“Experience serene bamboo groves with a charming wooden walkway, featuring a large round bamboo bench for rest and stunning seasonal foliage.”
Bamboo Forest Path - Shuzenji is nestled in the heart of the historic Shuzenji Onsen area, near Shuzenji Temple and Dokko no Yu. This peaceful trail was developed over three years starting in 1994, running alongside the Katsura River through the hot spring town.
Though only about 50 meters long, the path is lined with tall bamboo trees that create a cool, shady atmosphere year-round. A large circular bamboo bench in the center offers visitors a place to sit and enjoy the gentle breeze rustling through the bamboo leaves. During autumn, the vibrant red and orange leaves beautifully contrast with the green bamboo, creating a stunning seasonal spectacle.
At night, from sunset until 11:00 PM, the path is softly illuminated, offering a romantic and tranquil nighttime stroll. Along a smaller path nearby, the free "Shuzenji Corridor" exhibition displays images showcasing the four seasons of Shuzenji, adding a cultural layer to the natural beauty.
The surrounding area boasts other attractions including the over 1,200-year-old Shuzenji Temple, local restaurants, souvenir shops, cafés, and public onsen baths, providing a rich cultural experience alongside nature.
How to Get There
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By Train: Take the Izuhakone Railway Sunzu Line and get off at Shuzenji Station.
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By Bus: From Shuzenji Station, take a bus for about 8 minutes to the final stop at Shuzenji Onsen ("Shuzenji Onsen" bus stop).
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From the bus stop, it’s about a 5-minute walk to the Bamboo Forest Path.
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By Car: Drive from Tokyo via the Tomei Expressway or Izu Skyline; the journey takes approximately 2.5 hours.
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By Taxi: Taxis are readily available from Shuzenji Station and nearby areas for convenient access.
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There are several parking lots nearby with a parking fee of about 500 yen.
Travel Tips
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Visit in the morning or evening for softer light and better photos.
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Avoid loud noises and do not use drones without permission.
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Wear comfortable shoes as paths may be slippery during the rainy season.
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Bring a camera or smartphone with HDR mode to capture the beautiful interplay of light and shadow.
Admission Fee:
- Free of charge.
Opening Hours:
- Open 24 hours, though visiting between 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM is recommended for safety and the best experience.