Top 10 Best Places to Hike in Kyoto

The iconic trail through thousands of vermillion torii gates winding up Mount Inari. This 4km hike takes you through mystical shrine grounds with stunning views of Kyoto from the summit.

A peaceful 2km stone path along a cherry-tree-lined canal connecting Ginkaku-ji to Nanzen-ji temples. Perfect for a contemplative walk through traditional Kyoto neighborhoods.

Walk through towering bamboo stalks in this ethereal forest that has inspired artists for centuries. The trail connects to several temples and the scenic Togetsukyo Bridge.

A scenic mountain trail connecting Kurama Temple to the riverside village of Kibune. The 3km hike passes through ancient cedar forests and sacred shrine grounds.

Climb to the site of Kyoto's famous Gozan no Okuribi fire festival on Mount Daimonji. The moderately challenging trail rewards hikers with spectacular city panoramas.

A historic walking route through Kyoto's preserved Higashiyama district, connecting Kiyomizu-dera to Yasaka Shrine through atmospheric lanes and temple grounds.

Challenge yourself on the trails of sacred Mount Hiei, home to the historic Enryaku-ji Temple complex. Multiple routes offer varying difficulty levels through pristine forests.

Explore the spacious grounds of the former Imperial Palace with its beautiful walking paths, traditional gardens, and seasonal flora spanning 65 hectares.

Wander through the extensive grounds of this important Zen temple complex, featuring the iconic brick aqueduct, sub-temples, and forested hillside paths.

Explore the forested hillside park behind the famous Tenryu-ji Temple, offering peaceful trails with views over the Hozu River and connections to the Arashiyama area.

The iconic trail through thousands of vermillion torii gates winding up Mount Inari. This 4km hike takes you through mystical shrine grounds with stunning views of Kyoto from the summit.

A scenic mountain trail connecting Kurama Temple to the riverside village of Kibune. The 3km hike passes through ancient cedar forests and sacred shrine grounds.

Walk through towering bamboo stalks in this ethereal forest that has inspired artists for centuries. The trail connects to several temples and the scenic Togetsukyo Bridge.

A peaceful 2km stone path along a cherry-tree-lined canal connecting Ginkaku-ji to Nanzen-ji temples. Spring transforms this walk into a tunnel of pink cherry blossoms.

Walk along the historic railway tracks of this former boat transportation incline, now one of Kyoto's most photogenic cherry blossom spots with nearly 90 trees.

Escape summer heat on this forested mountain trail ending in Kibune, famous for kawadoko riverside dining platforms where you can cool off after your hike.

Beat the summer crowds and heat with an early morning walk through the bamboo forest when the light filters magically through the towering stalks.

Experience Kyoto's most spectacular autumn colors at this Zen temple complex, where the Tsutenkyo Bridge offers iconic views over a valley of blazing maples.

Hike through autumn foliage to the famous bonfire site on Mount Daimonji, enjoying panoramic views of Kyoto surrounded by fall colors.

Experience the magical vermillion gates dusted with snow in winter. The trail is less crowded and the crisp air makes for excellent visibility from the summit.

Walk the paths around the Golden Pavilion in winter, when occasional snowfall creates one of Kyoto's most photographed scenes reflecting in the mirror pond.