Keage Incline

The Keage Incline is a 582-meter-long former inclined railway located in the Higashiyama district of Kyoto, Japan. Built in 1890 during the Meiji era, it was the longest incline railway in the world at the time of its construction. The incline was part of the ambitious Lake Biwa Canal system, designed to revitalize Kyoto after the capital moved to Tokyo in 1869. The canal was needed to bring water, passengers, and cargo like sake, rice, and soy sauce from Otsu in Shiga Prefecture to the growing city of Kyoto. The railway operated from 1891 until 1948, transporting boats on trolleys to overcome a height difference of approximately 36 meters between waterways without requiring cargo to be unloaded.

The Keage Incline holds significant historical and cultural value as a testament to Japan's modernization efforts. In 1996 the place was designated as a National Historic Site by the government. The facility powered Japan's first hydroelectric power station supplying electricity to the general public, located at the nearby Keage Power Station, which remarkably continues operating today. During its peak operation, the incline transported approximately 220,000 tonnes of goods annually. The railway was fully restored in 1977, preserving its original tracks and even displaying a replica trolley carrying a traditional cargo boat.

Today, the Keage Incline has transformed into one of Kyoto's most picturesque walking spots. Visitors can freely stroll along the preserved railway tracks, which are lined with 90 Yoshino cherry trees that create a spectacular tunnel of blossoms from late March to early April. The site has become particularly popular among photographers and couples seeking wedding photos against the nostalgic backdrop of the old rails.

Beyond cherry blossom season, the incline offers beautiful scenery year-round, with vibrant green foliage in summer and colorful autumn leaves in fall. Stepping stones have been laid alongside the tracks for comfortable walking, and the gentle downhill slope provides scenic views of Kyoto's cityscape. The area also features access to nearby attractions including Nanzenji Temple, the brick aqueduct Nanzenji Suirokaku, and the Lake Biwa Canal Memorial Museum.

Access to the Keage Incline is straightforward via public transportation. The most convenient option is taking the Kyoto Municipal Subway Tozai Line to Keage Station, from which the incline is approximately a 3-minute walk. Alternatively, visitors can take city bus routes 5 or 204 to either the "Nanzenji Eikando-michi" or "Hosshoji" bus stops, followed by a 5-minute walk. The site is open to the public 24 hours daily with no admission fee, making it an accessible destination for all visitors. The recommended starting point is at the top of the incline near Keage Station, allowing for a relaxing downhill walk toward Nanzenji Temple.