Takao to Hozukyo Gorge | Kyoto

This walk starts in Takao, now a collection of inns and temples along the Kiyotaki River in the mountains of Western Kyoto. The route follows the Kiyotaki River, named for its clear waters, through the small village of Saga-Kiyotaki, and to Hozukyo Gorge. This area has long been a retreat for people living in Kyoto, a place to enjoy the seasons in nature or pay respects at the areas temples, Saimyō-ji and Jingo-ji. These days it is also a popular hiking course, with connections to Arashiyama and Kyoto station at various points.

The trail passes a stand of Kitayama cedar trees, a stretch of very straight trees alongside the river. It also passes the semi-modern ruins of riverside buildings, which now have picnic benches and a carpet of red leaves in autumn. The village along the Kiyotaki was once a rest stop for pilgrims to Mt. Takao, on the western side of the trail, though now it is primarily a place for cars to park mid-trail. It does look like there are a few inhabited houses remaining, and perhaps a shop.

The trail continues on along the Kiyotaki to Hozukyo Gorge, where during the day tour boats take riders from Kameoka to Arashiyama. There is also a scenic train that runs along the valley connecting the same two towns. It is also possible to continue walking a few more kilometers to JR Hozukyo Station and catch a train to Kyoto Station. On this day I walked back to Takao, where my car was parked, but another option is to walk to Arashiyama via the Kyoto Loop Trail or take a bus from Saga-Kiyotaki.

This route is one of my favorites and I would definitely recommend it in any season.