Kyoto’s Bamboo Forests: There’s More to Bamboo in Kyoto than Arashiyama

Keihanna Commemorative Park, located in Keihanna Science City, spans 24.1 hectares. The park has both free and paid areas, each offering unique attractions for visitors of all ages. Free areas include the plaza, children’s playground, and Tani-ai Valley. The plaza boasts expansive lawns that provide plenty of space for children and families to partake in outdoor activities. Tani-ai Valley mimics a traditional Japanese landscape. Here, you can savor the serene stream, lush green bamboo grove, and picturesque plum garden. It’s a perfect place for a leisurely walk or to enjoy the calm of nature. Meanwhile, Suikei-en (a Japanese-style garden) has an entrance fee. It offers stunning views of cascading water ponds and vibrant seasonal flowers. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to take in the incredible panoramic views of the gardens from the Kangetsukyo Bridge! Keihanna Commemorative Park also hosts a variety of events, including gallery exhibitions and star-gazing sessions. Keihanna Commemorative Park offers something for everyone.

Explore the expansive 20,000㎡ grounds of Shokado Garden Art Museum. Here, history and nature come together to create a captivating experience. The garden and museum has a strong connection to Shokado Shojo (1584-1639), a Buddhist priest from Iwashimizu Hachimangu Shrine. In the museum gardens, you’ll find over 40 types of bamboo and a variety of other beautiful trees. This rich diversity ensures awe-inspiring landscapes all year long. The Shokado Art Museum hosts special exhibitions in spring and autumn, along with three main exhibitions a year focused on its collection. Be sure to enjoy the wonderful themed exhibitions celebrating Japanese culture and the beauty of each season.

What to Wear to Bamboo Forests in Kyoto?

As a general rule, light and comfortable clothing is best. A nice pair of walking shoes also doesn’t hurt, as you’ll likely be walking a lot. While most of your time will be spent under the shade of the bamboo stalks, it can still get quite hot in the summer months. Consider bringing plenty of water, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing, and perhaps a portable fan for added comfort during the warmest parts of the day.

For fall and spring, you might want a light jacket in the mornings and evenings. And for winter, make sure to bring a nice padded coat. Many visitors also like to wear kimono rentals and take pictures by the bamboo. While there’s no strict dress code, Japanese style is generally more modest.

What Time Should You Go to the Bamboo Forest?

When planning a visit to Kyoto’s bamboo groves, it is recommended to go early in the morning to avoid crowds and experience the serene beauty of the forest in peace. The best time to go is typically around sunrise. The soft morning light filtering through the bamboo groves produces a magical atmosphere.

Going early in the morning also allows you to beat the heat of the day, especially during the summer months when temperatures can soar. Overall, to make the most of your visit, aim to arrive at the site early in the morning for a tranquil and memorable experience. Just make sure to double check the operating hours before you go.

Absolutely! Kyoto’s bamboo forests offer a remarkable escape into nature and a chance to experience the region’s rich cultural heritage. If you’re looking to discover hidden beauty and peaceful moments away from the bustling tourist spots, venturing into Kyoto’s diverse bamboo landscapes is definitely worth your time.