Hirosawa Pond
Experiencing Kyoto's myriad temples can be exhilarating, even life-altering. But it can also be exhausting. Hirosawa Pond offers an easily accessible oasis of tranquility. This tranquil treasure in Arashiyama (Northwest Kyoto) is cherished by locals for its scenic beauty, historical significance, and vibrant festivals.
This thousand-year-old reservoir, now a tranquil fish farming pond, is encircled by picturesque rice paddies. No matter the season, a leisurely walk along the promenade offers captivating views of herons and other wild birds fishing. History buffs will appreciate the traditional thatched roof house relocated from Shirakawa in Gifu prefecture, which adds a distinctive bit of historic charm. On calm days, the pond’s surface mirrors the surrounding trees, creating a stunning natural reflection. In spring, cherry blossoms adorn the perimeter, while summer sees local children eagerly catching crawfish.
Hirosawa Pond has inspired many renowned Japanese artists, and on your walk you might even spot a local painter striving to capture its timeless beauty.
Art to Admire:
Hirosawa Pond at Night from the series Famous Places of Kyoto by Nomura Yoshimitsu (1870 – 1958)
Hirosawa Pond by Konishi Seiichiro (1919 - ?), part of the Lavenberg Collection
Toro Nagashi Festival – The Floating Lantern Ceremony
On the last night of Obon, August 16th, Hirosawa Pond hosts the enchanting Toro Nagashi Festival, a ceremony celebrated across Japan to send ancestors back to the spirit world and honor war victims. This festival is one of Japan’s most significant, second only to New Year’s Eve, and sees families across the country lighting okuribi fires to bid farewell to spirits.
Hirosawa Pond’s Toro Nagashi Festival is unique, featuring colorful lanterns in red, white, yellow, purple, and blue, unlike the typical yellow Toro Nagashi lanterns found elsewhere. These vibrant lanterns are set afloat in the pond, creating a truly magical spectacle. The same night also celebrates the famous Daimonji festival, with giant bonfires spelling out kanji on the surrounding mountains. From Hirosawa Pond, the giant torii-shaped bonfire, Gozan Okuribi, is clearly visible, beautifully complementing the floating lanterns.
Festival Logistics:
Toro Nagashi: Held at Hirosawa Pond at 7pm on August 16th.
Daimonji Bonfires: Lit at 8pm
Location: Hirosawa Pond is a 20-minute walk north from Saga-Arashiyama station. You can pass Chigo Shrine (兒神社) and walk east along the main road to the rental boat shed. Boats are available for around 900 yen per hour, and it’s recommended to book two hours if renting from 19:00 to not miss Daimonji. The boats are spacious, fitting three adults comfortably. Alternatively, you can find spots along the eastern shore for viewing.
Dining: Arrive early to enjoy a kaiseki bento dinner at the Hirosawa Pond Villa Tea House.
KOI-AGE (Carp Catching) at Hirosawa Pond
Since the Heian period, Hirosawa Pond has been famed for moon viewing, and much of the pond's fishing is done at night. December brings a unique viewing event called KOI-AGE. As the pond’s fish farmers drain the pond, the thousands of carp that have matured over the year roil the surface, creating a flurry of excitement. This spectacle attracts chefs and locals who come to purchase this unique supply of fresh, ready-to-eat fish.
Event Details:
Date: Until the end of December (sale ends when stock is sold out)
Access: 7 minutes on foot from Yamagoe, Kyoto city bus
Discover the tranquil charm and cultural richness of Hirosawa Pond, a perfect retreat from the bustling streets of Kyoto.