Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

This sea of bamboo stalks can be found just outside Kyoto, to the west, in the Arashiyama district. It is easily one of the most photographed sights in Japan, owing to its unique atmosphere.

Whether you want to get lost in it for an entire day, or just take a quick walk, the bamboo grove is a perfect place to take a stroll in. It also hides several marvellous temples and shrines.

It is best explored by foot, however, it may be just as fun to take a bicycle. The bamboo grove can be reached easily by public transportation (it takes 10-15 minutes of walking to get there from the nearest train stations). If you can, avoid travelling there by car, as there are problems with parking space.

Due to increase in popularity even the Bamboo Grove cannot avoid crowds during the day. Coming early in the morning is a good way to enjoy the forest relatively undisturbed.