Kyoto Chishaku-in Autumn Light-up 2026: Leaves and Lanterns

Until December 6! Autumn Leaves and Bamboo Lanterns at Chishaku-in

Chishaku-in Temple in Kyoto’s Higashiyama district is hosting Chisan Autumn Leaves Light-up from November 7 to December 6, 2026. The temple serves as the head temple of the Chisan school of Shingon Buddhism.

Approximately 3,000 bamboo lanterns illuminate the grounds alongside colorful autumn foliage and a mist-generated sea of clouds, with the imposing Kondo main hall as a backdrop.

The event is produced by the creative team behind Arashiyama Tsuki-Toro and Toji Tsuki-Kairo, two other illumination events in Kyoto.

Priority admission tickets are available online, while general admission tickets can be purchased at the venue. A free shuttle bus connects Kyoto Station with the temple on weekends and public holidays during the event.

Read on for the light-up highlights, ticket details, and how to get there.

Autumn Foliage Above a Misty Sea of Clouds

Along the temple’s long approach, glowing lanterns and brilliant autumn leaves rise above a gently drifting sea of mist.

Soft light filters through the branches, creating the dreamlike feeling of walking among clouds beneath a canopy of autumn colors.

The bell tower offers another highlight, with illuminated autumn foliage framing the structure. 

Take a moment to admire the interplay of light and color, with the leaves providing a vivid backdrop to the temple’s traditional architecture.

Stand Among 3,000 Glowing Bamboo Lanterns

Approximately 3,000 bamboo lanterns cast a warm glow across the temple grounds, illuminating the autumn foliage and traditional buildings.

Near the Kondo main hall, the Goma ritual area transforms into a photo spot where visitors can pose among the lanterns, surrounded by intricate patterns of light.

From wider viewpoints, the lanterns form a glowing foreground beneath the main hall and autumn trees.

The combination of bamboo, light, and temple architecture offers several perspectives to enjoy as you explore the grounds.

Relax with Food, Drinks, and Premium Seating

For a more leisurely visit, priority admission with premium seating is scheduled to become available from November 14.

Priced at 6,500 yen, including tax, food, and drinks, the package allows visitors to sit down and enjoy the event’s atmosphere over refreshments.

Two sessions are planned each evening: 17:00–18:30 and 19:00–20:30.

Priority Tickets and a Free Kyoto Station Shuttle

Priority admission tickets purchased through JR Central’s EX Travel Reservations allow visitors to use a dedicated reception point without joining the on-site ticket purchase queue.

Tickets cost 1,500 yen for adults, while elementary school children and younger enter free. Purchasing through the service requires an EX Express Reservation or Smart EX membership. Please note entry waits may still occur when the venue is busy.

On Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays during the event, a free shuttle bus runs between Kyoto Station’s Hachijo Exit and Chishaku-in.

The boarding point is the tourist bus boarding and drop-off area in front of Kyoto Avanti. Check the official shuttle page for the timetable when planning your visit.

Chisan Autumn Leaves Light-up

Dates: November 7–December 6, 2026
Venue: Chishaku-in Temple, Kyoto
Address: 964 Higashikawara-cho, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto
Hours: 17:00–21:00; last admission at 20:40
Admission: Adults: 1,500 yen; elementary school children and younger: free. Price includes tax.
Premium seating: 6,500 yen, including priority admission, food, drinks, and tax. Scheduled to start November 14; sessions at 17:00–18:30 and 19:00–20:30.
Reservations: Priority tickets available through EX Travel Reservations; EX Express Reservation or Smart EX membership required. General admission tickets also sold at the venue.
Access: Approximately 10 minutes on foot from Keihan Shichijo Station, or approximately 20 minutes by bus and on foot from Kyoto Station via the Higashiyama Nanajo bus stop.
Free shuttle: Runs from Kyoto Station’s Hachijo Exit on weekends and public holidays during the event. See the timetable and boarding details (Japanese)
Notes: Foliage colors and peak viewing times depend on weather conditions. Event details may change.
Priority tickets: Purchase here
Official details: Chisan Autumn Leaves Light-up
Information source: PR TIMES