Izumo Daijingu Shrine
To start off my trip, I visited “Izumo Daijingu Shrine” in Kameoka City. Built almost 1,300 years ago, this shrine is famous for bringing good fortune in relationships. Alongside its rich history, walking around the shrine grounds is another delightful part of the visit. Cute rabbit statues, said to be messengers of the god, are hidden all over the place, making you want to find every single one!
Ikimi Tenmangu Shrine
Next, I headed to “Ikimi Tenmangu Shrine” in Nantan City. The shrine is currently undergoing restoration for its major festival, which will take place next year and occurs only once every 25 years During this period, the god has been moved from the main hall to a temporary worship hall, offering a rare chance to feel closer to the god.
When I visited in July, it was the season of Hoshi Sasa, during which visitors can write their wishes and gratitude on colorful paper strips. Currently, you can also try your luck with Ayu Mikuji (sweetfish-shaped fortune slips).
Michi no Eki Nagomi
When you get hungry, head over to “Michi no Eki Nagomi” by the Yura River. A must-visit spot here is the Ayu Garden, where fresh sweetfish are grilled with salt immediately after you order! Inside, the spacious food court offers a wide variety of sweetfish dishes. I tried the Ayu Somen (cold noodles topped with sweetfish). Its mild bitterness went perfectly with the tasty broth! You should definitely try it when visiting Kyoto in the summer!
Wachi Wild Botanic Garden
If you want to enjoy the beauty of nature, I highly recommend “Wachi Wild Botanic Garden” in Kyotamba Town. In this park, you can encounter many seasonal plants, flowers and trees grow in a natural environment.
When I visited in early July, the hydrangeas and Hangesho (plants with white leaves) were blooming beautifully. As you go deeper into the forest, you can enjoy a stroll along shaded paths, feeling a cool and refreshing breeze.
In August, flowers like the Rose of Sharon, Formosa lilies, Aeginetia, and lotuses reach their peak. Throughout the park, you can find comfortable benches, making it the perfect place to rest and relax.
Shizushi Limestone Cave Park
My next stop was Shizushi Limestone Cave Park, the only limestone cave in Kyoto Prefecture. On the day of my visit, it was 30°C outside, but after taking just two or three steps into the cave, the air completely changed! It felt just like stepping into a refrigerator.
The cave extends 52.5 meters in length, with its deepest part reaching 25.1 meters underground, accessible by descending ladders. Energized by the power of nature, I felt completely refreshed and ready for the rest of my trip!
Kyotamba Ajimu no Sato
Lastly, I stopped by “Kyotamba Ajimu no Sato,” a roadside station in Kyotamba Town that is easily accessible from the Kyoto Jukan Expressway. It offers a wide variety of products, ranging from local specialties of “Woodland Kyoto” to souvenirs from the “Kyoto by the Sea” area. Even if you forgot to buy gifts earlier, you will find everything here!
The 43rd National Urban Greening Fair in Kyoto Tamba
Here is an exciting event you will not want to miss if you are planning a trip to Kyoto in fall! Kameoka City, Nantan City and Kyotamba Town will host one of Japan’s largest flower and greenery festivals
● Dates: September 18 (Fri) – November 8 (Sun), 2026
● Details: https://kyototamba-fair.jp/
Wachi Wild Botanic Garden will serve as one of the main venues. This festival lets you experience art, food, agriculture, nature, and countryside living with all five senses!
