Arashiyama Bamboo Grove Revisited 2023 - Kyoto
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| Arashiyama Bamboo Grove |
Nestled in the picturesque district of Arashiyama, Kyoto, the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove (嵐山竹林の小径) also referred to as Arashiyama Bamboo Forest remains one of Japan's most enchanting natural attractions. The dense, towering bamboo stalks, swaying gently in the breeze, create a serene and almost otherworldly atmosphere that captivates visitors from around the globe. Having experienced this mesmerizing location multiple times, I've come to appreciate its timeless beauty from various perspectives.
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| Arashiyama Bamboo Grove - Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture |
My first visit to Arashiyama Bamboo Grove was during my 2018 trip to Japan with my wife and daughter. We were drawn by the grove's reputation as a must-see destination, and it certainly lived up to the hype. As we meandered along the winding paths, we were enveloped by the soothing rustle of bamboo leaves and the dappled sunlight filtering through the green canopy. The experience was as magical as it was calming, offering a stark yet delightful contrast to the bustling cityscapes of Tokyo and Osaka.
Arashiyama Bamboo Grove Details
The grove is relatively accessible, and even though it attracts numerous visitors, the paths are spacious enough to provide a tranquil escape. The natural beauty of the bamboo stalks—some reaching heights of over 50 feet—combined with the soft, ambient sounds of nature, made for an unforgettable experience that my family and I cherished deeply.
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| You will see some cute Jizo along the way going to Arashiyama Bamboo Grove |
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| The Torii Gate of Nonomiya Shrine |
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| Nonomiya Shrine |
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| Did you know, Nonomiya Shrine appears in the tenth chapter of the Tale of Genji? |
Exploring Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
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Katsura River
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The following year, in 2019, we returned to Japan with my parents and siblings. This time, the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove was part of a broader family tour, and it was fascinating to see it through the eyes of different family members. My parents, having visited various gardens and parks in their travels, were particularly impressed by the unique atmosphere of the grove. My siblings, always eager for a good photo opportunity, delighted in capturing the stunning visuals of the towering bamboo.
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| Tenryuji |
Our visit during this trip was slightly different, as we explored some of the nearby attractions, such as the Tenryuji, a UNESCO World Heritage Site situated at the entrance to the grove. This added a cultural layer to our visit, enriching our appreciation of the area's historical and spiritual significance.
Team Nicerio revisits Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
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Fast forward to January 12, 2023, which marked my 437th day living in Japan as an Assistant Language Teacher (ALT) under the JET Programme. Revisiting the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove with a deeper familiarity with Japanese culture and language provided a fresh perspective. This time, I approached the grove as a visitor and a resident, with a growing appreciation for its role in Japanese heritage.
Arashiyama Bamboo Grove Admission Fee:
Arashiyama Bamboo Grove Opening Hours:
Why visit Arashiyama Bamboo Grove?
Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is a destination that, despite multiple visits, continues to enchant and inspire. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler like myself, the grove's ethereal beauty and serene atmosphere promise a memorable experience. Each visit brings its own unique charm, reaffirming why this remarkable location remains a cherished highlight of my time in Japan.
Getting to Arashiyama Bamboo Grove:
Traveling from Kansai International Airport (KIX) to the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove in Kyoto is relatively straightforward, and there are a few options depending on your preferences for speed, convenience, and cost. Here’s a detailed guide to help you navigate the journey:
Option 1: By Train
1. From Kansai International Airport (KIX):
• JR Kansai Airport Station: This is located within the airport complex.
2. Take the JR Express Train to Kyoto Station:
• Train: Take the JR "Haruka" Express (Limited Express) bound for Kyoto. This train is comfortable and offers a direct route.
• Duration: Approximately 75 minutes.
• Cost: Around ¥2,850 for a reserved seat (prices may vary).
3. Transfer to the JR Sagano Line:
• At Kyoto Station: Transfer to the JR Sagano Line (also known as the JR Sanin Line).
• Train: Board the JR Sagano Line train bound for Saga-Arashiyama.
• Duration: Approximately 15 minutes.
4. Arrive at Saga-Arashiyama Station:
• Walking: From Saga-Arashiyama Station, it’s about a 10-minute walk to the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. Follow the signs or use a map to guide you to the grove.
Total Duration: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours, including transfers.
Option 2: By Limousine Bus and Train
1. From Kansai International Airport (KIX):
• Airport Limousine Bus: Take the bus from the airport to Kyoto Station. Buses are available from the airport and offer a direct route to Kyoto.
• Duration: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes.
• Cost: Around ¥2,600.
2. Transfer to the JR Sagano Line at Kyoto Station:
• At Kyoto Station: Follow the same steps as above to board the JR Sagano Line train.
• Duration: Approximately 15 minutes.
3. Arrive at Saga-Arashiyama Station:
• Walking: Follow the walking directions as previously mentioned.
Total Duration: Approximately 2 hours to 2 hours 30 minutes, including transfers and waiting times.
Option 3: By Taxi
You can take a taxi from Kansai International Airport directly to the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove for a more direct but pricier option.
• Duration: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on traffic.
• Cost: Approximately ¥20,000 to ¥25,000.
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