Arashiyama Bamboo Grove -- Mystical, Otherworldly, Unlike Most Forests

 Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Kyoto, Japan

The Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, which, sometimes referred to as Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, has grown to be one of Kyoto’s best-ranking attractions and here's why: standing among these towering stalks of bamboo makes one feel as if getting lost in another world.

If you have been thinking of visiting Kyoto, you’ve perhaps already seen photographs that bring Arashiyama Bamboo Grove somewhat alive, including Fushimi-Inari-Taisha Shrine's torii tunnels and Kinkaku-ji Temple; they are the city's most photographed attractions. However, no picture could possibly capture the complete feeling of one actually standing in the moment in this area of sprawling bamboo grove, for the entire site exudes an indescribable sense of otherness which is rather different that of most forests.

You have the option of accessing Arashiyama Bamboo Grove straight from the central street of Arashiyama, which is a bit to the northern of the Tenryu-ji Temple's entrance; you may want to enter this temple with another person. There’s only one chief walkway through the grove, leading gradually uphill. After you reach the top of this hill, the entry to the Okochi-Sanso Villa happens to be directly before you. Enter and you won't be disappointed. 

The most effective way for exploring the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is through an Arashiyama Bamboo Grove Walking Tour, and it outlines the actual best path to follow.

Opening hours: 24 hours

Nearest Transport:
10 minute walk from Saga Arashiyama Station, JR Sagano line
15 minute walk from Arashiyama Station, Henkyu railway

Most Famous Must-See Tourist Attractions in Japan

7 Best Reasons for Visiting Tonsai Beach in Krabi, Thailand

Tonsai Beach, Krabi, Thailand

What to Expect 

Tonsai Beach is one of Krabi's most stunning beaches. Plus, the area is ideally distant from all the noise pollution and nuisance common to adjacent beaches such as Ao Nang and Railay Beach and a site where climbers, backpackers, and tourists meet. Tonsai Beach, also spelled Ton Sai Beach, itself is truly calm and pleasant. Coming here, all first-time visitors will realize right away that Tonsai Beach is heaven on earth. Massive rock formations, tall palm trees, and the gorgeous sandy beach make Tonsai in Krabi to be particularly more rewarding that several visitors choose to prolong their stay.

7 Best Reasons for Visiting

1.  Affordable Accommodation

If you happen to be searching for a very nice accommodation around here, on Tonsai Beach, consider the charming Tinidee Hideaway, located in a fabulous spot with a breathtaking sight. Another very practical but nothing fancy is a stay at Basecamp dormitory room; it can't be booked online. 

2.  Enjoy a Fun Boat Ride

Reach Tonsai Beach is currently possible through a boat, and you can board any longtail boat that originates from a place like Ao Nang Beach; such a boat usually runs many times daily, and with maximum efficiency will get you to Tonsai Beach, rapidly.

3.  Take a Tour

While staying in Tonsai, you are recommended to go on a 4 Island Tour, which will allow you to explore the magnificent Koh Poda Island and Chicken Island.

4.  Great Food

You are recommended to dine at Mama Chicken. It's famous, the food is delicious, provides generous portions, and is perhaps the cheapest restaurant around.

5.  Excellent Tonsai Rock Climbing 

If you are new to climbing, you can take a course as well as rent equipment.

6.  Cave Exploration

There is a nearby cave that you can explore alone or with others. Just bring a flashlight.

7.  Less Populated

Unlike nearby beaches, Tonsai Beach is far less lively on account of there being less people. In fact, while here, you are certain to secure a peaceful spot under the shade of a palm tree.

In addition, you'll find a charming bay. Though the environment here is generally laid-back, the little bars grow somewhat busier during the night. Also, stop by the Tonsai Bay, the Tonsai pier, and Tonsai waterfall.

Most Famous Must-See Tourist Attractions in Thailand

Warorot Market (Kad Luang) -- A Popular Market in Chiang Mai

 Warorot Market, Chiang Mai

Warorot Market, or known locally as Kad Luang, ranks as one of Chiang Mai's top food markets, located in the heart of town. Warorot Market is in fact a historical landmark, where you'll see a fantastic and irresistible selection of speciality food ranging from fresh produce, ready-to-eat meals, snacks to genuine grilled northern-style side dishes like the spicy sausage sai oua, or the green and red chili dip called nam prik ong/nam prik noom that will please and satisfy nearly everyone still breathing. It won't disappoint. 

Also, Warorot Market offers cheap souvenirs, Arabica coffee to locally grown tea. Here's where it gets exciting: you can have fun bargaining the final cost of any product you want. You are advised to get some idea on how much common items cost beforehand so you can know how high or low anything costs.

Warorot Market exudes an old-school Chinese-Thai kind of feel to it. The whole facility is mostly old-looking which adds to its classical charm that attracts tourists from everywhere.

Warorot Market is comparable to London's Borough Market. Here, you'll see preserved meats as well as specialty snacks, plus the whole place is usually crowded with several tourists browsing around and sampling all sorts of tasty snacks.

Moreover, the market consists of two parts: Warorot Market and Ton Lamyai Market. Though both appear largely the same as well as inside, they are like two stores in one, with a road dividing them.

You can in addition shop for hours at the market's outer areas, where you'll find a wide range of many types of sellers and many street transactions happening all the time.

Warorot Market can be found as the Chang Moi Road ends, by the river. More precisely, located on 

Wichayanon Rd, Chang Moi, Mueang Chiang Mai, Chiang Mai 50300, Thailand. It's open daily from 4:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

Most Famous Must-See Tourist Attractions in Thailand