Off the beaten path

Travel Reports by Joshua Hugh

Note: The opinions and views expressed in this user report are those of the individual author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions and views of japan-guide.com.

May 18, 2013 - Off the beaten path

Started off the day at Kitano Tenmangu. It is nice that it opens early. The streets across it has a calm feel.

Since my purpose is to show an off the usual path pictures here is a temple, Senbonshakado, between Kitano and Kamo Shrine.

Some other stuff along the way is a temple that seems to have a courtyard for aristocrats to play ball. And a mikoshi(?) that is not kept.

This is the southern Kamo Shrine. It opens earlier and it's buildings are really large. Especially the Tori Gates. Not visible here as Japan-Guide has some pretty find examples already.

Walk south out the main entrance and you get to a river. (Kamo River?)
Following it down and you will reach the terminal stations for the subway and for the electric trains, Demachiyagani Station.

From here it is a pleasant ride through villages and mountains to Kibune.

Kibune is north of Kyoto. After getting off the train do rush to the bus stop or you will miss the bus. If you really need to go to the toilet, you will miss the bus, but enjoy a pleasant stroll along a river. It is uphill though and on your left would be a mountain. Although, there are railings, do take caution not to fall into the river or get crushed by boulders from the mountain.

There are two places why you can have the amazing "on the river" dining experience. The below pictures are of the one nearest to the train station. It is by itself and a bit of distance from Kibune town.

The cool river air and the sounds of water rushing is worth the price of the experience. The service was also impeccable with kimono clad ladies moving in their special way.

The food isn't bad but it is not worth the price, the atmosphere and service is worth every yen though.

The other restaurant that does this is further uphill, in Kibune town, opposite the shrine. Do not that the other restaurant prioritizes privacy with more private seating arrangements. I however, prefer this restaurant as it gives a more unrestrictive and free feel. I also managed to witness a wedding party in traditional and modern clothing.

After visiting Kibune Shrine (the restaurant will drive you to anywhere nearby), I started the strenuous hike across Kurama mountain to Kurama town.

Many times I felt defeated due to exhaustion, a lack of vending machines along the way, seeing people thrice my age going strong, and kids a third my age jumping along the way.

Below is one of the many points seen along the way. (Bells, temples, shrines, museums, sacred tress...)

The hike is indeed tiring.

And dangerous. Proper shoes are required.

Nearing the end of the hike, you will see this amazing view.

Unsure why there is a garden on the veranada when there are mountains and tress all around.

The main hall. Nearer the Kurama side of the mountain.

The place where the lady in black is standing is considered a "power spot". For those who played the earlier versions of Warcraft would know it as "circle of power".

After queuing up and taking a photo at the power spot, prayers are done at the temple, inside the temple, and finally deeper inside the temple right next to the statue.

From here, it is a easy downhill hike or a cable car ride out. Kurama town has not much to offer. The onsen is nothing special but also nice to soak after a long hike. (1.2 hours)

list all posts

List of Posts:
2014/12/28 - Kyushu in winter
2013/11/15 - Off the beaten path- Western Japan
2013/05/21 - Getting lost on the outskirts of Kyoto
2013/05/20 - Uncommon but fun places
2013/05/19 - Mifune Matsuri and off the road temples
2013/05/18 - Off the beaten path