Kibune River is a tributary of the Kamogawa, which runs through central Kyoto. From May to September, the restaurants alongside the Kibune set up tables that extend out over the river (川床 Kawadoko) . It is a good way to enjoy the cool air and a delicious meal, while avoiding the hot humid summer. In the old days, a god descended upon the upper reaches of Kibune River at the exact Year, Month, Day, and Time of the Ox. In the Noh chant “鉄輪 Kanawa” a woman worshiped at nearby Kifune Shrine (same name as the river, but the pronunciation is different) for the purpose of placing a curse on her husband. But, contrary to popular belief, the god in this shrine was (and still is) responsive to all wishes, not only to curses. Today, Kifune Shrine has also become famous as a healing Power Spot. The shrine is a 30-minute walk from Kibune-guchi Station on the Eizan Tesudo Line.
- 1 min read
Kyoto Kibune Riverside Walk
Enjoy cool air and the healing power of the forest

Community writer

Enjoying the cool air and delicious meal

Clear stream of Kifune River

Red shrine gate and fresh greenery

Kawadoko; tables over the water

Kifune Shrine and carp streamers in May

Bench and umbrella for the customers at the restaurant

Japanese restaurants alongside the river

Entrance of Kifune Shrine

Beautiful contrast of red and green

This building is used as a gazebo

Surrounded by fresh green

Shrine for match making god

Camellias on the shrine ground

Inner shrine

Tables over the water during May to September
Join the discussion
Geraldine Buergel
5 years ago
Looks like a very tranquil place.
Sleiman Azizi
6 years ago
That is just beautiful. Really, it is. The idea of eating over a river sounds like the most obvious thing to do but it seems that it actually isn't.
Kim Bergström
6 years ago
I love the whole concept of kawadoko in summertime!
Aobh Bodewig
8 years ago
So serene !
Jihad Mahmoud
8 years ago
The atmosphere seems so refreshing!
Book your trip
Find a nearby hotel
Explore some of the best nearby hotels and deals for the perfect place to stay in Japan.
Top Articles
-
1
70 Nations, One Amazing Meal
Osaka - Sponsored -
2
Osaka Noh Festa
Osaka - Sponsored -
3
Volcano-hopping in Kyushu
Activities -
4
Japan Is One of Emirates' Top Summer Searches
Planning -
5
25 Authentic Activities in Minobu
Yamanashi - Sponsored -
6
I’m Donut?: Japan’s Viral Donut Sensation
Culture -
7
Enjoy Toba: More Than Just a Seaside Retreat
Mie - Sponsored -
8
Tokyo Auto Salon 2026 Japan Car Tour: Cars, Culture & The Open Road
Chiba -
9
Sendai Named a Top Summer Destination by Lonely Planet
Miyagi -
10
Aichi Awaits: Seven Authentic Experiences Beyond Nagoya
Aichi - Sponsored
-
1
Guide to Bringing Medicines Into Japan
Planning -
2
Gion Matsuri
Kyoto -
3
July Grand Sumo Tournament (Nagoya)
Aichi -
4
The Ultimate Guide to Thrifting in Tokyo
Shopping -
5
Your Name: Real-Life Locations in Tokyo
Tokyo -
6
Shitamachi Tanabata Matsuri
Tokyo -
7
Kamakura Fireworks
Kanagawa -
8
Japanese Urban Legends
Culture -
9
Ghibli 3D Sculpture Exhibition
Tokyo -
10
Iwatayama Monkey Park
Kyoto