Kurama, Kifune Kojinomori, Kyoto 古事の森

Kojino-mori (forests of ancient heritage) was initiated jointly by the Forestry Agency and Association for the Shrines and Temples in 2003. Initially ten forests were designated as Kojino-mori, which aimed to ensure the timber supplies for future restoration of shrines and temples around Japan, including 727 nominated as Important Cultural Properties. The first Kojino-mori was established within the Kurama and Kifune National Parks, northern Kyoto, for the future restoration of the wooden structures of the Kurama Temple and Kifune Shrine, each dating back to 770 and 666. The main timber used are of cypress Hinoki and cedar Sugi. Hiwada, cypress barks, are also used for roofing, which can be harvested every 8-10 years from the cypress over 80 years of age. The room normally lasts for 30-40 years. At least 350,000 trees are required for the on-going supply of Hiwada just for the cultural property-listed buildings. Some of the major shrines and temples, including Koya-san, has their own Kojino-mori.

Kifune, Kurama: 30 min by Keihan Train, Kyoto. Pleasant mountain hike between the two.