Arashiyama: A Scenic Escape in Kyoto
Discover Arashiyama: Kyoto's serene escape with bamboo forests, historic temples, and breathtaking natural beauty.
Arashiyama, or "Storm Mountain," is a nationally designated Historic Site and Place of Scenic Beauty located on the western edge of Kyoto. Since the Heian Period (794-1185), nobles sought refuge here, inspired by seasonal beauty to compose poetry. Emperor Go-Saga enhanced the area by transplanting cherry blossoms from Mount Yoshino. Today, Arashiyama attracts visitors worldwide with its blend of natural and cultural attractions. The iconic Togetsukyo Bridge spans the Katsura River, offering picturesque views. The Arashiyama Bamboo Grove provides a sensory experience with towering stalks and sunlight filtering through the canopy. Tenryu-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcases Zen Buddhism with its gardens and mountain views. Visitors can explore other temples and shrines, such as Nison-in Temple, Gio-ji Temple, and Adashino Nenbutsuji Temple. Iwatayama Monkey Park offers a unique opportunity to observe Japanese macaques in their natural habitat. The Sagano Scenic Railway offers a relaxed journey through the Hozu River valley. Boat rides on the Hozu River provide another perspective of the forested mountainsides. Whether strolling through the bamboo grove, exploring temples, or enjoying the scenery from the Togetsukyo Bridge, Arashiyama offers a tranquil and unforgettable experience.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds, especially at the Bamboo Grove, and enjoy the soft morning light.
- Consider visiting during the spring (late March to mid-April) for cherry blossoms or autumn (mid-November) for vibrant foliage.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking, as many attractions involve some amount of walking.
- Take a boat ride on the Hozu River for a unique perspective of the Arashiyama landscape.
- Purchase food at Iwatayama Monkey Park to feed the monkeys inside the designated feeding area.
A brief summary to Arashiyama
- Kyoto, Arashiyama Genrokuzancho, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, JP
- Visit website
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Kyoto Station, take the JR Sagano/San-in Line to Saga-Arashiyama Station (approx. 20 minutes, ~240 yen). From there, it's a 10-15 minute walk to the central Arashiyama area, including the Togetsukyo Bridge and the entrance to the Bamboo Grove. Alternatively, take Kyoto City Bus #28 from Kyoto Station and get off at Arashiyama-Tenryuji-mae (approx. 30 minutes, 230 yen). Keifuku Railway (Randen) connects Arashiyama with Omiya Station in central Kyoto (20 minutes, 250 yen).
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Walking
From Saga-Arashiyama Station (JR Line), exit and walk north towards the main street. Follow the signs to Togetsukyo Bridge and Tenryu-ji Temple. The Bamboo Grove is a short walk from Tenryu-ji's north exit. The walk from the station to the Bamboo Grove is approximately 15 minutes. From Hankyu Arashiyama Station, cross the Katsura River and walk towards the mountains. The central Arashiyama area is about a 5-10 minute walk.
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Taxi
A taxi from downtown Kyoto to Arashiyama takes approximately 25 minutes and costs around ¥2000. Taxis can drop you off near the Togetsukyo Bridge or the entrance to Tenryu-ji Temple, providing convenient access to the main attractions. However, traffic can be heavy during peak seasons.
Travel Experiences Inspired by This Location
Attractions Nearby to Arashiyama
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Rankyo Gorge
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Somekobo Yumeyusai Inc.
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Arashiyama Park Observation Deck
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Hozugawa River Boat Ride End Point
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Arashiyama Park Kameyama Area
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Okochi Sanso Gorge Observation Deck
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Hogon-in
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Okochi Sanso Garden
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Arashiyama Bamboo Forest
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Sogenchi Teien
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Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama
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Tenryu-ji Kohojo (Abbot's Little Quarters)
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Mikami Shrine
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Tenryu-ji
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Hondo
