Mt. Kurama is one of a number of worthwhile day trips from Kyoto. On arrival, stop to admire the Sojobo statue outside the train station, then walk or ride the cable car up Mt. Kurama to explore the Kurama Dera Temple complex. Hikers can also follow the scenic trail along the mountaintop to the Kifune shrine, a hike that takes about three to four hours. Another popular pastime is visiting the Kurama Onsen, a traditional Japanese bath fed by natural hot springs. For the full experience, opt for a relaxing soak in the open-air bath, surrounded by lush mountain scenery.
Mt. Kurama is located 9 miles (14 kilometers) north of Kyoto and is easily reached by train. Ride the Eizan Kurama Line from downtown Kyoto to Demachi-Yanagi Station, about a 30-minute journey. On arrival in Kurama, free shuttle buses run between the train station and Kurama Onsen or it’s just a 2-minute walk to the cable car station.
Kurama draws huge crowds to its annual Fire Festival, held at the Kurama-Dera Temple each October. This time of year also offers some of the prettiest views, with colorful fall foliage brightening up the mountainsides.
There are several options for day trips from Kyoto. Head to the historic city of Nara, where the streets are lined with beautiful temples and shrines, including Nijo Castle, Kofuku-ji Temple, and Tōdai-ji; or take a walk through the bamboo forests of nearby Arashiyama. Alternatively, visit the port city of Nagoya; admire the castle and Hokoku Shrine in Osaka; or head to Himeji, where the headline act is the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Himeji Castle.
