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Kimono Forest: A Textile Art Installation

A vibrant art installation in Arashiyama featuring hundreds of kimono-clad pillars, showcasing Kyoto's rich textile tradition.

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The Kimono Forest in Arashiyama is a unique art installation featuring hundreds of cylindrical pillars adorned with traditional kimono fabrics. Located at the Randen Arashiyama Tram Station, it offers a vibrant display of Kyoto's textile heritage.

A brief summary to Kimono Forest

Local tips

  • Visit in the evening to see the pillars illuminated, creating a magical and photogenic atmosphere.
  • Look for the Ryu no Atago, a dragon sculpture in a pond at the end of the kimono lane, where you can make a wish.
  • Combine your visit with other nearby attractions like the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and Tenryu-ji Temple.
  • Take the Randen Tram Line to Arashiyama Station for direct access to the Kimono Forest.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The Kimono Forest is directly accessible via the Keifuku Randen Line to Arashiyama Station. From Kyoto Station, take the JR Sagano Line to Saga-Arashiyama Station (¥240, 15 minutes), then walk 5-10 minutes to the Randen Arashiyama Station. Alternatively, take the Kyoto Subway Karasuma Line to Karasuma Oike Station, transfer to the Tozai Line to Uzumasa Tenjingawa Station (¥260, 20 minutes), then transfer to the Randen Line. The Randen Line fare is a flat ¥250 for adults.

  • Walking

    From JR Saga-Arashiyama Station, exit and walk north for about 5-10 minutes to reach the Randen Arashiyama Station and the Kimono Forest. The path is well-signed and passes through the main Arashiyama area. Note that Arashiyama can get very crowded, especially during peak seasons.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available from Kyoto Station to Arashiyama. The ride takes approximately 12 minutes and costs between ¥3,400 and ¥4,200. Ask the driver to take you to Randen Arashiyama Station. Keep in mind that traffic can be heavy, especially during weekends and holidays.

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Discover more about Kimono Forest

The Kimono Forest is a mesmerizing art installation located at the Randen Arashiyama Tram Station in Kyoto. Created in 2013 during a station renovation, it features around 600 cylinder-shaped pillars, each wrapped in traditional Kyo-yuzen style kimono fabric. These pillars, standing two meters tall, create a vibrant and immersive experience, resembling a colorful forest. The installation was designed by Yasumichi Morita, who aimed to blend contemporary art with Kyoto's rich textile history. The fabrics, dyed by Kamedatomi, showcase 32 different intricate patterns. Visitors can stroll through the "kimono lane," admiring the designs and taking photos. At the end of the lane, you'll find Ryu no Atago, a black ball etched with a golden dragon in a reflecting pond, considered an energy spot where wishes are said to come true. The Kimono Forest is particularly enchanting at night when the pillars are illuminated from sunset to 9:00 p.m.. The soft light enhances the beauty of the kimono patterns, creating a magical atmosphere. The Kimono Forest is not only a visual delight but also a celebration of Kyoto's cultural heritage, offering a unique experience for tourists and art enthusiasts alike.

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