The walk from Kappa Bridge to Myojin Pond is fairly long. The forest is dense along the way, and bears are occasionally spotted, so be sure to carry a bear bell or bear spray before setting out. Myojin Pond lies deep within Kamikochi. Its tranquil, mirror-like waters, deadwood, massive rocks, and the reflection of Mount Myojin come together to create a sacred, otherworldly beauty.
Once you arrive, find a quiet corner and take your time soaking in the pure atmosphere of this natural energy spot. Hotaka Shrine Okumiya by the pond is the guardian shrine of Japan's Northern Alps, and even members of the Imperial Family have visited. After praying for blessings, you can get a small, elegantly designed chimaki-shaped amulet to take home and pray for your family's safety and physical and mental well-being.
Myojin Pond | Review by 一個漸漸喜歡上慢旅的人
Other Reviews by 一個漸漸喜歡上慢旅的人
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Sagano Bamboo Grove Trail
The delightful scenery attracted noble families and poets who built their homes in Sagano. Sagano bamboo trail spans about 400m (437 yards) from Nonomiya Shrine, via Tenryuji Temple’s north gate to Okochi Sanso cottage.
When Arashiyama is mentioned, the first iconic image that comes to mind is probably this stunning Sagano Bamboo Grove Trail. From a distance, the densely packed, straight green bamboo stalks really look like a scene from a wuxia novel where martial arts masters face off. It’s both spectacular and unique.
Once you actually enter the bamboo grove, the surrounding noise instantly fades away, and you immediately feel the cool, refreshing shade of the bamboo. When a gentle breeze blows through, the towering bamboo on both sides sways in the wind and makes creaking sounds. The ethereal sights and sounds make it feel as if you’ve stepped into an ancient martial arts movie, surrounded by a sense of mystery. You can’t help but smile and imagine whether an assassin or wandering swordsman might appear around the next corner. This immersive experience, both peaceful and fun, is truly a unique sight that shouldn’t be missed when visiting Arashiyama.
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Sagano Romantic train
The Sagano Kanko Railway's trolley trains operate on a revived part of the former San'in Main Line, which was closed down. Classical Art Deco style coaches coupled to a diesel locomotive travel 7.3 km one way from Torokko Saga Station, adjacent to JR Saga-Arashiyama Station, to Torokko Kameoka Station, taking about 25 minutes.
When visiting Kyoto's famous Arashiyama area, one classic experience you absolutely shouldn't miss is riding the Sagano Romantic Train. This time, I rode from Kameoka Station to Arashiyama Station. The trip took about half an hour, following closely alongside the clear, rushing waters of the Hozu River.
Sitting inside the retro wooden train car, I felt a slightly cool breeze blowing toward me. Outside the window, there were not only magnificent river valley views and unusual rock formations, but also beautifully blooming cherry blossoms dotting the branches. Together, the scenery looked like a painting. Although there were quite a few passengers along the way and the train car was always filled with delighted exclamations, the perspective of traveling through the gorge and taking in nature's remarkable creations was still well worth experiencing in person. If I have the chance to come back during a quieter off-season with fewer tourists and enjoy the mountain scenery more peacefully, it would be even more perfect.
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Daimaru Kyoto
Located in the bustling Karasuma area of Kyoto, this department store has a long history dating back to 1717 when Hikoemon Shimomura opened a kimono shop called "Daimonjiya" in Kyoto's Fushimi area. The Kyoto store relocated to its current location in 1912 and reopened in the department store format.
Back in the lively Karasuma area of downtown Kyoto, you can spot the striking Daimaru Kyoto building from a distance. It’s not only a beloved local landmark, but also a great place to shop and soak up the urban atmosphere.
When your feet are sore and you’re hungry after shopping, I highly recommend having dinner at the extremely popular nearby restaurant Yakiniku Hiro (Shijo Takakura location). The quality of their wagyu is truly excellent, with just the right amount of evenly distributed marbling. It sizzles on the grill and cooks up slightly crisp on the outside while staying tender and juicy inside. With every bite, the rich aroma and flavor of the meat fill your mouth. Besides the impressive beef, the grilled fish was also outstanding, with no disappointments at all. After visiting Daimaru, stopping by for a premium yakiniku meal that fully satisfies your taste buds makes for a perfect day. Highly recommended for meat lovers.
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