One of my favourite places in Japan is Arashiyama, with so many things to see and do and the way it distinctly changes with every season. I have been 3 times, and each has been a totally new experience.
The first and favourite time I went was during hanami, the time of year when cherry blossoms are in full bloom. To this day it was one of the most spectacular things I have seen! It is an extremely popular area at that time of year and thousands of people packed the streets to see the trees! The Togetsukyo Bridge spanning over the Oi river is one of Arashiyamas highlights. Crossing this 80 year old bridge allows you to see the picturesque views on the mountains and depending on the season a different variety of leaves. During Hanami families, friends, salary men and strangers all gather along the river sitting on blue tarps eating bento, drinking alcohol or even making nabe while gazing at the cherry blossoms. It is an amazing site to see!
 |
| Togetsukyo Bridge |
Arashiyama offers many other activities too. There is monkey Park Iwatayama, (if you can get up the huge mountain) home to over 170 Macaque monkeys. Every monkey has a name and there is a special feeding cage where you can hand feed them! The top of the mountain also allows you to witness beautiful views over Kyoto. There are also many temples and shrines, the bamboo forest, cafes and restaurants and boat and train rides.
 |
| monkeys enjoying the view of kyoto |
 |
| feeding! |
 |
| bamboo forrest |
 |
| fall at arashiyama |
My favorite time at Arashiyama is in the fall (so I wish i could see more autumn pictures here...). But I understand they will have a Christmas light up event during mid-December as well. You might want to check that out, too.
ReplyDelete