Kyoto in the summer? Think less sweltering heat, more serene escapes. As an American backpacker who's crisscrossed Asia, I'm always on the lookout for hidden gems, and Kyoto's summer retreats are just that. From mystical mountain shrines to riverside dining and trendy new hotels, this ancient city offers a refreshing twist on summer travel. Trust me, it's an experience you won't want to miss.
Day Two: Embracing the Cool Mountain Air of Kibune
After exploring Arashiyama, my second day in Kyoto took me to Kibune, nestled in the northeastern mountains. This place is pure magic. As I stepped off the train and walked along the参道(approach to the shrine), surrounded by lush greenery, I felt like I'd stepped into a Studio Ghibli film. Seriously, I half expected Totoro to pop out from behind a tree!
The stone steps leading up to Kifune Shrine are lined with vibrant red lanterns, creating a scene straight out of a Japanese anime. The shrine itself is the head shrine of over 400 Kifune Shrines across Japan and is said to be the birthplace of Ema, wooden plaques where people write their wishes. Two prominent figures, a black horse and a white horse, are popular objects of worship here.
If you're feeling adventurous after visiting the shrine, hop on the Eizan Electric Railway, which has a unique Y-shaped route. This allows you to transfer and head towards Kurama-dera Temple. Prepare to be greeted by giant Tengu statues – they make for incredible photos! The hiking trail at Kurama-dera winds through a pristine forest, taking about 30 minutes to an hour to complete. The massive tree roots and untouched pathways add to the mystical atmosphere. And the best part? The dense forest canopy provides a welcome escape from the summer heat.
Kawadoko Cuisine: Dining Over Flowing Waters
One of Kibune's most unique experiences is Kawadoko dining. Picture this: tatami mats laid out over a flowing river, surrounded by towering rock walls and small waterfalls. It's the ultimate in summer relaxation. You can even indulge in Nagashi Somen, where noodles flow down bamboo chutes – catch them with your chopsticks and dip them in a flavorful sauce. It's a fun and refreshing way to cool down. A typical Kawadoko meal costs around ¥3,000 (about $20), and the Nagashi Somen usually ends when a red-colored noodle comes down the chute.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | Kibune, Kyoto |
| Setting | Platforms built over a river |
| Cuisine | Traditional Japanese, often featuring Nagashi Somen (flowing noodles) |
| Price | Approximately ¥3,000 (around $20) |
| Unique Element | Red noodle signifies the end of the Nagashi Somen |
For a more luxurious experience, consider staying at a local Ryokan (traditional Japanese inn). These often offer Kaiseki meals, a multi-course Japanese haute cuisine, and access to onsen (hot springs) – the perfect way to unwind after a day of exploring. Expect to pay around ¥7,000 (around $50) for a one-night stay with two meals.
Noryo-Yuka: Riverside Dining in the Heart of Kyoto
If Kibune feels a bit too far, fret not. Kyoto offers another fantastic riverside dining option: Noryo-Yuka along the Kamogawa River. This 400-year-old tradition involves setting up platforms over the river during summer, allowing diners to enjoy the cool evening breeze and scenic views.
I highly recommend Tosuiro, a 120-year-old traditional teahouse tucked away in a quiet alley. As its name suggests, Tosuiro specializes in tofu dishes made with locally sourced soybeans. Their menu features a wide variety of tofu creations, from Yuba (tofu skin) sashimi to "Strange Tofu," where tofu is combined with other ingredients to create unique textures and flavors. Lunch sets cost around ¥4,000 (about $28), while dinner sets are about ¥5,000 (about $35). Note that there's an additional ¥1,000 seating charge for the Noryo-Yuka experience.
ASAI Kyoto Shijo: A Brand New Hotel with a Thai Twist
For a modern and stylish stay in the heart of Kyoto, I recommend the ASAI Kyoto Shijo, which opened in June 2023. This hotel, the first of its kind in Japan, is brought to you by a renowned Thai hotel group. The blend of Japanese and Thai influences is evident throughout, from the lobby to the rooms and the service.
The staff is a mix of nationalities, creating a welcoming international atmosphere. Be prepared for a unique greeting that combines a Japanese bow with a Thai greeting. The rooms are compact yet cleverly designed, with open-plan layouts, raised beds, and tatami mats. And the food? Delicious! They offer a variety of Thai curries and other dishes, perfect for those craving bold flavors. Even the breakfast has a Thai twist, with options like pho and Thai curry. And don't miss their Thai tea-flavored shaved ice – it's the perfect afternoon treat. The best part? All this comes at an incredibly affordable price, with rooms starting at under ¥2,000 (around $14) per night.
Kyoto in the summer is an unexpected delight. From mountain escapes to riverside dining and trendy hotels, this city offers a unique blend of tradition and modernity, all while providing ample opportunities to beat the heat. So, pack your bags and prepare for a refreshing summer adventure in Kyoto.
