The famous Arashiyama Bamboo Forest is worth a visit, but it can be hugely crowded — so here’s a great tip for making the most of this area.

We took a taxi higher up the Arashiyama hillside to Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple and spent a couple of dreamy hours exploring this peaceful Buddhist temple before slowly walking down the quiet hillside path, enjoying enchanting gems that not many tourists get to see.

Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple

The Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple is home to hundreds of slightly haunting, moss-covered stone statues, each with a different face. They were created by students of the temple’s head priest, Kocho Nishimura, who also happened to be a sculptor.

He encouraged his students to bring out the character within the stone — and the results are fascinating. It’s a magical temple and the perfect place to start your day.

A Gentle Descent Through Hidden Kyoto

Slowly make your way down the foothills of Mount Ogura, following the Hozu Katsura River, and enjoy ancient preserved streets, temples and shrines. One real highlight is an alternative bamboo experience that not many visitors discover.

The Adashino Nenbutsu-ji Temple has its own idyllic bamboo grove which you may even have entirely to yourself.

My final top tip is to visit Okochi Sanso Garden, hidden behind the busy bamboo forest at the bottom of the hill. If you love a Zen garden, this one will leave you mesmerised.