Kurama-dera Cable

The shortest cable car ride in Japan can be found just as you go through the Niomon gate of the Kurama-dera temple. Because the main hall of Kurama-dera is in the middle of Mount Kurama, you have to climb a steep mountain road in order to reach the Buddha statues enshrined here. That’s why Kurama-dera Cable(Kurama-yama Kōsaku Tetsudō), the only religiously operated railway in Japan, was laid to provide easier access to the elderly and anyone else who needs assistance. The cable car only runs a total distance of 207 meters and is operated by Kurama-dera. The crew also wears the traditional working clothes of monks called samue. While the basic fare is technically free, a donation of 200 yen is encouraged for the cable car ride, being considered a token of gratitude. The name of the cable car is “Ushiwaka-gō” a common name on Mount Kurama, and this two minute ride connects the mountain gate to a spot called Tahoto. After that, you have to walk up to and climb the gentle mountain path of 155 steps. Enjoy the view as we climb, breathing in the fresh air of Mount Kurama.