Kyoto’s Eizan Railway will illuminate part of the Kurama Line route this November so that passengers can view the glorious autumn colors at night. The Kurama Line runs from Demachiyanagi Station in north Kyoto to the scenic villages of Kibune and Kurama.
Eizan Railway’s Maple Leaf Tunnel during the day
Between Ichihara Station and Ninose Station there is a 250 meter section of the line with a dense growth of maple trees on both sides of the tracks. In the autumn this forms a magical “tunnel” of brightly colored leaves. During the light-up event the train will slow down for this section and the lights in the train will be turned off so that passengers can fully enjoy the illuminated foliage.
Eizan Railway’s Illuminated Maple Leaf Tunnel
The Maple Leaf Tunnel Light-up is an annual event which is held to coincide with a lantern festival in Kibune village. During the Kibune Momiji Tourou festival tall lanterns are lit on the approach to Kifune Shrine and the shrine itself is also illuminated.
Stairs leading to Kifune Shrine
This year’s Maple Leaf Tunnel Light-up will last from November 2nd until the 24th and the illuminations will last from dusk till 21.00. A handicraft market with food stalls will be held at Kifune Shrine from 10.00 to 19.00 on the following dates: November 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 9th, 10th, 16th, 17th, 23rd, and 24th. On November 24th the shrine will also hold a special performance of Iwami Kagura, which is a ritual folk performance of drama, music and dance with gorgeous costumes. The Iwami Kagura performance will begin at 17.00 and everyone is welcome to attend for free.
Article by Michael Lambe. Photos by denkei/pixta (1), Eizan Railway (2,3). All rights reserved.
