KYOTO
Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
The Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is one of Kyoto’s top sights and for good reason: standing amid these soaring stalks of bamboo is like being in another world.
If you’ve been planning a trip to Kyoto, you’ve probably seen pictures of the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove – along with the torii tunnels of Fushimi-Inari-Taisha Shrine and Kinkaku-ji Temple, it’s one of the most photographed sights in the city. But no picture can capture the feeling of standing in the midst of this sprawling bamboo grove – the whole thing has a palpable sense of otherness that is quite unlike that of any normal forest we know of.
You can access it directly from the main street of Arashiyama, a little to the north of the entrance to Tenryu-ji Temple, but it’s best paired with a visit to that temple (exit the north gate, take a left and you’ll be in the grove in no time). There’s just one main path through the grove, which leads slowly uphill. Once you get to the top of the hill, the entrance to the sublime Okochi-Sanso Villa is right in front of you (go in, you won’t regret it).
There are two great hotels near the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove – Hoshinoya and Suiran. There’s also the beautiful Arashiyama Benkei ryokan.
Walking Tour: Arashiyama Bamboo Grove features in our Private Walking Tour of Arashiyama
English address: Arashiyama, Ukyo-ku
Japanese address: 右京区嵐山
Opening hours: 24hrs
Non-smoking area: Yes
Nearest Transport:
10 min walk from Saga Arashiyama Station, JR Sagano line
15 min walk from Arashiyama Station, Henkyu railway
Telephone: 861-0012
Website: None
Kinkaku-ji Temple (the Golden Pavilion)
Rising above its reflecting pond like an apparition, the golden hall of Kinkaku-ji is Kyoto’s most impressive sight, especially if you’re there on the four or five days per year when it’s covered in snow. The only problem is, as you might guess, that it’s almost always packed with visitors. For these reason, we recommend going just after it opens, just after it closes and, if possible on a Monday morning. Whatever you do, avoid the place on holidays, when it will simply be too busy to enjoy.
English address:
1 Kinkaku-ji-cho, Kita-ku
Japanese address:
北区金閣寺町1
Opening hours:
9am-5pm
Admission:
Adults: \400
Junior high and elementary school students: \300
Non-smoking area: Yes
Nearest Transport:
In front of Kinkaku-ji-mae Bus Stop, Kyoto City Bus 205 from Kyoto Station
Nearest Hotels:
:: Check availability and pricing for hotels near Kinkaku-ji Temple on Booking.com or Agoda.com.
Telephone: 461-0013
Fushimi-Inari-Taisha Shrine
It’s hard to describe Fushimi-Inari-Taisha Shrine as a mere Shinto Shrine. That’s like describing the Notre Dame as a chapel. The fact is, Fushimi-Inari is an entire world of shrines and shrine gates spread across an entire mountain in Southeast Kyoto. We’re willing to rank this as the single most impressive and important spot in all of Kyoto.
Walking Tour: Fushimi-Inari-Taisha Shrine features in our Private Walking Tour of Tofuku-ji Temple to Fushimi-Inari-Taisha Shrine
English address:
68 Yabunouchi-cho, Fukakusa, Fushimi-ku
Japanese address:
伏見区深草藪之内町68
Opening hours:
Dawn to dusk
Admission:
Free
Non-smoking area: Yes
Nearest Transport:
5min walk from Inari Station, JR Nara line
10min walk from Fushimi Inari Station, Keihan line
Nearest Hotels:
:: Check availability and pricing for hotels near to Fushimi-Inari-Taisha Shrine on Booking.com or Agoda.com.
Telephone: 561-1551
Website:
Official Website (Japanese)
KANSAI THRU PASS
This ticket enables you to ride on subways, private railways and buses throughout the Kansai district. As well as enabling you to tour Osaka, Kobe and Kyoto, it lets you visit Nara, Wakayama and Koyasan. Purchasing the economical KANSAI THRU PASS that comes in two types; 2-day and 3-day, will let you enjoy a more value-for-money holiday.
The Pass can be used on unconsecutive days during its period of validity (example: Mon, Wed and Fri in the case of a 3-day ticket)
KANSAI THRU PASS – Such a deal!!
From Kyoto to Osaka, Kobe, Mt. Hiei and Himeji. Get on and off the train or bus bound for Wakayama, Nara and Koyasan as you like during the period of validity (Excluding JR lines. Check the map for the available trains and buses).
You can use the train or bus without going through the troublesome task of checking the complicated rate table to buy tickets and you won't need to buy another ticket every time you make connections.
You can benefit from complimentary discount promotions at about 350 major tourist facilities along the railway lines.
Get There and Around
By Japan Railways (JR)
The fastest access from Kyoto Station to Arashiyama is provided by the JR Sagano Line (also known as JR Sanin Line). The one way ride to Saga-Arashiyama Station takes 15 minutes and costs 240 yen. From Saga-Arashiyama Station, central Arashiyama can be reached in a 5-10 minute walk.
By Keifuku Railways (Randen)
The small trains on the Keifuku Arashiyama Line connect Arashiyama with Omiya Station at the intersection of Shijo Street and Omiya Street in central Kyoto (20 minutes, 210 yen). Keifuku Railways also provides access to Kitanohakubaicho Station in northern Kyoto, not far from Kinkakuji, Ryoanji and Ninnaji Temples (20-30 minutes, 210 yen). One transfer of trains is required along the way. Keifuku Arashiyama Station is located in the very center of Arashiyama.
By Hankyu Railways
From Kawaramachi or Karasuma Station in central Kyoto (Shijo Street), take the Hankyu Main Line to Katsura Station and transfer to the Hankyu Arashiyama Line for Arashiyama. The one way trip takes about 20 minutes and costs 220 yen. Hankyu Arashiyama Station is located on the opposite side of the river, about a 5-10 minute walk from central Arashiyama.
By bus
Bus lines connect Arashiyama with several parts of Kyoto, however, it is recommended to access Arashiyama by train to avoid the risk of getting stuck in traffic jams.
By car
Access by car is not recommended due to traffic congestion and difficult parking. However, travelers with a car who are interested in also visiting the mountainous Takao region, note that the Arashiyama Takao Parkway toll road conveniently connects Arashiyama with Takao (1180 yen one way).
Arashiyama (嵐山) is a pleasant, touristy district in the western outskirts of Kyoto. The area has been a popular destination since the Heian Period (794-1185), when nobles would enjoy its natural setting. Arashiyama is particularly popular during the cherry blossom and fall color seasons.
The Togetsukyo Bridge is Arashiyama's well known, central landmark. Many small shops, restaurants and other attractions are found nearby, including Tenryuji Temple, Arashiyama's famous bamboo groves and pleasure boats that are available for rent on the river.
North of central Arashiyama the atmosphere becomes less touristy and more rural, with several small temples scattered along the base of the wooded mountains. The area north of the Togetsukyo Bridge is also known as Sagano, while the name "Arashiyama" technically just refers to the mountains on the southern bank of the river but is commonly used to name the entire district.
Pleasure boats and cherry blossoms
One of the most enjoyable and convenient ways to travel around the Sagano area is by rental bicycle, which are available for around 1000 yen near the train stations. Cycling through rural residential areas and past fields while traveling between temples can be one of the most enjoyable parts of a visit to Arashiyama. There is also an attractive preserved town area near the Adashino Nenbutsuji Temple.
Arashiyama becomes most attractive (and busy) around early April and the second half of November when the cherry blossom and fall color seasons usually peak. During the summer months, traditional cormorant fishing is practiced on the Hozu River for tourists to watch. Another good time to visit is during December's Hanatoro illumination, when lanterns line the streets and bamboo groves.
Togetsukyo Bridge
The Togetsukyo Bridge (lit. "Moon Crossing Bridge") is Arashiyama's most iconic landmark. It was originally built during the Heian Period (794-1185) and most recently reconstructed in the 1930s. The bridge looks particularly attractive in combination with the forested mountainside in the background. A riverside park with dozens of cherry trees is located just adjacent to the bridge.
Bamboo Groves
The walking paths that cut through the bamboo groves make for a nice walk or bicycle ride. The groves are particularly attractive when there is a light wind and the tall bamboo stalks sway gently back and forth. The bamboo has been used to manufacture various products, such as baskets, cups, boxes and mats at local workshops for centuries.
Okochi Sanso Villa
Hours: 9:00 to 17:00
Closed: No closing days
Admission: 1000 yen
This is the former villa of the popular actor Okochi Denjiro (1896-1962), located in the back of Arashiyama's bamboo groves. Okochi Sanso consists of several different gardens and buildings, including living quarters, tea houses and gates. The buildings can only be viewed from the outside. Admission includes matcha green tea with a snack.
Monkey Park Iwatayama
Hours: 9:00 to 17:30 (until 16:30 from November to March 14. Entry until 30 minutes before close)
Closed: Days with heavy rain or snow
Admission: 550 yen
Located in the Arashiyama mountains, the entrance to the monkey park can be found just south of the Togetsukyo Bridge. After hiking uphill for about ten minutes, visitors will find an open area with over a hundred monkeys roaming freely. There are also nice views down onto the city.
Saga-Toriimoto Preserved Street
Much of this street along the way to the Adashino Nenbutsuji Temple has been preserved in the style of the Meiji Period (1868-1912). Many of the buildings are traditional machiya ("town houses") that served as private residences but have since been converted into shops and restaurants.
Rakushisha Residence
Hours: 9:00 to 17:00 (10:00 to 16:00 from January to February)
Closed: December 31 and January 1
Admission: 250 yen
The Rakushisha Residence is a thatched hut that belonged to the 17th century haiku poet Mukai Kyorai. Mukai was a student of Basho Matsuo, one of Japan's greatest poets. Basho even composed a few poems here. Mukai named his residence Rakushisha ("fallen persimmon hut") after a storm had taken down the fruits of the surrounding trees.
Temples
Tenryuji Temple (more details)
Hours: 8:30 to 17:30 (until 17:00 from late October to late March)
Closed: No closing days
Admission: 500 yen for gardens, additional 300 yen to enter buildings
Ranked among Kyoto's five great Zen temples, Tenryuji is the largest and most impressive temple in Arashiyama. Founded in 1339 at the beginning of the Muromachi Period (1338-1573), the temple is one of Kyoto's many UNESCO World Heritage Sites. In addition to its temple buildings, there are attractive gardens with walking paths.
Daikakuji Temple (more details)
Hours: 9:00 to 17:00 (entry until 16:30)
Closed: No closing days
Admission: 500 yen (600 yen combination ticket with Gioji)
Daikakuji is a temple of the Shingon sect of Japanese Buddhism. Formerly the residence of an emperor, the buildings were converted into a temple in 876. During its history the temple traditionally had members of the imperial family serve as the head priest. Beside the main temple buildings there is a large pond and a pagoda.
Jojakkoji Temple
Hours: 9:00 to 17:00 (entry until 16:30)
Closed: No closing days
Admission: 400 yen
This mountainside temple was founded in 1596. With small, attractive buildings and gates, the temple has a quiet and understated atmosphere. Maple trees and moss are located just beside the paths and stairs that lead across the temple grounds. From a number of spots, visitors can enjoy views over Kyoto.
Nisonin Temple
Hours: 9:00 to 16:30
Closed: No closing days
Admission: 500 yen
Similar to Jojakkoji, Nisonin Temple is a hillside temple with slightly larger and imposing buildings. A generally understated atmosphere on the temple grounds is partly due to the overhanging trees along approach. Founded in the mid 9th century, Nisonin is a temple of the Tendai sect. There are views over the city from the upper grounds.
Gioji Temple
Hours: 9:00 to 17:00 (entry until 16:30)
Closed: No closing days
Admission: 300 yen (600 yen combination ticket with Daikakuji)
Gioji is even more nestled into the forest than Jojakkoji and Nisonin. It is known for its moss garden that is punctuated with tall maple trees. The temple's entrance gate and small main hall have thatched roofs. The latter has an attractive round window looking into the gardens.
Adashino Nenbutsuji Temple
Hours: 9:00 to 17:00 (until 16:00 from December to February). Admission ends 30 minutes before closing
Closed: No closing days
Admission: 500 yen
Adashino Nenbutsuji is located at the end of the Saga-Toriimoto Preserved Street. The temple was founded in the early 9th century when the famous monk Kobo Daishi placed stone statues for the souls of the dead here. Today, the temple grounds are covered by hundreds of such stone statues. In the back of the temple, a short path leads through a bamboo forest.
Otagi Nenbutsuji Temple
Hours: 8:00 to 17:00 (entry until 16:45)
Closed: No closing days
Admission: 300 yen
Another ten minute walk north of the similarly named Adashino Nenbutsuji, the Otagi Nenbutsuji Temple is famous for its 1200 stone statues of rakan, devoted followers of Buddhism, each with a different facial expression. Created relatively recently in the 1980s and early 1990s, the many statues stand across the temple grounds which cover part of a forested mountain slope.
Activities
Saga Scenic Railway (more details)
See Saga Scenic Railway page for hours and fares.
The Saga Scenic Railway runs seven kilometers from Arashiyama to nearby Kameoka, mostly alongside the pretty Hozu River. The trains travel at a maximum speeds of about 25 km/h during their 25 minute journey, so passengers can enjoy the scenery without it rushing by too quickly.
Hozu River Boat Tour (more details)
See Hozu River Boat page for hours and fees.
Departing from near the JR Kameoka Station, the Hozu River Boat Tour is a leisurely two hour trip that takes passengers down the winding Hozu River to the Togetsukyo Bridge. The trip passes by the forested mountainsides along the river. The boats seat 25 people and are heated in the winter.
Cormorant Fishing (Ukai)
Daily at 19:00 and 20:00 in July and August (except August 16)
Daily at 18:30 and 19:30 in the first half of September
Canceled if the river's water levels are high
Cost: 1800 yen for a 1-hour cruise
The Hozu River in Arashiyama is one of about a dozen rivers in Japan where ukai, a traditional fishing methods using cormorants, is practiced. Tourists can observe the action from paid sightseeing boat cruises or from ashore. Cruises depart from the boat pier near the Togetsukyo Bridge.
Arashiyama Station ke Kyoto Tower.
Arashiyama Station nambil ( Hankyu-Arashiyama Line )tukar Katsura Station ambil ( Hankyu-Kyoto Line ) Stop at Kawaramachi Station Jalan ke Gion-Shijo Station. Ambil Keihan Line berhenti di Shichijo Station dan berjalan ke Kyoto Tower.
No comments:
Post a Comment