The bamboo alley of Arashiyama is one of the most popular (and therefore photographed) place in Kyoto. And it's free! In fact, a few of the most popular spots in Kyoto are also alleys, and they're also free, such as Pontocho or the torii-covered paths of the Fuchimi Inari shrine. But just like any popular spot, the bamboo alley can be very, very crowded. If you plan to take one of those pictures without anybody in it, be prepared to wake up very early. It is actually a good thing to do at the beginning of your day, before the other temples and shrines of the area open.
The alley branches here and there, the most popular and impressive section being between the north entrance of Tenryu-ji and the very beautiful (but not as popular) Okochi-sanso villa. But other paths can be explored, such as the one leading to the small Nonomiya-jinja (野宮神社) shrine, dedicated to lovers. You will find many rickshaws carrying young couples around there.
You will find a few shops selling interesting bamboo-made items in the area. But if you are really into bamboo you should visit the 'bamboo county' of Kyoto which is Oharano, in Nishi-kyo. Over there you will find bamboo farms, forests and shops, as well as a park/museum. The hill separating the Oharano valley from the main Kyoto plain is covered with a bamboo forest and has several interesting paths and roads in it. Recommended for: Access: Nearby: Shōkaku-ji 正覚寺 (130m), Nonomiya-jinja 野宮神社 (200m), the Okochi Sansō villa 大河内山荘 (250m), Tenryū-ji 天龍寺 (270m), Hōgon-in 宝厳院 (300m), Furoan フロアン (300m), the Yusa-tei 祐斎亭 (340m), Kōgen-ji 弘源寺 (360m), the Rakushisha 落柿舎 (400m), Jōjakkō-ji 常寂光寺 (420m),... External links: Trip Advisor, Inside Kyoto, Satellite view, Map Keywords: Japan, 日本, Japon, Kyoto, 京都, arashiyama, 嵐山, 嵯峨竹林, bamboo alley Statistics: visited on 8 occasions, id 273, 12 photos (18 extra photos can be found in the archive). |
