Just a short trip from central Kyoto, Kurama is a place steeped in legend, which is said to be home to the mythical tengu, who, according to folklore, once trained the young warrior Ushiwakamaru in martial arts. Nestled amid lush greenery, Kurama Onsen offers a tranquil retreat where you can soak in soothing hot springs surrounded by nature. A visit here is the perfect way to unwind and recharge during your Kyoto sightseeing journey.

Just an hour from central Kyoto, Kurama Onsen sits at the foot of Mount Kurama in Kyoto’s Sakyo Ward, surrounded by lush, unspoiled nature. Known as one of Kyoto’s few hidden hot springs suitable for day trips, its iron-rich waters are said to promote beautiful skin and relieve fatigue. From the open-air bath located on an elevated hillside, visitors can take in sweeping views of the surrounding mountains, which change beautifully with each season, offering a deeply relaxing experience that feels like a true retreat into the heart of the mountains.

When traveling from central Kyoto to Kurama Onsen, the most convenient way is by train or bus. Here are the two main routes:

・From the Hankyu Shijo-Kawaramachi area

[Keihan Main Line] Gion-Shijo Station → Demachiyanagi Station (approx. 5 min)

[Eizan Electric Railway Kurama Line] Demachiyanagi Station → Kurama Station (approx. 30 min)

Take the free shuttle bus from Kurama Station to Kurama Onsen (approx. 3 min).

The shuttle operates in coordination with train arrivals and departures.

・From the JR Kyoto Station area

[Kyoto Municipal Subway Karasuma Line] Kyoto Station → Kokusaikaikan Station (approx. 20 min)

[Kyoto Bus (Route 52, etc.)] Kokusaikaikan Station-mae → Kurama Onsen-mae (approx. 30 min)

From the Kurama Onsen-mae bus stop, it’s about a 1-minute walk to the onsen.

Admission fees vary depending on the plan and the day of the week, so be sure to check the price table before your visit. No reservation is required for day-trip bathing, and payment is made on-site. If you’d like to relax fully, the plan that includes access to the indoor bath, open-air bath, and sauna is highly recommended. Towels and room wear are also provided, allowing you to unwind in total comfort.

・Day-trip Admission Fees & Hours

Here are some essential items to bring when visiting Kurama Onsen for a day trip. While many things are available for purchase on-site, it’s a good idea to prepare in advance for a smoother experience.

・Towels

Bring two types of towels: a small face towel and a larger bath towel.

Use the face towel for washing and lightly wiping off water before leaving the bathing area (remember, it’s good manners not to dip your towel into the bathwater). After bathing, use your bath towel in the dressing room to dry off thoroughly, which helps keep the floors clean and dry.

・Coins

You’ll need a 100-yen coin to use the coin lockers for your clothes. Don’t worry, the coin is returned after use, so it’s essentially free. It’s also handy to have extra coins for purchasing drinks from vending machines after your bath.

・Hair tie

If you have long hair, tie it up before entering the bath. This is a basic etiquette rule to prevent your hair from touching the bathwater.

Amenities such as shampoo, conditioner, body soap, and hair dryers are provided at Kurama Onsen, so there’s no need to bring your own.

There are several sightseeing spots around Kurama Onsen, making it the perfect area to explore while you’re there. Take your time to enjoy the natural beauty and spiritual atmosphere of Kyoto’s mountain retreat.

・Kurama-dera Temple

Located near Kurama Onsen, Kurama-dera is a historic temple famous for the legends of the Tengu (a mythical mountain spirit) and Ushiwakamaru (the young warrior who later became Minamoto no Yoshitsune). Visitors can reach the main hall on the mountain either by cable car (about 2 minutes) or by hiking (around 40 minutes). Many people enjoy taking a relaxing dip in the hot spring after their scenic hike through the forested paths.

・Kifune Shrine

Another popular destination is Kifune Shrine, often paired with a visit to Kurama-dera. From Kurama Onsen, take the free shuttle bus to Kurama Station, then board the Eizan Railway to Kibuneguchi Station. From there, take a Kyoto Bus (route 33, etc.) to the Kifune stop, followed by a 5-minute walk to the shrine (about 20 minutes total). Alternatively, you can take the famous hiking route over the mountain through the Kurama-dera temple grounds—a favorite “golden route” among visitors. The trail takes about an hour, so be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes.

▶＜Kyoto＞ Kifune Shrine｜Perfect guide from benefits and access to omamori!

Just an hour from central Kyoto, Kurama offers a unique hot spring experience surrounded by nature. Alongside the soothing baths, you can immerse yourself in the sacred and tranquil atmosphere of Kurama-dera and Kifune Shrine. It’s a perfect way to refresh both body and mind while discovering a different side of Kyoto.