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9 Fine Dining Restaurants to Enjoy Kyoto’s Autumn Foliage

9 Fine Dining Restaurants to Enjoy Kyoto’s Autumn Foliage

Sep 25, 2024

The OMAKASE editorial team, an official Michelin partner, has curated a list of nine exceptional fine dining restaurants where foreign visitors to Kyoto can experience the beauty of the autumn leaves while enjoying a memorable meal.

The Beauty of Kyoto's Autumn Foliage

Illuminated Autumn Leaves in Kyoto

What makes Japan's autumn colors so vibrant is its rich variety of deciduous trees. Unlike Europe and Canada, which have around 13 species, Japan boasts 26, creating a unique tapestry of reds, yellows, and greens.

In Kyoto, the peak season to admire the breathtaking fall foliage typically runs from early November to early December. Popular spots for enjoying the autumn scenery include Kiyomizudera Temple, Kodaiji Temple, Tenryuji Temple, Eikando Temple, and the iconic Eizan Railway Maple Tree Tunnel.

Fine Dining with a View of Autumn Foliage

Kyoto is home to fine dining restaurants where you can enjoy stunning views of autumn leaves from beautiful gardens or scenic exteriors. Savoring a meal while immersed in this seasonal beauty is sure to be a highlight of your autumn visit to Japan.

In this article, we introduce restaurants in various areas where you can indulge in exquisite cuisine while taking in breathtaking autumn scenery. Our selection includes nine carefully chosen establishments, offering popular Japanese dishes like kaiseki (traditional multi-course meals) and tempura (lightly battered, deep-fried seafood and vegetables), along with French and innovative Spanish cuisine.

6 Recommended Restaurants in the Higashiyama and Kiyomizudera Areas

Autumn leaves at Kiyomizu Temple

East of central Kyoto, the mountainous region is renowned for its popular autumn foliage spots, including Kodaiji Temple, Kiyomizudera Temple, and Yasaka Shrine. In this picturesque area, you can fully appreciate the beauty of the autumn leaves, and several Michelin-starred restaurants highlight the best of Kyoto’s dining scene.

We’ve selected six restaurants with breathtaking views that serve Japanese cuisine, kaiseki, and French dishes. All are conveniently located within walking distance of Kiyomizudera Temple and Yasaka Shrine, allowing you to enjoy a meal while soaking in the fall colors or relish dinner with the enchanting glow of illuminated autumn leaves.

1. Restaurant Hiramatsu Kodaiji (レストランひらまつ 高台寺) / French

Michelin Star
Michelin Guide, 2024

This French restaurant has earned a Michelin star for three consecutive years: 2022, 2023, and 2024. The chef, who trained in Tokyo before moving to work at Hiramatsu in Paris, carefully selects seasonal ingredients from Kyoto and employs traditional French techniques to create a dining experience that is uniquely available here.

From the main dining area, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Kyoto, including the Yasaka Pagoda. During the autumn foliage season, the scenery becomes even more breathtaking. Surrounded by a collection of paintings and elegant furnishings, the French cuisine served here promises an exceptional and memorable dining experience.

Restaurant Hiramatsu Kodaiji's Information
Operation hours
Lunch:11:30 - 15:00 (L.O. 13:00)
Dinner:17:30 - 22:00 (L.O. 19:30)
Regular holiday
Mondays
Price range
Lunch: USD 44.62 - USD 221.23
Dinner: USD 133.85 - USD 446.15
Address
353 Masuya-cho, Kodai-ji, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto
Nearest station
Kyoto Kawaramachi Station, Gion Shijo Station
Directions from station
25 minutes walk from Kyoto Kawaramachi Station
20 minutes walk from Gion Shijo Station
Payment methods
Cash, Credit card available
Seats
24 Seats
Awards
Michelin
star

2. Kyoyamato (京大和) / Japanese

Michelin Star
Michelin Guide, 2024

Kyoyamato is a Japanese restaurant specializing in kaiseki cuisine and has earned a Michelin star for three consecutive years: 2022, 2023, and 2024. Located in the historic Suikokan building—a designated cultural property in Kyoto with over a century of history—it offers an immersive dining experience. Guests can savor traditional Japanese cuisine while enjoying breathtaking views of Kyoto's autumn foliage, making it a standout destination.

The restaurant is renowned for its sensory dining experience, emphasizing the aroma, texture, and presentation of each dish. It features carefully selected seasonal ingredients and elegant tableware, with a focus on exquisite plating. Lunch includes a two-tiered box, "Nishiki-gasane": the first tier presents a variety of colorful dishes, while the second tier offers a selection of simmered items. The expansive grounds, which include the main building, a tea room, and a garden, provide a private and serene setting to fully appreciate Kyoto's autumn colors.

Kyoyamato's Information
Operation hours
Lunch: 11:30~13:00(Last Entry Time)
Dinner:17:00~19:00(Last Entry Time)
Regular holiday
Irregular Holidays
Price range
Lunch: USD 139.93 - USD 186.57
Dinner: USD 326.50 - USD 419.78
Address
359, Masuya-cho, Kodaiji, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto
Nearest station
Kyoto Kawaramachi Station
Gion Shijo Station
The 'Higashiyama Yasui' bus stop
Directions from station
【Train】 5 minutes by taxi from Kyoto Kawaramachi Station or Gion Shijo Station
【Bus】 5 minutes walk from the 'Higashiyama Yasui' bus stop
Payment methods
Cash and Credit card available
Seats
60 Seatas
Awards
Michelin
star

3. Jean-Georges at The Shinmonzen (ジャン-ジョルジュ アット ザ・シンモンゼン) / French

New selection
Michelin Guide, 2024

This French restaurant, recognized in the Michelin Guide for 2023-2024, is led by a master chef specializing in modern French cuisine. Known for its meticulous selection of local ingredients and inventive fusion of French, American, and Asian flavors, the restaurant offers seasonal menus that provide a dynamic and ever-changing dining experience. With over 3,000 bottles of wine available, guests can explore countless pairing possibilities. Located in a historic hotel along the Shirakawa Canal on Shimonzen Street—an area renowned for its antique shops—the restaurant offers an exquisite opportunity to enjoy contemporary French cuisine while savoring Kyoto's autumn foliage.

Jean-Georges at The Shinmonzen's Information
Operation hours
Breakfast: 7:00 - 10:30 (L.O. 9:30 Not staying at a hotel)
Lunch: 11:30 - 16:00 (L.O. 15:00)
Dinner: 17:00 - 22:00 (L.O. 20:30)*Excluding Sundays and Mondays
Regular holiday
Tasting Menu for Dinner is not available on Sunday & Monday
Price range
Lunch: USD 40.56 - USD 56.78
Dinner: USD 162.24 - USD 162.24
Address
235 The Shinmonzen, Nishino-cho, Shinmonzen-dori, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto
Nearest station
Kyotokawaramachi Station, Gionshijo Station, Sanjo Station
Directions from station
9 minutes walk from Kyotokawaramachi Station
8 minutes walk from Gionshijo Station
4 minutes walk from Sanjo Station
Payment methods
Credit card available
Seats
26 Seat
10 Terrace Seats
Awards
Michelin
New selection

4. Kodaiji Jugyuan (高台寺 十牛庵) / Japanese

Michelin Star
Michelin Guide, 2024

Kodaiji Jugyuan is a Japanese restaurant that earned a Michelin star in 2024. The chef skillfully prepares Kyoto cuisine, honoring the traditions, beauty, and renowned flavors passed down through generations. The restaurant is celebrated for its beautifully presented, seasonal dishes, served in a meticulously maintained garden and charming setting. A standout feature is the Meiji-era Sukiya-style architecture, which has been expertly renovated into a modern dining space, enhancing the building’s appeal. Guests can enjoy meticulously cared-for Kyoto autumn foliage from this classic setting, which offers a secluded and private dining experience.

Kodaiji Jugyuan's Information
Operation hours
Lunch:11:30 - 12:30
Dinner:17:30 - 19:30
Regular holiday
Mondays
Price range
Lunch: USD 186.57 - USD 653.00
Dinner: USD 279.86 - USD 653.00
Address
353 Masuya-cho, Kodaiji, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto
Nearest station
Gionshijo Station
Kawaramachi Station
Directions from station
18 minutes walk from Gionshijo Station
21 minutes walk from Kawaramachi Station
Payment methods
Credit card available
Seats
76 Seats
Awards
Michelin
star

5. Kodaiji Wakuden (高台寺和久傳) / Japanese

Michelin Star Michelin Star Green Star
Two Stars , Green Star
Michelin Guide, 2024

This Japanese restaurant has earned two Michelin stars and boasts a distinguished 150-year history. It brings together the talents of young chefs who craft dishes with both boldness and finesse, using seasonal ingredients to their fullest. The restaurant features luxurious ingredients, such as high-end snow crabs and cockles from Kyotango in Kyoto. It offers a unique experience of Japanese aesthetics, highlighted by traditional Sukiya-style architecture and exceptional hospitality, making it a standout destination for Japanese cuisine. Located in the serene Kodaiji area, renowned for its autumn foliage, the restaurant’s setting is also a major draw.

Kodaiji Wakuden's Information
Operation hours
Lunch:12:00 ~ 15:00 (L.O. 13:00)
Dinner:17:30 ~ 22:00 (L.O. 19:00)
Regular holiday
Irregular Holirays
Price range
Lunch: USD 243.36 - USD 405.59
Dinner: USD 324.47 - USD 405.59
Address
512 Washiocho, Kitamonmae, Kodaiji, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto
Nearest station
Gionshijo Station
Directions from station
12 minutes walk from Gionshijo Station
Payment methods
Credit card available
Seats
50 Seats
Awards
Michelin
starstargreen star
Awards

Make a Reservation

6. Kikunoi (菊乃井) / Japanese

  1. MICHELIN (2010 - 24): Three Stars

Kikunoi is a renowned kaiseki restaurant that has earned three Michelin stars. The chef, celebrated for blending innovation with tradition, is a leading advocate of Japanese cuisine on the global stage. He established the Japanese Culinary Academy and played a key role in the inclusion of Japanese cuisine in UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list. The chef’s menu features a vibrant beauty within traditional elements, embodying a philosophy of subtle elegance. Each dish is crafted to be visually stunning, while the tranquil private rooms offer views of the changing seasons, including the breathtaking autumn foliage. This restaurant provides a unique dining experience that engages all five senses.

Kikunoi (菊乃井)'s Information
Operation hours
Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun
12:00 PM - 2:00 PM
5:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Price range
JPY 20,000 - JPY 29,999
Address
459 Shimogawara-cho, below Yasaka Torii-mae, Shimogawara-dori, Higashiyama-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture
Directions from station
927 meters from Higashiyama.
Payment methods
Credit card accepted(VISA, JCB, AMEX)
Seats
120 Seats

Make a Reservation

Recommended Restaurant in the Sagano and Arashiyama Areas

Autumn leaves in Arashiyama

Arashiyama, renowned for its bamboo groves, lies to the west of the city center near Kyoto Station. This area also boasts Tenryuji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site with stunning views of autumn foliage. While dining options in the area are limited, there is a Michelin-starred tempura restaurant worth noting.

7. Tempura Matsu (天ぷら 松) / Tempura

New selection
Michelin Guide, 2024

This Japanese establishment was featured in the 2024 Michelin Guide and has been listed among the top 100 restaurants on a major Japanese gourmet review site for three consecutive years, from 2021 to 2023. It has also earned bronze medals in the past. The chef combines techniques inherited from his father, a tempura master, with unique skills acquired in the USA. The menu includes a variety of dishes such as tempura, sashimi (sliced fresh raw fish), deep-fried foods, hot pots, rice dishes, and noodles, all served in a kaiseki course. The restaurant is also notable for its carefully chosen tableware and stylish interior. Large glass windows in front of the counter offer a stunning view of Kyoto's autumn foliage while you dine.

Tempura Matsu's Information
Operation hours
Lunch: 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
Dinner: 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM
Regular holiday
Wednesdays, Irregular Holidays
Price range
Lunch: USD 170.35 - USD 365.03
Dinner: USD 170.35 - USD 365.03
Address
21-26, Umezunawaba-cho, Ukyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto
Nearest station
Matsuotaisha Station
Directions from station
7minutes walk from Matsuotaisha Station
Payment methods
Cash
Seats
30 Seats
Awards
Michelin
New selection
Awards

8. Hyotei (瓢亭) / Japanese

  1. MICHELIN (2010 - 24): Three Stars

Hyotei is a Michelin three-star kaiseki restaurant renowned for its elegance and history. Located just beyond the main gate of Nanzenji Temple, it was originally founded as a tea house over 400 years ago. The chefs here blend innovation with tradition, crafting dishes with exceptional attention to detail in both flavor and presentation. Signature items such as "Hyotei Tamago" (soft-boiled eggs) and seasonal specialties like "Asagayu" (savory rice porridge) attract fans from around the world. The restaurant is also popular for its private dining rooms, which offer views of a Kyoto garden beautifully adorned with autumn leaves.

Hyotei (瓢亭)'s Information
Operation hours
Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Regular holiday
Wednesday
Price range
JPY 30,000 - JPY 39,999
Address
35 Kusakawa-cho, Nanzenji, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture
Directions from station
516 meters from Keage.
Payment methods
Credit card accepted(VISA, Master, JCB, AMEX, Diners)
Electronic money not accepted
QR code payments not accepted
Seats
98 Seats

Make a Reservation

Recommended Restaurant in the Karasuma Oike Area

Autumn leaves in Gion

Just north of Kyoto Station, the Karasuma Oike area is an urban district renowned for its fine dining options. While it doesn't offer dramatic natural landscapes like mountains or forests, it does boast restaurants with beautifully designed gardens where you can enjoy the autumn foliage. We’ll showcase one of these charming spots as an added feature.

9. Koke (コケ) / Innovative

Michelin Star
Michelin Guide, 2024

KOKE is a Spanish restaurant that earned a Michelin star in 2024. The chef, originally from Okinawa, honed his skills at the three-star Cà Sento in Kobe. The name "KOKE" combines the initials of Kobe, Okinawa, Kyoto, and Spain, reflecting the diverse influences in its cuisine. The restaurant’s theme centers on the interplay between water and fire, with a course that begins with a soup made from well water sourced from the courtyard, showcasing the chef’s meticulous attention to detail. The space is intimate, featuring 7 or 8 counter seats and 2 tables, creating a cozy, hidden gem where guests can enjoy their meal in peace. Located about a 5-minute walk from Karasuma Oike Station, the restaurant also offers views of beautifully maintained autumn foliage through its large glass windows.

Koke's Information
Operation hours
Lunch: 12:00 PM - 12:30 PM (Fri-Sun only)
Dinner: 6:00 PM - 6:30 PM (Tue-Sat)
Regular holiday
Mondays
Price range
Lunch: USD 127.21 - USD 203.53
Dinner: USD 203.53 - USD 330.74
Address
ido 1F, 287 Takoyakushi, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto
Nearest station
Karasuma Oike Station
Directions from station
5 minutes walk from Karasuma Oike Station
Payment methods
Cash, Credit card
Seats
16 seats
Awards
Michelin
star
  • SY
    5.0
    Posted on :06/10/2024
  • Unknown
    5.0
    Posted on :10/20/2023

About the author

Koyanagi
Koyanagi

A Tokyo-based foodie, she spends nearly all of her earnings on culinary explorations throughout Japan, from street food to fine dining. Her passion for food has become a career, contributing to gourmet magazines and collaborating with TV shows. She also handles the creation of articles for OMAKASE. When dining out, she makes it a point to properly understand the chefs' and restaurateurs' backgrounds and philosophies.