Arashiyama bamboo grove or bamboo forest is one of the best place to visit in Japan in Kyoto as well as in the world. This natural bamboo forest grew on the northwest side of Kyoto city in Arashiyama districts Sagano village. The forest mostly consisted of thousands of tall greenish bamboo plants. It is a popular location for photographers.
There are tunnel looking pathways throughout the forest. You can explore the forest by using these tunnel shaped paths and enjoy the beauty of the place around you. The forest itself generally has quiet atmosphere except rush hours.
The most eye catching moment of this forest is, when there is a light breeze and top of the bamboo plants moving back and forth with light pleasant sound of the light green leaves. For this unique experience it has become one of the famous place to visit in Japan for travelers. With sightseeing and photo shooting time it will take about 3 hours to cover the entire forest area.
You can visit the forest at night as well since there are lights that are placed across the tunnel shaped paths. Sometimes it may get darker due to the lack of sufficient light. During that time the soundscapes of towering bamboo leaves are getting touched each other due to light breeze in the dark will make you feel thrilled and curious at the same time.
On a nice sunny day, you can may see the narrow rays of sunlight fall on the light green bamboo trees which creates an unearthly majestic view. Perhaps a good time for taking some photos.
Besides being a famous tourist spot, the forest is also useful for the locals living around the location. Locals from the area makes wooden boxes, baskets, cups from the bamboo collected from this forest.
How to visit this forest?
You can go to Arashiyama bamboo grove from Kyoto in just about 30 minutes by train. It costs about 240 yen one way. There is a 15 to 20 minutes foot walk from Saga-Arashiyama station to the forest. By car it is the same time from Kyoto.
Arashiyama Bamboo Grove – Entry Fees and Address
There is no entrance fee to enter the forest and the spot is always remain open throughout the year. Parking on the spot is free.
Address: 605-0028 Kyoto, Higashiyama Ward, Bunkichō, 61 シティハウスJOY三条
Website: https://www.japan.travel/en/spot/1141/
When to visit Arashiyama Bamboo Grove?
While Summer is the best season to visit the forest, you can visit the spot anytime of the year. During Winter season you can enjoy stunning Hanatouro illumination at night time. If you prefer less crowd during traveling, avoid weekends. Early morning or late afternoon on weekdays is recommended.
Some Handy Tips
Some handy tips before going to this forest are – Choose a good sunny day to visit the spot. Go there by early morning while the sun is still not showering its heat already. If possible go there before sunrise if you want to capture some perfect decent shots of the beautiful bamboo forest with empty pathway. Bring water with you to stay hydrated.
Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is one of the nicest place to visit in Japan where you will have a pleasant experience during your time being on the spot. If you have travel itinerary around Kyoto or Osaka area, do not miss the chance to visit this marvelous gift of nature. The serenity of this forest will give you a life time experience.
