Arashiyama: A Tranquil Escape in Kyoto
Discover Arashiyama: Kyoto's scenic escape with bamboo forests, historic temples, and breathtaking mountain views.
Arashiyama, nestled in the western hills of Kyoto, has been a beloved retreat for centuries. The area's history dates back to the Heian period (794-1185) when imperial families and nobles sought refuge in its tranquil surroundings. The name 'Arashiyama,' meaning 'Storm Mountain,' evokes the area's dramatic landscape and the winds that sweep through the valley. The district is famous for its stunning natural scenery, which changes with the seasons. Spring brings delicate cherry blossoms, while autumn transforms the hillsides into a blaze of red and gold. Winter offers snow-dusted landscapes reminiscent of ink paintings. Key attractions include the Togetsukyo Bridge, a landmark offering panoramic views of the Katsura River and surrounding mountains. First built in the Heian period, the bridge has been rebuilt several times, most recently in 1934, retaining its traditional design. The Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is another must-see, with towering bamboo stalks creating a mesmerizing, otherworldly atmosphere. The rustling of the bamboo has been recognized as one of Japan's '100 Soundscapes'. The grove is open 24/7 and free to enter. Tenryu-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Kyoto's five great Zen temples, is located near the Bamboo Grove. Founded in 1339, its garden, designed by Muso Soseki, features a central pond and incorporates the surrounding mountains into its design. The entrance fee for the garden is ¥500. For those seeking a unique experience, the Iwatayama Monkey Park is home to Japanese macaque monkeys. A 20-minute hike up the mountain leads to a clearing where visitors can observe and feed the monkeys. The entrance fee is ¥800 for adults and ¥400 for children.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds, especially at the Bamboo Grove.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking, as many attractions involve some hiking.
- Bring cash, as some smaller shops and temples may not accept credit cards.
- Consider visiting during cherry blossom (sakura) or autumn foliage (koyo) seasons for the most spectacular views.
- Check the weather forecast, as some attractions like the Monkey Park may close due to heavy rain or snow.
A brief summary to Arashiyama
- Kyoto, Arashiyama Genrokuzancho, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, JP
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Kyoto Station, take the JR Sagano Line (also known as the San-in Line) to Saga-Arashiyama Station. The rapid service takes about 10 minutes and costs ¥240. From Saga-Arashiyama Station, it's approximately a 13-minute walk to the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. Alternatively, take Kyoto City Bus #28 from Kyoto Station to the Arashiyama-Tenryuji Mae bus stop. The bus ride takes about 30 minutes, but traffic can be heavy. A one-way bus fare is ¥230.
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Walking
From the Hankyu Arashiyama Station, walk north towards the Togetsukyo Bridge. Cross the bridge and continue walking for about 20 meters upstream along the Katsura River. You will find the entrance to Iwatayama Monkey Park on your left, near the Ichitani Munakata Shrine. The walk from Hankyu Arashiyama Station to the Monkey Park takes about 7 minutes. From the JR Saga-Arashiyama Station, cross the Togetsukyo Bridge, which is about 0.75 miles away.
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Driving
While driving in Kyoto is generally not recommended due to traffic and limited parking, it is possible to drive to Arashiyama. The Kyoto-shi Arashiyama Kanko Parking Lot is available, but it can get crowded. The parking fee is ¥1040 per day for standard vehicles. Be aware that parking is limited to three hours at a time. D Parking Arashiyama Bamboo Forest No. 1 is located near the entrance to the bamboo forest path.
