Takao

Takao (高雄), located in the northwestern part of Kyoto Prefecture, is a mountainous area celebrated for its scenic beauty, ancient temples, and inviting hiking trails.

Among the notable attractions in Takao is Kozan-ji Temple (高山寺), a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its exquisite gardens and ancient Buddhist artwork, including the famed “Choju-giga” (Scrolls of Frolicking Animals). Jingo-ji Temple (神護寺), another ancient temple, houses a National Treasure statue of Yakushi Nyorai (the Medicine Buddha) and is a popular destination for its vibrant autumn foliage.

Rakushisha (落柿舎), a small cottage once inhabited by the renowned Japanese poet Matsuo Basho, now serves as a museum dedicated to his life and work.

Takao offers numerous hiking trails with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The Takao-to-Kiyotaki trail, a popular route, winds through bamboo forests and leads to the picturesque Kiyotaki waterfall.

The area is particularly enchanting during autumn when the maple trees transform into a breathtaking display of red and orange hues. The Kiyotaki River, flowing through Takao, adds to the scenic beauty. During summer, riverside restaurants set up “kawadoko” platforms, allowing diners to enjoy traditional Japanese cuisine while basking in the cool river breeze.

TOC

Getting there

By Train and Bus

From JR Kyoto Station:

Take the JR Sagano Line to Hanazono Station (about 10 minutes)
From Hanazono Station, take a JR Bus bound for Yamashiro Takao, Makino-o, or Toganoo (about 50 minutes)

Using the Subway:

Take the Karasuma Line from Kyoto Station to Karasuma Oike Station
Transfer to the Tozai Line and go to Uzumasa Tenjingawa Station (about 15 minutes from Kyoto Station)
From Uzumasa Tenjingawa Station, take City Bus No. 8 to Toganoo bus stop (about 28 minutes)

By Bus

Take a direct JR Bus from JR Kyoto Station bound for Yamashiro Takao, Makino-o, or Toganoo (about 40 minutes)
From Shijo Karasuma, take Kyoto City Bus No. 8 to Takao (about 1 hour)