Kyoto Private Hiking Tour: Ancient Trails of Kurama and Kibune

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5 hours (approximately)
Pickup offered
Offered in: English

Escape the crowds and discover Kyoto's wild side on a fully private hiking tour through ancient cedar forests, from the mountain temple of Kurama to the riverside village of Kibune.

Your guide is a foreigner who has lived in Kyoto for nearly 10 years, bringing a unique outside perspective that international travelers find refreshing and relatable.

This centuries-old trail winds through cedar forests and temple grounds — a side of Kyoto that most visitors never see. The pace is entirely flexible and tailored to your group. Families with children are warmly welcome.

- Hike a centuries-old forest trail walked by monks and travelers
- Visit Kurama-dera Temple, a spiritual mountainside retreat
- Pass through towering cedar forests and peaceful temple grounds
- Arrive in Kibune, a charming riverside village with traditional atmosphere
- Fully private — your group only, never shared with strangers
- Entrance fees to temples and shrines included

What's Included

Admission fee
Public transportation

Meeting and pickup

Pickup points
You can choose a pickup location at checkout (multiple pickup locations are available).
Pickup details:

Please let us know your hotel in advance. We will meet you in the hotel lobby at the tour start time.

After your booking is confirmed, your assigned guide will send you their details (such as appearance and clothing).

OR
Meeting point
Demachiyanagi Station

In front of the ticket gates at Demachiyanagi Station (Eizan Railway), Kyoto

End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.

Itinerary

Duration: 5 hours (approximately)
  • 1
    Kurama-dera

    Visit Kurama-dera Temple, a serene mountainside temple surrounded by ancient cedar forest. Your guide will share the history and spiritual significance of this sacred site before beginning the forest trail.

    1 hour • Admission ticket included
  • 2

    Hike through the ancient cedar forests of Mt. Kurama on a centuries-old trail once walked by monks and travelers. The peaceful mountain path winds through towering trees, offering fresh air, natural beauty, and occasional views over the valley.

    1 hour • Admission ticket free
  • 3
    Kibune Shrine

    Visit Kibune-jinja Shrine, a tranquil Shinto shrine dedicated to the god of water. Set along the riverside with stone lanterns lining the approach, it is one of Kyoto's most atmospheric and lesser-known sacred sites.

    1 hour • Admission ticket free
  • 4
    Kibune River

    Arrive in Kibune, a charming riverside village nestled in the mountains. Known for its traditional architecture and peaceful atmosphere, Kibune is the perfect end point to the hike — a quiet escape far from the busy city.

    1 hour • Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Supplied by Japan Cultural Trails

Tags

Day Trips
Hiking Tours
Nature and Wildlife Tours
Half-day Tours
Private and Luxury
Private Sightseeing Tours
Cultural Tours
Historical Tours
Rail Tours
Walking Tours
Nature Walks
Additional fees
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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