Page 32 - Miss No Label

Famous for its iconic bamboo groves, Arashiyama is a place with an old world

atmosphere. You can access the bamboo forest directly from the main street of

Arashiyama, a little to the north of the entrance to Tenryu-ji Temple, but it’s

best paired with a visit to that temple. There’s just one main path through the

grove, which leads slowly uphill. Amidst the bamboo forest lays a small shrine

called Nonomiya-Jinja. The shrine was formerly known as a temporary

sanctuary for princesses. Those looking for love, might want to drop by and

make a wish at Nonomiya-Daikokuten, the god of matchmaking, is said to be

enshrined there. Though it is a little far away from the centre, Arashiyama is

worth a visit, especially during the autumn and cherry blossom seasons.

There are various ways to reach Arashiyama by train and bus, however, the

most direct way is to take the JR Sagano Line from Kyoto Station and get off at

Saga-Arashiyama. Travel time: Around 15 minutes. Cost: ¥240.