Photo/Illutration The main hall of Kiyomizudera temple in Kyoto and surrounding maple trees are lit up during a test lighting on Nov. 17, a day before the start of the special autumn nighttime viewing. The beam of light in the sky symbolizes the compassion of the Bodhisattva Kannon, known as the light of Kannon’s mercy. (Yoshiaki Arai)

KYOTO--Kiyomizudera temple here, a UNESCO World Heritage site, has kicked off its special autumn nighttime viewing, enchanting visitors with illuminated structures and maple trees beginning to show their vibrant colors.

The illumination event began on Nov. 18, with the main hall, known as the “stage of Kiyomizu,” and around 1,000 maple trees in the temple grounds stunningly lit up by approximately 500 lights.

The autumn foliage is expected to reach its peak colors by late November.

On the evening of Nov. 17, a test lighting took place, showcasing a beam of blue light extending westward from above the main hall, which is said to represent the compassion of the Bodhisattva Kannon.

Visitors can marvel at the illuminated autumn scenery until Nov. 30, with the lights turned on at 5:30 p.m. and last admission at 9 p.m.

Tickets are priced at 500 yen ($3.20) for adults and 200 yen for elementary and junior high school students.

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