Arashiyama, Western district in Kyoto, Japan
Arashiyama is a western district in Kyoto, Japan, extending along the Katsura River across Ukyō and Nishikyō wards. The area includes forested slopes, temples with landscaped gardens, paths through tall bamboo groves, and a historic bridge crossing the river.
From the 8th century during the Heian period, noble families built riverside estates here to escape the summer heat of the capital. By the 14th century, the emperor ordered temples and gardens to be created, turning this area into an important religious and artistic center.
The name Arashiyama means Storm Mountain, referring to the winds that sweep through the gorge in autumn when the leaves change color. Locals come here to view cherry blossoms in spring or red maple foliage in November, often from traditional river boats.
The JR Sagano line connects central Kyoto to Saga-Arashiyama station in around 15 minutes. Regular bus services also run there, and many visitors walk or rent bicycles to explore the area.
The Sagano Bamboo Grove creates a deep rattling sound when wind passes through, recognized by the Japanese government as one of 100 sounds worth preserving. At Iwatayama Monkey Park on a mountain top, visitors can observe and feed over 120 Japanese macaques from close range.
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