Kyoto Trail Hiking Part ①: Kitayama Eastern Course – Cable Hiei to Ninose Station

Following the Higashiyama Course of the Kyoto Trail, we’re launching a three-part series covering the Kitayama and Nishiyama sections. The first event focuses on the Kitayama East Course, starting from Cable Hiei Station (elevation 693m). We’ll traverse Yokotakayama and Mizuiyama before reaching Ninose Station. This hike is perfect for improving your mountain skills and building stamina for alpine traverses. The entire Kyoto Trail spans 84 km, with the Kitayama and Nishiyama sections divided into three events—why not challenge yourself to complete them all? Participants who finish all three events will receive a special Hikers limited-edition sticker as a completion prize! (Part 2 is scheduled for April, and Part 3 for May.) The first section follows a ridge with views of Kyoto and Lake Biwa, featuring rolling ups and downs. After passing Ogi-toge, we’ll descend about 300 meters into the city area. We’ll cross two more passes before arriving at Kurama’s impressive temple gate. You can take the train home from Kurama Station or continue to Ninose Station to fully complete the Kyoto Trail (an additional 40-minute walk on paved roads). Optional Dinner After the hike, those interested can join us for a Chinese dinner at Daitoryu, a restaurant near Demachiyanagi Station run by the Oyama family—Hikers members themselves! They offer not only mouthwatering Chinese cuisine but also a selection of yakiniku.