Kibune to Kurama hike in winter

Hello! I'm planning a trip to Japan this February and I'd like to hike from Kibune to Kurama.

However, I'm finding conflicting information about the hike in winter: some places say that the pass from Kibune to Kurama is closed in winter; others say that it is open year round. I've researched some English and Japanese blogs/websites, but it didn't help. Even here, in japan-guide forums, I couldn't be confident in an answer!

Does anyone know if the winter hike is possible?

Thanks!

Greetings,

After looking at various websites myself it is indeed confusing!

Here is a link to a japan guide forum post relating to your situation: http://www.japan-guide.com/forum/quereadisplay.html?0+97445

However, it is still not definitive!

I have hiked this trail many times in the fall and spring. It is a steep trail and is of moderate difficulty. So, if there is ice, I would avoid it.

I truly wish I could provide you with a more definitive answer.

Hopefully someone can answer your question with certainty.

Either way, please enjoy your trip to Japan :)

The official website of Kurama Temple, which owns and administers the hiking trail between Kurama and Kibune does not indicate any closure dates. Pictures of signs in the area also don't indicate closures. While not definitive, I think that strongly implies that it is open. But please note that the trail is sometime temporarily closed due to trail and weather conditions. Be prepared with an alternate plan should you not be able to hike through. Also note the temporary cable car closure on the Kurama side.

http://www.kuramadera.or.jp/access.html

Thanks Ohara, yllwsmrf! That's right, most sources I've looked at do not mention the winter closure -- though a few of them (esp. here in japan-guide) do clearly mention it --, but neither do they explicitly say if it's open!

Either way, I'm going to check it personally mid-February :^)

Thanks for the advice, Ohara! Whilst I was hoping for some snow on the day, not much, I'll definitely take care.

yllwsmrf, yes, I was aware that the cable car would be closed. As for alternative plans, I've been wanting to visit Kurama Temple for some time, so all is well!

Thanks again for your attention!

Oh yes, if anyone is interested, I've found these three reports of the hike in winter (January and December):

http://4travel.jp/travelogue/10635019 [jp]

http://pokpokandaway.blogspot.com.br/2013/01/kyoto-beautiful-kurama-an... [en]

https://www.tripadvisor.jp/ShowUserReviews-g298564-d3444654-r153188718... [jp] (just a tripadvisor comment, apparently visited it in January)