Kiyotaki Tunnel

Kiyotaki Tunnel is a narrow single-lane road tunnel in the northwestern hills of Kyoto, built in 1927. Its 444-metre length is considered unlucky in Japanese numerology — the number four sounds like death. The tunnel's traffic mirrors and dim lighting create an inherently unsettling driving experience.

Drivers report seeing a woman in the rear-view mirror who is not in the car, a figure reflected in the traffic convex mirrors that does not match any pedestrian, and a subjective sense that the tunnel changes length depending on the time of day. The tunnel's association with nearby Atago Cemetery reinforces the lore.

Kiyotaki Tunnel is a real public road in active use. Do not stop inside the tunnel. The single lane means traffic flows in alternating directions controlled by signals. Visit the area for Kyoto's northwestern temple circuit — Atago and Sagano.

Active public road tunnel with single-lane alternating traffic controlled by signals. Do not stop inside the tunnel — this is dangerous and illegal. The Kyoto northwestern hills area includes temples and walking trails. Standard Japanese road safety awareness applies. Not a tourist attraction.