Tucked away across central and northern Kyoto Prefecture lies a region locals call "Woodland Kyoto" — a refreshing escape where emerald forests, crystalline rivers and deeply authentic flavours replace the tourist crowds. As a JAL Hometown Ambassador for Kyoto, I set out to uncover its hidden treasures.

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Izumo Daijingu Shrine

My journey began at Izumo Daijingu Shrine in Kameoka City, a spiritual gem with nearly 1,300 years of history. Dedicated to the god of relationships, this shrine draws love-seekers from across the country. But what truly charmed me were the dozens of rabbit statues — the deity's messengers — tucked away in the most unexpected nooks. Spotting them all becomes an addictive treasure hunt as you wander the peaceful grounds.

Ikimi Tenmangu Shrine

Next stop: Ikimi Tenmangu Shrine in Nantan City, currently deep in preparation for its once-every-25-years grand festival in 2027. With the deity temporarily relocated to a provisional worship hall during renovations, visitors enjoy an unusually intimate connection with the sacred — a rare treat that won't come around again for another quarter-century.

When I visited in July, the shrine was wrapped in Hoshi Sasa season, with colourful paper strips fluttering with handwritten wishes. A highlight? The Ayu Mikuji — fortune slips shaped like sweetfish that you fish out with a tiny rod.

Michi no Eki Nagomi

Hunger led me to Michi no Eki Nagomi, a roadside stop perched beside the Yura River. The star attraction here is the Ayu Garden: order a salt-grilled sweetfish and watch it cook fresh over an open flame. I couldn't resist the Ayu Somen — chilled noodles crowned with the day's catch — where the fish's delicate bitterness played beautifully against a rich dashi broth. If there's one dish that defines a Kyoto summer, this might be it.

Wachi Wild Botanic Garden

For pure nature immersion, Wachi Wild Botanic Garden in Kyotamba Town is unmatched. Rather than manicured flowerbeds, you'll find indigenous flora thriving as nature intended — a living museum of Japan's seasonal plant life.

Early July brought cascading hydrangeas and the striking white-tipped leaves of Hangesho. Deeper into the forest, shaded pathways opened into breezy corridors where the temperature drops noticeably. Come August, the garden peaks with Rose of Sharon, Formosa lilies, Aeginetia and lotus flowers in full glory. Scattered benches invite long, unhurried pauses.

Shizushi Limestone Cave Park

On a 30°C day, stepping into Shizushi Limestone Cave — Kyoto's only limestone cavern — felt like walking into a natural refrigerator. The temperature plunge is immediate and thrilling. The cave burrows 52.5 metres horizontally and plunges 25.1 metres underground, with ladders leading to its deepest chambers. Emerging back into daylight, I felt genuinely recharged — the raw, ancient energy of this place works wonders.

Kyotamba Ajimu no Sato

My final stop, Kyotamba Ajimu no Sato, sits right off the Kyoto Jukan Expressway. This roadside market is a one-stop souvenir powerhouse, stocking everything from Woodland Kyoto specialties to products from Kyoto by the Sea. Forgot to pick up gifts along the way? This place has you covered.

The 43rd National Urban Greening Fair: Kyoto Tamba

Mark your calendars: from September 18 to November 8, 2026, Kameoka, Nantan and Kyotamba will co-host one of Japan's largest flower and greenery festivals — the 43rd National Urban Greening Fair. Wachi Wild Botanic Garden will serve as a main venue. Expect a sensory feast blending horticulture, gastronomy, art, agriculture and rural living — the perfect autumn reason to venture beyond Kyoto's city limits.