Bamboo Forest, Natural bamboo forest in Arashiyama, Japan.
The Bamboo Forest consists of dense rows of Mōsō bamboo forming a narrow path between two old temple precincts. The stems stand close together and rise up to 66 feet (20 meters), creating a natural tunnel of green stalks.
The planting originated during the Heian era as a source of material for temple construction and local crafts. Over the centuries, the arrangement of bamboo rows remained largely unchanged, even as tourism developed in the 20th century.
Many visitors pause to listen to the rustle of the stalks, which stands out clearly in the early morning. Photographers often aim their cameras at the vertical lines and broken light between the stems.
The main path is roughly 300 meters long and connects with small side trails leading to neighboring temples. Early morning hours offer fewer crowds and better light conditions for photography.
The Ministry of the Environment lists the sound of wind through these bamboo stalks as a protected soundscape of Japan. The tall stems sway gently and produce a deep, continuous murmur that differs from ordinary leaf rustle.
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