Chhavi and I had just wrapped up the scenic Sagano Romantic Train ride from Kameoka, and as the train pulled into Arashiyama, we had one of those spontaneous travel moments—we decided to hop off early. Our tickets were till Saga, but the bamboo forest was calling!
First stop? A local shop just outside the station, where we grabbed some traditional rice candies called dango, a much-needed snack that tasted like sweet little energy bites.
The path to the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is well-marked and easy to find. It didn’t take long before we found ourselves in the heart of the grove, surrounded by towering bamboo and … a lot of people. It’s popular for a reason. Even in the late evening, the forest was buzzing with visitors. But, as always in Japan, the crowd felt calm, respectful, and never overwhelming.
If you’re dreaming of those iconic empty-path bamboo shots—fair warning, they’re hard to come by at peak hours. But here’s a tip: point your camera upwards. The view of the endless green stalks stretching into the sky is just as breathtaking.
After soaking it all in, we headed toward the subway to get back to Shijo, where we were staying. That walk was unexpectedly magical too. We passed quieter bamboo-lined paths, charming temple gates, and even caught a glimpse of the Sagano train passing by again while we waited at a railway crossing.
There were also hand-pulled rickshaws, with enthusiastic (and rather fit!) young men giving tourists a memorable ride. The whole scene felt straight out of a movie.
A quick note: Google Maps is a lifesaver in Japan, especially for someone like me who tends to get turned around easily!
If you plan to visit the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, know that it’s open 24/7. Early mornings or late nights might be your best bet for solitude. Still, even in the crowds, the forest has a quiet beauty that lingers. And fun fact, this area was once part of an imperial park when Kyoto was the capital. No wonder it feels so regal and serene.