Begin your journey from Minami Osaka or Kyoto Station, head to one of Kyoto’s most iconic landscapes — the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. Walk through a corridor of towering bamboo, where sunlight filters through the green canopy and the rustling leaves create a natural melody.

Leave the bamboo forest behind and continue into the northern mountains, where mysticism and legend await. Visit the enchanting Kibune Shrine, dedicated to the god of water and rainfall. Nestled beside a clear stream, this shrine has long been a place of prayer for safe travels, good fortune, and prosperous harvests. The iconic stone steps lined with bright red lanterns create one of the most picturesque approaches in Kyoto.

From Kibune, a mountain path leads you deeper into the mystical realm of Kurama-dera Temple, a place filled with history and energy. According to legend, this is where the young warrior Ushiwakamaru (later known as Minamoto no Yoshitsune) trained under mythical beings, preparing for his future as one of Japan’s most celebrated heroes. As you ascend the forested slopes, the temple’s grand gates and sweeping views inspire both awe and reverence.

One of the highlights of this pilgrimage is the mysterious Kino-ne-michi, or “Roots of Trees” path. Here, the ancient cedar trees have spread their massive roots above ground, intertwining to form a natural sculpture that seems alive with hidden power. Walking through this extraordinary trail, you can sense the timeless bond between the land and the people who have honored it for centuries.

The journey also brings you to Yuki Shrine, a smaller yet deeply significant shrine known for its protective deities and seasonal festivals.

Nearby, have the chance to taste a local specialty beloved by pilgrims and travelers alike — the sweet Ushiwaka Mochi. Soft, lightly sweet, and full of tradition, this treat is said to carry the spirit of the mountain’s legends in every bite.

Finally, as the day’s adventures draw to a close, find true relaxation at Kurama Onsen. Surrounded by the quiet beauty of the mountains, the outdoor hot spring baths offer the perfect sanctuary for body and soul. Sink into the steaming waters, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and let the warmth dissolve your fatigue.