9th October 1999 'Otokuni take-asobi'. Nagaokakyo city, Kyoto Prefecture. A graceful gathering called 'Otokuni take-asobi' (Otokuni bamboo play) took place at Koumyou Temple in Nagaokakyo city. The bamboo from the temple's bamboo forest were cut short and laid everywhere, and about 6,000 candles were lit to float on water. Many people, families from young to old, enjoyed the bamboo drum concert and the whole atmosphere of this visionary 'take-asobi' event in the forest until late. In this Otokuni region, centred by Nagaokakyo city, is the first region in Japan where Mousou bamboo was planted and is famous for its production of bamboo shoots. The event began seven years ago in the aim of using the bamboo that have been cut to maintain the forest in good condition, as it was lying in ruins for the last couple of years. As a traditional old capital, Kyoto has many events like this, and the 'take-asobi' is definitely one of those elegant functions that can be seen here. The event takes place annually in October, so do try to visit next year (it's SO visionary and beautiful!)

	The compound of Koumyou Temple.		The entrance.
	Laying down bamboo pieces.		Inside the forest.