The last trail in this series is short and sweet — just 4 kilometers. For years I'd been hearing good things about the two-hour hike between the mountain towns of Kibune and Kurama north of Kyoto. The restaurants in Kibune are known for their terraces built out over the river, a tradition that serves to cool diners in the hot summertime. It was time to hike, eat and discover.
Before boarding the 30-minute train to Kurama from Kyoto, there was ample time to grab a cup of coffee at the Golden Mountain Blend Coffee Shop in Demachiya on Kawaramachi Street. The opulent chandeliers and a square coffee bar in the middle make for an open and inviting atmosphere. Furthermore, the serving dishes on the bar filled with delectable chocolates and biscuits make sitting down here for a cup of morning joe irresistible.
From there I walked five minutes to the Eizan Dentetsu Railway (Eiden for short) at Demachiyanagi Station and boarded the scenic train with large picture windows for the ride up into the mountains.