GO NOW

Kyoto’s temperatures have moderated and the ancient capital is about to undergo its annual autumn makeover – parks, temples and gardens burst into a palette of red, orange and yellow trees. It’s truly beautiful. Fly direct from London to Tokyo with BA (ba.com), Japan Airlines (www.uk.jal.co.jp/ukl/en/) or ANA (ana.co.jp) – before hopping on a two-and-a-halfhour bullet train to Kyoto.

mile, leading to a string of temples with autumnal gardens. Start at the southern end with a stop at Nanzenji Temple (4), a complex with Zen gardens and walkways. Continuing north, take a detour at Honen-in Temple (5), with its thatched gate, carp pond and, of course, its red maple trees. The grand finale? The seasonal trees ablaze with colour in the grounds of Ginkakuji Temple (aka “Silver Pavilion”) (6) at the path’s northernmost tip.

family-run Kaikado (8) (www.kaikado.jp/english). Visit its store on a quiet side street (don’t miss its cleanlined homeware range made with Copenhagen-based

OEO Studio) then enjoy a cup of tea around the corner in stylish Kaikado Café.