BAMBOO FOREST WALK
竹藪さんぽ
Bamboo Forest Walk 竹藪さんぽ
The bamboo shoots cultivated in this region are said to be among the best in Japan. This high level is achieved because of the suitable terrain and farming methods that date back over hundreds of years. The groves that these bamboo shoots are grown in are called yabu, and exist seemingly everywhere.
Takeyabu are often connected by simple pathways that are often paved with asphalt to allow small trucks to travel on them year-round. Although these pathways usually exist in local village settings anyone is free to walk on them and explore these areas.
By spending time in these quiet areas visitors can get a glimpse of the farming life that has gone on here for generations. Visitors can actually see real working bamboo groves rather than the ornamental groves that are so popular in Arashiyama.
In spring time, from the middle of March to May, the bamboo shoots are harvested by digging them out. For this process, a tool called a hori is used.
The sad reality is that bamboo farming is trade that is slowly fading. There aren’t nearly as many farmers in present times as there were generations ago. Because of this numerous bamboo groves in this region are becoming abandoned and have gone into disrepair.
Nevertheless, a walk through the bamboo groves of Oharano is a highly unique experience and will leave visitors in awe.