Difficulty: 1/5
Hiking Distance: 4.5km
Time: 2 hours
Elevation change: ➚260m ➘290m
Prefecture: Kyoto
Kurama to Kibune
鞍馬
Elevation: 584m
Prefecture
Kyoto
Distance
4.5 km
Elevation Change
➚ 260m ➘ 290m
Time
2 hours
Difficulty
1/5
Accommodation
Guesthouses
Overview
Kurama is a mountain town just north of Kyoto city and is easily accessible by train, it shares its popularity with the neighbouring town of Kibune with an enjoyable hike connecting the two towns. Although it often escapes the usual tourist radar, Kurama is famous among locals and expats for its onsen, mountain temples, and the Kurama Fire Festival. The town of Kibune is famous for its beautiful streets lined with shops and restaurants, with dining terraces setup on the river during the summer. The hike is one of the best winter hikes in Kyoto, it's quite easy and looks amazing in the snow, the path features numerous lanterns with the Kurama-dera temple at the top. It's also worth mentioning that many travellers consider the Kurama Fire Festival to be the best festival in Japan, I've included some photos below, and you can read more about it here.
Access
Train
The train to Kurama station (and Kibune Station) departs from Demachiyanagi Station which is easily accessed anywhere in the city via train or bus. In most cases you can easily reach Kurama from Kyoto within 1 hour
Google maps
Maps
Trail Description
The trailhead begins from the base of the Kurama-dera temple just a 2 minute walk from the station, entry is ¥300. You will ascend the paved trail up the mountain and quickly reach the top, it will only take about 30 mins. After another 30 mins you'll reach Kibune, turn right and you'll find the beautiful shops and the Kibune shrine. From here you have the option of catching a bus to Kibune station if you don't want to spend 20 minutes walking on the road.
Elevation Profile
Weather and Seasons
Kurama can be hiked year round and is beautiful in every season. Summer is lush and green, and perfect for lunch on the river. It's also amazing during winter with fresh snow, which falls from December to February.
Useful links
Gallery
Difficulty: 1/5
Hiking Distance: 4.5 km
Time: 2 hrs
Elevation gain: 260m
Prefecture: Kyoto
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