The Majestic Mount Kurama: Nature's Serenity in Kyoto

Discover the natural beauty and spiritual heritage of Mount Kurama, a breathtaking mountain peak near Kyoto with scenic trails and ancient temples.

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Mount Kurama

Nestled just north of Kyoto, Mount Kurama offers tourists a breathtaking escape into nature with its scenic trails, ancient temples, and rejuvenating hot springs. Experience the beauty and tranquility of this mountain peak, where adventure awaits around every corner.

A brief summary to Mount Kurama

Kuramahonmachi, Kyoto, Kuramahonmachi, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, JP

Local tips

Visit early in the morning to enjoy a peaceful hike and avoid crowds.
Wear comfortable shoes as some trails can be steep and rocky.
Don’t miss the Kifune Shrine; it’s a beautiful spot for photos and reflection.
Bring a water bottle to stay hydrated, especially during warmer months.
Consider visiting the hot springs after your hike for a relaxing experience.

Getting There

Train

From Kyoto Station, board the Eizan Railway on the Kurama line. You will need to take the train from the Kyoto Station to Demachiyanagi Station (approximately 15 minutes). At Demachiyanagi Station, switch to the Eizan Railway Kurama Line. The train departs every 30 minutes, so make sure to check the schedule. The journey to Kurama Station will take about 30 minutes.
Walk

Once you arrive at Kurama Station, exit the station and follow the signs leading to Mount Kurama. The hike to the mountain peak is approximately 30-45 minutes. The trail is well-marked, and you will enjoy beautiful nature along the way. Bring water and wear comfortable shoes, as the path can be steep in places.

Discover more about Mount Kurama

Mount Kurama, a serene mountain peak located just north of Kyoto, is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking both adventure and tranquility. Renowned for its lush landscapes, the mountain is enveloped in history and spirituality, making it an ideal spot for both hiking enthusiasts and those looking to immerse themselves in Japanese culture. The trails that weave through the mountain are well-maintained and offer various levels of difficulty, catering to both novice hikers and seasoned trekkers. As you ascend, be prepared to be captivated by stunning vistas of the surrounding forests and valleys, which change with the seasons, showcasing a vibrant tapestry of colors. In addition to its natural beauty, Mount Kurama is home to several ancient temples, including the famous Kifune Shrine, which is dedicated to the deity of water. Visitors can partake in traditional rites and admire the intricate architecture that reflects centuries of Japanese craftsmanship. The spiritual ambiance of the area is heightened by the presence of hot springs, providing a perfect opportunity to relax and rejuvenate after a day of exploration. The combination of nature, culture, and wellness makes Mount Kurama a unique experience that resonates with visitors long after they leave. For those looking to experience the local lifestyle, the area around Mount Kurama offers charming cafes and shops that showcase Kyoto's rich culinary traditions. Sample local delicacies or purchase handmade crafts as souvenirs to remember your journey. Whether you are hiking the trails, visiting the temples, or soaking in the hot springs, Mount Kurama promises a memorable escape that encapsulates the essence of Japan's natural beauty and spiritual heritage.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Shugakuin Imperial Villa

8.2 km

Experience the tranquil beauty and historical significance of Shugakuin Imperial Villa, an elegant garden retreat in Kyoto, Japan.

Kyoto Botanical Gardens

8.6 km

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Kyoto Botanical Gardens, an enchanting sanctuary showcasing diverse flora and stunning landscapes in Kyoto, Japan.

Enryaku-ji Daikodo (Grand Lecture Hall)

8.7 km

Discover the spiritual heart of Japan at Enryaku-ji Daikodo, a UNESCO World Heritage site set amidst the serene beauty of Mount Hiei.

Daisen-in Temple

9.1 km

Discover the tranquil beauty of Daisen-in Temple, a serene Buddhist sanctuary in Kyoto renowned for its exquisite gardens and rich Zen history.

Kamogawa Park

9.3 km

Explore the natural beauty and cultural richness of Kamogawa Park, a serene escape along the Kamo River in the heart of Kyoto.

Yumemigaoka Observation Deck

10.1 km

Discover stunning views and natural beauty at Yumemigaoka Observation Deck, a must-visit tourist attraction in Otsu, Shiga, Japan.

Kinkaku-ji

10.2 km

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion, a stunning Buddhist temple surrounded by serene gardens in Kyoto, Japan.

Takimata Falls

10.4 km

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Takimata Falls, a serene escape into nature amidst Kyoto's enchanting landscapes.

TOURS IN KYOTO

10.4 km

Discover Kyoto's rich cultural heritage through immersive guided tours of its iconic landmarks and hidden gems.

Kamogawa Delta

10.5 km

Explore the serene Kamogawa Delta in Kyoto, a cultural landmark and park perfect for relaxation, picnics, and nature-inspired adventures.

Kyoto Imperial Palace

10.9 km

Discover the serene beauty and rich history of Kyoto Imperial Palace, a royal landmark surrounded by stunning gardens and traditional architecture.

Higashiyama Jisho-ji

11.0 km

Experience the tranquil beauty of Higashiyama Jisho-ji, a UNESCO World Heritage Buddhist temple in Kyoto, where history and nature intertwine.

Ryōan-ji

11.1 km

Discover the tranquility of Ryōan-ji, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Kyoto, known for its iconic Zen rock garden and rich cultural heritage.

Kyoto Gyoen National Garden

11.2 km

Explore the serene beauty of Kyoto Gyoen National Garden, a historical park blending nature and culture in the heart of Kyoto, Japan.

Stepping Stones at Kojin

11.3 km

Explore the tranquil beauty of the Stepping Stones at Kojin in Kyoto, where nature and art converge in a stunning setting.

Unmissable attractions to see

Maōden

0.6 km

Experience the serene beauty and spiritual depth of Maōden Temple, a hidden gem in Kyoto’s lush hills, perfect for reflection and nature lovers.

Kurama-dera

0.6 km

Explore Kurama-dera: A serene Buddhist temple in Kyoto offering breathtaking mountain views, rich history, and scenic hiking trails.

Kuramadera Temple

0.6 km

Experience tranquility and natural beauty at Kuramadera Temple, a serene Buddhist sanctuary nestled in the heart of Kyoto's mountains.

Root path (Kinone michi)

0.6 km

Discover the tranquil beauty of Root Path (Kinone Michi) in Kyoto, a scenic trail perfect for nature lovers and cultural enthusiasts alike.

Kurama Hot Spring

0.7 km

Experience the serene beauty and rejuvenating waters of Kurama Hot Spring, a tranquil retreat in the heart of Kyoto's lush mountains.

Kifune-jinja Shrine - Yui no Yashiro (Nakamiya [Middle Shrine])

0.7 km

Discover the spiritual beauty of Kifune-jinja Shrine in Kyoto, a serene escape surrounded by nature and rich in Shinto traditions.

Kifune-jinja Shrine - Yui no Yashiro (Nakamiya [Middle Shrine])

Kifune Shrine - Okumiya [Rear Shrine]

0.8 km

Explore the serene beauty and spiritual significance of Kifune Shrine - Okumiya, an enchanting Shinto shrine nestled in the mountains of Kyoto.

Kifune Shrine

0.8 km

Discover the serenity of Kifune Shrine, a historic Shinto sanctuary in Kyoto, surrounded by nature and rich cultural heritage.

Yuki Shrine

0.9 km

Experience tranquility and cultural heritage at Yuki Shrine, a serene Shinto shrine in Kyoto’s stunning Sakyo Ward. A peaceful escape for every traveler.

Kifune

0.9 km

Discover Kifune, a tranquil village in Kyoto, where stunning nature meets rich cultural heritage, offering a perfect escape for every traveler.

Kuramadera Temple Niōmon

1.1 km

Explore the tranquil beauty and spiritual heritage of Kuramadera Temple, a historic Buddhist site nestled in the serene hills of Kyoto.

Craft Gallery SALUK

3.4 km

Explore the beauty of contemporary Japanese crafts at Craft Gallery SALUK, a serene art gallery in Kyoto's Sakyo Ward.

Kawashima Textile Museum

4.4 km

Explore the artistry of Japanese textiles at Kawashima Textile Museum, a treasure trove of cultural heritage in Kyoto.

Yumoto Onsen OharaSansou

4.6 km

Discover the serene beauty of Yumoto Onsen OharaSansou, a tranquil Japanese inn in Kyoto with rejuvenating hot springs and authentic cuisine.

Jisso-in

5.1 km

Discover the tranquility of Jisso-in, a breathtaking Buddhist temple in Kyoto renowned for its stunning gardens and serene atmosphere.

Essential places to dine

Hirobun

0.7 km

Discover Hirobun: A harmonious blend of Kaiseki dining and traditional Japanese inn experience in the heart of Kyoto.

Omi-ya

8.9 km

Discover Omi-ya in Kyoto: An affordable udon noodle shop serving delicious handmade dishes in a cozy setting.

菜食ペッティロッソ京都 Pettirosso Kyoto

9.4 km

Experience exquisite vegan cuisine at Pettirosso Kyoto, where health meets tradition in delightful dishes crafted from local ingredients.

Kichisen

9.8 km

Discover Kichisen in Kyoto: A premier kaiseki restaurant showcasing seasonal ingredients and traditional Japanese culinary artistry.

Nakau - Karasuma Imadegawa

10.3 km

Discover delicious Japanese comfort food at Nakau - Karasuma Imadegawa in Kyoto, featuring gyudon, soba noodles & more.

Steak Ichiro

10.6 km

Experience exquisite dining at Steak Ichiro, where premium steaks meet traditional Japanese hospitality in Kyoto's vibrant culinary scene.

Kyoto cuisine Teramachi Yoshikura

10.6 km

Discover authentic Kyoto cuisine at Teramachi Yoshikura – where traditional flavors meet modern creativity in an unforgettable dining experience.

cafe kozora

10.6 km

Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Cafe Kozora in Kyoto, where every dish tells a story and every sip transports you to Italy.

Restaurant Higakisaryo

11.0 km

Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Restaurant Higakisaryo in Kyoto - where tradition meets culinary excellence.

Okonomiyaki Katsu

11.4 km

Experience authentic okonomiyaki in Kyoto at Okonomiyaki Katsu - where flavors come alive in every savory pancake!

Monk

11.4 km

Discover Monk: A top-rated pizza restaurant in Kyoto blending Italian tradition with local flavors for an unforgettable dining experience.

Nakaso Tango

11.6 km

Discover authentic Japanese cuisine at Nakaso Tango, where tradition meets flavor in the heart of Kyoto.

Arash's Kitchen

11.8 km

Experience authentic Asian cuisine at Arash's Kitchen in Kyoto—a culinary delight for every traveler seeking unique flavors.

Cenci

11.9 km

Discover Cenci in Kyoto - where exquisite Italian cuisine meets Japanese culinary artistry for an unforgettable dining experience.

Wasyoku restaurant Omi Kaiseki Kiyomoto

11.9 km

Experience the elegance of traditional Kyoto-style kaiseki at Omi Kaiseki Kiyomoto in Otsu - a must-visit for culinary enthusiasts.

Explore Kyoto LOFT: A vibrant general store with cosmetics, home goods, and unique novelties in the heart of Kyoto.

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Kyoto at Bar K-ya, where cozy ambiance meets an eclectic drink selection in the heart of the city.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

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The Majestic Mount Kurama: Nature's Serenity in Kyoto

A brief summary to Mount Kurama

Local tips

Getting There

Train

Walk

Unlock the Best of Mount Kurama

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Mount Kurama

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Shugakuin Imperial Villa

Kyoto Botanical Gardens

Enryaku-ji Daikodo (Grand Lecture Hall)

Daisen-in Temple

Kamogawa Park

Yumemigaoka Observation Deck

Kinkaku-ji

Takimata Falls

TOURS IN KYOTO

Kamogawa Delta

Kyoto Imperial Palace

Higashiyama Jisho-ji

Ryōan-ji

Kyoto Gyoen National Garden

Stepping Stones at Kojin

Unmissable attractions to see

Maōden

Kurama-dera

Kuramadera Temple

Root path (Kinone michi)

Kurama Hot Spring

Kifune-jinja Shrine - Yui no Yashiro (Nakamiya [Middle Shrine])

Kifune Shrine - Okumiya [Rear Shrine]

Kifune Shrine

Yuki Shrine

Kifune

Kuramadera Temple Niōmon

Craft Gallery SALUK

Kawashima Textile Museum

Yumoto Onsen OharaSansou

Jisso-in

Essential places to dine

Hirobun

Omi-ya

菜食ペッティロッソ 京都 Pettirosso Kyoto

Kichisen

Nakau - Karasuma Imadegawa

Steak Ichiro

Kyoto cuisine Teramachi Yoshikura

cafe kozora

Restaurant Higakisaryo

Okonomiyaki Katsu

Monk

Nakaso Tango

Arash's Kitchen

Cenci

Wasyoku restaurant Omi Kaiseki Kiyomoto

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Bando Kinran - Co., Ltd. Bando Store

Kyo-komono Kinugasa

Kyoto Handicraft Center

Daikichi

D_MALL京都

京都・うつわ・食器 / Gallery Nisui 而水

Rōji Tempo

Sanjo Meiten-gai Shopping Arcade

Furugiya KINJI Kyototen

GOHOBI - Kyoto Sanjo-Teramachi

Media Shop

musubi -kyoto-

MoMA Design Store Kyoto

mina Kyoto

Kyoto LOFT

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

House of KI NO BI

Bar K6

Bar Fishbowl

Caamm bar

菜食ペッティロッソ京都 Pettirosso Kyoto

Lounge & Bar 1867 (ダーワ・悠洛京都 by バンヤン・グループ)