Maple Leaf Tunnel (Kyoto Prefecture) Complete Guide | Peak Season, Access, and Photography Spots Explained
The “Maple Leaf Tunnel,” a spectacular autumn scenery representing Kyoto’s fall season. The sight of the Eizan Electric Railway trains rushing through a 250-meter-long tunnel of autumn leaves is truly a symbol of Kyoto’s autumn. This article provides a detailed explanation from the charm of the Maple Leaf Tunnel to practical visiting information.
What is the Maple Leaf Tunnel? One of Kyoto’s Premier Maple Leaf Viewing Spots
The “Maple Leaf Tunnel” is located between Ichihara Station and Ninose Station on the Eizan Electric Railway’s Kurama Line running through Sakyoku Ward, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture, and spans approximately 250 meters. Approximately 280 Japanese maple and large maple trees are planted on both sides of the tracks, and in autumn, the crimson and yellow autumn leaves envelop and cover the passing trains.
During the autumn foliage season, the Eizan Electric Railway that runs through this section dims the interior lighting and operates at reduced speeds. The view of the maple leaf tunnel from the train windows provides an almost otherworldly, dreamlike experience.
History and Origins of the Maple Leaf Tunnel
The Eizan Electric Railway opened in 1925 (Taisho 14). The autumn leaves of the Maple Leaf Tunnel are said to have originated from trees planted along the railway line for scenic beautification purposes from the time of opening. Over approximately 100 years of growth, these maple trees have become renowned maple-viewing spots representing Kyoto, captivating many tourists and photography enthusiasts.
The Eizan Electric Railway itself has developed as an important transportation means for pilgrims to Mount Hiei and Mount Kurama. Currently, it also serves as a sightseeing train during the autumn foliage season, becoming an important part of Kyoto tourism.
Peak Viewing Season and Autumn Leaf Status at the Maple Leaf Tunnel
When is the Best Season?
The peak viewing season for autumn leaves at the Maple Leaf Tunnel is typically from early November to late November. However, the timing may vary depending on that year’s temperature and weather conditions.
- Color change begins: Late October ~ Early November
- Peak viewing period: Mid-November ~ Late November
- Leaf fall: Early December ~
If you wish to enjoy the most beautiful autumn leaves, we recommend visiting around November 15th. During this period, there is a high likelihood of seeing the most vivid gradation of red, yellow, and green colors.
How to Check the Autumn Leaf Color Status
If you want to confirm the autumn leaf conditions before your visit, the following methods are effective:
- Eizan Electric Railway official website: Autumn foliage information is updated during the foliage season
- Kyoto City Tourism Association’s Autumn Foliage Report: Updates on autumn leaf conditions at various locations throughout the city
- SNS (Twitter, Instagram): Check the latest conditions through real-time posts from visitors
- Weather forecasts and temperatures: Color development accelerates after sudden temperature drops
Access Methods to the Maple Leaf Tunnel
Access by Train
To enjoy the Maple Leaf Tunnel, riding the Eizan Electric Railway is essential.
Route from Demachi-Masugata Shotengai Station (most common):
- From Keihan Electric Railway “Demachi-Masugata Shotengai Station” or Subway Karasuma Line “Imadegawa Station,” walk to Eizan Electric Railway “Demachi-Masugata Shotengai Station”
- Board the Eizan Electric Railway Kurama Line
- Pass through the Maple Leaf Tunnel between Ichihara and Ninose stations (approximately 15 minutes travel time)
Travel times from major stations:
- From JR Kyoto Station: Approximately 40 minutes (subway + walking + Eizan Electric Railway)
- From Hankyu Kawaramachi Station: Approximately 30 minutes (walking + Eizan Electric Railway)
- From Keihan Gojo-Kawaramachi Station: Approximately 25 minutes (Keihan Electric Railway + Eizan Electric Railway)
Access by Car and Parking Information
Car access is not recommended. The reasons are as follows:
- The Maple Leaf Tunnel is a spot best enjoyed from inside the train and cannot be viewed directly from a car
- There are no dedicated parking lots in the surrounding area
- Roads around the area become extremely congested during the autumn foliage season
If you must visit by car, we recommend parking at a coin parking near Demachi-Masugata Shotengai Station and switching to the Eizan Electric Railway. However, parking lots are often full during the foliage season, so using public transportation is the best option.
How to Ride the Eizan Electric Railway and Fares
Basic Fares
Eizan Electric Railway fares vary depending on distance:
- Demachi-Masugata Shotengai Station ~ Ichihara Station: 280 yen (adult)
- Demachi-Masugata Shotengai Station ~ Ninose Station: 290 yen (adult)
- Demachi-Masugata Shotengai Station ~ Kifune-guchi Station: 430 yen (adult)
- Demachi-Masugata Shotengai Station ~ Kurama Station: 430 yen (adult)
※Fares may be subject to change, so please confirm on the official website before your visit.
Discount Tickets and Passes
Eizan One-Day Ticket “Ee-kippu”:
- Price: 1,200 yen (adult), 600 yen (child)
- All-day unlimited rides on the entire Eizan Electric Railway line
- Recommended for those who want to travel back and forth through the Maple Leaf Tunnel multiple times
- Great value when combining with other attractions like Kifune Shrine and Kurama Temple
Kurama-Kifune Day Trip Ticket:
- Sold at major Keihan Electric Railway stations
- Includes the Eizan Electric Railway ticket
Sightseeing Trains “Hiei” and “Kirara”
The Eizan Electric Railway operates two types of special sightseeing trains:
Sightseeing Train “Hiei”:
- A sightseeing train that debuted in 2018, characterized by oval-shaped windows
- High-quality interior with extensive use of wood materials
- Excellent views from the large windows
- No additional charge required (regular fare only)
Observation Train “Kirara”:
- An observation train with large windows and some seats facing toward the windows
- Particularly popular during the autumn foliage season
- Also no additional charge required
Both trains operate on regular schedules, so we recommend checking the operating times and boarding accordingly.
Illumination Information for the Maple Leaf Tunnel
The Appeal of the Maple Leaf Tunnel Illumination
During the nighttime hours of the autumn foliage season, illumination is implemented in the Maple Leaf Tunnel section. This is one of the greatest highlights of the Eizan Electric Railway’s autumn foliage season.
Characteristics of the illumination:
- Lights installed alongside the tracks illuminate the autumn leaves
- Interior train lighting is turned off for a slow, leisurely journey
- A fantastical landscape spreads across the train windows
- An entirely different atmosphere from daytime viewing can be enjoyed
Illumination Period and Hours
Typical implementation period: Early November ~ Late November (varies depending on autumn foliage conditions)
Illumination hours: After sunset ~ until the last train (approximately 5:00 PM ~ 9:00 PM)
※The exact period and hours may change depending on that year’s autumn foliage conditions, so please check the Eizan Electric Railway official website.
Tips for Enjoying the Illumination
- Plan evening boarding: Aim for the time after sunset
- Avoid crowds: Weekends are extremely crowded, so visiting on weekdays is recommended
- Enjoy the round trip: You can enjoy different scenery from each side on the way there and back
- Secure a window seat: Line up early to secure a window seat
- Prepare camera settings in advance: Since photography will be in low light conditions, prepare settings such as raising ISO sensitivity
Photography Spots and Techniques at the Maple Leaf Tunnel
Photography Techniques from Inside the Train
Basic settings:
- Shutter speed: 1/250 second or faster (to prevent blur)
- ISO sensitivity: 800-1600 during daytime, 3200-6400 at night
- Aperture: F4-F5.6 (appropriate depth of field)
- White balance: Auto or cloudy mode (for warm color tones)
Photography tips:
- Window reflection countermeasures: Position the lens as close as possible to the window, or cover with black cloth
- Continuous shooting mode: Use burst mode to avoid missing the best shot
- Creative composition: Including part of the tracks or train creates a sense of immediacy, not just autumn leaves
- Video recording: Recording video as well as photos preserves the atmosphere
Photography Spots Outside the Train
There are also spots where you can photograph the Maple Leaf Tunnel section from outside the train:
Near the crossing between Ichihara and Ninose stations:
- Photograph the train and autumn leaves together from the side of the tracks
- Exercise safety caution and never enter restricted areas
- Be mindful not to disturb others when using tripods
Precautions:
- Entry onto the tracks is absolutely prohibited
- Do not trespass on private property
- Be considerate of other photographers and pedestrians
- Any actions that interfere with train operations are strictly forbidden
Photography Tips Using Smartphones
- Turn on HDR mode: Effective when there is high contrast
- Use continuous shooting: Allows you to select the best shot
- Portrait mode: Blur the background to highlight the autumn leaves
- Image stabilization: Hold firmly with both hands
- Editing apps: Adjust saturation and brightness after shooting to finish
Nearby Spots to Visit Together with the Maple Leaf Tunnel
Kifune Shrine
A famous shrine known for matchmaking blessings, located approximately 30 minutes’ walk (or 5 minutes by bus) from Kifune-guchi Station on the Eizan Electric Railway Kurama Line.
Highlights:
- Stone steps lined with red vermillion lanterns
- Illumination during autumn foliage season (early November ~ late November)
- Water fortune-telling
- River terrace dining (summer season)
Access: Get off at Eizan Electric Railway “Kifune-guchi Station,” approximately 30 minutes’ walk or by bus
Kurama Temple
A temple with connections to Minamoto no Yoshitsune (Ushiwaka Maru), located right next to Kurama Station, the terminus of the Eizan Electric Railway Kurama Line.
Highlights:
- Views from the Main Hall
- Ushiwaka Maru and Tengu legend
- Autumn leaves adorning the temple grounds
- Hiking course to Maou-den in the inner sanctuary
Access: Right next to Eizan Electric Railway “Kurama Station”
Admission: 300 yen (mountain entrance fee)
Rurikoh-in (Lapis Lazuli Light Hall)
A temple in Yase that opens only during special viewing periods in spring and autumn. It is famous for the “reflection” of autumn leaves reflected in the desk of the study hall.
Highlights:
- Spectacular view of autumn leaves reflected in the desk on the second floor of the study hall
- Autumn leaves in the Rurika Garden
- Contrast between moss and autumn leaves
Access: Get off at Eizan Electric Railway “Yase-Hieizanguchi Station,” approximately 5 minutes’ walk
Admission: 2,000 yen (during special viewing period only)
Note: May require advance reservation; please check the official website
Enkoh-ji Temple
A temple in Ichijo-ji, known as a renowned autumn foliage viewing spot. The autumn leaves in the Ten Oxherding Pictures Garden are especially beautiful.
Highlights:
- Autumn leaves in the Ten Oxherding Pictures Garden
- Water bell (water chime)
- Bamboo grove
- Temple treasures connected to Tokugawa Ieyasu
Access: Get off at Eizan Electric Railway “Ichijo-ji Station,” approximately 15 minutes’ walk
Admission: 500 yen
Shisenji Temple
A mountain villa created by Ishikawa Jozan in Ichijo-ji. The harmony between the gardens and autumn leaves is remarkable.
Highlights:
- Autumn leaves in the Chinese-style garden
- Shishiodoshi (deer scarer)
- Room of Poetic Immortals
Access: Get off at Eizan Electric Railway “Ichijo-ji Station,” approximately 15 minutes’ walk
Admission: 500 yen
Precautions and Etiquette When Visiting the Maple Leaf Tunnel
Congestion Countermeasures
During weekends and holidays in the autumn foliage season, the Eizan Electric Railway becomes extremely crowded.
Tips to avoid congestion:
- Visit on weekdays: If possible, visit on weekdays
- Early morning or evening: Early morning hours or late afternoon tend to be relatively less crowded
- Before and after peak season: Aim for early November or late November, avoiding the mid-November peak
- Rainy days: Fewer tourists visit on rainy days, and rain-soaked autumn leaves have their own unique beauty
Etiquette When Boarding
- Orderly boarding: Lines often form at Demachi-Masugata Shotengai Station. Never cut in line
- Consideration for others: Avoid monopolizing window seats and show consideration by taking turns
- Large luggage: Avoid bringing large suitcases (use coin lockers)
- Photography inside the train: Be mindful not to disturb other passengers
- Quiet appreciation: Enjoy the autumn leaves quietly inside the train
Clothing and Items to Bring
Clothing:
- Bring a jacket as mornings and evenings in November can be cool
- Easy-to-walk-in shoes (if visiting nearby attractions)
- Warm clothing especially for nighttime illumination viewing
Items to bring:
- Camera/smartphone (don’t forget to charge)
- Backup battery (battery drain accelerates in cold weather)
- Rain gear (weather can change easily)
- Beverages (minimize eating and drinking inside the train)
Model Courses for Enjoying the Maple Leaf Tunnel
Half-Day Course (Morning Departure)
9:00 Arrival at Demachi-Masugata Shotengai Station
9:15 Board Eizan Electric Railway, pass through Maple Leaf Tunnel
9:45 Arrival at Kurama Station, visit Kurama Temple
12:00 Depart from Kurama Station toward Demachi-Masugata Shotengai direction
12:15 Pass through Maple Leaf Tunnel again (return trip)
12:30 Arrival at Demachi-Masugata Shotengai Station, lunch at nearby restaurants
Full-Day Course (Autumn Foliage Immersion Plan)
9:00 Arrival at Demachi-Masugata Shotengai Station
9:15 Board Eizan Electric Railway, pass through Maple Leaf Tunnel
9:45 Get off at Kifune-guchi Station, head to Kifune Shrine
11:30 Visit Kifune Shrine, return to Kifune-guchi Station
12:00 Move to Kurama Station, visit Kurama Temple
14:30 Travel from Kurama Station by Eizan Electric Railway to Yase-Hieizanguchi Station
15:00 Visit Rurikoh-in (advance reservation recommended)
16:30 Travel from Yase-Hieizanguchi Station toward Demachi-Masugata direction
17:00 Enjoy Maple Leaf Tunnel illumination
17:30 Arrival at Demachi-Masugata Shotengai Station
Illumination-Focused Course (Evening Departure)
15:00 Arrival at Demachi-Masugata Shotengai Station
15:15 Board Eizan Electric Railway, get off at Ichijo-ji Station
15:30 Visit Enkoh-ji Temple and Shisenji Temple
17:00 Board Eizan Electric Railway from Ichijo-ji Station
17:15 Enjoy Maple Leaf Tunnel illumination (first viewing)
17:45 Return from Kurama Station or Kifune-guchi Station
18:30 Enjoy Maple Leaf Tunnel illumination (second viewing)
19:00 Arrival at Demachi-Masugata Shotengai Station
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I walk through the Maple Leaf Tunnel?
A: The Maple Leaf Tunnel is autumn leaves along the railroad tracks and cannot be walked through. You must board the Eizan Electric Railway to enjoy the scenery from the train windows. Entry onto the tracks is prohibited by law and is extremely dangerous.
Q2: How long does it take to pass through the Maple Leaf Tunnel?
A: Under normal conditions, passage takes approximately 1 minute, but during the autumn foliage season, slow-speed operation reduces this to approximately 2-3 minutes. During illumination, the speed may be even slower.
Q3: Can I reserve a seat?
A: The Eizan Electric Railway operates with all unreserved seating, and seat reservations are not available. If you wish to secure a window seat, we recommend lining up early from the starting station, Demachi-Masugata Shotengai Station.
Q4: Can I use a wheelchair or stroller?
A: Some cars of the Eizan Electric Railway are wheelchair accessible. Demachi-Masugata Shotengai Station has an elevator. However, boarding may be difficult during crowded times, so weekday usage is recommended. Consulting with station staff in advance will make the process smoother.
Q5: Can I enjoy the Maple Leaf Tunnel on rainy days?
A: Yes, you can enjoy it even on rainy days. In fact, rain-soaked autumn leaves become more vivid in color and have a unique beauty. Additionally, fewer tourists visit on rainy days, allowing you to enjoy the sights more leisurely.
Q6: Can I ride with pets?
A: Small dogs and other pets can board if kept in a cage or carrier. However, consideration for other passengers is necessary during crowded times.
Q7: Can I enjoy it in seasons other than autumn foliage?
A: While the Maple Leaf Tunnel is most famous for its autumn foliage, the new green season (May-June) is also beautiful with a green tunnel. Winter snow scenes also have their own charm.
Conclusion: Fully Enjoy Kyoto’s Autumn at the Maple Leaf Tunnel
Kyoto Prefecture’s Maple Leaf Tunnel captivates many tourists each year with its ease of access—simply ride the Eizan Electric Railway—and its overwhelming beauty. The experience of passing through a 250-meter maple leaf tunnel on the train will become a particularly special memory of your Kyoto sightseeing.
Summary of visiting points:
- Peak season: Mid-November ~ Late November
- Access: Board the Eizan Electric Railway Kurama Line from “Demachi-Masugata Shotengai Station”
- Recommendations: Illumination, sightseeing trains “Hiei” and “Kirara”
- Nearby attractions: Kifune Shrine, Kurama Temple, Rurikoh-in, etc.
- Congestion countermeasures: Visit on weekdays, early mornings, or rainy days
The Maple Leaf Tunnel is a particularly photogenic autumn foliage spot among Kyoto’s maple-viewing locations. Both the vivid autumn leaves during the day and the fantastical illumination at night have different charms, so we recommend enjoying both if time permits.
Various autumn foliage viewing spots dot the surrounding area, including Kifune Shrine, Kurama Temple, and Rurikoh-in, so you can spend a full day thoroughly enjoying Kyoto’s autumn. By checking autumn foliage information in advance and taking steps to avoid crowds, you can enjoy the Maple Leaf Tunnel more comfortably.
The Maple Leaf Tunnel, a symbol of Kyoto’s autumn—use this article as a reference and enjoy a wonderful autumn foliage experience.
