The "Hidden Gems of Kyoto" is a project that brings you new sightseeing information on hidden attractions in the local areas located slightly away from the central city.

The Nishikyo area can be easily reached from the internationally famous tourist spot, Arashiyama, by the Hankyu Railway. It's only a 9-minute train ride from the downtown Kyoto to the Hankyu Railway’s “Rakusai-guchi Station.” This area houses the largest bamboo groves in Kyoto, offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in a quintessential Japanese landscape. The only museum and garden in Japan specializing in bamboo are must-visit attractions along with the approximately 1.8 km-long Bamboo Path. Cycling is highly recommended to fully enjoy the splendid scenery. Rental bicycle service is available in front of the Hankyu Rakusai-guchi Station.

Matsuno-o Taisha Shrine, located just a minute away from Arashiyama by Hankyu train, is known as the place of worship for the deity of sake. The view of the huge vermilion-painted torii gate and the rows of sake barrels donated by sake breweries from all over Japan is breathtaking (free admission). Located about a 10-minute bus ride from Arashiyama, Jizo-in Temple, also known as the "Temple of Bamboo," is surrounded by bamboo groves. 

The Nishikyo area is Kyoto's largest bamboo-producing region. Kyoto Rakusai Bamboo Park is the only facility in Japan with a bamboo museum and approximately 110 varieties of bamboo gardens (free admission). Right in front of the park, there is a well-maintained 1.8 km bamboo path, perfect for cycling or leisurely walks. Bicycle rental shops are available at Rakusai-guchi Station.

The pond within the precincts of Oharano Shrine, where deer are considered messengers of the gods, is covered with water lilies from early summer onwards. The scenery with vermilion-painted bridges resembles Monet's famous painting, earning it the nickname “Monet's Water Lily Pond of Kyoto” and fame on social media (free admission).

Yoshimine Temple offers a spectacular view of Kyoto city, and is called the "Flower Garden in the Sky" because of its seasonal blooms. In addition to flowers, there is a magnificent pine tree named "Yuryu-no Matsu," which is 600 years old and approximately 40-meters tall. Its appearance is likened to a dragon soaring through the sky, earning it the title of Japan's tallest pine tree (admission fee required).