Kurama Travel Guide
Kyoto
Popular places to visit
Fushimi Inari Shrine
This shrine at the base of Inari Mountain is dedicated to the goddess of rice and prosperity. See its thousands of red gates around a network of beautiful trails.
Kiyomizu Temple
Constructed entirely without nails and built on high poles, this temple is part of a World Heritage Site and offers visitors both beauty and history.
Nishiki Market
Come to this market in the heart of the city to experience the authentic sights, smells and sounds of the bartering vendors and their traditional food.
Kawaramachi Street
During your trip to Kyoto, you can do some window-shopping at Kawaramachi Street. Visit the temples and top-notch restaurants in this culturally rich area.
Kinkaku-ji Temple
Built in the 14th century for a shogun, then rebuilt twice, this temple is now a Buddhist site and its top two floors are completely covered in gold leaf.
Nijō Castle
Visit the world of the wealthy and powerful shogun, in this opulent 17th-century castle complex.
Things to do
Kyoto 5-Star Geisha Night Walk: Small-Group Authentic Experience
Kyoto Traditional Kintsugi Workshop in Gion Gold Repair Art
Kyoto Kimono Rental Chamatsu Ladies Plan with Hair Set
Concerts Played with Traditional Instruments in Kyoto
Top hotels in Kurama
Onyado Nono Kyotoshichijo Natural Hot Springs
This was the best hotel I stayed in my entire three week trip to Japan. The onsen is wonderful, the late night ramen is delicious, the room is spacious and the vibe is immaculate. LOVED IT
Reviewed on 7 Mar 2026
Nohga Hotel Kiyomizu Kyoto
Clean with lovely amenities. Beautiful temples within walking distance. Will be booking for my next stay in Kyoto
Reviewed on 7 Mar 2026
Miyako Hotel Kyoto Hachijo
Per Japanese culture, the staff wasn't that helpfull.
Reviewed on 7 Mar 2026
Kyoto Umekoji Kadensho
Great hotel
Reviewed on 2 Mar 2026
Hotel Gracery Kyoto Sanjo
All the stores and restaurants
Reviewed on 6 Mar 2026
THE BLOSSOM KYOTO
The spa was relaxing and a novel experience. Make sure you read up on Japanese bath customs before you decide to visit it! The staff was courteous and helpful. The Blossom restaurant is worth visiting. The breakfast buffet is delicious, but the dinner is even better. My husband could not stop raving ...
Reviewed on 6 Mar 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Kurama
Kita Ward
The mountain views and gardens are just a few things visitors like about Kita Ward. Kamo River and Funaoka Thermal Bath are worthwhile spots to check out, and you can hop on the metro at Kitaoji Station or Kitayama Station to get around the larger area.
Sakyo Ward
Noted for its gardens and mountain views, there's plenty to explore in Sakyo Ward. Top attractions like Shimogamo Shrine and Kyoto Concert Hall are major draws, and you can hop on the metro at Matsugasaki Station or Kokusaikaikan Station to see more of the city.
Nishijin
Nishijin is a destination travellers like for its coffee shops, and you might hop aboard the metro at Imadegawa Station or Kuramaguchi Station to explore sights like Nishijin Textile Center.
Central Kyoto
Travellers love Central Kyoto for its popular shops, and you can see more of Kyoto by jumping on the metro at Imadegawa Station or Kuramaguchi Station. You might spend time checking out top sights like Nishijin Textile Center and Kyoto Gyoen National Garden.
Kamigyo Ward
Noted for its historical sites and gardens, there's plenty to explore in Kamigyo Ward. Top attractions like Nishijin Textile Center and Kitano Tenmangū are major draws, and you can hop on the metro at Imadegawa Station or Kuramaguchi Station to see more of the city.
Okazaki
Gardens and mountain views are highlights of Okazaki. Make a stop by Kyoto Municipal Zoo or Kyoto Municipal Museum of Art while you're visiting, and jump aboard the metro at Keage Station to get around town.
