Sagano Bamboo Grove Trail | Review by wendy

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Sagano Bamboo Grove Trail

Green bamboos grow up to create a canopy on this trail. A beloved spot in Kyoto.

13 Sep 2026 See More

One of the places I was most looking forward to visiting in Arashiyama, Kyoto, was this bamboo grove filled with Japanese charm. As I walked along the bamboo path, I was surrounded by towering green bamboo, with sunlight filtering through the leaves. The entire path felt peaceful and dreamlike.

Although this is a very popular attraction in Kyoto and there are always plenty of visitors, walking deeper into the grove still lets you experience Arashiyama’s unique atmosphere. Along the way, you can also see rickshaws weaving through the bamboo as the drivers pull their passengers and introduce the scenery. Sometimes they even take guests along routes accessible only by rickshaw, which really adds to the travel atmosphere. I also stopped by Nonomiya Shrine deep in the grove. Although the shrine is small, it has a long history and is famous for prayers for good relationships.

This time in Arashiyama, I wasn’t rushing through an itinerary. I simply strolled slowly through the bamboo grove, took photos, and enjoyed one of Kyoto’s most classic views.

Other Reviews by wendy

Kenninji Temple

The oldest Zen temple in Kyoto and the head temple of the Kenninji sect of the Rinzai school. In 1202, Minamoto no Yorie, the second shogun of the Kamakura Shogunate, donated the temple area to the temple and founded it with Yousai Zenji as the founder.
- Gion, Higashiyama, Yamashina
- Shrines & Temples
14 Sep 2026 See More

Founded in 1202, Kenninji is one of Kyoto's oldest Zen temples. Although it is near the lively Gion district and Hanamikoji Street, it is unexpectedly peaceful. It feels like Gion draws everyone's attention, making Kenninji a very pleasant hidden attraction.

Admission is JPY 800, and you need to remove your shoes before entering. The temple houses treasured works such as the Wind and Thunder Gods folding screens, and the gardens are filled with Zen touches throughout. It's a great place to sit and take your time appreciating the scenery while enjoying the quiet Japanese atmosphere.

I especially recommend walking all the way to the main hall. The moment you step inside, you're greeted by the subtle scent of wood. When you look up and see the spectacular ceiling painting, you can't help but stop in your tracks. It's truly breathtaking.
Kyoto Prefectural Yamashiro General Sports Park (Taiyogaoka)

The hills of Uji in Kyoto keep a local-loved haven known as Kyoto Prefectural Yamashiro General Sports Park (Taiyogaoka), a large-scale haven for nature and sports that spans a whopping 108 hectares. The park is divided into themed forest zones such as the Adventure Forest, Play Forest, and Friendship Forest, featuring giant athletic structures and outdoor play equipment that let you forget the bustle of the city.
- Uji, Joyo, Yawata
- Parks & Gardens
14 Sep 2026 See More

Besides temples and historic sites, Kyoto also has a large park that's perfect for families! Taiyogaoka is located in the hills of Uji. The grounds are very spacious, with shady trees and peaceful surroundings, making it especially pleasant to walk around. The park has all kinds of play equipment where children can run, jump, try different activities, and enjoy plenty of adventure. In summer, there's also a family pool where you can splash around and cool off. It's a great place to spend anywhere from half a day to a full day. If you enjoy nature and outdoor activities, it's well worth a visit!
Kyoto Station Building

Kyoto station is attached to an enormous building which provides shops and restaurants, as well as a hotel and cultural center. The Cube Shopping Mall occupies the ground floor and two basement floors. In its spacious confines are shops offering a wide variety of unique souvenirs and specialty desserts from Kyoto, trendy fashion items, and interesting knickknacks.
- Kyoto Station, Shijo Kawaramachi, Kyoto Imperial Palace
- Commercial Buildings
14 Sep 2026 See More

When visiting Kyoto, I think staying near Kyoto Station is really convenient! The Kyoto Station Building itself has shopping, food, souvenirs, and places to relax, and there are also many department stores, shopping centers, and restaurants nearby, making it easy to shop or grab something to eat.

If it’s your first time in Kyoto, staying near the station is also a great choice. There are plenty of hotels in the area, and transportation is very convenient. You can easily reach Kyoto’s major attractions by JR, subway, or bus.

After a long day of sightseeing, you can return to the station, have dinner, and do some shopping before heading back to your hotel. It really saves time and effort. For independent travelers, the area around Kyoto Station is a great choice where it’s “convenient to stay, fun to explore, and easy to get anywhere!”