Escape to Kyoto’s Spiritual Retreat: A Day Trip to Kurama and Kibune via Eizan Railway
Kyoto, a city steeped in history and tradition, offers a plethora of experiences for travelers. But if you’re looking for a break from the bustling crowds and tourist hotspots, consider venturing north to the serene mountains of Kurama and Kibune. This enchanting region, known for its lush forests, sacred temples, and tranquil atmosphere, promises a rejuvenating escape into nature and spirituality. This guide will take you on a delightful day trip from Demachiyanagi Station in Kyoto to Kurama and Kibune, focusing on a scenic train ride and a leisurely hike between the two destinations.
- Getting There: A Scenic Train Ride on the Eizan Railway
- Early Lunch at Nagomiya Kotenngu (11:45 AM – 12:15 PM)
- Kurama-dera Temple: A Spiritual Haven (12:25 PM – 13:30 PM)
- Hike to Kibune via Kinone Michi Trail (13:30 PM – 14:30 PM)
- Kibune Shrine and Water Fortune-Telling (14:30 PM – 15:00 PM)
- Relax at a Cafe or Tea House (15:00 PM – 16:00 PM)
- Stroll Around Kibune (16:00 PM – 17:00 PM)
- Early Dinner at a Kawadoko or Restaurant (17:00 PM)
- Tips and Recommendations:
- Embrace the Serenity of Kurama and Kibune
Getting There: A Scenic Train Ride on the Eizan Railway
Your journey begins at Demachiyanagi Station in Kyoto. Hop on the Eizan Railway, a charming local line that winds its way through the picturesque countryside.
Momiji Tunnel（Automn）
If you’re traveling during autumn (early November), try to catch the “Momiji Tunnel” between Ichihara and Ninose stations, where the train passes through a breathtaking tunnel of fiery red maple leaves. The entire train ride to Kurama Station takes about 35 minutes and costs 420 yen one way.
Arrived at Kurama Station!
Early Lunch at Nagomiya Kotenngu (11:45 AM – 12:15 PM)
Upon arriving at Kurama Station around 11:35 AM, head to “Nagomiya Kotenngu” for an early lunch. This restaurant is known for its delicious soba noodles and other traditional Japanese dishes. It’s a great place to fuel up before your hike.
Kurama-dera Temple: A Spiritual Haven (12:25 PM – 13:30 PM)
After lunch, make your way to the Kurama-dera Temple. First, locate Sanmon station, the starting point of the cable car. For 200 yen (adults) or 100 yen (children), you can take this cable car up to Tahoto station. The cable car departs every 15-20 minutes.
From Tahoto station, it’s a short 10-minute walk to the main hall of Kurama-dera Temple. The path is lined with beautiful red lanterns, creating a picturesque atmosphere as you ascend the mountain.
Once you reach the main hall, take your time to explore the temple grounds, admire the intricate wooden architecture, and soak in the spiritual atmosphere.
Hike to Kibune via Kinone Michi Trail (13:30 PM – 14:30 PM)
Next, embark on a scenic hike to Kibune via the Kinone Michi Trail. This trail is known for its exposed tree roots, creating a unique and somewhat challenging path. The hike takes about an hour, but allow yourself extra time to enjoy the scenery and take photos.
The hiking route from Kurama Temple to Kibune Shrine takes about an hour at a relaxed pace. For reference, we did it with our 3-year-old and 6-year-old in 52 minutes and 45 seconds! By the way, I wouldn’t recommend doing it in the opposite direction. The route from Kurama Temple to Kibune Shrine has more downhill sections, whereas the route from Kibune Shrine to Kurama Temple involves a lot of uphill climbing and is much more challenging!
Kibune Shrine and Water Fortune-Telling (14:30 PM – 15:00 PM)
Upon reaching Kibune, visit the Kibune Shrine, a beautiful shrine dedicated to the god of water. Participate in the shrine’s famous water fortune-telling ritual, where you float a blank omikuji (fortune paper) on the water to reveal your fortune.
Relax at a Cafe or Tea House (15:00 PM – 16:00 PM)
After exploring the shrine, take a break at one of the many cafes or tea houses in Kibune. Enjoy a refreshing drink and a snack while taking in the tranquil surroundings.
Stroll Around Kibune (16:00 PM – 17:00 PM)
Spend some time exploring the charming village of Kibune. Wander along the riverbank, admire the traditional wooden houses, and browse the local shops.
Early Dinner at a Kawadoko or Restaurant (17:00 PM)
If you’re visiting between May 1st and September 30th, consider having dinner at one of the kawadoko restaurants along the Kibune River. These unique restaurants offer outdoor seating on platforms built over the river, providing a cool and refreshing dining experience. If kawadoko is not available or not your preference, there are many other excellent restaurants in Kibune serving traditional Japanese cuisine, including kaiseki ryori (multi-course meals).
Tips and Recommendations:
- Best time to visit: Spring (for cherry blossoms), summer (for kawadoko), or autumn (for fall foliage)
- What to wear and bring: Comfortable hiking shoes or sneakers, weather-appropriate clothing, insect repellent, a hat, sunscreen, and a camera
- Local specialties to try: Soba noodles, yuba (tofu skin), and kawadoko cuisine
Embrace the Serenity of Kurama and Kibune
A day trip to Kurama and Kibune offers a welcome respite from the urban hustle and bustle. Whether you’re seeking spiritual enlightenment, a nature retreat, or simply a peaceful escape, this enchanting region is sure to captivate your heart and soul.
