Most visitors to Gio-ji, a temple on beautifully mossy grounds in Arashiyama, walk right past the entrance to Danrin-ji. This temple dates back nearly 1000 years and its staff campaigns hard to encourage visitors to come inside, especially to see the autumn leaves. In truth, the garden is too tiny to merit the ¥400 admission charge. Even with the beautiful leaves, a walk through the grounds only takes about three minutes. But the temple priest is quite friendly and will gladly regale you with a description of the temple's treasures in the main hall.
- 1 min read
Autumn Leaves at Danrin-ji
A quieter foliage spot in Arashiyama

By Mandy Bartok
Community writer
Leave a comment
0 comments in total
Book your trip
Find a nearby hotel
Explore some of the best nearby hotels and deals for the perfect place to stay in Japan.
Top Articles
-
1
Asakusa GYUUNA Yadoki: Premium Eel & Wagyu Beef in Asakusa
Tokyo -
2
Miyoko Schinner: Japan Vegan Tour 2026
Food -
3
One Full Day in Kamogawa From Kamenoi Hotel Kamogawa
Chiba - Sponsored -
4
Japan Pottery Tour: Hands-On Workshops & Artisan Encounters
Culture -
5
Azumino, Japan’s Peaceful Highland Getaway
Nagano - Sponsored -
6
Tokyo Auto Salon 2026 Japan Car Tour: Cars, Culture & The Open Road
Chiba -
7
Ghibli Museum: How To Get Tickets (2025 Guide)
Culture -
8
I’m Donut?: Japan’s Viral Donut Sensation
Culture -
9
Explore Kujukuri, Chiba and Beyond
Chiba - Sponsored -
10
70 Nations, One Amazing Meal
Osaka - Sponsored
-
1
Guide to Bringing Medicines Into Japan
Planning -
2
Edogawa Fireworks Festival
Tokyo -
3
The Ultimate Guide to Thrifting in Tokyo
Shopping -
4
Your Name: Real-Life Locations in Tokyo
Tokyo -
5
Yodogawa Fireworks Festival
Osaka -
6
Gion Matsuri
Kyoto -
7
September Grand Sumo Tournament (Tokyo)
Tokyo -
8
Summer Comiket
Tokyo -
9
Nara Tokae Lantern Festival
Nara -
10
Tenjin Matsuri
Osaka