A short lantern-lined bamboo walk along the Katsura River in the onsen town said to have been founded by the monk Kobo Daishi in 807
The Chikurin-no-Komichi bamboo path runs a short distance along the Katsura River in Shuzenji, an onsen town said to have been founded by the monk Kobo Daishi in 807. Tall bamboo stalks arch over a walkway of wooden benches and stepping stones set directly into the ground, with vermillion bridges crossing the river at either end of the grove. At the path's center sits Tokko-no-Yu, a free open-air footbath fed by the town's natural hot spring water, said to mark the spot where Kobo Daishi struck a rock with his staff and hot water sprang forth. In the early evening the entire stretch, path and footbath alike, is lit by lanterns, transforming the daytime walk into one of the more atmospheric free experiences in the Izu Peninsula and a natural stop for visitors staying overnight at one of the town's ryokan.
Highlights
- Lantern-lit bamboo grove along the Katsura River at night
- Tokko-no-Yu free open-air footbath tied to the Kobo Daishi legend
- Vermillion bridges crossing the river at either end of the path
- Wooden benches and stepping stones set through the bamboo
- No admission fee for the path or footbath
Tips for visiting
- Walk the path in the early evening for the lantern-lit atmosphere
- Bring a small towel to use the free Tokko-no-Yu footbath
- Wear shoes that are easy to remove for the footbath
- Pair with dinner at a riverside restaurant in the Shuzenji Onsen town center
When to visit
Early evening, when the bamboo path and footbath are lit by lanterns.
Accessibility
The path is mostly flat and manageable for wheelchair users, though the stepping-stone sections near the footbath can be uneven.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a walk along the bamboo path take?
Walking the full length of the path and soaking at the footbath takes about 20 to 30 minutes.
Is it worth it for kids?
Yes, the flat riverside path and free footbath make it an easy, low-cost stop for families.
Is photography allowed on the bamboo path?
Photography is allowed throughout the path and footbath area, including in the evening when it is lantern-lit.