I’ve hiked up Mt. Daimonji before in the hot days of summer, but this time we are doing a 360 and trekking through the icy trails of winter!
Last time, I started the Mt. Daimonji hike from the entrance at the halfway point of the Philosopher’s Path which passes through the Romon Falls. This time around, I (accidentally) entered via the entrance near Ginkaku-ji or “Silver Pavilion.”
What transpired was a completely different hike, albeit passing through the same destination at the peak of the mountain. However, the journey up to the peak and the circuit route back down were completely different from my first hike up Mt. Daimonji, so much so that it was worthy of a new article!
A New Perspective
Entering through the Silver Pavilion entrance was a whole new vibe to the Philosopher’s Path route. Instead of being cast straight into the forest, this trail began with a series of man-made steps that circle around the forests of Mt. Daimonji.
The trail continues like this for some time, complete with a safety fence on the right-hand side.
Like a balcony, you can enjoy some high-altitude views of Higashiyama’s forests and the cities surrounding the Philosopher’s Path below.
At this point, it was already quite cold, but little did I know it was about to get a whole lot colder!
The Ghosts of Winter Past
Okay dramatic subheadings aside, nothing says “winter” quite like a bunch of dead trees standing together to symbolize death and the transience of life.
These tall leafless branches were reminiscent of the Ents in The Lord of the Rings. I even thought they were coming to life with the way they swayed in the wind!
As the path ascends higher and higher, it does get noticeably colder as the drop in temperature can be felt in the bones. Luckily, your body copes with each strenuous inclined step that pumps blood through your veins and keeps your temperature high.
A Freezing Cold Surprise
The first major view from one of Mt. Daimonji’s peaks. Sadly, I was not warned of the strong icy cold winds that would be waiting for me at this observatory point. Despite wearing three warm layers of thermals and jackets, the breeze absolutely penetrated the fabrics to send shivers down my bones!
Fortunately, there was a little shelter that would block some of the wind’s power. There also happened to be a school excursion with about 20 little kids whose chaotic energy was somehow motivating me to push through the pain. In any case, the views of Kyoto City from this altitude were breathtaking, to say the least.
Unlike the highest peak that I’d been to before, this peak was a little closer to the ground so you could see the details across the landscape from the little buildings around Kyoto Tower to the small cars driving along the interconnected roads.
A View That Never Gets Old!
Somehow, being at the highest peak of Mt. Daimonji is a safer zone from the perils of Kyoto’s harsh winter winds. I assume it’s because of the greater prevalence of thick trees in the vicinity that aid in breaking the wind. While I prefer the view of the previous observatory point, I can’t deny the superiority of the spot for enjoying a packed lunch in a relaxed environment. Chairs and tables in the form of chopped-up pieces of wood, logs, and tree stumps make for an exceptional seating area.
Snow In Kyoto!
Kyoto hasn’t seen much snow in the last few years, but this is only true as far as suburban Kyoto is concerned.
In truth, those brave enough to trek the harsh conditions of winter to the prefecture’s mountain peaks are rewarded (or punished, depending on your view) with the indulgence of pure white snow!
It really did pour down snow when I was making my way down from the peak. Snowy trails started to form as I had the honor of slipping onto my backside trekking these icy paths.
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