When people think of sightseeing in Kyoto, famous spots like Kiyomizu-dera and Kinkaku-ji often come to mind. However, many travelers may be looking for a way to escape the crowds and spend some relaxing time in nature.
In this article, we’ll introduce a scenic hiking route that connects Kurama Temple and Kifune Shrine, along with Kurama Onsen—perfect for unwinding after your hike.
① Head to Kifune Shrine
Kifune Shrine is famous as a shrine dedicated to the god of water. One of its most iconic features is the stone staircase lined with red lanterns, making it a highly photogenic spot.
While it can get crowded with visitors, the shrine is surrounded by nature, offering a calm and relaxing atmosphere. A nearby river flows through the area, making it an especially refreshing destination during the warmer months.
After exploring Kifune Shrine for a while, you’ll find a bridge that leads to the entrance of the hiking trail.
② Head to the Hiking Trail
The hiking trail is beginner-friendly and typically takes about one hour to complete. However, it’s worth noting that if you’re not used to physical activity, it may feel a bit challenging. One of my friends, who works a desk job, mentioned that their legs were quite tired after the hike.
That said, there’s no need to worry too much. People of all ages enjoy this trail, and parts of the route can be accessed by a paid cable car, making it more manageable for those who prefer a lighter hike.
③ Head to Mao-den (Maoden Hall)
One of the most memorable spots along the hiking trail from Kurama to Kifune is Mao-den (Maoden Hall). At first, the name might sound a bit intimidating, but the actual atmosphere is quite different.
Mao-den is a small hall located deep in the mountains of Kurama and is known as a highly spiritual place. From my experience visiting multiple times, I’ve noticed that it attracts many international travelers, especially from Europe and North America, as well as Japanese visitors.
You can enter the hall to pay your respects, and once inside, you’ll likely feel a unique and mysterious atmosphere that makes this place truly special.
④ Head to the Tree Root Path
The ground here is covered with sprawling tree roots, creating a landscape that looks like a natural work of art.
It’s actually my favorite spot along the entire hiking trail.
There is also a designated space for meditation, making it an ideal place to relax both your body and mind.
➄ Head to Kurama-dera Main Hall
When visiting Kurama-dera, one place you shouldn’t miss is the Main Hall. This site is known for its unique spiritual belief system that symbolizes the energy of the universe.
One of its most distinctive features is the hexagram stone pattern on the ground. Standing on it, you may feel as if you are absorbing a special kind of energy.
⑥ Head to Kurama Onsen
貴船神社から鞍馬寺へのハイキングコースを楽しんだあとは、鞍馬温泉で体をゆっくりと癒すのがおすすめです。
After the hike, soaking in the hot spring feels incredibly refreshing, and you can feel the fatigue in your body melt away almost instantly.
The outdoor bath, in particular, offers a truly relaxing experience, where you can unwind both physically and mentally while surrounded by nature.
In fact, this combination of hiking and hot springs is the biggest highlight of the entire experience.
There is also a restaurant inside Kurama Onsen, so it’s a great place to enjoy lunch or dinner after your visit.
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