Amazing Countryside of Kyoto. Japan travel. Ohara 大原

The region of Ohara is located in the far north-east part of Sakyo-ku. The area was once known as a ground of hidden residences for retired aristocracies and imperial family members in the past. The entire area is surrounded by mountains and idyllic atmosphere of rustic lifestyle still remains. The abundance of nature makes its landscape much greater than the central city part of Kyoto. Ohara is widely known for the prestigious grand temple Sanzen-in as well as local specialty called Shibazuke produced with homegrown red shiso leaves. You would not miss to see there are many patches of farmland growing shiso leaves in Ohara. The access to the village is quite simple by Kyoto Bus ( 17, 18 ) from the central part of the city ( requires approximately 1 hour ). One of the seasonal highlights is Higan Flowers bloom in mid-September. Around the same time Cosmos would start blooming in this area. Fireflies usually start flying around the village in late June.