The Sagano bamboo forests in Arashiyama are like a silent screen, where you leave behind the stresses of the city and be transported to a slower, gentler time. Likewise, if you cross the Togetsukyo Bridge and head away from the city, you will soon find yourself surrounded in a nature sanctuary, where you can float by on the same kind of wooden boats that were used a thousand years ago, and recall the stories from the Tale of Genji, the oldest novel in the world. Come, and charm yourself, in Sagano Arashiyama. These days, it is easy to transport yourself to paradise. Frequent trains on the Hankyu and Japan Rail (JR) lines from Kyoto means that you can get to Saga Arashiyama Station in 17 minutes, more quickly than Kiyomizudera or Kinkakuji by bus.
- 1 min read
An Afternoon in Arashiyama Kyoto
Beyond the silent screen on Togetsukyo Bridge
By Bonson Lam
Community writer
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Elena Lisina
4 years ago
Very beautiful places! I just wish there were less tourists! :)
When I went it was very peaceful. Having a boat or a bicycle and going a long way away from Kyoto after the bridge, you can really imagine going back in time to a quieter place. Of course, staying in a ryokan upstream would be a good idea too. When the day trippers leave it can be very peaceful in the evenings and early mornings.
Elena Lisina
4 years ago
Bonson, thank you for the reply! In Kyoto I stayed in a hotel located on a side street of Gion district, and it was the samw - very quiet on mornings and evenings. I had pleasant walks along Kamo river and to Yasaka shrine. At 7 am it was quiet there.
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