A trial removal of graffiti-marked bamboo being carried out as tourists look on, November 19 in Ukyo Ward, Kyoto. (Pool photo)
Kyoto's famous Arashiyama Bamboo Grove has faced repeated vandalism, with graffiti on the bamboo increasing since around March.
A city survey found that approximately 350 stalks had been affected, with markings including Latin initials as well as kanji and Hangul characters. The area is part of a Special Preservation District for Historical Landscapes, designated under the system established by the Ancient Capitals Preservation Law.
Bamboo Thinning
In response, the local community association and an NPO carried out a trial bamboo thinning, cutting some stalks along the walking path to keep them out of visitors' reach. Officials plan to consider further thinning while carefully assessing its impact on the landscape.
Keisuke Ishikawa, chairman of the Arashiyama Shopping Street, said, "The beautiful scenery is being ruined by graffiti. While it is unfortunate to cut the bamboo, it is necessary to prevent copycat vandalism."
City officials selected the bamboo to be removed. On city-owned land along the walking path, 25 stalks spanning roughly 30 meters were cut. The trial thinning was approved at a November 5 meeting held by the city and the Saga Community Association Federation.
Some participants at the meeting suggested temporarily closing the area to the public.
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(Read the article in Japanese.)
Author: The Sankei Shimbun
