Stroll
Kyoto
Japan

Kyoto

Kyoto

A journey through the forested mountains and iconic landmarks that encircle Japan's ancient imperial capital, linking some of Kyoto's most celebrated temples, shrines and neighbourhoods on foot.

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Overview

The Kyoto Trail winds through forested hills surrounding Japan's ancient imperial capital, connecting its greatest temples and shrines while leaving the crowds behind. Walk away from the tourist flow at Fushimi Inari, passing through the Imperial family's graveyard on the way to Gion. Trek mountain trails to the sacred complex at Kurama and the bamboo groves of Arashiyama. Off the trail, there is time to visit the Golden Pavilion, Nijo Castle and the Imperial Palace, rounding out an immersion into Japanese heritage that goes well beyond the surface.

Available Strolls

Temple on water Kyoto 2
Self-Guided

The Kyoto Trail – 5 Days

Duration5 days
Physical
From£815
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Route Map
The Kyoto Trail – 5 Days route map

The Kyoto Trail – 5 Days

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30+ Years Experience

Three decades of crafting memorable walks worldwide

Pack-Free Walking

Your luggage travels ahead while you walk light

24/7 Support

We're always just a phone call away

Eco Travel

Tread lightly through the places you love

The Kyoto Experience

Wonder
Stroll from Fushimi Inari through the Imperial family graveyard to Kiyomizu-dera
Chion-in Temple’s massive Torii Gate and manicured gardens at Nanzen-ji
Kurama-dera, Arashiyama bamboo grove and Tenryu-ji’s magnificent riverside gardens
Wellness
Crowd free easy to moderate trails with flexible walking days with seamless city access
Quiet central Japanese lodgings tucked away for restful nights in Kyoto
Soak tired feet in Kifune’s running water beneath cool mountain air
Nature
Cypress and cedar forests, peaceful rural scenery and forested Kyoto hillsides
Climb Mount Daimonji for magnificent views above Kyoto’s temple-dotted basin
Mountains, waterways and riverside strolls around Arashiyama’s preserved old town

What you'll eat

Kaiseki
Multi-course dining with seasonal dishes, careful balance, and quiet ritual
Sushi & Sashimi
Fresh slices and nigiri that suit Kyoto evenings after a day walking
Sake & Tea
Locally brewed sake or green tea fits naturally with unhurried Japanese meals

Where you'll stay

Central Hotels
Japanese hotels in central Kyoto, easy-going and well placed for evening wanders
Japanese Lodgings
Local-style stays that ease you into Kyoto without feeling overly formal
Comfortable Stays
More facilities than traditional accommodation, while still feeling distinctly Japanese

How you'll travel

Local Trains
Straightforward rail links connect Kyoto with the walk starting points
Short Taxi rides
Occasional taxi hops save time and optimises holiday time
Ancient Paths
You move through Kyoto on paved trails, hillside tracks, shrines, and town lanes

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