Put your hand up if you love autumn. Here in Kyoto, it’s the season when the city and the scenery are at their most stunning. This year the pandemic might be forcing us to curb our activities, but don’t despair—autumn is hiking season. Kyoto is surrounded by mountains with some of the most spectacular autumn foliage there is, and the air’s cleaner there too. So why not get away from the crowded city for a hike through the mountains of Kyoto?

This course includes some of Kyoto’s major landmarks such as Fushimi Inari Shrine and Kiyomizudera temple. It’s easily accessible by public transport and a relatively comfortable walk for beginners.

 

Offering a true hiking experience, this course takes you to the top of Mt. Hiei with its stunning panoramic views, and down through the sleepy rural scenery of Ōhara.

There’s a spiritual feel to this course. The steep mountain path through Kitayama cedar groves has been trodden by generations of monks on their way to Kurama and Kiyotaki.

 

 

The starting point of this course, Kiyotaki, is one of the best places in Kyoto for viewing autumn foliage. From there it follows a riverside path down to Arashiyama. Recommended for families.

A more remote hike through the mountainous northern outskirts of the city. This is the best choice if you want to experience the picturesque countryside.

1.      Do not hike in large groups. Maintain sufficient distance from other hikers when resting.

2.      Always wear a mask in crowded spaces.

3.      Drink plenty of fluids to avoid heatstroke and dehydration.

4.      Stay away from the trail if you are unwell (including a temperature that is higher than normal, chills, fatigue, difficulty breathing, or coughing).

Your life may be put at risk and unnecessary burden placed on rescue and medical services if you develop COVID-19 symptoms while on the trail.

 
For more information about Kyoto Circuit Trail go to:

https://ja.kyoto.travel/tourism/article/trail/  (Japanese)

Costume provider：On Japan