After viewing breath-taking nature scenes all day, one might suspect that Lori and I needed a change of pace. Apparently not so. Although weary from the day’s excursion to Ohara, we decided to stick with our plan of seeing the renown bamboo groves in Arashiyama. Since arriving in Japan, walking these paths had been on Lori’s list of Life Goals, and I was also eager to go having seen photos of these paths on brochures at various tourist centers.
With the slender bamboo trunks swaying in a gentle breeze, we pleasantly strolled along marveling at our delectable surroundings. There were rickshaws and bicycles for rent and we also saw a wedding party preparing for pictures. After about an hour we had sauntered down every path and back. Returning to Kyoto Station, we transferred to the bullet train and were back to Kyushu within a few hours. Overall our trip to Kyoto was a nice weekend escape. We saw most of the historical hot spots, and also managed to slow down and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
From Lori
I’m a huge fan of nature, especially the magical type. You know what I mean: fairytale gardens, enchanting forests, or quaint rivers and ponds. That’s why I’ve always had my heart set on walking through a bamboo forest in Japan. I was able to accomplish this life goal in Kyoto when we visited the grove in Arashiyama. Tall and serene, the bamboo encompassing the wide walking paths were just what I had been hoping for. Although the multitude of tourists did somewhat dampen the mystical effects of the forest, it was still a wonderful experience.
Leave a comment with your suggestions for places with “magical” nature I should go to someday!
Photo Insight
My hopes were too high for these bamboo groves. Although I came away with some winner shots, they were difficult to obtain. The throngs of other sightseers meant that a clear shot would only be achieved with much patience. I would get settings right, frame the shot, and then Lori and I would wait.
Also, with the density of the forest, light was scarce. The lead image of this post was exposed at 1/20 sec, ISO 200 and I still had to boost the exposure on the computer after the fact. To photographers looking for a killer shot, I suggest you schedule Arashiyama for a whole morning when the forecast looks sunny. Bring your tripod and a book.
Directions and more info on Arashiyama in Kyoto, Japan
just beautiful! you can just feel the tranquility
November next year cannot come quick enough for me
Is that when something special happens?
Love the main photo! Because I need some peace in my heart?
If you need peace, this is the place for you. Also, I highly suggest a zen garden. If interested, below is a link to Kyoto’s Secret Garden in Ohara that was equally still and peaceful Enjoy.
Impressive photos. Looks like a great place to visit.
Thanks for the encouragement Tony. Yes, out of all the hundreds of places to visit in Kyoto, Arashiyama’s bamboo grove shouldn’t be missed.
Yay bamboo! The lead photo turned out great =).
thanks. glad we got to go.