Cycling
A Walk Along Kamo River
Erika ArceoA walk along the Kamo River: Experience Kyoto's culture through Kamogawa riverbanks.
Kamo River
The Kamo River (鴨川), meaning “duck river,” is a prominent and scenic waterway flowing through Kyoto Prefecture, Japan. It has long been a cultural and natural landmark of the city, offering beautiful scenery and a peaceful atmosphere throughout the seasons. The riverbanks are especially popular with locals and tourists alike, who come to enjoy leisurely walks, picnics, and the seasonal beauty of cherry blossoms in spring or the cool breezes in fall.
In the warmer months, many riverside restaurants open special balconies known as noryo-yuka, allowing diners to enjoy their meals with a view of the flowing river. Walkways run alongside much of the river’s course, and several spots feature stepping stones that allow pedestrians to cross on foot.
Historically, the Kamo River has played a significant role in Kyoto’s development. When the Heian Capital (modern-day Kyoto) was established in the late 8th century, the river’s course was redirected to flow east of the new palace. Despite this effort, the river was prone to flooding, which became a recurring problem for the ancient capital. Emperor Shirakawa famously lamented that three things were beyond his control: the armed monks of Enryaku-ji, dice, and the waters of the Kamo River.
Today, the river is more regulated, with reinforced banks and drainage systems. Parallel to it runs the Takase River, a canal constructed by merchant Suminokura Ryoi in the early 17th century to facilitate transportation and reduce reliance on the unpredictable main river.
The Kamo River is also culturally significant, flowing past two important Shinto shrines—Kamigamo and Shimogamo—and through the sacred forest of Tadasu-no-mori that lies between them.
Overview
Address
Kamihoritsumecho, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto, 605-0991 (Map) (Directions)Hours
Open 24 hours Open NowOpening Hours
Monday
Open 24 hours
Tuesday
Open 24 hours
Wednesday
Open 24 hours
Thursday
Open 24 hours
Friday
Open 24 hours
Saturday
Open 24 hours
Sunday
Open 24 hours
Holidays
Open 24 hours
Price
Free
Highlights
Stunning views
With traditional Kyoto houses and eateries stretching along one side of the river and cherry blossom trees lining the other, Kamo River offers serene views and a tranquil setting for strolls, picnics, and relaxed Kyoto memories.
Fushimi Inari Taisha
One of Kyoto’s most popular destinations is only 15-20 minutes away, promising a memorable mountain hike through approximately 10,000 vermillion torii gates. Get your steps in and be rewarded with sweeping views of Kyoto.
Discover Fushimi Inari Taisha
To-ji Temple
25-30 minutes from Kamo River is To-ji Temple. This Shingon Buddhist temple is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Kyoto's oldest temples, impressing visitors with its five-story pagoda, the tallest in Japan.
Discover To-ji Temple
Kyoto Station
Designed by architect Hara Hiroshi, the modern Kyoto Station is a destination in its own right. You’ll likely pass through it at some point during your time in Kyoto, giving you a chance to check out its many restaurants and shops.
Discover Kyoto Station
Access
From Kyoto Station, the Kamo River is only a 15-20 minute walk away. Kyoto Station can be reached by the Tokaido Shinkansen (from Tokyo, Nagoya, and Osaka), as well as the Karasuma, JR Kyoto, Kintetsu Kyoto, and Nara lines.
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