Kyoto Imperial Palace Special Opening — October 30th to November 3rd
To visit Kyoto Imperial Palace, a reservation is usually needed. However, for several days in Spring and Fall, anyone can visit and go inside without making a reservation. If it’s a sunny beautiful day, enjoy walking in Kyoto Imperial Park whose premises include the Palace. 9:00 – 15:30.
Arashiyama Maple Festival — November 8th
This is a perfect opportunity to enjoy the autumn foliage and serene atmosphere created by Arashiyama mountatin and traditional ceremonies. Most ceremonies are held on the boats, but it is free to see them from the riverside. For those who are interested, go to Togetsukyo Bridge. The Arashiyama area offers plenty of places to see. It is wise to allocate one whole day for exploring this area. Note that this event is canceled in the event of rain. 10:30 -.
Illumination at Daikakuji Temple — Novemebr 13th – December 6th
Although there are many different illumination events as “Kyoto Illumination Calender” shows, this event is unique because it features a pond called Shinku no Mizukagami which, as the name (meaning Crimson Red Water Reflection) suggests, turns a lovely color in the light. 17:30 – 20:00. 500 yen/adult, 300 yen/child.
X’mas Illumination at Kyoto Station — November 14th – December 25th
Although most Japanese people are Buddhist, celebrating (or enjoying) X’mas is certainly very popular. Therefore many spots attracting large numbers of people, such as shopping malls, host tall lit-up X’mas trees during the holiday season. Kyoto Station, which is surely one of the most popular spots for local people and tourits, also prepares a gigantic X’mas tree every year. Visiting the station at night time might not sound attractive, but during this season, it is actually a good idea to do so. The tree stands at the event space on the staircase side (Kyoto Tower side). 17:00 – 22:30.