Arashiyama Bamboo Groves 嵐山, Kyoto
Just a quick look at the rows of rows of bamboo groves and you’ll know instantly that it’s the Arashiyama Bamboo Groves. Located at the far west of Kyoto, there’s no doubt that this is one of the most popular destinations for both tourists and locals. It would be very difficult to get a photo with you standing solo in the middle of the bamboo groves!
But there’s another way of getting to the bamboo groves, that often tourists think is the main attraction. As you get off at Saga-Arashiyama station and walk towards where the mountains are, you’ll pass by numerous Kyoto delicacies, Odango and Taiyaki included. You should grab a bite or two, as the hike can get very tiring.
When you reach the end of the road, and see the Tenryuji Temple, most people would go to the right, as this is where the Arashiyama Bamboo Groves are.
But I encourage you to take a left and take a scenic route towards the Togetsukyo Bridge.
Hello, Japan’s own version of Santa Monica Pier.
Literally meaning “Storm Mountains”, this side of Arashiyama is breathtaking. I am not one to appreciate nature on a daily basis, but this is really beautiful. Everything else around it is complete tourist circuses, and to enjoy Arashiyama during Autumn season is a breather.
So walk along the river and you won’t regret it.
Climb high and you’ll eventually reach the dense bamboo groves, the crowd thinner in comparison. This is where you can take a better photo of yourself.
And as you exit the bamboo groves, you’ll still find yourself along the road where the shops are. All the restaurants are always full, so you might be contented with a potato croquette like I did. Unless you have all the time in the world to queue, by all means, please do.
Remember, there’s always a way around the place.
Traveling from Tokyo?
If you’re traveling to Kyoto from Tokyo just to taste this delectable Omurice, here’s a secret and most simple way to get out of Tokyo! GoVoyagin offers the easiest way to book Shinkansen tickets to and from Kyoto through their site. You can also schedule your trip, and book reserved seats, green car seats, or just choose non-designated seats for your trip. You’ll be in Kyoto in just two and a half hours.
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Navigation and Map: How to Get to Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
Location: Arashiyama Genrokuzancho, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture 616-0007, Japan
The best way to get to the Arashiyama Bamboo Groves is to take the JR Sagano/San-In line from JR Kyoto Station towards Saga-Arashiyama. Head towards where the mountains are and the bamboo groves are 10 minutes away. Alternatively you can take Kyoto City Bus #28 and get off at Arashiyama Tenryuji-mae stop.
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