Near the Torokko Arashiyama Station in Kyoto’s Arashiyama, you can find a small pond. Known as “Ogurai Pond (Oguraike),” this is a modest pond that you may encounter on your way to take or disembark from the Torokko Train.
“A Small Pond in Kyoto’s Arashiyama, Oguraike”
In reality, it’s not a particularly noteworthy place, especially when compared to the bamboo groves in Arashiyama. Next to the pond, there is a small shrine, but shrines like this are quite common in Japan, so while it may have seemed interesting at first, it didn’t evoke a strong impression after seeing several others.
“Mikami Jinja Shrine Found by the Pond”
The shrine next to the pond is Mikami Jinja Shrine, known for worshiping “heads.” This shrine is considered unique in Japan as it is dedicated to heads.
“A Foreigner Playing the Hang Drum by the Pond”
Although the place itself may not be extraordinary, there was someone who made it special – a foreign man playing the hang drum by the pond. At that time, it was my first encounter with a hang drum, and its unique sound captivated me. I stopped for a while to appreciate the music before continuing on my way.
Thanks to him, what might have been an ordinary spot became something special.
“Kyoto Arashiyama Oguraike Pond”
- Address: 10 Sagaogurayama Tabuchiyamacho, Ukyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto-fu 616-8394, Japan