Wakuden-no-Mori: A Sanctuary of Nature and Art
Discover tranquility at Wakuden-no-Mori in Kyotango: Where art, nature, and local cuisine create an unforgettable experience.
Wakuden-no-Mori is more than just a tourist spot; it's an ecosystem where nature and people come together to build a sustainable future. Located in the mountains of Kyoto's Tango region, this forest sanctuary was created by Aya Kuwamura with the vision of giving back to the land that nurtured her. The site was once a cleared slope, untouched by industrial pollution, making it perfect for food production. Kuwamura adopted the "Miyawaki method" of afforestation, planting around 30,000 saplings with the help of the local community, transforming the area into a thriving forest. Within Wakuden-no-Mori, you'll find the Mitsumasa Anno Art Museum, designed by renowned architect Tadao Ando. The cedar-clad structure blends seamlessly with the landscape and houses delicate watercolor paintings. The museum also hosts musical performances and cultural gatherings. Visitors can also enjoy regenerative agriculture in the terraced rice fields, participating in seasonal rice planting and harvesting. The Wakuden MORI restaurant uses ingredients harvested on-site to showcase the local Tango cuisine. The forest offers well-maintained paths for exploration, providing a serene backdrop for leisurely strolls and photography.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for a more peaceful experience and stunning views.
- Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the trails.
- Check the weather before your visit to make the most of your experience outdoors.
A brief summary to Wakuden-no-mori
- 764 Kumihamachotani, Kyotango, Kumihamachotani, Kyoto, 629-3559, JP
- +81772-84-9901
- Visit website
- Monday 9:30 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9:30 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9:30 am-5 pm
- Friday 9:30 am-5 pm
- Saturday 9:30 am-5 pm
- Sunday 9:30 am-5 pm
Getting There
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Public Transport
To reach Wakuden-no-Mori by public transportation, take a local bus from Tango Station to Kumihama. The bus ride takes about 30 minutes. From the Kumihama bus stop, it is a 10-minute walk to Wakuden-no-Mori. Tankai city buses have a maximum fare of ¥200 within Kyotango. Check the bus schedule for return trips.
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Taxi
Taxis are available in Kyotango, and can be a convenient option to reach Wakuden-no-Mori. From central Kyotango, a taxi ride to Wakuden-no-Mori will likely take around 20-30 minutes. Taxi fares in Kyoto start at ¥620 for the first 1.5km. Contact Kumihama Taxi at 0772-66-3938 for reservations.
