Kurama-dera Temple

Wonderful place! Very easy access to this beautiful and peaceful area. There are a lot of steps to the temple, but it’s definitely worth the climb! The view is just wonderful. If you want to carry on, you can do a nice hike to Kifune Shrine. And explore all the beautiful restaurants around. Worth it!

Not a tourist trap. I came here to visit because it is known for birthplace of reiki healing. There is a cable car to the top cost 400 yen CASH and entrance 500 yen CASH. Bring cash, there is no easy way to make exchange. The view is great and walk pretty okay. Alternatively you can hike up for 30-50 min. It looked steep.

(Trip was made back then on 16 Nov 2022) Our visit to Kurama-dera on 16 Nov 2022 was simply amazing. Nestled in the tranquil mountains of northern Kyoto, this temple is a hidden gem that offers a perfect blend of spirituality and natural beauty—especially during the autumn season. The approach to the temple was a delightful journey through autumn foliage. Even though the colours have yet to reach their peak, there were adequate bursts of fiery reds, golden yellows, and brilliant oranges to paint a beautiful scenery. Another week or two would see the temple grounds beautifully enveloped in majestic crimson colours. Walking up the mountain path felt like stepping into a picturesque postcard, with the crisp mountain air enhancing the peaceful atmosphere. From the main hall, we were treated to sweeping panoramic views of the valley, framed by a kaleidoscope of autumn colors. The temple grounds themselves were serene and beautifully maintained, radiating a sense of sacredness. Our leisurely hike while enjoying the autumn scenery took us about 1 hour 45 minutes, and the journey back down via the cable car was about 1 hour. Highly recommended for those who love hiking and soaking in the beauty of nature. There is also a trail connecting Kurama-dera temple and Kifune Shrine but sadly we didn’t have enough time to complete that trail. Nevertheless, the journey to Kurama-dera alone was another unforgettable highlight of our trip.

it's a 10 out of 10, i repeat, it's a 10 out of 10🥶 personally i think it's better than 岚山(arashiyama), which i thought i would climb up the mountain or sth but actually i was walking on flat road for most of the time😅 鞍马寺 is different, this is a place where u climb up the mountain, feel the nature(there was excellent red leaves!), and also learn about how people respect and treasure it. i enjoyed this spot so much, plz come for a visit🧐 also, i recommend going from 鞍马寺 to 贵船神社 rather than the opposite way bc it's more tiring

One of the most beautiful hikes I did in my entire life. From Kurama Station over Mount Kurama to Kifune shrine. The trail is quite steep and in some areas not easy to go. But doable with good shoes.