Arashiyama Bamboo Forest 嵐山竹林 Arashiyama chikurin

A narrow path through majestic, towering bamboo stalks where you’ll experience the unique joy of trying to take a people-free photo while surrounded by 400 other tourists attempting the exact same thing. The Arashiyama Bamboo Forest is located in Western Kyoto, adjacent to 天龍寺 Tenryū-ji (Tenryū Temple).

Getting there:

• 10 min walk from Saga Arashiyama Station (JR Sagano Line)
• 15 min walk from Arashiyama Station (Hankyu Railway)

When to visit: Early morning (before 8am) or during light rain, when the selfie sticks retreat.

Admission: Free and open 24/7, which explains the perpetual crowds.

The bamboo really does make that magical rustling sound you’ve heard about – if you can hear it over the tour guides with megaphones. For the best experience, visit on a weekday during off-season or arrive at dawn when the only competition for photos will be professional photographers who arrived even earlier than you did.

Bonus tip! Pair with a visit to nearby Tenryū Temple (500 JPY admission) or the 嵐山モンキーパーク Iwatayama Monkey Park (550 JPY admission) to justify the trip out to Arashiyama. Your Instagram followers will thank you, even if your feet won’t.