[Hiking the Kyoto loop] Oiwayama, Fushimi-Inari and Higashiyama
Details
Hi fellow hikers!
Excited to kickstart this meetup with this very first hike, first chunk of the 84km Kyoto Loop Trail that runs from Momoyama (South-East side) to Kami-katsura (West side).
Three possible distances for this hike, depending on your taste: since the hike skirts the edge of Kyoto, you have the option to hike with us for 9km, 14km or for the full 18km. At each third of the full trail we'll reach a commuting hub allowing you to part ways with us--yours truly will cover the whole distance for anyone who wants to challenge themselves. Read on for more details!
Meeting point: Gokonomiya Torii Gate, easily accessible through the stations of Fushimi-Momoyama (Keihan), Momoyamagoryo-Mae (Kintetsu) and Momoyama (JR)
Meeting time: 9:00am, starting the hike at 9:15 no matter what excuse or bribe you may offer.
First possible finish: at about 9km (~3h), Inari Station.
Second possible finish: at about 14km (~5h), Seikanji Yamanochicho bus station.
Third possible finish: at about 18km (~7h), Keage station.
What to expect
This section traces Kyoto’s eastern hills up from Momoyama, beginning with the quiet ascent of Oiwayama and the secluded grounds of Oiwa Shrine with its ancient, almost animistic vibes. The trail then dances across the edge of the city, alternating between pavement, bamboo groves and fragrant cedar-and-fern trails, crossing Fushimi Inari and Kiyomizudera's backwoods. We'll finish at Higashiyama Summit Park and the nearby Shogunzuka Mound which offer a fantastic view over the city.
Points of difficulty
A few steep slopes when the trail goes up and down the hills at the edge of Kyoto, with elevation difference of about 100m each time.
Logistics
No particular equipment is advised besides well-worn hiking shoes and enough layers for that day's weather. Pack lunch and snacks, we'll find a place where to sit and eat around noon. Plenty of vending machines and restrooms along the trail, although I didn't see any convenience store beyond Momoyama.
Usual disclaimer
By joining this hike, you acknowledge that the organizer assumes no liability for physical injury, financial ruin, enlightenment, karmic rebalancing, or any other unforeseen catastrophe.