The Arashiyama bamboo grove in Kyoto, one of Japan’s most iconic tourist destinations, is facing an alarming case of vandalism.
City officials revealed that more than 350 bamboo trees along the scenic trail have been carved with names, initials and heart symbols by tourists, many of whom are couples leaving “souvenir signs.”
The famous “Bamboo Forest Trail” in Arashiyama, known for its towering green stalks and tranquil beauty, now bears the scars of visitors who carved messages in English, Korean and Japanese.
Photos shared by local media show similar carvings “June 2025” AND “We will be back” engraved on the stems, along with heart shapes and initials.
Despite warning signs that clearly state “Do not hack bamboo,” the damage has continued to spread.
Officials estimate that at least 350 stems are now affected, more than triple the damage reported in 2018, when about 100 bamboo trees were vandalized.
According to Masashi Nakai, a plant specialist at the Kyoto Botanical Garden, the damage poses both environmental and safety risks.
“Once the surface of the bamboo has been sculpted, the cells cannot regenerate,” Nakai explained. “Color doesn’t return, photosynthesis is disrupted and, in severe cases, stems can weaken and collapse.”
Workers at the Ebisu Rickshaw Company, which helps maintain the grove, have temporarily covered the damaged bamboo with tape, but experts say that is only a short-term solution.
“If the bamboo continues to weaken, it could fall and injure visitors,” – added Nakai.
In response, Kyoto city officials are considering cutting down severely damaged bamboo to prevent further damage and introducing fines of 50,000-100,000 yen for vandalism. Increased patrols and stricter monitoring are also discussed.
Many Japanese citizens and tourists have expressed disappointment and frustration.
“This is a cultural treasure,” one visitor told local media. “It is heartbreaking to see people disrespect such beauty.”
Another commented: “I can’t understand why anyone would destroy something so peaceful and natural.”
The Arashiyama bamboo grove is one of Japan’s most photographed landscapes, celebrated for its whispering soundscape and otherworldly light. It represents tranquility and harmony in Japanese aesthetics, attracting millions of visitors every year.
However, with the increase in tourism and the influence of social media, the serenity of the grove is being replaced by overcrowding and irresponsible behavior.
Experts warn that without stronger conservation measures, this symbol of Kyoto’s natural heritage could gradually fade away both physically and spiritually.
Sources: K14
