12 days in Japan - Day 9 Western Kyoto
Arashiyama Bamboo Forest
The Arashiyama Bamboo Forest is one of Kyoto's most popular attractions. It's an incredible feeling standing under these tall bamboo groves. There was someone playing on a steel handpan which added to the magical atmosphere.
Okochisanso Garden
The villa and gardens of the great silent movie star actor Denjiro Okochi (1898-1962). Denjiro had spent a lot of time, money and effort on building this second home in the hills of Arashiyama. Follow the route to see the key features around the garden including a Shinto shrine and viewing points of the city. The admission fee includes a cup of matcha tea and a Japanese sweet.
Arashiyama Monkey Park
Walk over the Togetsukyo Bridge to the south and you will see the entrance to the Arashiyama Monkey Park. A 20 minute hike up the mountain leads you to the park where you will see the monkeys roaming freely. It was a great experience to see the monkeys up close and you can purchase fruit and nuts to feed the monkeys in the wired house. There are also great views of the city at the top.
Tenryuji Temple
A major Zen temple and one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kyoto. Tenryuji Temple was built by Ashikaga Takauji who dedicated the temple to the spirit of the former Emperor Go-Daigo. Takauji had turned against the emperor in the struggle for power.
Ryokan
For our last night in Kyoto, we stayed in a Ryokan, a traditional Japanese inn with our own private, hot outdoor bath. For dinner, we had Kaiseki, traditional Japanese cuisine served in our room. It was an incredible experience and the perfect way to unwind after the sights of Kyoto.
The dining area in the Ryokan was tidied away and became our sleeping quarters for the night.
A selection of the Kaiseki courses...
Sushi and Sashami
Japanese somen fine noodles
Japanese rice porridge and grilled sweet fish, seasonal pickled vegetables, fruits/arrowcake
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