It’s that time of year again in Japan where the temperature has dropped, the days are short, and the beautiful lighting displays are plentiful. I decided to go to Arashiyama once again this year, since I enjoyed the last time I had a chance, which was December 2015. Arashiyama is a mountain in Kyoto that is famous for its beautiful scenery, including the mountain, a bridge, and the bamboo forest, as well as a monkey zoo, which I still haven’t been to. As they only run the light up of the forest and mountain for 10 days, I figured I had better jump on the chance, so I went with my friend Kyo.

Last time, I believe I took a bus there, but coming from the train was a better choice. The Hankyu line station leaves you on the side of the river next to the lit up mountain (see the title image), which is beautiful. From there you cross the river and walk through a very tourist-oriented set of shops and restaurants, before making your way to the bamboo forest.

I don’t think you can see anything quite like the bamboo forest in Canada. It’s especially beautiful as it is lit up with different colors in different sections. It makes for a very peaceful walk.

After you pass through the forest, you can follow the paths back towards the station, which are lit by lanterns. There, you will pass by lots of different things, like the weird lanterns in the picture on the right, as well as a display with some strange porcelain dolls. There’s also a very still pond which reflects all of the lit up trees and I think looks pretty, though Kyo said it was creepy.

On the way back, there is the occasional souvenir shop, and I also ran into a restaurant stand that sold boiled eggs, or raw egg on race (passed), and another that had Amazake （甘酒）which I tried for the first time… possibly last time (its weird). All in all, I think its totally worth seeing if you ever get the chance. It’s a beautiful, unforgettable sight to behold.