Mt. Daimonji (大文字山)

On August 16th five giant bonfires are lit on five mountains surrounding the city.
This is an event called Gozan no Okuribi in Bon festival.


I went up Mt. Daimonji, one of the five mountains.
The mountain is close to Gikaku-ji Temple.

It is the beginning of the mountain trail.
First there is an ascent.
You can hear songs of birds and insects.

After the ascent, There are stairs to the top.
You need to mind your steps not to fall down.

This is the half way point.
You should drink water frequently to prevent dehydration.

Going further, you get to this stairs.
This is a very long stairs and we do not see the end from the starting point.
However the top is not so far.

This is the view from the top.
The summit commands a panoramic view of Kyoto.

There are fire grates for Gozan no Okuribi.


It takes 30-50 minutes to get to the top.
Please do not forget to bring a bottle of water and a towel with you.

---

Link to Our Website
The backpackers hostel in Kyoto is located in a historical district, Gion.
Good access by buses and trains to everywhere. 
Please contact us by the form, if you'd like to book our hostel.

Contact