Hike and explore the Kurama and Kibune ancient Paths
Overview
Escape the bustling streets of Kyoto and immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of Kurama-dera Temple and Kifune-jinja Shrine. Tucked away in the forested mountains north of Kyoto, the scenic trail connecting the villages of Kurama (鞍馬) and Kibune (木船) offers a breathtaking blend of history, nature, and spirituality. On this guided hike, you'll journey through sacred temple grounds, uncover sacred shrines and natural sites that are believed to hold spiritual energy, and navigate a rugged yet rewarding mountain trail that has drawn monks, warriors, and mystics for centuries.
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What's Included
✓ Included
- Transportation during the tour
- English speaking guide
- Entry fees at all tour locations
✗ Not Included
- Lunch
Itinerary
1
Stop 1
Our journey begins at Kyoto Station at 9:30 A.M., where we take the Karasuma Subway Line to Kokusaikaikan Station. From there, we enjoy a short 15-20 minute walk through a quiet residential area to Iwakura Station on the Eizan Railway. We board the scenic Eizan Railway and enjoy a peaceful ride through the northern Kyoto countryside. After about 30 minutes, we arrive at Kurama Station, the gateway to the sacred mountain. We start our hike at Kurama-dera, a historic temple perched on the slopes of Mount Kurama. Kurama-dera is home to an awe-inspiring main hall with panoramic views and mysterious guardian statues. Beneath the temple, you’ll find a powerful spiritual site where pilgrims leave locks of hair as offerings, seeking divine protection and blessings. The temple and mountain also hold a special place for Reiki practitioners.
2
Stop 2
From here, we embark on a scenic mountain hike, traversing dense cedar forests, hidden shrines, and steep stairways. The trail is steep and uneven in parts, making navigation tricky—especially in wet or hot weather—but your guide ensures a safe and steady pace while sharing the stories and legends of this mystical route. Descending into the peaceful village of Kibune, we arrive at the revered Kifune Shrine, dedicated to the goddess of water and rain. This atmospheric shrine is known for its iconic red lantern-lined staircase, a picturesque spot that captures the beauty of every season. Here, visitors can write wishes on special water-activated omikuji (fortune papers) and watch their fortunes appear magically on the surface of the sacred spring water. After our shrine visit, we take a short bus ride down to Kibuneguchi Station, where we board the Eizan Railway back to Kyoto.
Meeting & End Point
📍
Meeting Point
Starbucks Coffee — Kyoto Tower Sando
Exit Kyoto Station via the Central Exit on the north side of the station.
The Starbucks is on the first floor of the Kyoto Tower Sando commercial building
We’ll be waiting there with a “Snow Monkey Resorts” sign.
🏁
End Point
Starbucks Coffee — Kyoto Tower Sando
Exit Kyoto Station via the Central Exit on the north side of the station.
The Starbucks is on the first floor of the Kyoto Tower Sando commercial building
We’ll be waiting there with a “Snow Monkey Resorts” sign.
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Good to Know
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
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