Arashiyama: A Scenic Escape in Kyoto
Discover Arashiyama, Kyoto: Bamboo forests, Zen temples, and stunning mountain views await in this scenic and historic district.
Arashiyama, nestled on Kyoto's western outskirts, has been a favored retreat for centuries. Known as 'Storm Mountain,' it offers stunning natural beauty, from cherry blossoms in spring to vibrant foliage in autumn. The iconic bamboo grove, historic temples, and the Togetsukyo Bridge make it a must-see destination.
A brief summary to Arashiyama
- Kyoto, Arashiyama Genrokuzancho, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, JP
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds, especially at the Bamboo Grove.
- Combine a visit to the Bamboo Grove with a stroll through the serene Tenryu-ji Temple gardens.
- Wear comfortable shoes, especially if you plan to hike up to Iwatayama Monkey Park.
- Consider visiting during cherry blossom season (spring) or autumn foliage season for the most vibrant scenery.
- Check the opening hours and any special events at Tenryu-ji Temple before your visit.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Kyoto Station, the fastest way to reach Arashiyama is via the JR Sagano Line (also known as the JR Sanin Line) to Saga-Arashiyama Station. The one-way trip takes about 15 minutes and costs ¥240. From Saga-Arashiyama Station, it's a 5-10 minute walk to central Arashiyama. Alternatively, from Kawaramachi or Karasuma Station in central Kyoto, take the Hankyu Main Line to Katsura Station, then transfer to the Hankyu Arashiyama Line for Arashiyama. This takes about 20 minutes and costs ¥220. Hankyu Arashiyama Station is a 5-10 minute walk from central Arashiyama, on the opposite side of the river. A Kyoto Subway & Randen 1-Day Ticket (¥1300) offers unlimited rides on the subway and Randen.
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Walking
From Hankyu Arashiyama Station, cross the Togetsukyo Bridge and walk along the main street. Turn left after the bridge to reach the entrance to Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and Tenryu-ji Temple. From Saga-Arashiyama Station, walk north towards the main street of Arashiyama. The Bamboo Grove entrance is a short walk to the north of Tenryu-ji Temple.
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Taxi
Taxis are available from Kyoto Station to Arashiyama. The ride takes approximately 12 minutes and costs between ¥3400 and ¥4200. Be aware that traffic can be heavy, especially during peak seasons. Some taxi companies offer fixed-price tours of the area.
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Driving
Driving to Arashiyama is not recommended due to potential traffic congestion and limited parking. However, if driving, the Kyoto-shi Arashiyama Kanko Parking Lot is available. The cost is ¥1040 per day for standard vehicles. Parking is limited to 3 hours during busy periods. An affiliated discount of ¥200 is available at D Parking Arashiyama Bamboo Forest No. 1 when visiting the Fukuda Art Museum. The Arashiyama Takao Parkway toll road connects Arashiyama with Takao, costing ¥1800 one way. Tolls on Japanese expressways can be paid with cash or credit card at manual toll gates or via ETC (electronic toll collection).
Discover more about Arashiyama
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Jōjakkō-ji Temple
1.2 km
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Kimono Forest
1.2 km
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Adashino Nenbutsuji
2.0 km
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Red Torii Gate
2.0 km
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Otagi Nenbutsuji Temple
2.5 km
Experience the serene beauty and spiritual tranquility at Otagi Nenbutsuji Temple, home to over 1,200 unique stone statues in the scenic hills of Kyoto.
Jikishi-an Temple
2.8 km
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Hozukyō Station
3.0 km
A hidden gem in Kyoto: Hozukyō Station offers stunning natural views and a peaceful escape on the Sagano Line, connecting you to scenic adventures.
Mausoleum of Emperor Go-Uda
3.2 km
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Katsura Imperial Villa
4.8 km
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Ryōan-ji
5.5 km
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Kyoto City Rakusai Bamboo Park
5.9 km
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Kinkaku-ji
6.6 km
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Kyoto Samurai Experience/和樂Waraku
7.4 km
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Nijō Castle
7.5 km
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Kyoto Shibori Museum
7.9 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Rankyo Gorge
0.6 km
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Somekobo Yumeyusai Inc.
0.6 km
Discover the enchanting blend of art, coffee, and tranquility at Somekobo Yumeyusai in Kyoto's serene Ukyo Ward.
Arashiyama Park Observation Deck
0.7 km
Experience stunning panoramic views of Kyoto's natural beauty at the Arashiyama Park Observation Deck, a must-visit tourist attraction.
Hozugawa River Boat Ride End Point
0.7 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and cultural richness at Hozugawa River Boat Ride End Point, a serene gem in Kyoto's stunning landscape.
Arashiyama Park Kameyama Area
0.8 km
Explore the tranquil beauty of Arashiyama Park's Kameyama Area, a serene escape in Kyoto's stunning natural landscape.
Okochi Sanso Gorge Observation Deck
0.8 km
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Hogon-in
0.8 km
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Okochi Sanso Garden
0.9 km
Discover the serene beauty of Okochi Sanso Garden in Kyoto, where traditional Japanese landscaping meets tranquil nature for an unforgettable experience.
Arashiyama Bamboo Forest
0.9 km
Discover the serene beauty of the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, a must-visit natural attraction in Kyoto offering a tranquil escape into nature.
Sogenchi Teien
0.9 km
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Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama
0.9 km
Experience the lively interactions with Japanese macaques at Arashiyama Monkey Park, a unique wildlife haven in Kyoto's breathtaking landscape.
Tenryu-ji Kohojo (Abbot's Little Quarters)
0.9 km
Experience the serene beauty of Tenryu-ji Kohojo, a tranquil Buddhist temple in Kyoto, perfect for meditation and reflection amidst stunning gardens.
Mikami Shrine
1.0 km
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Tenryu-ji
1.0 km
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Hondo
1.0 km
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Essential places to dine
Kameyamaya
0.7 km
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Kyoto Kitcho Arashiyama
0.9 km
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MUKU
1.0 km
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Arashiyama Yoshimura
1.1 km
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Arashiyama MITATE
1.3 km
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Kijurou
1.3 km
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Akamanma
1.3 km
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Le Bouchon T
1.4 km
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Azasino
1.4 km
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Arashiyama Curry
1.6 km
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Arashiyama Sakura
1.9 km
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Tempura Matsu
2.2 km
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Okonomiyaki Katsu
5.4 km
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和牛料亭bungo 四条大宮
7.5 km
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Tategami
7.9 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
% ARABICA Kyoto Arashiyama
1.0 km
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Kyoto Orgel-Dō Arashiyama
1.0 km
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Rakuraku
1.1 km
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Arashiyama Shoryuen
1.1 km
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Akogareya
1.2 km
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The Chiri-Men Craft Museum
1.2 km
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Natural Cocoon Souvenir Shop
1.2 km
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Burari Arashiyama
1.2 km
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Snoopy Chocolat
1.3 km
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Music Box Shop
1.3 km
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Kotouen
1.4 km
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Kyo-komono Kinugasa
5.4 km
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kindal kyoto sanjo horikawa second hand store
7.7 km
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Bando Kinran - Co., Ltd. Bando Store
8.0 km
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Kyoto Crafts Store
8.4 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
PIZZERIA MAMA
1.2 km
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Arashiyama Nomura
1.2 km
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eX cafe Kyoto Arashiyama
1.2 km
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Nouvelle Japonaise Arashiyama
1.7 km
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Aux Mines
4.3 km
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Bar G3
5.9 km
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SAMGHA
7.9 km
Discover SAMGHA, Kyoto's premier wine bar, offering an exceptional selection of beverages in a cozy and welcoming atmosphere.
Man in the Moon - Kyoto Station Pub
8.6 km
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Oku
8.7 km
Experience the enchanting atmosphere of Oku, a hidden bar in Kyoto offering exquisite cocktails and a cozy ambiance for the perfect night out.
Sky Lounge KUU
8.8 km
Experience breathtaking views and exquisite drinks at Sky Lounge KUU, Kyoto's premier bar and lounge atop Kyoto Tower.
The Roots of all evil.
8.8 km
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別館 BAR K家
9.0 km
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bar K-ya main building
9.0 km
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The Stones
9.1 km
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Bar Rocking chair
9.1 km
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