Arashiyama, in Kyoto, is a 5km (or thereabouts) stretch in the mountains, filled with gardens, groves, and temples. In fall, it’s absolutely breathtaking with all the autumn leaves; in springtime, it’s a similar thing with all the blossoms.

This time of year, the area has what Japan calls a “light-up”, which means lanterns and coloured spotlights are set up throughout the various walking trails so that people can visit at night. Things usually close around 4 or 5pm in Kyoto, so this is a real treat.

The best part was, by far, the bamboo grove. These photos aren’t touched up or artificially coloured in any way; the blue and green is what you see in real life. It’s ridiculously eerie, especially when the wind blows through the leaves at the top. If you’re ever in Kyoto, I highly recommend it.