Step away from the bustling crowds of central Kyoto and you will find a serene world waiting to be discovered. Tucked within the picturesque Sagano area, near the famous Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, lies a special place known as Nomurano. This name doesn’t refer to a single landmark, but to a beautifully preserved neighborhood that feels like a journey back in time.
What is Nomurano?
Nomurano is a small, quiet residential district located in the Sagano region of Kyoto. It is renowned for its traditional atmosphere, charming streets, and exquisite private residences. Unlike the more tourist-heavy parts of Arashiyama, Nomurano offers a peaceful glimpse into the elegant simplicity of old Kyoto life. The area is characterized by its well-maintained machiya (traditional wooden townhouses), lush private gardens peeking over stone walls, and a palpable sense of tranquility.
The name “Nomurano” itself translates to “field of Nomura,” hinting at its more rural origins before becoming an exclusive residential enclave. Its location is ideal, offering seclusion while remaining within walking distance of major Sagano sights like the Tenryu-ji Temple and the iconic Togetsukyo Bridge.
The Historical and Cultural Significance
Nomurano’s importance lies not in grand historical events, but in its preservation of a specific aesthetic and lifestyle. The area became popular among the Japanese elite, including wealthy merchants, artists, and scholars, who built their villas here during the Meiji (1868-1912) and Taisho (1912-1926) periods. They were drawn to Sagano’s natural beauty, which had inspired poets and nobles for centuries.
These villas were designed to harmonize with nature. They often feature elaborate gardens, tea houses, and architecture that blends seamlessly with the surrounding landscape. The design philosophy emphasizes shakkei, or “borrowed scenery,” where distant mountains and forests are incorporated into the garden’s composition.
One of the most notable figures associated with the area is the film actor Denjirō Ōkōchi. His former estate, the Ōkōchi Sansō Villa, is a prime example of the beauty found in Nomurano. Now open to the public, the villa’s sprawling gardens offer some of the most stunning panoramic views of Kyoto and the Hozugawa River. Visiting this estate provides a direct look into the sophisticated and nature-centric lifestyle that defines Nomurano.
Exploring Nomurano Today
A walk through Nomurano is an experience in mindfulness. As you wander its narrow lanes, you are encouraged to slow down and appreciate the subtle details: the texture of a mud wall, the gentle curve of a roof tile, the sound of a distant temple bell.
While many of the homes in Nomurano are private residences and not open to the public, the true joy is in the journey itself. The streets are exceptionally clean and quiet, creating a perfect environment for a contemplative stroll. Here are a few things to keep in mind when you visit:
- Be Respectful: Nomurano is a living neighborhood. Be quiet and mindful of residents’ privacy. Do not trespass or attempt to enter private properties.
- Look for Details: Notice the small shrines tucked into corners, the carefully pruned pine trees, and the intricate designs of the latticework on windows.
- Visit Key Sights: While wandering is the main activity, make sure to visit nearby attractions. The Ōkōchi Sansō Villa is a must-see, and the northern gate of Tenryu-ji Temple opens directly into this serene district.
Nomurano stands as a quiet testament to a refined and gentle way of life. It’s a place that reminds you that sometimes, the most memorable parts of a journey are not the famous monuments, but the peaceful moments found along the way.