Demachiyanagi is a wonderful place. Many people gather here and point to their destination. Shimogamo shrine, Mount Hiei, Mount Daimonji, Masugata shotengai, etc. We can see the junction of two rivers, Kamo and Takano rivers. They form a triangular shape, the Delta of Demachi. Many parents and children, elders, students, couples and visitors get together in this special place. They can cross the rivers stepping the turtle-shaped stones.
In the spring, blue sheets are spread out in the Delta of Demachi to save the best spot to enjoy eating and drinking under the Sakura cherry blossom, we say Hanami.
In the hot summer days, it is the best place for children to refresh, playing in its water. During the Obon, on August 16th, it is the best spot to watch the fire of Daimonji, which is believed to send old spirits back to the other side. Policemen are busy trying to control the traffc of cars and people.
Shimogamo jinja, a Xinto shrine, recognized as a World Heritage, is placed 10 minutes-walk from Demachi. Many goes there for Hatsumoude, the New-year greeting ritual, and for many events along the year. Demachiyanagi is also the starting point to the Mountain Hiei. That’s why Demachi is crowded along the year. Recently, I see people from all the world with their smart phones in one hand. I suppose they are looking for some Minpaku (guest house), since there are no hotels nearby.
Walking to the East, Kyoto University. To the West, Doshisha University. It is so interesting to look the different fashion of young students taking out Demachi station every morning. Fancy students goes to the West.
Saturday sunny mornings, hiking shoes fulfill Demachi. The majority are healthy-generation elders.
Walking further to the West, there is the Masugata shotengai, a small shopping street. In its entrance, there is the Futaba, a store full of Japanese traditional sweets. People make long lines to buy its famous Mame•mochi. If you go there before 9 AM, you can get it without waiting.
In the middle of the Masugata, there is the Demachiza, a small cinema with theaters on the first and second floors, presenting several films every day. No major films, but I am becoming addicted to it. There are also two recycle book and CD stores. One is besides the cinema selling books of history, music and arts. The other one has several children’s books. Sometimes you find old good things, but I am not sure if you are going to like it. Demachi area is cool and cult.
