin Market at Kitano Tenmangu
Kitano Tenmangu Shrine (Kitano-Hakubaicho Sta.)
Dec 25 (Fri) From 7:00 AM (closing time: please check with the organizer)
The market held on the 25th of every month closes the year on December 25. Known as Shimai Tenjin, it fills the shrine grounds with stalls of antiques, old tools and vintage clothing.
Details →Festival & seasonal event
Grand Stairway Graphical Illumination Plus: Winter Season at Kyoto Station Building
Kyoto Station Building, Grand Stairway (Kyoto Sta.)
Dec 26 (Sat) – Dec 31 (Thu) 15:00 – 22:00
A winter-only graphical illumination transforms Kyoto Station's grand staircase with images of snow and snowflakes, blending seasonal visuals with the architecture.
Details →Festival & seasonal event
Chion-in New Year's Eve Bell: Rehearsal Ringing
Chion-in Temple (Higashiyama Sta.)
Dec 27 (Sun) From 2:00 PM (closing time: please check with the organizer)
Before New Year's Eve, 17 monks practice ringing the giant temple bell, which weighs about 70 tons. Visitors may watch only.
Details →Festival & seasonal event
Countdown & New Year — Welcome 2027 with Lights of Good Fortune at The Prince Kyoto Takaragaike
The Prince Kyoto Takaragaike (Kokusaikaikan Sta.)
Dec 31 (Thu) – Jan 31 (Sun) 17:00 – 23:00
Good-luck decorations carrying visitors' wishes adorn the courtyard's symbolic tree. A New Year's Eve countdown is planned, along with decoration-making experiences over two days through New Year's Day.
Details →Dec 31 (Thu) 15:00 – 17:00
An early evening year-end bell-ringing ceremony held instead of the traditional midnight New Year's Eve ringing. The first 108 participants who make an offering receive an Anchin and Kiyohime bell amulet.
Details →Festival & seasonal event
Chion-in New Year's Eve Bell (Joya no Kane)
Chion-in Temple (Higashiyama Sta.)
Dec 31 (Thu) From 10:20 PM (closing time: please check with the organizer)
Seventeen monks strike the temple bell of about 70 tons 108 times to see out the year. Visitors watch only, and advance registration is required.
Details →Jan 15 (Fri) – Jan 16 (Sat) 11:00 – 17:00
The ¥2,000 vendor fee is not an admission charge for visitors. Browse materials including beads, buttons, embroidered ribbons, yarn, and leather.
Details →
Next stop: book for later today PR
Experiences near here you can book on Klook.
Yuzen DyeingYuzen dyeing in a historic machiya→Kintsugi WorkshopKintsugi repair experience→Ad: Klook affiliate links.