Ginkgo season in Kyoto: Iwato Ochiba Shrine.

The phrase "one leaf heralds autumn" is perfect for describing Kyoto. This time, I went to the famous Iwato Ochiba Shrine. I have to say, seeing this touch of yellow healed my heart. 📍Detailed address: 〒601-0134 Kyoto Prefecture, Kyoto City, Kita Ward, Ono Iwato 170 🚗Transportation: Take the Takao Keihoku Line from Kyoto Station to Onogo Station 🕙Opening hours: All day 💰Ticket price: 🆓 🌟Highlights: This quiet shrine is located at the intersection of the Kiyotaki River and the Iwato River. Due to its relatively remote location, there are not many foreign tourists here, and most of them are locals. It is said that Iwato and Ochiba were originally two shrines. Later, a fire burned down Iwato Shrine, and the two shrines were merged into one. The "Ochiba Shrine" was mentioned in The Tale of Genji. There are a total of four ginkgo trees in the shrine, all of which are over 400 years old. In addition to looking up, the ginkgo leaves on the ground are also very photogenic. 📌Travel tips: ✅You can take a bus directly to the shrine from the Kyoto bus station, but it is worth noting that the Kyoto bus does not run frequently, so it is recommended to check the timetable, otherwise you will have to wait a long time! ✅The first thing you see when you enter the shrine is the red torii gate. The torii gate under the yellow ginkgo tree is especially photogenic. It is recommended to take photos from across the road to capture the beauty of the entire shrine. ✅Every year, a night lighting ceremony is held here. It is said to be held only once a year, and the lighting time is not fixed. If you want to come, you can check the lighting time in advance to avoid missing it! ✅The best time to view the ginkgo trees is mid-November every year. If you go too early or too late, the effect will be greatly reduced. It is recommended that photography enthusiasts go early, otherwise you will have to wait a year if you miss it. ✅In addition to visiting Iwato Ochiba Shrine to see the ginkgo trees, it is recommended to also visit the nearby Kozanji Temple, Saimyoji Temple, and Jingoji Temple. These are all maple viewing spots known only to locals, with few people and beautiful scenery.