Within a 20 × 20-m plot in a cool–temperate deciduous broad-leaved forest, we examined the local variation in the Sasa palmata distribution and possible effects of microphysical environmental factors in 1 × 1-m quadrats. The microphysical environmental factors examined were slope angle, undulation, and percent gravel on the soil surface. The effects of these factors on the distribution of dwarf bamboo were analyzed using three statistical models (GLM, GLMM, and CAR model). Of these, the CAR model was the only model for which the residuals did not exhibit significant spatial autocorrelation. The CAR model showed that slope angle, concave sites, and gravel distribution had clear negative effects on the local distribution of dwarf bamboo. The findings suggested that steep slopes and concave sites could cause physical damage via soil erosion and that a high gravel content could inhibit the elongation of roots and subterraneous stems.