'+n.escapeExpression("function"==typeof(o=null!=(o=r(e,"eyebrowText")||(null!=l?r(l,"eyebrowText"):l))?o:n.hooks.helperMissing)?o.call(null!=l?l:n.nullContext||{},{name:"eyebrowText",hash:{},data:t,loc:{start:{line:28,column:63},end:{line:28,column:78}}}):o)+" \n '+(null!=(o=c(e,"if").call(r,null!=l?c(l,"cta2PreText"):l,{name:"if",hash:{},fn:n.program(32,t,0),inverse:n.noop,data:t,loc:{start:{line:63,column:20},end:{line:63,column:61}}}))?o:"")+"\n"+(null!=(o=(c(e,"ifAll")||l&&c(l,"ifAll")||n.hooks.helperMissing).call(r,null!=l?c(l,"cta2Text"):l,null!=l?c(l,"cta2Link"):l,{name:"ifAll",hash:{},fn:n.program(34,t,0),inverse:n.noop,data:t,loc:{start:{line:64,column:20},end:{line:70,column:30}}}))?o:"")+" A new fine-dining establishment has launched operations in Endicott where the Nirchi's on the Avenue restaurant had operated for years Arashiyama Japanese Sushi & Steakhouse at 215 Washington Avenue served its first dinners during a soft opening on Saturday and Sunday The restaurant's manager on Monday said things went well over the weekend and the place is ready to welcome the public Arashiyama is opening its doors as the massive Washington Avenue reconstruction project is concluding The spot at the south end of The Avenue was popular for nearly two decades when it was Nirchi's The building was used as an event venue for a short time after that The property was acquired last December by Helin LLC of Oswego for $504,000 Arashiyama has a hibachi dining room and a sushi dining area The restaurant's hibachi tables use a downdraft venting system that eliminates the need for overhead exhaust hoods The restaurant has a large menu of offerings that include a wide array of hibachi dinners and sushi specialties The restaurant plans to hire additional servers The restaurant's operating hours are Monday through Thursday from 11 a.m to 10 p.m.; Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m to 10:30 p.m.; and Sunday from noon to 10 p.m Arashiyama Japanese Sushi & Steakhouse can be contacted at (607) 953-0050 WNBF NEWS VIDEO: A behind-the-scenes look at Arashiyama on Washington Avenue Contact WNBF News reporter Bob Joseph: bob@wnbf.com. For breaking news and updates on developing stories, follow @BinghamtonNow on Twitter Gallery Credit: John Robinson A new fine-dining establishment has launched operations in Endicott where the Nirchi's on the Avenue restaurant had operated for years.\nRead More A FIRST LOOK: WNBF News visited Arashiyama Japanese Sushi & Steakhouse in Endicott as the new restaurant prepared to welcome guests. Watch the video and reach the article for more on the establishment: https://t.co/7xXt0VNxUl pic.twitter.com/Y3wViRyp3c Contact WNBF News reporter Bob Joseph: bob@wnbf.com. For breaking news and updates on developing stories, follow @BinghamtonNow on Twitter It got a lot easier to keep food fresh at home in the 1920s, when the refrigerator started to become an essential appliance for every kitchen. Manufacturers produced about 5,000 refrigerators in the U.S according to History Magazine (via The Packer) another 1 million refrigerators were manufactured in the country [Pictured: Men stand beside the first Frigidaire Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon We help you navigate a myriad of possibilities Sign up for our newsletter for the best of the city By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news Sign up for our email to enjoy your city without spending a thing (as well as some options when you’re feeling flush) By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news, events, offers and partner promotions. Osaka Kyoto is hosting a special light-up this autumnHere's your chance to visit this serene temple in the evening for the autumn leaves illuminations Kyoto’s Arashiyama neighbourhood may be best known for its bamboo forest, but the lush area is also home to some stunning temples, many of which are a must-see for their colourful foliage in autumn.  Having said that, it’s not often that you get to step inside a historical Kyoto temple after sundown, but Arashiyama’s Rokuoin Temple will be opening its doors for special evening visits from November 15 to December 8 you’ll be able to admire the temple's dry landscape garden as well as seasonal foliage light up brilliantly at night Rokuoin Temple is one of the oldest and most famous temples in west Kyoto It’s also home to Japan's first flat-style dry landscape garden The best spot for admiring the autumn leaves is along the stone path leading from the temple’s Sanmon gate to the Chumon gate The evening viewing is limited to just 150 people per day Tickets cost ¥3,000 per person; it includes a serving of matcha tea and wagashi (traditional Japanese sweet) The light-up runs from November 15 to December 8 and is open from 5.30pm to 8pm (last admission at 7.30pm). For more information and to purchase tickets, visit the website Excited for the autumn season? Check out this year’s autumn leaves forecast here Here’s the official 2024 autumn leaves forecast for Japan The new Nintendo Museum in Kyoto is finally opening this October Shinjuku Gyoen ranked as one of the world’s most beautiful flower gardens Hello Kitty is opening a café in Tokyo for her 50th anniversary This is the only place in Japan to see sakura and autumn leaves at the same time Want to be the first to know what’s cool in Tokyo? Sign up to our newsletter for the latest updates from Tokyo and Japan Thanks for subscribing! Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon! twittertiktokAbout us Contact us has the perfect climate and topography for fall foliage Some people create new ways to enjoy autumn Kyotoites have always placed value on the change of the seasons Saga-Arashiyama is one of Kyoto's premier sightseeing locations It has been a favored spot to view the foliage since Kyoto became the capital a millennium ago and their leaves wither as winter approaches I don't think you can see something this stunning anywhere else Autumn greatly influences tea gatherings and other cultural pastimes I use utensils with maple motifs so we can delight in the beauty of the season at tea gatherings Core Kyoto explores the sensibilities of Kyotoites through their adoration of the fall colors at Saga-Arashiyama Saga-Arashiyama in the west of the city was once the playground of emperors and aristocrats a peak with an altitude of around 380 meters stands to the south of the river that flows through the area dedicated to the bodhisattva who bestows wisdom but it attracts even more attention in fall The stairs leading up to the main hall become a tunnel of color The Saga-Arashiyama area is easily accessible from downtown Kyoto Arashiyama is 2 degrees Celsius or 3 degrees Celsius cooler than downtown and the area has always attracted a flock of visitors that we have worked hard to produce throughout the year It's a time to relax as we prepare for the harsh winter ahead - and the red of the leaves lifts our spirits Across the river from Arashiyama is a rounded hill which stands at its base was established around four centuries ago Deciduous trees line the path to the main hall About 200 Japanese maples grow on the Buddhist temple grounds enveloping visitors in a world of reds and yellows There's the "irohamomiji" that turns a bright red The other is the "omomiji," so named for its large leaves Our temple's drawing card is how the reds of the "irohamomiji" - Japanese maples sprout yellowish-green buds the verdant cover is the perfect shade from the sun This transition is similar to the Buddhist teaching of all things being impermanent I feel this most in the turning of the maple leaves Kyotoites are reminded of the transience of their lives and their changing selves when they see the autumnal cloak of the maples before their leaves drop The aristocrats took much pleasure in the fall foliage at the height of court life 1,000 years ago "The Tale of Genji" written in the early 11th century depicts court life the characters are enjoying entertainment while viewing the turning colors and the courtiers would wallow in the sorrow of the fleetingness of the fall Upon seeing the beauty of the Saga-Arashiyama area in autumn it is not hard to imagine how the stunning scenery touched the hearts of Kyotoites back then One of the secrets of Arashiyama's fall scenery is the topography Umebayashi Hideyuki teaches a university course in archeology and urban history through fieldwork A feature of Saga-Arashiyama is the river flowing between the mountains Movement of the Earth's crust from the east and west pushed up the ground around 200 million years ago and the many fault lines are evident in the resulting landscape Umebayashi believes this rugged terrain is key Arashiyama has a river flowing downstream that brings with it cold air That air creates a difference in temperature that triggers the leaves to change color the temperature difference and the sheer cliffs create an ideal environment conducive to maples Umebayashi believes the reason Saga-Arashiyama became famous for its foliage stems from its proximity as a retreat as people sojourned from the ancient capital Arashiyama provides the ultimate viewing spot to enjoy the fully grown Togetsukyo Bridge welcomes visitors worldwide for the perfect autumn stroll This bridge made the maples of Arashiyama famous and afforded enjoyment for all people have created a culture and ways to appreciate the colors I think this is the secret of the beauty of Arashiyama's maples This folding screen created some 450 years ago depicts the landmarks of Kyoto Togetsukyo Bridge is featured with people enjoying the autumnal scenery Traveling to view the foliage is a universal pleasure and Arashiyama provides a next level experience People are also coming up with new ways to enjoy the autumn colors The branches of 300 or so maples seem to be hovering in the darkness The 12-thousand-square-meter garden was created incorporating the natural topography of what was once a dry riverbed This annual event was conceived around the theme of "finding time to reflect on one's life in the darkness." We want people to walk through the entire garden we want them to take a moment and return to themselves with the sounds of the breeze in the trees we want them to sense everything and appreciate it slowly We want people to become one with the garden and find peace One man has come up with a unique way to enjoy the colors Okuda Yusai runs a gallery in the same location as his dye workshop When an incandescent lightbulb shines on this kimono Okuda researches ancient dyeing techniques and is reviving them visitors can enjoy the distinct autumn hues as only an artist who works with colors could convey The windows in this room allow a splendid view of the foliage They are positioned so the turning leaves are reflected on their surfaces; creating a magical effect throughout the room Japanese are very moved by this scene and treasure it I want people to throw away logic and blend into the setting interactive illusion outside for visitors to enjoy The trees shimmer on the surface of this large Visitors use a brush to drip water into the receptacle The brief moment the waves ripple across the surface enhances the concept of the transience of time The Japanese sense of beauty is not about perceiving a single point It is more about enjoying the various effects of time and space - It's interesting that we're always looking for a harmonious connection with nature The turn of colors in autumn has inspired culture in various ways so I want to express this brocade-like view and the waterfront Uemura Kenji makes time to enjoy the Saga-Arashiyama scenery when he needs inspiration the store offers a variety of traditional confections to mimic the season Uemura is working on a confection that will bring the autumnal Saga-Arashiyama setting to life My greatest joy is symbolically representing various elements in one 50-gram traditional sweet and every part as a condensed version of fall then divides it into four balls of differing colors I'll attempt to reimagine the mountains I saw as a brocade He breaks the four balls into chunks and randomly bunches them together He then rolls this out to resemble patchwork he makes a blue agar and pours it over the triangles of dough he blends white and black sesame into bean paste to depict the riverbed Uemura eagerly takes up the challenge to conceive an original sweet to please his customers I hope customers imagine that Arashiyama scene as they gaze at this confection Fall foliage has also had an impact on the way of tea Yoshimi run a school in Saga-Arashiyama where they teach the way of tea in the "Omotesenke" tradition The seasons play a vital role in the way of tea from the utensils used to the room decorations The tea bowls they are using on this day bear a turning maple leaf motif for the guests to feel like they're enjoying time outside I take care to choose utensils showing maples Chiba and her daughter have a wide range of utensils and items at their disposal to suit the season are not used when the fall maples are at their peak but around a month before when the leaves are still green we stir up excitement in anticipation of the autumn colors - as we serve guests and enjoy the moment together That is why we use utensils ahead of the season This anticipation of seasonal beauty can be found in other cultural pastimes as well and it heightens the participants' sensitivity to the change of seasons They belong to the Society for the Protection of Scenic Mt a local volunteer group that works to conserve the mountain and its autumnal beauty for future generations Ogura was originally covered in pine trees The group wants to return the mountain to its original state the members are clearing the undergrowth around pines that they planted so the leaves are spaced out to allow in the sunlight they need to grow so only about 70% of the sunshine reaches the maples growing under the pines And that amount of sunlight is just right for the maples Ogura had many pines growing on its slopes it was the perfect environment for maples and other low trees to grow The pines were later overtaken by broadleaf evergreens people would cut down trees in mountains for fuel and building purposes Nagao and the other volunteers hope that they can protect the mountain's beautiful fall scenery by increasing the number of pines Ogura has been famous for its naturally growing maples for 1,000 years I think it's our duty to do what we can to pass on this environment to future generations everyone cooperates and works hard every month to clear the undergrowth The autumn foliage of Saga-Arashiyama has fascinated people since time immemorial Living in close proximity to nature in this area has inspired them to incorporate seasonal themes and motifs into their lives and culture The beauty of the colors as the leaves turn will continue to attract visitors to the area for years to come Leaf KYOTO ［Gluten-free set meal café [Ware Ware Ware Arashiyama] opens from [Bread and Espresso and] Udon noodles with kelp water dipped in kyokamo kelp water Advertiser DisclosureAdvertiser Disclosure 61 Published Articles 3583 Edited Articles Opinions and recommendations are ours alone is known for its important and rich history and culture it boasts over 1,500 Buddhist temples and shrines Although I have traveled to Kyoto several times I was excited to visit the city again after a few years as it is truly a special place and one of my favorite places worldwide Although I had already visited most of Kyoto’s historic sites and tourist attractions before Here’s an in-depth look at how we spent 72 hours in Kyoto Although a moderately sized city with over 1.5 million people The closest airport to Kyoto is Osaka International Airport (ITM) which is about 36 kilometers (22 miles) away Itami Airport only serves domestic flights within Japan serves both domestic and international flights Kansai Airport is farther from Kyoto than Itami Airport The easiest way to get from Kansai International Airport to Kyoto is via the JR Haruka Airport Express. The journey takes approximately 75 minutes and costs about ¥3,500 (about $23). If you have a Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass), you can take this train route without additional cost. Alternatively, you can take the Airport Limousine Bus which costs ¥2,800 (about $18) and takes slightly longer you can take the Tokaido-Sanyo Line directly to Kyoto Station The journey takes about 40 minutes and costs ¥580 (about $4) Also visiting Osaka? See how I spent 72 hours in Osaka Downtown Kyoto is home to hundreds of restaurants commonly known as “Kyoto’s pantry,” is in downtown Kyoto It is also within walking distance of the city’s main sightseeing areas southern Higashiyama and northern Higashiyama It is worth noting that the downtown Kyoto area can be extremely crowded The area is also quite modern and lacks the local Japanese traditional atmosphere Kyoto is most known for Higashiyama represents the essence of old Kyoto capturing the traditional atmosphere that many envision when they think of the city Southern Higashiyama is part of the area and is home to many of the city’s most impressive sights and restaurants This is especially true in the Gion district of Higashiyama Some of Kyoto’s major tourist attractions, such as Sanjusangen-do Temple, the Kyoto National Museum, Kiyomizu-dera Temple, Kadai-ji Temple, and Yasaka Pagoda there is also the area around Kyoto Station a major transport hub and shopping district filled with restaurants and nightlife venues The Kyoto Station area is not exactly a sightseeing destination but there is a good chance you’ll spend some time here as it is generally the entry point to Kyoto It is also where to catch most trains and buses for day trips to other parts of Japan we headed straight to our hotel to drop off our bags Although there were several hotels I could have booked with points we stayed in a more traditional Japanese hotel Since Kyoto is best experienced in sections we spent our first day exploring some of the famous temples and sites in the northwestern part of the city Our first stop in Kyoto was Kinkaku-ji (also known as the Golden Pavilion) a Zen Buddhist temple and one of Kyoto’s most iconic landmarks The temple is renowned for being covered in gold leaf and is surrounded by ponds and gardens Although it was originally built as a retirement villa for shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu in the 14th century Kinkaku-ji was later converted into a temple after Yoshimitsu’s death Kinkaku-ji was built to embody the extravagant Kitayama culture that flourished among Kyoto’s affluent aristocracy during Yoshimitsu’s era The temple has burned down numerous times throughout its history including twice during the Onin War and again more recently in 1950 The temple is easily accessible from Kyoto Station by Kyoto City Bus 205 which takes approximately 40 minutes and costs ¥230 ($1.60) the buses are often packed throughout the day Next, we headed to Iwatayama Park, in Arashiyama, for 1 reason: to visit the Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama The park is home to over 100 Japanese macaques These monkeys are native to Japan and are the same ones often photographed bathing in the hot springs during the winter and there was an occasional spot to rest if needed There were also signboards with monkey-related facts we quickly spotted more than 50 monkeys running around many signs remind visitors not to stare at or touch the monkeys Although I tried to avoid making eye contact the monkeys seemed unbothered unless someone got too close which made them become aggressive and start making loud sounds Tourists visiting the park could also feed the monkeys safely in an enclosed area Park staff provided snacks such as apple slices and shelled peanuts for ¥100 (70 cents) The monkeys snatched food right from your hand while hanging outside the caged area especially since I had never fed a monkey before there were also spectacular views overlooking Kyoto I could see Kyoto Tower quite clearly (this picture was taken with a zoom lens on my Sony camera) The Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama is open daily between 9 a.m The park is 5 minutes from Hankyu Arashiyama Station and 15 minutes from JR Saga-Arashiyama Station After several hours at the Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama, we visited Arashiyama’s other main attraction, the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest odds are you have seen pictures of the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove as it is one of the most photographed sights in the city The Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is a mesmerizing natural wonder with towering bamboo stalks that sway with the wind While it may seem like just a narrow path surrounded by tall trees Strolling through the bamboo grove always leaves a lasting impression of the city I visited in the early morning and found it nearly impossible to capture a photo without random people in the frame Although Kyoto attracts tourists year-round we visited the bamboo forest closer to sunset which made the bamboo forest that much more enjoyable The Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is a 10-minute walk from Saga-Arashiyama Station on the JR Sagano Line After an amazing first day filled with temples and nature We woke up much earlier to explore the eastern side of Kyoto We started the day by visiting the Hōkan-ji Temple It is a 46-meter-high (150-foot-high) 5-story Buddhist pagoda in the Higashiyama district of Kyoto and serves as an icon for the city Imperial Prince Shotoku originally built the temple The pagoda has been destroyed and rebuilt several times The area around the pagoda is lined with Kyoto’s famous machi-nami (rowhouses) featuring narrow alleyways surrounded by traditional wooden buildings Many of these have been converted into souvenir shops The Yasaka Pagoda is a 5-minute walk from the Higashiyama-Yasui and Kiyomizu-Michi bus stops walking the streets around the pagoda is free Next, we headed to Maruyama Park Kyoto’s most popular and often crowded destination for cherry blossom viewing when the trees are in full bloom (typically in the first half of April) Even though it wasn’t cherry blossom season we wanted to enjoy the natural beauty of the park Maruyama Park features winding walking paths It’s a popular spot for picnics and leisurely strolls Maruyama Park is a nationally designated Place of Scenic Beauty Although I enjoyed the numerous temples in Kyoto I found Maruyama Park to be the perfect rest stop Maruyama Park is less than a 10-minute walk from Yasaka Shrine Next, we headed to Ryōzen Kannon Temple It was built in 1955 by Hirosuke Ishikawa as a memorial to commemorate those who died in World War II Since it had been just 10 years since the end of World War II the memories of war were still fresh in the minds of many Japanese citizens The temple is noted for the 24-meter-tall (79-foot-tall) statue dedicated to Kannon which can be seen from many parts of eastern Kyoto the Ryōzen Kannon Temple blends elements of Buddhist architecture with modern design creating a distinctive atmosphere that distinguishes it from other religious landmarks in Kyoto Beneath the statue is a shrine with images and statues of several Buddhist deities There are also memorial tablets dedicated to the 2 million Japanese who died in World War II The temple has become an important symbol of reconciliation and a reminder of the costs of war and conflict Ryōzen Kannon Temple is open between 8:40 a.m Admission tickets are ¥300 ($2) and include incense sticks Next, we headed to Yasaka Shrine another temple in the area and one of Kyoto’s most famous Shinto shrines the shrine is dedicated to the deity Susanoo Yasaka Shrine is known for its many vibrant red gates and lanterns which are surrounded by tall trees and traditional Japanese gardens a monthlong July celebration featuring parades and traditional performances including a main sanctuary that serves as the prayer hall Yasaka Shrine is open 24 hours a day and has no admission fees It is easily accessible via Kyoto City Bus 206 you can reach it by getting off at Gion-Shijo Station on the Keihan Line or Kyoto-Kawaramachi Station on the Hankyu Line Although we had already visited several temples, 1 major one remained in the area: Heian Shrine The Heian Shrine has a relatively short history It was built on the 1,100th anniversary of Kyoto’s founding as the capital The shrine is dedicated to the spirits of the first and last emperors who reigned from the city of Kyoto: Emperor Kanmu The shrine features a massive 24-meter torii gate The shrine grounds are quite expansive and include a partial replica of the original imperial palace from the Heian period which we didn’t enter because of the admission fee Heian Shrine can be reached by Kyoto City Bus 5 from Kyoto Station you can take the subway to Higashiyama Station We wanted this last day to be more relaxing so we visited more modern attractions in Kyoto We started the day by visiting the Face House Built in the 1970s by Japanese architect Yamashita Kazumasa the Face House showcases traditional Japanese architecture while incorporating contemporary design Though it was completely different from everything else we had seen in Kyoto it was exciting to visit the Face House finally even if we couldn’t go inside (it had served as home to an art studio and then a store but seemed to be inaccessible on our visit) It was unique compared to nearly any other home in the world Next, we visited Fushimi Inari Taisha arguably Kyoto’s — and perhaps even Japan’s — most famous and recognizable landmark Fushimi Inari Taisha is an iconic Shinto shrine famous for its thousands of vibrant red torii gates that wind up sacred Mount Inari It is also known and is known for its hundreds of statues of foxes The trails are lined with approximately 10,000 gates leading to the mountain’s summit especially since I had already done it on my first trip to Japan Fushimi Inari Taisha is easily accessed from Kyoto Station you can take the JR Nara Line to Inari Station you can take the Keihan Line to Fushimi Inari Station which is about a 7-minute walk from the shrine Lastly, we went to the Kyoto Tower for the observation deck The 100-meter (328-foot) observation deck is the highest in the city and provides panoramic views of the city The observation deck offered free telescopes to view many of the city’s historical sites I had my camera (with a telephoto lens) with me to take pictures of famous temples and shrines from far away I captured this picture of Ryōzen Kannon Temple and Hōkan-ji Temple (both of which we’d visited the day prior) in the distance You could also see several trains arriving and departing from Kyoto Station a Shinkansen bullet train would zoom out of the station Shinkansen bullet train arriving at Kyoto Station much of what we ate was either street food or random restaurants with an enticing menu Here’s a look at some foods we ate in Kyoto we spent a lot of time at ramen restaurants there are numerous ramen restaurants across Kyoto (and much of Japan) especially when compared to restaurants across the U.S we could get a ramen bowl for around ¥1,000 (about $7) While ramen is my wife’s favorite food, sushi is mine. As expected, you can find a sushi bar or restaurant quite easily. Although sushi can be expensive, we opted to eat at cost-effective conveyor chains — most notably Sushiro and Kura Sushi you can choose any plates from the conveyor belt or use a tablet to order something specific with different colors indicating different price points are one-stop shops on almost every street in major cities across Japan While convenience store food may not sound particularly appealing That’s because convenience stores in Japan are vastly different from those in other countries we primarily ate onigiri (the triangular Japanese rice balls and seafood wrapped in nori) Despite having visited Kyoto several times in the past It is filled with an endless number of shrines and temples and I cannot wait to visit the city again in the near future Kansai International Airport (KIX) in Osaka has international flights Some popular areas to stay in Kyoto include downtown Kyoto Some popular attractions in Kyoto include Fushimi Inari Taisha The Shinkansen bullet train (both the Nozomi and Hikari versions) travels directly from Tokyo Station to Kyoto Station The journey takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes Ehsan is an avid traveler who has traveled to 100 countries diligently using points and miles to fund his journeys he holds 32 active credit cards and earns over a million points and miles annually primarily using them for luxury hotels and long-haul premium cabins Plus — expert strategies to maximize your points & miles by joining our (free) newsletter We respect your privacy. 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Any and all options, reviews, comments and analyses are the responsibility of the author(s) and not any Advertiser or credit card issuer. Visitors to Kyoto are still waiting to enjoy the city’s peak autumn leaves season, which has been delayed this year due to rising temperatures caused by climate change. One of Japan’s most popular destinations during fall due to the vast expanses of colourful foliage, the city typically sees most seasonal visitors by the end of November, the prime viewing time. This year, however, the ideal date to view the momiji (maple) leaves in central Kyoto is expected to be December 16 due to “unusually high temperatures well into October this year”, according to the Japan Meteorological Agency. Arashiyama, one of the city’s most popular sightseeing districts and home to Tenryu-ji Temple and Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, is also predicted to be at its best for autumn leaves in mid-December. As a result, guides and tour companies report a scramble as tourists seek to change their itineraries by visiting other parts of Japan before returning to Kyoto for the peak period. Many are heading north to Kanazawa, where both yellow and red leaves are already visible. Still, chasing autumn leaves does not guarantee successful viewing as higher temperatures and other unseasonal weather phenomena has made Japan-wide forecasting more challenging. The Japan Weather Association noted that vibrant autumn leaves require several conditions that have not been met this year. They include “moderate heat, sunlight, and rainfall during summer, no damage to the leaves from strong typhoon winds, and in autumn, adequate sunlight and rainfall along with significant temperature differences between day and night”. Seafront stays and heritage charm at Penang Marriott Hotel Is Your Business Listed On TTGmice Planner Online? Discover the whereabouts of Ise Sadatame and his messenger in Assassin's Creed Shadows. Wondering about where to find Ise Sadatame and the messenger in Assassin's Creed Shadows These objectives are part of a larger quest where you need to locate another member of the Shinbakufu group an arc that will take you all the way to Kyoto Our guide has all the tips that you need for this portion of the campaign Both Ise Sadatame and the messenger are part of a longer arc where you need to hunt down the Fool one of the villains who's also a member of the Shinbakufu The NPCs that you have to meet are in the outskirts of Kyoto You can see where they're located in the map below: The first order of business is to find Ise Sadatame Once you've tagged the Ogura Pond fast travel point head north to Byodoin Temple and have a chat with Sadatame Sadatame will then tell you about another NPC that you need to speak with it's time to find the messenger in Assassin's Creed Shadows Your only clue is that he's on a bridge southeast of Arashiyama there's a river winding from Kyoto to Arashiyama This is where you'll find the messenger fella the location is marked on the map this time who happens to have a penchant for using smoke bombs to disappear Note that Gennojo can also be recruited as a potential ally down the line you need to make your way to a sumo arena to watch a cutscene A certain gentleman also makes an appearance (we don't want to spoil his identity in this guide) After this brief exchange, you're then told to assassinate the Twisted Tree. No, you're not going for the Fool of the Shinbakufu yet. Instead, you have to eliminate the patriarch of a family, as well as several of his children. You can learn about all the steps in our Twisted Tree guide Do you need more help as you continue your adventure throughout Sengoku Jidai era Japan? We've got you covered, so just take a look at our Assassin's Creed Shadows guides hub Got a news tip or want to contact us directly? Email news@gamespot.com ESCLog in to comment "data-img-src" : imgSrc } = buylink %> />><%= itemTitle %> and deals sent to your inbox Monday to Friday AD Apr 26 (Sat) 2025-Jul 6 (Sun) 2025 62 days left Leave a rating/comment#Nihonga / UkiyoeBack to ArticlesSHARE The season for taking in the sights of red foliage has reached its peak in Kyoto please disable the ad blocking feature and reload the page This website uses cookies to collect information about your visit for purposes such as showing you personalized ads and content By clicking “Accept all,” you will allow the use of these cookies Users accessing this site from EEA countries and UK are unable to view this site without your consent the leaves of 2,000 Japanese maple and other trees turned a vivid crimson red creating a view that resembled a sea of red clouds surrounding the temple the temple attracts many visitors during the autumn foliage season Although this year’s extreme summer heat had initially delayed the leaves’ color change the recent cold weather has accelerated it also offers a unique view of red maple leaves through a wooden window which has been opened to the public since 2020 is known as the place where Nobel Prize-winning novelist Yasunari Kawabata wrote one of his novels Our weekly ePaper presents the most noteworthy recent topics in an exciting © 2025 The Japan News - by The Yomiuri Shimbun The old Nirchi's on the Avenue building in Endicott is being transformed into a new Japanese restaurant Arashiyama Japanese Sushi & Steakhouse at 215 Washington Avenue is expected to start operating in a few weeks The Nirchi's restaurant had been in business at the site for nearly two decades The spot was home to Celebrations on the Avenue for a short time after that The property at the south end of Washington Avenue near Union-Endicott High School was sold to Helin LLC of Oswego for $504,000 last December The village of Endicott issued a construction permit to a developer with a Vestal address in April He has not been available to comment on the new restaurant workers were busy inside the front of the building constructing hibachi tables that will use a downdraft ventilation system That system will permit venting through the floor of the restaurant instead of toward the ceiling as happens with a traditional hood-type ventilation unit Signs recently posted on the building proclaim that Arashiyama is "Coming SOON The operating hours posted at the entrance are Monday through Thursday from 11:30 a.m The dining room will be closed from 3 to 4 p.m The old Nirchi's on the Avenue building in Endicott is being transformed into a new Japanese restaurant.\nRead More In 1938, Congress passed the Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act, which essentially banned food that had \"non-nutritive\" objects inside Having nonedibles mixed with edible items poses a choking hazard for consumers that means Kinder Surprise Eggs—hollowed-out chocolate eggs with a collectible toy inside—are banned in America The FDA relented slightly in 2017 when Kinder Joy eggs were introduced in the States but the edible and nonedible portions are separated inside the packaging Authentic Kinder Surprise Eggs are still banned and many other parts of the world can try the real deal—just don't try to bring any home in your suitcase \"Kinder eggs are prohibited just like narcotics are prohibited,\" a U.S Customs and Border Protection spokesperson said in 2023 - Year founded: 1967\r\n- Original location: Dedham Massachusetts\r\n- Number of locations: 85\r\n- Current states: Connecticut D'Angelo has been a New England sandwich staple for decades serving up grilled hot and deli sandwiches But the name took some time—founders Brian J McLaughlin and Jay Howland opened Ma Riva's Sub Shop before changing it to Angelo Sub Shop which sounded a bit too close to a chain of supermarkets in the area The owners added the \"D\" in D'Angelo in 1978 to stand for \"delicious,\" which is an understatement when biting into one of their famous Steak and Cheese sandwiches D'Angelo would process over 50,000 pounds of steak weekly to keep up with the demand Leaf KYOTO Store Locations A store specializing in potato and chestnut sweets that is perfect for eating while walking [Kyoto Kinnoka Saga Arashiyama store] Crispy Daigaimo (large sweet potato): 550 yen Thinly sliced sweet potatoes are rolled up and skewered By pouring honey over the sweet potato when serving A sweet potato and chestnut sweets shop that opened about a minute's walk from JR Saga-Arashiyama Station You can take out Daigakuimo and Mont Blanc which are perfect for eating while walking Mont Blanc Sweet Potato Dango Maron Flavor is a sweet made by wrapping a dango in sweet potato filling and sprinkling thin strings of roasted chestnut paste on top They are particular about adjusting the amount of chestnut paste so that the flavors of the potatoes and chestnuts don't get too muddy There are also variations of roasted chestnut paste that incorporate Hojicha and Uji Matcha the white-based store also sells products such as sweet potato kenpi and baked goods that make great souvenirs and small gifts From left to right: Arashiyama imo dango matcha green tea flavor and rich chestnut paste make it a pleasure to enjoy a variety of flavors all at once Tokyo Kyoto offers Japanese afternoon tea with matcha sconesThe summer afternoon tea at Chavaty teahouse in Arashiyama serves up tea and sweets with Japanese Shine Muscat grapes These days, there seems to be an afternoon tea for every occasion in Japan. However, if you’re on the hunt for a Japanese-style afternoon tea, you might want to check out this summer offering at Chavaty café in Arashiyama, Kyoto.  Chavaty Arashiyama sits along the riverside overlooking the picturesque Togetsukyo Bridge and the Katsura River It’s especially stunning in summer when the surrounding trees are lush and green This Sunny Glow Afternoon Tea comes with a wide variety of sweets to pair with your tea Look forward to jasmine jelly with shine muscat grapes mango warabi mochi (mochi made from bracken starch) and shiratama zenzai (Japanese dessert soup) featuring layers of pistachio panna cotta orange sauce and shiratama mochi dumplings The tea set also comes with a range of savoury items Some of the highlights are a prosciutto and green herb salad topped with an orange and honey dressing carrot rapée with nuts and dried fruit vegetable meat gratin served with a homemade béchamel sauce and smoked salmon with cream cheese rillettes you can also get unlimited scones that are baked fresh every morning You can choose from a variety of flavours including plain There are also even more teas to choose from This special spring afternoon tea is available until early September (from 11am-6pm daily, last entries 4pm) for ¥4,200 per person. For an extra indulgence, you can add on a mini bottle of Moët & Chandon Brut Imperial champagne for ¥3,200. Reservations can be made for parties of two or more and you can book online For more information, visit the website.  This article was published on April 26 2023 and updated on June 3 2024 Newly installed Mt Fuji photo block at Lawson Kawaguchiko has been vandalised JR East is releasing a mobile Suica for tourists in Spring 2025 Japanese city registers same-sex couple as common-law spouses Mint chocolate is trending in Tokyo right now Catch this special Ghibli train in Tokyo with Chihiro and No Face of Spirited Away Want to be the first to know what’s cool in Tokyo? Sign up to our newsletter for the latest updates from Tokyo and Japan. facebooktwitterpinterestinstagramAbout us Leaf KYOTO Store Locations Crème brûlée donut specialty store [DONUTSTAND Arashiyama store] is perfect for eating while walking a generous amount of matcha is sprinkled on the surface of the creme brûlée donut giving it a bittersweet flavor that adults will love 450 yen (Right) There's plenty of custard in the center of the donut Crème brûlée donuts are caramelized and finished in front of your eyes for 350 yen The second store of crème brûlée donut specialty store [Brulee Kyoto] has opened inside Randen Arashiyama Station Three types of creme brûlée donuts are available here The base donut dough is made from 100% organically grown soy milk By changing the soy milk mixture according to the season and frying using a unique manufacturing method to prevent it from becoming oily it is characterized by its hearty yet light texture and not being heavy Place vanilla ice cream on top of the creme brûlée donut Arashiyama store's most popular donut Then fill the donut with plenty of custard cream to cover the hole and sprinkle with granulated sugar to caramelize This donut has an irresistible trio of fluffy Your browser does not support JavaScript, or it is disabled．Please check the site policy for more information KYOTO--One stone statue of an enlightened Buddhist person here cradles a cat in its arms while another holds a book inscribed with the name “Soseki” after the famous author happily sipping from a sake server and cup The 1,200 or so seemingly whimsical arhat statues that stand shoulder-to-shoulder at a temple in the city’s Ukyo Ward were rarely visited by outsiders until recently many people now take a bus at Hankyu Arashiyama Station and travel toward the Oku-Saga area as throngs of sightseers pass on foot through the famed Togetsukyo bridge The journey to the temple is a 15-minute ride The old temple of the Tendai sect of Buddhism dates from the Nara Period (710-784) Otagi Nenbutsuji was relocated to its current site in 1922 during the Taisho Era (1912-1926) Otagi Nenbutsuji was damaged so severely in a 1950 typhoon that it was called the “most desolate temple in Kyoto.” Buddhist sculptor Kocho Nishimura (1915-2003) took charge of rebuilding the temple as its chief priest Hoping to make Otagi Nenbutsuji more familiar to people Nishimura instituted a program in the 1980s where regular folk were invited to carve arhat statues reflecting their personal wishes Nishimura initially planned to introduce 500 arhat sculptures in tribute to the 500 disciples of the Buddha who turned out following his death as Otagi Nenbutsuji was flooded with people from across Japan eager to devote their works The lesser-known tourist spot used to attract only around 100 visitors daily But its popularity surged this past spring after Otagi Nenbutsuji was written up on an overseas travel review site most of the 900 daily visitors come from outside Japan an American woman was charmed by the representations She especially liked an arhat munching on corn who serves as deputy chief priest of Otagi Nenbutsuji feels deeply attached to his grandfather’s legacy “The statues may look familiar and welcoming to anyone because they were made by ordinary mortals,” he said “I will be delighted if visitors can feel something Examining the moss-coated faces of the arhat statues one by one viewers can imagine what the creators felt when working on the figurines People’s underlying wishes may not have changed so dramatically over the course of nearly half a century tourists are advised to go downhill by foot at a leisurely pace and then take a short rest at a teahouse in the Saga Toriimoto district with its atmospheric townscape Walking through a renowned bamboo path in the neighborhood is an excellent option perhaps one might consider what kind of arhat to carve for yourself Kyoto exhibition offers public rare glimpse of cultural artifacts Candlelight at Kyoto Zen temple designed to erase worldly desires　 Ninnaji temple’s virtual reality tour shows off 33 statues of deities Ninja statues greet passengers on platform at JR Kyoto Station Kyoto temple shows cultural treasures from new storage area Information on the latest cherry blossom conditions Please right click to use your browser’s translation function.) A series based on diplomatic documents declassified by Japan’s Foreign Ministry Here is a collection of first-hand accounts by “hibakusha” atomic bomb survivors chefs and others involved in the field of food introduce their special recipes intertwined with their paths in life A series about Japanese-Americans and their memories of World War II In-house News and Messages No reproduction or republication without written permission Please view the main text area of the page by skipping the main menu. The page may not be displayed properly if the JavaScript is deactivated on your browser Japanese version Leaf KYOTO Store Locations A smoke at Bhagavan a teahouse built by a gardener in the precincts of Seiryouji Temple in Arashiyama Seiryouji Temple is located at the beginning of Atago Kaido Road The Atago Kaido used to be lined with nearly 200 teahouses and inns," says owner Matsuura We opened this store in the hope of reviving the area and providing an opportunity for people to get together," says owner Matsuura he renovated a teahouse on the temple grounds that was closed eight years ago to create a space that blends in with the surrounding greenery it is recommended to sit outside on the red carpet floor stools reminiscent of a teahouse and relax while feeling the nature which overlooks the garden from its windows has a modern Japanese atmosphere with antique British furniture that matches the old building Brown Sugar Main Strawberry Rice Cake Ice with Shakigori (shaved ice): 1,300 yen Strawberry rice cakes are strewn throughout the shaved ice gentle sweetness from two types of brown sugar with different concentrations Matsuura is also a versatile kyogen performer He named his menu items such as "Atago Pilgrimage" and "Dainenbutsu" after Kyogen plays The shop's authentic sweets are as appealing as the names they bear a specialty shaved ice containing honwarabi mochi (a type of rice cake) a sweetened butter monaka with bean paste that resembles a shellfish in the middle We would be happy if you visit Seiryo-ji Temple who has been worshipped by many people since ancient times and also visit the Atago Highway," he says Leaf KYOTO Store Locations [Snow Peak LAND STATION KYOTO ARASHIYAMA] is the halfway point between playing in the field and playing in the city Snow Peak's special BLCT hamburger: 1,780 yen This is the third store following the Hakuba and Harajuku stores of Snow Peak LAND STATION a hands-on facility that showcases the attractions of various regions in Japan Apparel items and camping gear are lined up in a space renovated from a 100-year-old former ryokan (Japanese inn) available at the café space near the entrance try the "Snow Peak GO" experience plan (4,400 yen/person/walk 8,800 yen/person/bicycle) for a petit outdoor experience You can walk with a backpack filled with a lunch set or rent a bicycle to tour the area You will be reminded of the charm of Arashiyama where historical buildings and nature are in harmony with each other Don't forget to check out "JYUBAKO," a trailer house developed in collaboration with Kengo Kuma Leaf KYOTO Debut in spring 2027 New Trolley Trains to be Introduced in Saga-Arashiyama and Kameoka Areas has announced that it will introduce a new trolley train in the spring of 2027 The new trains will provide a comfortable riding environment with increased seat spacing and aisle widths and in-car displays in four languages (Japanese special rooms for group use will be introduced so that passengers can enjoy the magnificent nature of the Hozugawa River Valley even more The current trains are scheduled to be retired after the end of commercial operation in 2026 The newly reborn trolley trains will be loved by even more people From a maple tree tunnel train ride to glowing mirrored gardens Autumns in Kyoto are world-renowned for a reason the city colors in brilliant shades of scarlet and gold highlighting the mythical beauty of its countless temples As much as visitors delight in admiring maple and ginkgo trees in the daylight the magic of Kyoto’s foliage heightens after dark Many sites light up past regular opening hours so you can see the vibrant leaves cast in an ethereal glow Read on for a list of the city’s best Japanese Maple illuminations Visiting Kyoto temples at night to enjoy illuminated maple trees is a popular activity for tourists and locals alike in fall These three temples tend to see the highest number of visitors with each location featuring an enchanting scene.  Located near Kyoto Station, Toji Temple is a convenient and frequently visited spot to view autumn leaves at night The tallest wooden pagoda in Japan is shrouded in an orange glow alongside the jewel-toned trees Hyotan Pond’s glimmering reflection of the scene appears to be straight out of a painting.   Home to some 3,000 Japanese maple trees, Eikando Temple is often referred to as the ultimate Japanese Maple temple of Kyoto Eikando is currently the head temple of the Seizan Zenrinji School of the Jodo sect of Buddhism this temple is an incredible sight to behold during the day and at night orange and golden-yellow that envelop the awestruck visitors While you can see maple trees all over the temple grounds make sure to witness the beauty of Hojo Pond If you want to see Kyoto’s Japanese Maple illuminations in a more dynamic fashion you may want to check out these sightseeing trains the trains offer guests an otherworldly experience.  While these locations featuring gorgeous reflective landscapes are popular year-round they are particularly cherished during the fall Whether it is a lacquered table or rippling water the mirrored surfaces create a surreal double vision of autumnal colors Visitors gaze at these strikingly cinematic sceneries in collective silence and admiration.  Check Rurikoin’s website for details on daytime visits and reservations Check Yusaitei’s website for for regular daytime visiting hours & reservations.  Leaf KYOTO event Celebrating the 5th anniversary of the museum's opening "Miracle that landed on Arashiyama in Kyoto The world premiere of Jakuchu Ito's extremely rare scrolls Fruits and Vegetables (before 1790) (portion) Leaf KYOTO KYOTRAM Keifuku Electric Railway connects Shijo-Omiya in Kyoto City with Arashiyama and Kitano Shiraume-cho Keifuku Electric Railway's new "KYOTRAM" train known locally as "Randen," began operation An unveiling ceremony was held at Arashiyama Station and when the purple car arrived at the station shortly after 10:30 a.m. the people on the platform gave a loud round of applause has a rounded design similar to that of the old Randen trains retains the appearance of a retro streetcar Keifuku Electric Railway plans to introduce six more cars of the same type Essential digital access to quality FT journalism on any device Complete digital access to quality FT journalism with expert analysis from industry leaders Complete digital access to quality analysis and expert insights complemented with our award-winning Weekend Print edition Terms & Conditions apply Discover all the plans currently available in your country See why over a million readers pay to read the Financial Times Leaf KYOTO Debut in spring 2025 Arashiyama is a popular tourist destination known for its natural beauty While the iconic bamboo forest is undoubtedly the main draw for visitors there is another lesser-known but equally impressive "forest" called the Kimono Forest located around the Arashiyama Randen tram station features hundreds of colorful pillars adorned with traditional kimono fabrics creating a mesmerizing and enchanting atmosphere The Kimono Forest is a unique art installation composed of 600 clear acrylic cylinders These pillars are wrapped with vibrant kimono fabrics showcasing a total of 32 different traditional Kyo-yuzen designs Kyo-yuzen is a style of fabric dyeing that originated in Kyoto during the Edo Period known for its intricate patterns and vivid colors The installation was designed by renowned interior designer Yasumichi Morita The textiles were then produced by Kamedatomi the Kimono Forest creates a striking visual of kimono sleeves clustered together the true magic happens at night when LED lights illuminate the pillars from within transforming the station into a breathtaking and ethereal landscape The elegant patterns seem to float in the darkness creating a captivating and romantic atmosphere that is unique to Kyoto The acrylic pillars of the Kimono Forest are arranged throughout the station and its grounds creating an immersive experience for visitors Some cylinders are placed inside the dimly lit station interior The majority of the pillars line the tracks on either side of the station with the largest concentration located on the south side a winding path leads visitors through the illuminated forest offering a delightful walk and countless photo opportunities The kimono fabrics used in the installation showcase a wide range of patterns and motifs from elegant floral designs to geometric shapes and traditional Japanese symbols create a vibrant and eye-catching display that perfectly complements the station's surroundings The idea for the Kimono Forest originated from the desire to transform Arashiyama Station into a nighttime attraction that would encourage visitors to explore the area even after dark wanted to create a space that showcased the beauty and elegance of traditional Japanese textiles while providing a unique and memorable experience for travelers By collaborating with designer Yasumichi Morita and the Kamedatomi fabric company the Keifuku Electric Railroad brought the vision of the Kimono Forest to life The installation not only adds a fresh and modern touch to the station but also pays homage to Kyoto's rich textile history and cultural heritage.  The Kimono Forest has become a beloved attraction attracting visitors from all over the world who come to admire its beauty and immerse themselves in its enchanting atmosphere Within the Kimono Forest, visitors will find the Dragon Pond This small pool of water is filled with coins tossed in by visitors At the center of the pond is a polished black stone sphere engraved with a golden dragon The dragon has long been considered a good omen in Japanese culture and the station's proximity to Tenryu-ji Temple which means "Heavenly Dragon Temple," further emphasizes its significance immersing one's hands in the Dragon Pond's water will fill one's heart with peace and happiness This small ritual adds a layer of spirituality and mindfulness to the Kimono Forest experience encouraging visitors to pause and reflect amidst the beauty of their surroundings The Dragon Pond at the Kimono Forest The Arashiyama Randen station is more than just a transportation hub; it also offers a variety of small shops These establishments provide a perfect opportunity to take a break and relax after exploring the Kimono Forest and the surrounding area One notable feature is the free footbath (ashiyu) located on the central platform where you can sit and soak your tired feet after a day of walking and sightseeing This small gesture of hospitality is a testament to the station's commitment to providing a welcoming and comfortable experience for all its visitors While the Kimono Forest is open 24 hours a day and is stunning at any time the consensus is that the best time to visit is after sunset the LED lights within the acrylic pillars illuminate the kimono fabrics making the colors appear richer and more vibrant This enchanting illumination creates a romantic and magical atmosphere that is perfect for an evening stroll or a memorable photo session Keep in mind that the illumination is turned off at 9 pm you can still appreciate the beauty of the installation but the true magic of the Kimono Forest reveals itself at night Arashiyama offers a wealth of other attractions that showcase the area's natural beauty By combining a visit to the Kimono Forest with these other attractions, you can create a memorable and immersive experience that showcases the best of Arashiyama and Kyoto's rich cultural heritage Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler the Kimono Forest is a must-see attraction that offers a unique and enchanting perspective on traditional Japanese textiles and craftsmanship this mesmerizing installation creates an unforgettable experience that will leave you with a deeper appreciation for the beauty and elegance of Kyoto's cultural treasures consider timing your trip to coincide with the evening illumination and take a moment to immerse yourself in the peaceful atmosphere of the Dragon Pond As you stroll through the colorful pillars let yourself be transported to a world of beauty and create memories that will last a lifetime.  Be sure to take in the unique atmosphere of Arashiyama be it on your own or with a local guide who can provide even further insight on each attraction and history This is one of the most beloved locations in all of Kyoto Arashiyama, beyond the bamboo forest Activities in Kyoto Gion Matsubara Rent a house in Kyoto 51m² 3 travelers WIFI Kizuna Rent a house in Kyoto Shodo, Japanese calligraphy Activities in Kyoto Culinary tour in Kyoto Activities in Kyoto Butoh Dance Activities in Kyoto Kyoto Discovery, half day Activities in Kyoto Japan In a Week Group Tours in Japan Discover Japan Group Tours in Japan The Tokaido Road Group Tours in Japan Urban and Rural Japan Group Tours in Japan The Nintendo Museum in Kyoto The newly inaugurated Nintendo Museum is a must-see destination for video game enthusiasts Higashiyama South Walk The Higashiyama South Walk is a captivating journey through one of Kyoto's most culturally rich and historically significant areas Azuchi Castle: Oda Nobunaga's revolutionary fortress built by the legendary warlord Oda Nobunaga between 1576 and 1579 stands as a testament to architectural innovation and political ambition in 16th century Japan Nightlife in Japan: Going out, seeing and drinking Temples and shrines in Japan Markets in Japan Onsen, Hot Springs and Public Baths Family Travel Parks and Gardens Outdoor Activities Museums and Galleries View more Sign up and be the first to hear our news and special offers Kyoto","entityTaxonomy":{"content_category":{"1":"All about Japan"}},"userUid":0}); Location Please select your country on the list below: Share your travel photos with us by hashtagging your images with #visitjapanjp Arashiyama is located in the far western area of Kyoto It's surrounded by mountains and teeming with cultural sites making it one of the most popular spots for tourists Emperor Go-Saga built a villa in the area and transplanted cherry blossom trees from Yoshino Mountain Arashiyama's cherry blossoms have been one of the reasons why visitors flock to the area Nowadays, you can find these blooms in places like Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama, where you will also find over 120 Japanese macaque monkeys. The park is located along the banks of Ōi River (also known as the Hozu or Katsura River), where you can also see the historical Togetsukyo Bridge. Daikakuji Temple which has cherry blossom trees surrounding a large pond While in the area, don't forget to also visit the world-famous Arashiyama Bamboo Grove where tall bamboo stalks grow up into the sky Maruyama Park is the site to be in Kyoto during cherry blossom season this public space is found at the base of the Higashiyama mountains the park is visited by crowds of people looking to enjoy the view of sakura in bloom since the park's centerpiece is none other than an old shidarezakura (weeping cherry tree) it gets lit up every evening and food stands are set up around the area for guests Website: https://maruyamapark.jp/ Shinbashi-dori is a humble cobbled street found in the Gion district of Kyoto If you want to see the cherry blossoms at their best Glowing lanterns line the sidewalk and river illuminating the cherry blossom trees and traditional Japanese houses Gion is one of the five hanamachi (geisha districts) in Kyoto where geiko (Kyoto dialect for geisha) and maiko (geiko apprentices) entertain guests with traditional dancing performances the local government asks that you enjoy cherry blossom viewing following local guidelines Browse the JNTO site in one of multiple languages JP EN FR 简体中文 繁體中文 Richer living through mindfulness of the traditional Japanese seasons Discovering a richer life in the traditional seasons of Japan Place × Season × Time=Unforgettable experiencesThrilling experiences born of the right place Discovering the hidden stories in everyday lifeUntold stories from just around the corner in Japan Unique brand stories combining tradition with revolutionRevolutionary traditionalism: Brand stories like no other Interviews with the people of the momentMeetings with the women and men who make Japan tick Weaving a lifestyle from Japanese sensibilities and aestheticsBring the Japanese sense of beauty into your life Online salons led by individual hostsThought-provoking discussion led by fascinating figures Premium Japan Members "Vegetable Scroll" (detail) (before 1790) Fukuda Museum of Art which is celebrating its fifth anniversary this fall will hold an exhibition entitled "A Miracle that Descended into Arashiyama Is it Really True that a Rare Scroll by Ito Jakuchu Will Be on Display for the First Time in the World?" which will display masterpieces that fans of Jakuchu will drool over The highlight of the exhibition is the world premiere of the highly colorful and extremely rare Vegetable Scroll This is a scroll made of about three meters of silk with various vegetables and fruits painted on it At the end of the scroll is a postscript written by Baiso Kenjo (Daiten) a monk at Shokoku-ji Temple who had a close relationship with Jakuchu when he was in his 3s and 40s The postscript highly praises Jakuchu's painting and explains that the work was commissioned by a man named Mori Genkyo from Naniwa (now Osaka) Also not to be missed is "Nokko-bune," a new addition to the Fukuda Collection This is a long picture scroll measuring 28cm wide and over 9m long and is a "takuhanga" (printed woodblock print) work that Jakuchu made when he was in his 50s The scenery along the Yodo River where Jakuchu and Daisuke went downriver from Fushimi in Kyoto to Osaka is accompanied by Daisuke's Chinese poem and the beautiful blurring and gradation are also highlights Kakutei Jokko "Picture of pepper"(18th century) Fukuda Museum of Art Tiger by Maruyama Okyo(1786) Fukuda Museum of Art there are approximately 100 excellent pieces from Jakuchu's early period to his later years "Turnip and Two Roosters."30In addition to displaying all of Jakuchu's works together the exhibition also focuses on the Chinese painter Shen Nanpin as well as painters such as Maruyama Okyo and Soga Shohaku who were active in Kyoto and Osaka at the same time This is an exhibition that will allow not only Jakuchu enthusiasts but also those who are not particularly knowledgeable about art * 1 yen each for one person with a disability and their attendant In addition to informing you of the latest information via newsletter we also plan to inform you of exclusive events and give away special gifts A popular river tour in Kyoto Prefecture reopened Monday following a suspension of several months as a result of an accident in which two were killed when one of the traditional wooden sightseeing vessels capsized with 29 aboard were initially scheduled to restart last week but were postponed when the river's water level rose due to heavy rain The first tour left a boat landing spot near JR Kameoka Station at around 9:20 a.m Monday and finished the 16-kilometer journey in Arashiyama "The boatmen's talks were fun and I took the ride with no fear." hailed the enhanced safety measures implemented by the tour operator "They have perfect and safe control and give a thorough explanation of how to use the lifejackets." The accident occurred on March 28 when a boatman made a steering error and fell into the water with all those aboard also falling into the water The operator released a document earlier this month showing measures it has implemented to stop a repeat of the accident as well as plans it has in case of another emergency It said the boats have been upgraded with equipment including handles and footholds to prevent boatmen from falling the operator has introduced lifejackets that automatically inflate in an emergency remembering that we were able (to resume tours) today," said Tomoya Toyota start from Kameoka and traverse through rapids before ending at Arashiyama on the outskirts of the former Japanese capital The tours are popular for giving access to scenic vistas that change with the seasons To have the latest news and stories delivered to your inbox Simply enter your email address below and an email will be sent through which to complete your subscription Please check your inbox for a confirmation email Thank you for reaching out to us.We will get back to you as soon as possible KyotoStock up on Rilakkuma merchandise and even eat food shaped like the cuddly brown bear at the adjacent cafe and now even an onsen-themed shop featuring Sanrio’s cuddly brown bear Rilakkuma Arashiyama Omiyagedokoro Rilakkuma no Yu is set inside a traditional Japanese building that blends in with its neighbouring stores in Kyoto’s Arashiyama district You’ll also find popular Kyoto attractions like Togetsu-kyo Bridge and Arashiyama Bamboo Forest in this area you can buy Rilakkuma merchandise with illustrations of the bear dressed in a yukata or soaking in an onsen.  While Rilakkuma no Yu is also located in three other locations (Aichi the Arashiyama store will have an exclusive plushie in addition to the usual items such as T-shirts Make sure to also visit the Rilakkuma Sabo tea house next door bento boxes and desserts with Rilakkuma-shaped rice and toppings You can even grab Rilakkuma crepes for takeout Visit the Rilakkuma no Yu website for more information Gaggan Anand is opening a new restaurant in Fukuoka this December Tokyo’s Kabukiza Theatre has a new stage curtain designed by Takashi Murakami teamLab has taken over a botanical garden in Osaka and it looks surreal Daiso releases a collection of souvenir tote bags for every prefecture in Japan This new Tokyo-only KitKat is made from lemons grown on a remote Tokyo island is famous for its bamboo forest and the path through it called the “Bamboo Forest Trail,” opened nearby where visitors can also enjoy the beauty of bamboo No article or any part there of may be reproduced without the express permission of the Cabinet Office. Copyright inquiries should be made through this form Luxury accommodation in Kyoto normally comes in the form of traditional ryokans or boutique hotels in the city centre, but the newly opened Arashiyama Mansion Mama offers a different take on modern Japanese hospitality Located just a 16-minute walk from Kyoto’s famous Arashiyama bamboo forest the facility features a set of ten bespoke guest rooms with a private garden view.  The rooms each have slightly different colour schemes to match the natural scenery surrounding them and are fitted with furniture handmade by local craftsmen Three of the rooms even come with their own private open-air bath facing the garden This isn’t your typical traditional guesthouse Arashiyama Mansion Mama is actually an extension of a pizza restaurant named Arashiyama Mama While pizza might be the last thing that comes to mind when you think of Kyoto beautifully designed restaurant epitomises modern Kyoto with its dedication to highlighting local ingredients and authentic wood firing methods.  Guests can enjoy a traditional Japanese breakfast at Arashiyama Mama or have it served to them in the garden before setting out for a relaxed day of sightseeing Rates start from ¥16,950 per person per night (includes breakfast). You can book your stay online through the hotel’s website.  This article was first published on June 8 2021 and updated on Jun 16 2022.  Guide to Japan’s reopening for tourism: visa-free travel, valid vaccines, PCR tests and more Shimokitazawa is one of the world's top 10 coolest neighbourhoods in 2022 You can now get 20 percent off Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea tickets Sanrio's exhibition on kawaii culture featuring Hello Kitty is now in Kyoto Nintendo is opening its second official Japan store in Osaka Want to be the first to know what’s cool in Tokyo? Sign up to our newsletter for the latest updates from Tokyo and Japan. Kyoto designed by Kengo KumaSet in a century-old building Snow Peak Land Station also houses a cafe and shop selling outdoor adventure gear Because Snow Peak is a brand that specialises in outdoor gear the combination of the facility and the tranquility and natural scenery of Arashiyama provides the perfect setting for people who want a comfortable camping getaway without straying too far from Kyoto city A post shared by Snow Peak LAND STATION 京都嵐山 (@snowpeak_kyoto_arashiyama_ls) there are two mobile guest houses (jyubako) in the facility’s back garden The guest houses may be smaller than the average hotel room but they feel much more spacious than they look with wide windows that face the garden and Kuma’s minimalist design – only a bed on a tatami mat floor and a traditional low table as furnishings Each jyubako is also fitted with its own shower room and toilet so you won’t have to worry about sharing with anyone else as you would on traditional campgrounds.  you can wake up to a breakfast of piping hot grilled sandwiches and a special blend of Japanese tea before setting out to cycle around Arashiyama If you get a taste of the Snow Peak way and decide you wouldn’t mind spending more time outdoors without being preoccupied by laptops TV and other creature comforts of city living have a browse in the store for a few nifty camping gadgets.  A post shared by Snow Peak LAND STATION 京都嵐山 (@snowpeak_kyoto_arashiyama_ls) Prices for accommodation start from ¥22,000 per room per night, excluding meals. You can book your stay online here Harry Potter-themed Christmas illuminations are up in Marunouchi Zipair offers budget flights between Tokyo and Los Angeles from just ¥27,500 Bring Christmas to life at this new interactive exhibit in teamLab Borderless See Tokyo autumn leaves and illuminations on an open-top double-decker bus A traditional wooden boat carrying 29 people on a popular river cruise in Kyoto Prefecture capsized Tuesday All 25 passengers onboard were rescued after the incident that occurred at around 11 a.m a 51-year-old staff member who had been punting the boat Two other staff members who were on board are safe Nine women among the passengers were sent to hospital for treatment due mainly to hypothermia and bruises according to the Kyoto municipal fire department The accident occurred about 15 minutes after the boat departed a location upstream at around 10:40 a.m. After one of the four staff members made a steering error and fell into the water All 29 people aboard the boat were wearing lifejackets decided later Tuesday to send two ship accident investigators to the site of the accident which attract around 300,000 tourists annually start from Kameoka and traverse through rapids before ending at Arashiyama on the outskirts of the prefectural capital Kyoto are known for scenic vistas that change with the seasons a tour boat with 19 passengers and five crew members aboard capsized about three kilometers downstream from the start point in Kameoka the captain of a tour boat carrying around 20 people fell into the same river and died Kyoto Arashiyama Hanatouro features light displays in and around the grove In a similar vein, this month sees the return of the Kyoto Arashiyama Hanatouro illumination which was first held in 2003 as a bid to boost local tourism This year's event will run from December 10 to December 19 and include some of the district’s most popular landmarks.  The entire Togetsukyo Bridge over the Katsura River will be brightly lit and the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove will feature a digital art installation by art collective Naked as well as special lanterns placed along its main path Naked’s digital art installation, ‘Dandelion Project’, has been making its way around Japan, popping up at Naked Garden Saga and Nijo Castle’s illumination event last spring The AR artwork takes the form of a tall dandelion puff that visitors can interact with by waving their smartphones over it to ‘release’ the dandelion’s seeds into the atmosphere and change the colours of the digital visuals projected in the ground.  A post shared by 京都・花灯路 (@kyoto_hanatouro) you can join in the Arashiyama Sky Lantern event and send a glowing lantern floating into the night sky Reservations are essential (via telephone only: 070 7517 6337) and there is a fee to participate The illuminations are expected to begin at 5pm and end at 8.30pm each night. The event itself is free, but note that some venues have their own separate admission fees. The Hourin-ji Temple, Nonomiya Shrine and the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, which leads to the shrine, are all free to visit. See the festival’s official website for more information and a list of participating venues.  If you aren’t able to make a trip to Kyoto this month The city will be hosting another light-up festival in the Higashiyama district from March 4 to March 13 2022 and we’ll be sure to keep you updated on that as the dates draw nearer.  Tokyo now has three ramen restaurants with a Michelin star The Ghibli Museum is seeking donations from fans around the world Daikanyama T-Site has a new co-working space with free-flow food and drink The male erotic art at Niigata’s Kokujoji Temple will be removed in May 2022 Here are some of the best things Tokyo achieved in 2021 Want to be the first to know what’s cool in Tokyo? Sign up to our newsletter for the latest updates from Tokyo and Japan.  Ikebana using cherry blossoms and bamboo at Somekobo Yumeyusai Inc.in Kyoto Spring is in full bloom at Somekobo Yumeyusai (Ukyo-ku the traditional Japanese art of flower arrangement is on display with arrangements using cherry blossoms This 150-year-old gallery was originally a culinary inn made famous by the author Yasunari Kawabata in his novel The Sound of the Mountain (1953) the inn was taken over by Yusai Okuda (71) The Ikebana arrangement is about 3 meters wide and about 2 meters high Okuda thought of this arrangement so that the trees in the garden could be enjoyed even in winter when their branches are bare Named "Hundred Cherry Blossoms in the Ozashiki (tatami room,)" about 50 cherry blossoms shining in full bloom are reflected on the acrylic board "I want people to feel the changing seasons in a relaxed manner," Mr Closed on Thursdays. It is open from 10 AM to 6 PM, with the last entry at 5:30 pm. A tour fee is charged. Additional information is available on the company’s website here or by calling Somekobo Yumeyu at (+81) 075 881 2331 What is your hidden wonder of Japan? Upload your picture here (Read the article in Japanese at this link.) You must be logged in to post a comment ' + scriptOptions._localizedStrings.webview_notification_text + ' " + scriptOptions._localizedStrings.redirect_overlay_title + " " + scriptOptions._localizedStrings.redirect_overlay_text + " KYOTO--Beware the “yokai” ghouls and hobgoblins that prowl the boundary between the netherworld and the human world Business operators here have seized on this legend of old Kyoto to ramp up excitement for their shopping streets after dark And the city government is doing its bit by staging its first-ever crowdfunding campaign under the “furusato nozei” hometown tax contribution system to raise funds and organize monster-themed events in two key shopping streets Kyoto is dotted with areas associated with yokai legends the Suzaku-mon gate of the old capital of Heiankyo was haunted by an “oni” demon while a spider-like monster called “tsuchigumo” could be found lurking near Kitano Tenmangu shrine a yin-yang practitioner in the Heian Period (794-1185) and sort of Merlin-like character from Arthurian legend of ancient Japan While the district is usually packed with visitors there is a widespread sense that only inbound tourists make up the madding crowd prompting Japanese people to shy away from the sightseeing spot to the consternation of locals yokai monsters were singled out to lure visitors and entertain them at night when the district is quiet An organization that comprises shop operators from four shopping streets is planning to host a walking and illumination event in the Arashiyama district in August 2024 The idea is that when visitors walk from the famed bamboo forest to the Togetsukyo bridge carrying a lantern yokai monsters will appear in front of them while eerie music plays The organization intends to use the funds raised through the city's crowdfunding drive to prepare “andon” lanterns and yokai gimmicks “We want to foster this event into one that attracts loads of tourists in the future,” said Keisuke Ishikawa head of the Arashiyama shopping street association And then there is Taishogun shopping street located in the city’s Kamigyo Ward the northern limit of Heiankyo frequented nightly by a parade of ghouls and hobgoblins known as “hyakki yako” (night parade of 100 demons) It is a small-scale shopping street that stretches only about 400 meters east to west the number of shops has fallen off dramatically and consequently it attracts fewer shoppers shop operators introduced the yokai-themed Ichijo Hyakki Yako costume parade in October 2005 to help revitalize the area The event was canceled in 2020 and 2021 due to the novel coronavirus pandemic Although it was held last year with fewer people dressed as yokai the event was ruined by a commotion among spectators who pushed and shoved each other members of the shopping street decided to call off the event this fall because they felt the parade should not be held unless proper safety measures were in place They applied to the city’s crowdfunding campaign effort to raise funds to make announcements in foreign languages and hire guards to regulate the flow of people the Japanese word yokai is widely accepted around the world in this day and age,” said Junya Kono vice president of the shopping street association calling for support for the crowdfunding drive “We want to ensure safety to continue the Hyakki Yako parade and expand its scale.” Osaka officials grumble about unpaid work at baseball parade illustrator tells all about ‘yokai’ monsters in encyclopedias Virus scares off Halloween-goers in Shibuya but not rest of Japan Plague-fighting monster becomes superstar as pandemic drags There’s no party here: Shibuya’s message for Halloween As the bullet train began to slow, the automated voice over the speaker announced (first in Japanese and then in English) that we should be ready to deboard—the train would be stopped for 1 minute, and only 1 minute. We quickly gathered our things, scurried out of the train station and stepped into Kyoto, a city that’s been on my bucket list for a decade it turned out to be an experience unlike any other Yet this feeling of ancient history is balanced by a modernity—not only is Kyoto an incredibly creative city it possesses an orderliness that feels light years ahead of the US Exhibit A: the train station toilets’ high-tech functionality that kept them sparkling clean—and even played nature sound effects if I so desired I’ve only scratched the surface of experiencing Kyoto’s many layers and I have no doubt that each time I return But through the months of planning our trip I dove headfirst into research and came away with so many recommendations from trusted friends I wanted to share the travel guide that I created for our group to experience Kyoto for the first time Read on for what to do to experience Kyoto to its fullest If you’re dreaming of a journey to Japan that’s steeped in history then Kyoto should be at the top of your list Here are a few basics you should know if you’re planning a trip: the closest airport to fly into is Kansai International Airport (KIX) KIX is well-connected to major international destinations and is just a train ride away from Kyoto Another option is Osaka International Airport (ITM) which is closer to Kyoto but serves mostly domestic flights we decided to take a direct flight from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) to Haneda International Airport in Tokyo (HND) then we hopped on the bullet train and went straight to Kyoto the Limited Express from ITM or the Bullet Train from Tokyo will conveniently transport you to Kyoto Station The train ride is an amazing part of the journey offering scenic views of Japan’s countryside Kyoto has great options when it comes to hotels it’s essential to make reservations well in advance as they get booked up quickly This was our home base for the first leg of our stay and I can’t imagine a more warm and welcoming place to experience Kyoto for the first time Its sleek and modern interior is juxtaposed by the beautiful nature surrounding you thanks to the floor to ceiling windows that bring the outdoors in The 800-year-old Shakusui-en pond garden is arguably the focal point of the hotel—walking across it surrounded by cherry blossoms and weeping willows was the cortisol-lowering experience I needed to sink into the Kyoto experience Don’t miss the incredible breakfast served in the restaurant each morning The only hard part is deciding between the Japanese breakfast or the incredibly delicious pastries in Arashiyama which is on the western outskirts of Kyoto You access the hotel via a boat that takes you along the Oi River—and the 15-minute ride truly transports you to another you’re taken to a wood guest pavilions designed in an elegant and traditional Japanese style Fresh slippers and a linen lounge set await you and as you step onto the freshly laid tatami matting you know you’re in for a once-in-a-lifetime experience we participated in the most inspiring incense ceremony relaxed and ate breakfast overlooking the river and explored the nearby temple and bamboo forests The entire experience reawakened my senses to the beauty of nature and slowing down On the complete other end of the spectrum is the new Ace Hotel and it’s a good value in a city where it’s a little more challenging to find a decently priced room that still boasts comfort and luxury in case taco cravings strike (guilty!) With 3 restaurants the Ace feels like a taste of Brooklyn set right in the center of Kyoto Kyoto is widely known to be an incredibly food city I didn’t fully understand the food scene until I experienced it firsthand I’ll feel much more confident in knowing where to go My biggest tip is to book reservations as far in advance as possible Below are the best restaurants where we ate in Kyoto plus a few that came highly recommended that I didn’t get to experience on this trip Tempura Matsu: This celebrated tempura restaurant is located in the Arashiyama district in west Kyoto It serves traditional Japanese cuisine in courses and is widely thought to serve the best tempura in Kyoto OMEN: Our first stop when we got to Kyoto OMEN is a tiny spot with the best udon noodles of my life Monk: My biggest regret was not scoring a reservation at Monk, which is incredibly popular ever since the chef, Yoshihiro Imai’s appearance on Chef’s Table omakase-style menu restaurant set on the Philosopher’s Path that focuses on pizza Hitomi: a popular yakitori spot with delicious food and fun vibes—book ahead Sushi Matsumoto: We wanted to experience a traditional omakase sushi meal on our first night and I actually lost track of how many courses had been served I might schedule this when we weren’t hit so hard by jetlag to fully appreciate the beauty of each course Censi: A Japanese menu with Italian influence this is a warm and welcoming spot that made it on Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants list Mama Arashiyama: Adam and I spent our last night in Kyoto at this beautiful Italian restaurant in Arashiyama We loved the way they blended a Japanese approach into our pasta and pizza-filled dinner A great spot to go if you want elevated food in relaxed Stardust: a vegan café that I heard SO many raves about but that happened to be closed while we were there Tan: I really wanted to go to this farm-to-table restaurant Bread & Espresso & Arashiyama: the perfect spot to stop for coffee and a pastry or sandwich if you’re in Arashiyama Tsujiri Tea House: a green tea store that’s also famous for their matcha ice cream and desserts Kishin Kissa – the most aesthetic coffee shop with a small but delicious menu of snacks Me Me Me Coffee House: Go for breakfast Ninnenzaka and Sannenzaka Streets are full of quaint shops to explore Put on your most comfortable shoes and go up the hills of the Higashiyama District and the Kodaiji Temple with beautiful architecture and zen gardens Rokuon-Ji Temple (Golden Pavillion): This breathtaking golden pavilion is a must see Daitokuji Temple: There are 22 sub-temples within this monastery complex but only 4 sub-temples are visible to the public Ryoanji Temple: This temple has the most famous rock garden in Kyoto Our time in Arashiyama was definitely one of my favorite parts of our entire trip dedicate a full day to see some amazing fall foliage (or cherry blossoming) and see the following: so take some time to peruse Chawanzaka Street (aka teapot lane) full of traditional pottery shops sloping down from the Kiyomizu-dera Temple POJ Studio is my favorite shop in Kyoto From the ceramics to the incense to the DIY Kintsugi kits they ship to the US (and I ordered one of their woven tapestries for our living room wall.) Nishiki Market is definitely worth a visit Stroll through the seemingly endless stalls to see and taste things you’ve never seen before and a few things that might make your stomach turn (ie the grilled sparrow.) We loved the soft serve with manuka honey This is a gorgeous stone path along a canal lined with trees and cute shops and restaurants The path takes its name from the 20th century philosophy professor Nishida Kitaro who walked along the path daily while meditating on the problems involved in reconciling Japanese and Western schools of thought I would spend even more time strolling here soaking up the beauty and visiting spots along the way Take a stroll across the banks of Kamogawa River around sunset on your way The Arashiyama area west of central Kyoto is famous for its historic temples and shrines but no less for its quintessential Kyoto scenery such as the elegant Togetsu Bridge and its awe-inspiring bamboo forest It is equally well known for its cherry blossoms in spring and autumn leaves in fall A great way to enjoy all the sights is to take the Randen trains run by the Keifuku Electric Railroad Randen has two lines; its Arashiyama Line runs between Arashiyama and Shijō-Ōmiya Stations while the Kitano Line branches off the Arashiyama Line at Katabiranotsuji and runs through to Kitano-Hakubaichō If you are heading to Arashiyama from Kyoto Station you can get to Saga-Arashiyama on the JR Sagano Line (San’in Main Line) in 15 minutes the World Heritage–listed temple Tenryūji The most efficient route is often to cover this area first before moving on via a Randen train from Arashiyama Station Randen trains are good for touring around the Arashiyama area Discover the classic Arashiyama sights including Togetsu Bridge The Arashiyama Line passes by numerous sights of interest to travelers including Kurumazaki Shrine; Kyoto’s oldest temple as well as the expansive Myōshinji along its route it’s an easy walk to Kitano Tenmangū Shrine If you’re planning to sightsee along the Randen lines consider buying a Randen One-Day Pass for ¥500 for adults so if you plan to take three or more trips The Randen One-Day Pass The World Heritage–listed temple of Ninnaji a temple lately known as a “power spot” with mystical qualities for believing visitors Kifune Shrine for those interested in making a romantic match and the extensive World Heritage site of Enryakuji on Mount Hiei Those wanting to tour the Rakuhoku area can take the Keihan Main Line from Kyoto Station to Demachiyanagi and transfer to the Eizan Railway The Eiden branches off into two lines at Takaragaike Station The Kurama Line runs towards Kibune and Kurama while the Eizan Line heads for Yase and Hieizan The Eiden also has an economical one-day pass called the “Ee Kippu” or Eizan Railway 1-day ticket Not only can you ride the trains as many times as you like but showing it can also give you reduced admission fees at temples and shrines The Eiden Ee Kippu one-day pass Eiden’s Kirara panorama train on the Kurama Line has maximized the carriage window area and rotated the seats to face the windows creating an optimum sightseeing experience Passengers especially love the stunning display of the turning leaves in fall The Kirara panorama train heading for Kibune and Kurama Incorporating a unique design based on an oval motif Eiden’s new sightseeing train Red lanterns line the stone stairway to Kifune Shrine The Niō Gate at Kuramadera The old freight cars of the Sagano “Torokko” or Romantic Train make a 25-minute run along the Hozu River which flows down to become the Katsura River at the Togetsu Bridge Using tracks of a now disused JR West line the nostalgic diesel-powered engine chugs along between Torokko Saga and Torokko Kameoka Stations offering up-close views of riverside scenery The scenic Sagano Torokko (Romantic) Train called “The Rich,” is an open carriage with no glass in the windows It is just the thing for anyone seeking crystal clear scenery snaps and the feel of the wind in your hair so tickets for this car are only available at the station on the day of travel you can only buy tickets for this car going one way With open-air windows and open-grille sides “The Rich,” is perfect for shutterbugs Riding through the Hozukyō Gorge Text by Fujii Kazuyuki; photos by Kuroiwa Masakazu Please upgrade your browser to improve your experience We're always trying to bring you more amazing hotels But not every hotel can immediately connect their reservation system with ours we provide real-time rates and availability via a partnership with Booking.com You'll still enjoy the full fabulous MICHELIN Guide experience when you book including our legendary service and delightful style This hotel offers rates & availability on request only Submit a request below and a travel specialist will assist We’re not currently taking reservations for this hotel Please explore other hotels in our selection Non-members can add the privileges at checkout through our 30 day free trial By continuing I accept the Terms & Condition and Privacy Policy. I would like to receive Newsletter from MICHELIN Guide Save lists of your favorite restaurants & hotels More often than not, the path through Arashiyama's bamboo forest is flooded with sightseers — but in the wake of the COVID-19 outbreak in China, which has infected over 75,000 and killed more than 2,000 worldwide Kyoto shopkeepers have noticed a downtick in the number of tourists "Even though it is a low season, there are fewer visitors than usual due to the influence of the coronavirus!" the neighborhood hospitality association tweeted on February 15 Shopkeepers near major attractions in Kyoto shared their observations of decreasing visitor traffic with local newspaper Kyoto Shimbun Casey Baseel reported for Tokyo-based news site SoraNews24 "This is the most dramatic drop in traveler traffic I've seen [in over 30 years]," a shopkeeper near Kiyomizudera temple told Kyoto Shimbun who works near Fushimi Inari Taisha Shinto shrine said that while 200 tour buses usually come in per day estimated that crowds are half the size they usually are in February In response, local shopkeepers have created an "empty tourism" campaign, enticing visitors with images of uncrowded attractions, Emiko Jozuka reported for CNN Travel Jozuka identified the photos and translated the captions "It's been a while since there were more monkeys than humans," one image reads Another shows tourist-favorited Togetsukyo Bridge without visitors Accompanying the image of the bamboo grove are the hashtags "#nopeople" and "#nowisthetime." "It's not like there are no Chinese at all," Tomotsugu Mizukami spokesman for the Kyoto City Tourism Association told Peck on Monday in a telephone interview A post shared by 京都・花灯路 (@kyoto_hanatouro) but things are getting even better this December This historic Japanese city is motivating people to come out after dark by illuminating one of its most beloved sites—the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest the entire forest comes to life with special light installations and illuminations Located on the outskirts of the city, the bamboo grove is lovely at any time of the year; but, thanks to the Kyoto Arashiyama Hanatouro illumination Not only is the wood Togetsukyo Bridge lit up in spectacular fashion causing delightful reflections in the Katsura River but there are also special lanterns illuminating the forest's paths Adding to the dazzling illumination of the beloved bamboo grove this season is the star of the show—an interactive installation by art collective Naked which has been making its way across Japan shows up in the bamboo forest in the form of a giant dandelion Centered around the idea of creating connections visitors are asked to make a wish by waving their smartphones at the central structure causing a colorful projection on the ground The projection was designed by artist Ryotaro Muramatsu there is a special event to send glowing lanterns into the sky There is a small fee to participate in the Arashiyama Sky Lantern event and booking is essential The next lantern event will take place on December 18 and December 19 at 7 p.m The Kyoto Arashiyama Hanatouro illumination is open daily from 5 p.m it's an opportunity that's not to be missed as some of the nearby temples are also participating it's a wonderful excuse to drink in more of Kyoto's history Nonomiya-jinja Shrine are just some of the other sites also staying open late for the event A post shared by 京都・花灯路 (@kyoto_hanatouro) A post shared by 京都・花灯路 (@kyoto_hanatouro) A post shared by 京都・花灯路 (@kyoto_hanatouro) A post shared by 京都・花灯路 (@kyoto_hanatouro) A post shared by 京都・花灯路 (@kyoto_hanatouro) A post shared by 京都・花灯路 (@kyoto_hanatouro) h/t: [TimeOut] Breathtaking Image is Being Called “Most Beautiful Photo of Kyoto” Photographer Captures the Magical Beauty of Kyoto’s Temples in Winter Heavy Snowfall in Kyoto Turns the City Into a Beautiful Winter Wonderland Photographer Captures Amazing Photos of Japan While on “Bullet Tour” by Train Want to advertise with us? 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