Arashiyama Monkey Park
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There is one place in Arashiyama that will allow you, even in Autumn madness, to escape the crowds. Iwata-yama Monkey Park covers an entire mountain across the River Oi, a small portion of which is given over to visitors. From the entrance it is a 20 minute climb to the observation ground where the monkeys gather. There is a hut with refreshments for sightseers and food for the little simians. In strange reverse you feed the monkeys through chicken wire, they clinging to the outside and you shut up inside. They are assuredly mesmerizing but not the prettiest of creatures, rather shaggy-furred and paunchy, overdependent on human care and more surly for it. At present there are about 150 monkeys living on the mountain, each with a name and all under careful scrutiny of specialists and researchers.
The view of Kyoto from the observation point is one of the finest in the city, reason alone for coming if you care nothing for the monkeys. With the climb putting many tourists off, it leaves the slopes relatively empty and the whole visit worth the peace and quiet following the chaotic hubbub of the town. As it is open all year round, I would consider it a must see for all visitors to the area, and the 550 yen is certainly cheap when you consider that most profits go towards caring for the animals. |
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