- Outdoor
Only a 30 minute train ride from JR Kyoto Station, Kameoka sits as the entrance to the vast Kyoto countryside. From the old castle town, to the newely-built soccer stadium, Kameoka blends the old with the new, to create a unique cultural landscape. However, those willing to stray off the beaten path and explore the outskirts of the city are rewarded with views of the city's rich history and abundant nature. Rent a bicycle nearby JR Kameoka Station, and leisurely make your way around some of our favorite spots.
JR Kameoka Station
20 minutes by bicycle
1Hiedano Shrine
Recommended Visiting Period: Year-round
Hiedano Shrine was originally built at the end of the Asuka period (early 8th century) to pray for peace and bountiful harvests. This shrine features a a large stone ring that is said to grant the wishes of people who step through it.
On August 14, Hiedano Shrine holds the Saeki Tourou Festival which features Ningyo-Joruri among other cultural activities.
15 minutes by bicycle
2Higanbana-no-Sato
Recommended Visiting Period: Late October to Early November
For only a couple weeks every year, a bright red start to appear all over Kameoka. This eye-popping color comes from the Japanese Spider Lily. The ""Higanbana-no-Sato"" provides the largest abbundance of these flowers within Kyoto Prefecture.
Anaoji Temple is also only a short walk away.
40 minutes by bicycle
3Hiranosawa Pond
Recommended Visiting Period: January to May, October to December
This pond is only spot in Kyoto Prefecture and one of the very few in all of Japan with naturally occurring Prickly Waterlilies. The lilypads can can grow as big as 2 meters in circumference!
Besides the Prickly Waterlilies, beautiful cherry blossoms and autumn leaves are just a few examples of the beautiful scenery visible throughout the year.
15 minutes by bicycle
4Tamba Kokubunji Temple Ruins
Recommended Visiting Period: Year-round
Ruins of the Tamba Kokubunji Temple was unearthed in 1982, which eventually led to the later recreation of the main temple. Kokubun Temples such as this one were originally built in the Nara Period (8th century) as per decree of Emperor Shomu. The massive ginko tree located on the temple grounds is also a beautiful sight to see throughout all 4 seasons.
45 minutes by bicycle
5Kameoka Fog Terrace
Recommended Visiting Period: Late November to Early February.
"Kameoka Kiri-no-Terasu" or "Kameoka Fog Terrace" provides the ideal view of Kameoka city. On a good day, a fog will cover the city, allowing visitors to see a " sea of clouds".
If you want to catch the fog, we recommend getting there in the morning.
25 minutes by bicycle
JR Kameoka Station
