North Travel Guide

Discover the captivating beauty of North, Kyoto with our comprehensive travel guide. Explore the culturally important attractions, natural wonders, local cuisine, accommodation options, and much more. Read on to find out why North should be on your travel list.


Introduction to North

North is a mesmerizing destination in Kyoto, Japan, that’s perfect for travelers looking to explore lesser-known gems. This serene town’s picturesque landscape provides a calming escape from the hustle and bustle of urban life. It’s an idyllic vacation spot, with historical and natural attractions for travelers to explore. In this travel guide, we’ll take you through everything you need to know about North and why it should feature on your travel list.

List of Places to Visit in North

North is a picture-perfect destination that boasts of several culturally important attractions and natural wonders. Here’s a list of must-visit spots when exploring North:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Kitayama Cedar Forest - This ancient forest boasts of some of Japan’s oldest cedar trees and is an ideal spot for travelers looking to escape the concrete jungle.
  • The Kinkaku-ji Temple - A golden pavilion that offers breathtaking views of its reflective pond and beautifully landscaped gardens.
  • Daitoku-ji Temple - This 14th century temple is one of the most significant Zen temples in Japan, renowned for its tranquil rock gardens and fine arts collections.
  • The Kamigamo Shrine - This 1,300-year-old shrine is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is considered one of the oldest shrines in Japan.

Natural Attractions of North: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • The Takao Area - This area is known for its gorgeous autumnal foliage, hiking tracks, and scenic mountain views.
  • The Kifune Shrine - This tranquil shrine is located amidst the lush mountains of Kibune, offering serene water landscapes and scenic walks.
  • The Ohara and Kurama Area - A hidden gem that offers delicious local cuisine and stunning mountain hikes, with a great selection of onsen (Japanese hot baths).

Hiking/Biking Routes of North

North is a nature lover’s paradise and offers several hiking and biking routes. Here are some of the best trails in the area:

  • Daimon-Ji - Hike through the rural areas of Takao to experience this stunning rock formation that’s carved in the mountains.
  • Kurama to Kibune Hike - This scenic trail follows the path between Winter and Summer deities and offers stunning views of Japanese mountains and rivers.
  • Nishioji-Sanjo Cycling Road - This off-road cycling road takes you through some of the most beautiful landscapes of North, Kyoto.

Best Things to Do in North: Activities and Tours

  • Hot springs - Experience the tranquility of Japanese hot springs surrounded by stunning views in the Kurama region.

  • Japanese Tea Ceremony - Take part in a traditional Japanese tea ceremony, learning the ancient art of the perfect brew.

  • Zen Meditation - Engage in multi-day zen meditation sessions amid serene mountain landscapes.

Week-Long Itinerary for North

Day 1: Arrive in North and explore the beautiful Kitayama Cedar Forest.

Day 2: Enjoy the stunning autumn foliage of the Takao area while hiking the Daimon-Ji trail.

Day 3: Grab a cup of traditional Japanese tea and watch the world go by at the Kifune Shrine.

Day 4: Take a day trip to the nearby ancient capital of Nara, home to some of Japan’s oldest and most significant temples.

Day 5: Explore the beautiful Kurama-Kibune area by taking a leisurely nature walk followed by a soak in a hot spring.

Day 6: Discover the historic Daitoku-ji Temple, one of Japan’s most significant Zen temples, and attend a Zen meditation session.

Day 7: Wrap up your trip by visiting the stunning Kinkaku-ji temple and the serene Kamigamo shrine.

Food and Drink Scene of North

Here are some of the must-experience dishes and local beverages in North:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Soba noodles - A traditional Japanese buckwheat noodle dish served hot or cold, usually paired with a dipping sauce.
  • Tofu - A vegetarian staple that’s integral to Japanese cuisine, available in an array of varieties and dishes.
  • Yudofu - A popular tofu dish served hot in a pot of broth that’s perfect for warming your soul in the cold weather.

Local Beverages

  • Sake - A traditional Japanese rice wine, produced from fermented rice served in small cups.
  • Matcha - Japanese green tea that’s associated with Japan’s tea ceremony culture.

Where to Stay in North: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

North offers a diverse range of accommodations, from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious guesthouses. Here are some of the best options in North:

  • Hana Yoshino - This guesthouse is located in the Kitayama-Cedar Forest, providing travelers with stunning views and a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle.
  • Green Valley - Offering traditional Japanese-style rooms and a serene atmosphere, this is a perfect retreat in the heart of North.

What to Buy in North: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Noren Curtains - Traditional Japanese curtains that have unique designs that feature nature and Japanese culture, perfect for adding a unique touch to your home decor.
  • Japanese Ceramics - Japan has a rich history of pottery, with many local ceramic artists producing beautiful and unique pieces.
  • Traditional Japanese Tea - Delicious green tea and other specialty teas that make for an excellent souvenir to bring back home.

Local Culture and Customs of North

North boasts of a rich cultural heritage, with ancient temples and shrines that date back hundreds of years. The locals are friendly and welcoming, and visitors are expected to maintain proper etiquette while exploring the area.

Best Time to Visit North

The best time to visit North is during the autumn months of mid-September to early November, when the trees turn into vivid hues of yellow, orange, and red. It’s the perfect time to experience the Takao area’s stunning autumn foliage, the area’s hiking trails, and hot springs.

Do’s and Don’ts of North

Do:

  • Bring comfortable shoes for walking and hiking.
  • Try the traditional Japanese food and beverages
  • Respect local cultural customs and etiquette.

Don’t:

  • Smoke in public areas, as it’s considered rude by Japanese standards.
  • Speak too loudly in public areas, as Japanese culture values peace and quiet.

Safety and Health

Safety in North

North is a relatively safe destination, with low crime rates. However, visitors should always be careful with their belongings and keep an eye out for pickpockets in crowded areas.

Health in North

North has excellent health facilities, and travelers are encouraged to have comprehensive travel insurance coverage for any medical emergencies during their stay.

Getting to North: Transportation Options and Logistics

North is well-connected via transport networks, with several options for travelers:

Airports Near North

The nearest airport to North is the Kansai International Airport located in Osaka. From there, it’s a two-hour train ride to Kyoto, where buses and trains connect to North.

Bus Stations Near North

Kyoto Station is the main bus station for visitors heading to North. There are several buses that go to North that depart from the station.

Other Options

Visitors can also choose to hire a car or bike rental to explore the area.

How to Get Around in North

North is a small town that is best navigated on foot or by bike. However, visitors can also use public transport options such as buses and trains to travel around the area.

Where to Go Next from North: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Kyoto - Explore the historic city of Kyoto, home to several temples, shrines, and ancient Japanese architecture.
  • Osaka - This bustling city is known for its street food, shopping, and nightlife.
  • Nara - A historical city that’s home to some of Japan’s oldest and most significant temples and shrines.

Conclusion

North, Kyoto, is a picture-perfect destination that offers a calm, serene escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. With its culturally significant temples and museums, natural wonders, and delicious local cuisine, there’s something for every type of traveler. We hope this comprehensive guide has inspired you to visit North and explore the town’s hidden gems.

Shimogamo Shrine Shimogamo Shrine Kinkaku-ji in winter Kinkaku-ji in winter Kitano Tenman-gū Shrine and its featured plum blossoms Kitano Tenman-gū Shrine and its featured plum blossoms Stairs, Kamigamo Shrine Stairs, Kamigamo Shrine Sanzen-in Temple Sanzen-in Temple