Japan: Kyoto X - Arashiyama
Day 1
Day 2
Day 3
As mentioned, we took the Sagano Scenic Railway from Torokko Saga to Torokko Kameoka. (Green line)
From Torokko Kameoka station, there's a short 10 minutes walk along the fields to get JR line's station Umahori. This a pretty peaceful and quiet area. From there, you can take the JR Sagano line back to Saga Arashiyama or back to Kyoto (Red line). We took it to Saga Arashiyama.
It's still a fair distance from the ARASHIYAMA itself (located on the orange rail in the Keifu Arashiyama line above and the red marker on the map below). But it's a really quiet and peaceful town, so the walk is good.
Once you reach ARASHIYAMA, you'll see many rickshaw pullers. Despite the cold weather, they were simply clad in black leggings and traditional tops. Some to them looked really fit! Prepare for some eye-candy time!
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Our first stop was Tenryu-ji Temple which is very close to the Arashiyama stop. It is one of the most important temple in Arashiyama and is a world heritage site.
Opening hours: 0830 -1700
Fees: 500 yen (an extra 100 yen for entrance into the temple buildings)
The gardens here are pretty exquisite. Said to be the original gardens itself, do take your time to appreciate the grandeur and peace of this temple grounds.
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Next stop is the famous Bamboo Grove! This is simply my favourite place in Arashiyama!
But because it is such a popular spot, to find capture if without any people is a really tough call, you just have to be patient and wait wait wait!
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We visited Togetsukyo Bridge next.
You'll find a lot of cute little shops as you head towards the river.
This was somewhat of a disappointment as it was not what we saw in photographs. I suppose it would have looked really pretty if you're there during Cherry Blossom or Autumn Leaves season. This is what we saw.
It was nice to sit by the Bridge and just chill as well. The breeze is simply enchanting and relaxing.
All in all, if you've time, I would strongly recommend a full day trip to Arashiyama, and explore this quaint little town thoroughly. If I'm to come here again, autumn would be a nice time to visit. Image all the red and orange foilage colouring the landscape!
Info: http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e3912.html
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