Kurama & Kibune
Escape to mountain villages for hiking, hot springs, and riverside dining
Kurama and Kibune are neighboring mountain villages located in the northern mountains of Kyoto, connected by a scenic mountain trail. Kurama-dera Temple, founded in 770, sits on Mount Kurama and has been an important center for mountain ascetic practices. The temple is associated with Tengu, mythical mountain spirits said to inhabit the area, and is the legendary training ground of Minamoto no Yoshitsune, a famous 12th-century samurai warrior who learned sword fighting from the mountain's Tengu. The village retains its spiritual atmosphere as a place of mountain worship and pilgrimage.
Kibune village, nestled in a narrow valley along the Kibune River, developed around Kifune Shrine, founded over 1,600 years ago and dedicated to the god of water. The shrine has been revered by emperors and commoners alike for prayers related to rain and water. During the Heian period (794-1185), Kibune became a popular retreat for Kyoto nobles seeking cool mountain air during hot summers. This tradition continues today with the famous kawadoko dining platforms built over the river, where restaurants serve meals as diners enjoy the cooling sounds and spray of the rushing water below.
Today, Kurama and Kibune attract visitors year-round for their natural beauty, spiritual sites, and seasonal attractions. The villages offer an easy mountain escape from Kyoto city, reachable in 30 minutes by train. The 2-kilometer hiking trail between Kurama-dera and Kibune through cedar forests provides a peaceful nature walk with spiritual sites along the way. Summer brings kawadoko river dining, autumn offers spectacular foliage, and winter's snow-covered temples create serene landscapes. The villages maintain their traditional character while welcoming visitors to experience mountain culture.
Key Highlights
- Kurama-dera Temple founded in 770 on mountain slope with Tengu legends
- 2-kilometer mountain trail connecting Kurama and Kibune through cedar forest
- Kifune Shrine (1,600+ years old) dedicated to water deity
- Summer kawadoko riverside dining platforms over Kibune River (May-September)
- Kurama Onsen natural hot spring with outdoor baths and mountain views
- Spectacular autumn foliage in November along hiking trails
- Fire Festival (Kurama Hi Matsuri) on October 22nd with torchlight procession
- 30-minute scenic train ride from Kyoto on Eizan Railway
Access Information
Location
Kurama-Kibune area, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto
Nearest Stations
- • Kurama Station (Eizan Railway Kurama Line) - Terminal station in Kurama village
- • Kibuneguchi Station (Eizan Railway) - 5-minute walk or shuttle bus to Kibune
Opening Hours
Villages accessible 24 hours. Kurama-dera Temple: 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM. Kifune Shrine: 6:00 AM - 8:00 PM (prayer office 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM). Hiking trail: dawn to dusk. Kawadoko restaurants: lunch 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM, dinner 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM (May 1 - Sept 30 only). Kurama Onsen: 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM.
Admission Fee
Train from Demachiyanagi: ¥430 to Kurama. Kurama-dera Temple: ¥300 (includes cable car or hiking path). Kifune Shrine: Free (special prayer services extra). Kurama Onsen: Day-use ¥2,500-¥3,000. Kawadoko dining: ¥5,000-¥15,000 per person (reservation required). Hiking trail: Free.
How to Get There
From Kyoto (Demachiyanagi)
Take Eizan Railway Kurama Line from Demachiyanagi Station to Kurama (30 minutes, ¥430). For Kibune, get off at Kibuneguchi Station (27 minutes), then walk 5 minutes uphill or take shuttle bus (¥200)
30 minutes
From Kyoto Station
Take Karasuma Line subway to Kokusaikaikan Station (20 min), transfer to bus #52 to Kurama or Kibune (20 min). Or take Karasuma Line to Imadegawa, local bus to Demachiyanagi, then Eizan Railway.
50 minutes
From Downtown Kyoto
Take bus or walk to Demachiyanagi Station (10-15 min), then Eizan Railway to Kurama or Kibuneguchi (25-30 min)
40 minutes
Tips & Visiting Guide
Make the most of your visit with these helpful tips and guidelines.
Kurama-Kibune Hiking Trail
The 2km trail takes 60-90 minutes. Start from Kurama-dera Temple main hall, hike over the mountain pass, descend to Kifune Shrine. Moderately steep with some stairs but manageable for most fitness levels. Wear proper footwear. Trail closes during heavy rain or snow.
Kawadoko River Dining
Unique summer experience dining on platforms over rushing river (May 1 - Sept 30). Reserve well ahead especially for weekends (weeks to months advance). Lunch more affordable than dinner. Bring light jacket - river spray and mountain air make it surprisingly cool even in summer heat.
Best Seasonal Visits
Summer for kawadoko dining and cool mountain escape. Autumn (mid-late November) for spectacular foliage along trails. Winter offers peaceful snow-covered temple scenes but some facilities closed. Spring has fresh greenery. Each season offers unique beauty. Avoid rainy days for hiking.
Kurama Onsen
Natural hot spring with indoor and outdoor baths offering mountain views (¥2,500 day-use). The outdoor rotenburo is particularly nice. Towel rental available. Located near Kurama Station (5-minute walk). Perfect after hiking. Open 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM (last entry 8:00 PM).
Temple & Shrine Visits
Kurama-dera's main hall sits mid-mountain (cable car or 30-min walk from station). The Tengu statues and mountain atmosphere are special. Kifune Shrine's vermillion lantern-lined path is photogenic. Visit the water fortune slips (float paper in sacred spring water to reveal fortune).
Kurama Fire Festival
October 22nd annual festival features massive torches carried through village streets, creating dramatic fire procession. One of Kyoto's most unique festivals. Extremely crowded - trains packed, arrive early afternoon. No hotel rooms available - plan day trip only. Spectacular but physically demanding to attend.
Photography Spots
Kifune Shrine's lantern-lined stone steps (especially evening when lit). Autumn foliage along hiking trail. Kurama-dera main hall with mountain backdrop. Kawadoko platforms from above showing diners over river. Winter snow on temple buildings creates magical scenes.
Itinerary Planning
Full day recommended to enjoy both villages leisurely. Sample itinerary: Train to Kurama, visit temple, hike to Kibune (90 min), lunch at Kibune restaurant, visit Kifune Shrine, train back. Or reverse direction. Half-day possible but rushed. Summer kawadoko dining worth dedicating evening to the area.
FAQ
How long does the hike between Kurama and Kibune take?
The mountain path from Kurama-dera Temple over the ridge to Kibune takes 60-90 minutes depending on pace and stops. The route includes stairs and some steep sections. Most visitors start at Kurama Station, visit the temple, hike over, and descend to Kibune for lunch, making it a half-day excursion.
Which direction is better for hiking?
Starting from Kurama and ending in Kibune is most popular and considered easier, as it's mostly uphill to the ridge, then downhill to Kibune. This allows you to visit Kurama-dera Temple first, then enjoy a riverside meal in Kibune afterward. The reverse is steeper and less common.
What is kawadoko dining in Kibune?
From May to September, restaurants set up dining platforms directly over the cool mountain stream. You dine on tatami platforms with your feet near the flowing water, enjoying kaiseki meals in natural air conditioning. Reservations are essential, especially on weekends. It's more expensive but uniquely atmospheric.
Is the hike difficult for beginners?
The trail is moderate with well-maintained paths and stairs, but includes steep sections and elevation gain. Reasonable fitness is needed. Proper walking shoes are essential. Elderly visitors or those with mobility issues might find it challenging. The cable car at Kurama reduces the initial ascent for those wanting an easier start.
When is the best season to visit?
Summer (June-September) is popular for kawadoko dining and forest coolness. Autumn (November) offers spectacular foliage along the mountain path. Spring brings fresh greenery and mountain flowers. Winter is quiet and can be snowy, with some facilities closed. Each season offers distinct natural beauty.
What should I bring for the hike?
Wear proper hiking shoes with good grip. Bring water, snacks, insect repellent (summer), and a towel. Walking poles can help on steep sections. Dress in layers as temperature varies. A rain jacket is wise as mountain weather changes quickly. Toilet facilities are limited to temples.
Can I visit both areas without hiking?
Yes, you can visit Kurama-dera Temple without hiking further, or take a bus to Kibune and enjoy the riverside atmosphere without the mountain trek. The bus connecting the two areas runs infrequently and takes about 20 minutes. Each area has individual appeal without combining them.
What is special about Kurama-dera Temple?
Kurama-dera is headquarters of its own Buddhist sect, set in forested mountains. It's associated with Tengu mountain spirits and was where young Minamoto no Yoshitsune trained. The temple complex spans multiple buildings up the mountainside. The spiritual atmosphere and natural setting are powerful.
Are there accommodation options in the area?
Both Kurama and Kibune have traditional ryokan offering overnight stays, some with onsen. Staying overnight allows you to experience the mountains' tranquility and early morning temple atmosphere without day-trip crowds. Options range from budget to luxury. Advance booking is essential, especially in autumn.
How do I get there from central Kyoto?
Take the Eizan Railway from Demachi-Yanagi Station to Kurama Station (about 30 minutes). The scenic train ride through mountains is part of the experience. For Kibune, get off at Kibune-guchi Station and walk or take a bus. The railway journey itself offers beautiful views, especially during autumn foliage.
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