“TOTTEOKI” Hidden Gems of Kyoto
The “Hidden Gems of Kyoto” is a project that provides new sightseeing information about hidden attractions in local areas just outside the city center.
About Nishikyo
Nishikyo, southwest of the world-famous Arashiyama, is a hilly area on the banks of the Oi (or Katsura) River. The area possesses more abundant bamboo groves than other areas of Kyoto and is known for Japan’s only bamboo museum and the 1.8-km-long bamboo path. Nishikyo is keen to promote cycling touris; thus a wide range of rental and shared cycle facilities are available there. From Shijo Kawaramachi to Katsura Station, it can be reached by Hankyu train in just 10 minutes.
Undiscovered treasures just a short distance from Arashiyama
Within a short distance of Arashiyama, either on foot or within one or two stops by train or bus, there are little-known but worthwhile temples and shrines. Horin-ji Temple offers a spectacular view of the Togetsu-kyo Bridge and the city of Kyoto. Matsuno-o Taisha Shrine, one stop away from Arashiyama on the Hankyu Line, is the site of worship to the guardian deity of Kyoto and the god of sake. The huge vermilion torii gate on the approach to the shrine and the rows of sake barrels donated by sake brewing companies are a sight to behold.
Bamboo forest path with a spectacular view
The Rakusai area in Nishikyo is one of the most dense bamboo forests in Japan. The Kyoto Bamboo Park has Japan’s only bamboo museum where approx. 110 species of bamboo are planted (admission is free). In front of the park, there is a 1.8-km-long bamboo path with variously designed bamboo fences that are a delight to the eye.
A Good destination for cycling
Nishikyo is an area deeply invested in promoting cycling tourism. While there, you can rent bicycles at the three following locations: the Hankyu Arashiyama Station for shared bicycles, and the Katsura Station as well as the Rakusaiguchi Station for rental bicycles and shared bicycles. It takes only about 10 minutes to ride from the Hankyu Rakusaiguchi Station to the Kyoto Bamboo Park.
*A special app must be installed in advance to use the shared bicycles.
Hello Cycling – shared bicycles application website (Japanese only)
Fujibakama (Boneset)
The fujibakama (boneset) has long been a favorite flower of the Japanese people and often made appearances in classical literature. However, it has been designated as an “endangered species” by the Ministry of the Environment. A rare wild species was discovered 25 years ago in the Oharano area of Nishikyo, and efforts have been made to protect it. You can enjoy viewing the rare fujibakama flowers at the grounds of the Oharano Shrine. 
