Recently, I finally had the opportunity to hike the Higashiyama Course of the Kyoto Trail, a route that had been on my list for quite some time.
For this hike, I started at Fushimi Inari Taisha, one of Kyoto’s most famous landmarks, and finished in Keage. While Kyoto is widely known for its temples and shrines, stepping into the surrounding mountains reveals a completely different side of the city—one filled with peaceful forests, scenic viewpoints, and beautiful natural landscapes.
It was a highly rewarding hike that allowed me to experience both Kyoto’s history and nature, so I’d like to share my experience.
■ Starting at Fushimi Inari Taisha
The hike began at Fushimi Inari Taisha.
Since I arrived early in the morning, the shrine grounds were relatively quiet.
The thousands of vermilion torii gates that form the famous Senbon Torii are impressive no matter how many times you see them. Although the shrine is extremely popular with international visitors, the early hours offered a more peaceful atmosphere and made it possible to enjoy the walk at a relaxed pace.
After passing through the bustling main shrine area, the route gradually transitions into mountain trails.
This is where the real hiking adventure begins.
■ Scenic Views Over Kyoto
As you climb Mount Inari, several viewpoints offer spectacular views of Kyoto.
Whenever I stopped to catch my breath and looked back, the Kyoto Basin stretched out before me, with the city skyline visible in the distance.
Most visitors experience Kyoto at street level while sightseeing, but seeing the city from above provides an entirely different perspective.
It was one of those moments that revealed a side of Kyoto that many travelers never get to experience.
■ A Peaceful Trail Through the Forest
Once beyond the Fushimi Inari area, the number of tourists decreases dramatically.
The sounds of birds singing and leaves rustling in the breeze replace the noise of the city.
The trail is well maintained, and clear markers are placed throughout the route, making it relatively easy to navigate even for beginner hikers.
The surrounding nature is so rich that it is hard to believe you are still within Kyoto City.
■ Spectacular Views Near Mount Daimonji
One of the highlights of the Higashiyama Course is the area around Mount Daimonji.
After a long stretch of forest trails, the scenery suddenly opens up, revealing panoramic views of Kyoto.
From here, you can see Kyoto Tower, the city center, and the mountains surrounding the basin.
The breathtaking view made all the effort of hiking worthwhile.
It was the perfect place to sit down, take a break, and simply enjoy the scenery.
■ Finishing the Hike in Keage
My hike ended in Keage.
After hours of walking through the mountains, returning to the city brought a unique sense of accomplishment.
The Keage area is home to several historic sites and pleasant walking paths, making it a great place to continue exploring after the hike.
Experiencing Kyoto’s urban landscape after spending time in nature felt especially rewarding.
■ Final Thoughts
The Higashiyama Course of the Kyoto Trail offers:
- A unique combination of Kyoto’s history and natural beauty
- Well-maintained trails and clear route markers
- Numerous scenic viewpoints overlooking Kyoto
- A route that is accessible even for beginner hikers
The section from Fushimi Inari to Keage is an excellent way to discover a side of Kyoto that most tourists never see.
Even if you have visited Kyoto many times before, I highly recommend giving this trail a try.
Walking through the ancient capital at your own pace, surrounded by nature and history, is a truly special experience.
That, in my opinion, is the greatest charm of the Kyoto Trail’s Higashiyama Course.
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