Discover the Enchantment of Arashiyama: A Scenic Jewel in Kyoto
Experience the serene beauty of Arashiyama in Kyoto, a scenic spot featuring iconic bamboo groves and rich cultural heritage.
Nestled in the heart of Kyoto, Arashiyama is a picturesque locale that captivates visitors with its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and serene atmosphere. Famous for its iconic bamboo grove and scenic river views, it's an essential destination for any tourist seeking a tranquil escape.
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.
- Consider renting a bike to explore the scenic areas around Arashiyama more easily.
- Don’t miss the chance to try local specialties like yudofu (tofu hot pot) in the area.
- Check the seasonal calendar for cherry blossom and autumn leaf viewing times for the best experience.
- Take your time to explore the many small shops and galleries tucked away in the streets.
Getting There
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Car
If you are traveling by car, start from any point in Suruga and head towards the nearest expressway entrance. Use the Tomei Expressway (E1) and follow the signs towards Kyoto. Once in Kyoto, take the exit for the Kyoto Interchange, then merge onto the R177 road. Follow the signs for Arashiyama, which is in Ukyo Ward. The approximate driving time is about 1.5 hours depending on traffic. There may be tolls along the expressway, so be prepared for additional costs.
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Public Transportation
For public transportation, make your way to Suruga Station. From there, take a train to Kyoto Station, which typically takes about 30 minutes. Once at Kyoto Station, transfer to the JR Sanin Line towards Saga-Arashiyama Station. This part of your journey will take approximately 15 minutes. Upon arrival at Saga-Arashiyama Station, you can either walk for about 15 minutes to reach the main attractions in Arashiyama or take a local bus (costing around 210 yen) that will take you directly to the popular sites such as the Bamboo Grove.
Discover more about Arashiyama
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Jōjakkō-ji Temple
1.2 km
Explore the serene beauty and spiritual heritage of Jōjakko-ji Temple, a hidden gem in the hills of Kyoto, offering tranquility and stunning architecture.
Kimono Forest
1.2 km
Explore the enchanting Kimono Forest in Kyoto, a stunning exhibit showcasing the beauty of traditional Japanese kimonos through vibrant fabric pillars.
Adashino Nenbutsuji
2.0 km
Discover the serene beauty of Adashino Nenbutsuji, a historic Buddhist temple in Kyoto, adorned with thousands of stone statues and lush gardens.
Red Torii Gate
2.0 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Red Torii Gate in Kyoto, a serene Shinto shrine that merges nature with Japan's rich spiritual heritage.
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
Discover tranquility at Jikishi-an Temple in Kyoto, where serene gardens and traditional architecture create a perfect escape for tourists.
Hozukyō Station
3.0 km
Discover the enchanting Hozukyō Station in Kameoka, a scenic gateway to Kyoto's natural beauty and cultural treasures.
Mausoleum of Emperor Go-Uda
3.2 km
Discover the tranquility and historical significance of the Mausoleum of Emperor Go-Uda, a must-visit landmark in Kyoto's lush landscapes.
Katsura Imperial Villa
4.8 km
Explore the exquisite Katsura Imperial Villa, a historical masterpiece of Japanese architecture and serene gardens in the heart of Kyoto.
Ryōan-ji
5.5 km
Discover the tranquility of Ryōan-ji, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Kyoto, known for its iconic Zen rock garden and rich cultural heritage.
Kyoto City Rakusai Bamboo Park
5.9 km
Experience tranquility at Kyoto City Rakusai Bamboo Park, where serene bamboo groves and picturesque paths offer a peaceful escape in the heart of Kyoto.
Kinkaku-ji
6.6 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion, a stunning Buddhist temple surrounded by serene gardens in Kyoto, Japan.
Kyoto Samurai Experience/和樂Waraku
7.4 km
Experience the rich history of the samurai at the Kyoto Samurai Experience, where tradition meets adventure in the heart of Japan.
Nijō Castle
7.5 km
Explore the splendid Nijō Castle in Kyoto, a UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing Japan's feudal history through stunning architecture and serene gardens.
Kyoto Shibori Museum
7.9 km
Experience the intricate beauty of shibori at the Kyoto Shibori Museum, where art and tradition intertwine to create a unique cultural journey.
Unmissable attractions to see
Rankyo Gorge
0.6 km
Explore the enchanting beauty of Rankyo Gorge, a serene escape in Kyoto with stunning landscapes, vibrant foliage, and tranquil waters.
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
Discover the serene beauty of Kyoto with a tranquil boat ride along the Hozugawa River, where nature meets history in stunning harmony.
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
Discover the breathtaking views of Okochi Sanso Gorge Observation Deck in Kyoto, a serene escape into nature with a taste of Japanese culture.
Hogon-in
0.8 km
Explore the serene beauty of Hogon-in, a captivating Buddhist temple in Kyoto, known for its tranquil gardens and rich cultural heritage.
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
Discover tranquility and natural beauty at Sogenchi Teien, a stunning pond garden in Kyoto's Tenryuji Temple complex, perfect for relaxation and reflection.
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
Discover the tranquil beauty and spiritual heritage of Mikami Shrine, a must-visit Shinto shrine nestled in the lush hills of Kyoto.
Tenryu-ji
1.0 km
Discover the tranquility of Tenryu-ji, a UNESCO World Heritage Zen temple in Kyoto, surrounded by stunning gardens and rich history.
Hondo
1.0 km
Discover the serene beauty of Hondo, a tranquil Buddhist temple in Kyoto's Arashiyama district, steeped in history and spiritual significance.
Essential places to dine
Kameyamaya
0.7 km
Discover the flavors of traditional Kyoto cuisine at Kameyamaya, where every dish tells a story.
Kyoto Kitcho Arashiyama
0.9 km
Experience the art of kaiseki at Kyoto Kitcho Arashiyama - where tradition meets culinary excellence in breathtaking surroundings.
MUKU
1.0 km
Discover MUKU: A hidden gem in Arashiyama offering authentic Japanese breakfasts and lunches amidst stunning natural beauty.
Arashiyama Yoshimura
1.1 km
Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Arashiyama Yoshimura, a traditional soba noodle shop with stunning riverside views in Kyoto.
Arashiyama MITATE
1.3 km
Experience exquisite French dining in Kyoto's scenic Arashiyama district at Arashiyama MITATE.
Kijurou
1.3 km
Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Kijurou, where premium steak meets traditional yakiniku grilling in beautiful Kyoto.
Akamanma
1.3 km
Discover Akamanma: A delightful fusion of Italian and local flavors nestled in the heart of Kyoto's culinary landscape.
Le Bouchon T
1.4 km
Experience exquisite Western cuisine at Le Bouchon T in Kyoto's scenic Ukyo Ward - where culinary artistry meets tradition.
Azasino
1.4 km
Discover authentic Japanese soba noodles at Azasino in Kyoto—a delightful blend of tradition and flavor awaits every visitor.
Arashiyama Curry
1.6 km
Experience the authentic taste of Japan at Arashiyama Curry – where delicious flavors meet serene surroundings.
Arashiyama Sakura
1.9 km
Discover exquisite Japanese cuisine amidst breathtaking cherry blossoms at Arashiyama Sakura in Kyoto's enchanting landscape.
Tempura Matsu
2.2 km
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Okonomiyaki Katsu
5.4 km
Experience authentic okonomiyaki in Kyoto at Okonomiyaki Katsu - where flavors come alive in every savory pancake!
和牛料亭bungo 四条大宮
7.5 km
Discover authentic Kyoto-style cuisine at 和牛料亭bungo, where high-quality wagyu beef meets traditional Japanese hospitality.
Tategami
7.9 km
Experience authentic Kyoto-style Japanese cuisine at Tategami - where tradition meets innovation in every bite.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
% ARABICA Kyoto Arashiyama
1.0 km
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Kyoto Orgel-Dō Arashiyama
1.0 km
Explore the whimsical world of Kyoto Orgel-Dō Arashiyama, where handcrafted music boxes and charming toys bring joy and nostalgia to every visitor.
Rakuraku
1.1 km
Discover unique souvenirs and authentic gifts at Rakuraku, a charming store in Kyoto celebrating Japan's rich cultural heritage.
Arashiyama Shoryuen
1.1 km
Explore Arashiyama Shoryuen: a vibrant shopping mall in Kyoto featuring delightful food, unique souvenirs, and a taste of local culture.
Akogareya
1.2 km
Explore the essence of Kyoto at Akogareya, where each souvenir tells a story of tradition and craftsmanship.
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
Experience the charm of Kyoto with unique music boxes, perfect for souvenirs and gifts that celebrate Japanese artistry.
Kotouen
1.4 km
Discover the artistry of traditional Japanese ceramics at Kotouen, a captivating pottery store in the heart of Kyoto.
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
Discover Pizzeria Mama in Arashiyama for a unique blend of Italian pizza and Kyoto's fresh local ingredients.
Arashiyama Nomura
1.2 km
Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Arashiyama Nomura, where savory okonomiyaki and delightful desserts await in the beautiful Arashiyama district.
eX cafe Kyoto Arashiyama
1.2 km
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Nouvelle Japonaise Arashiyama
1.7 km
Savor traditional Japanese cuisine with a creative twist at Nouvelle Japonaise Arashiyama, a culinary gem in the heart of Kyoto.
Aux Mines
4.3 km
Experience the unique blend of traditional and modern at Aux Mines, a hidden bar in Kyoto offering a curated selection of drinks and a cozy ambiance.
Bar G3
5.9 km
Discover Bar G3, a vibrant Kyoto bar blending traditional charm with a modern twist, perfect for an unforgettable night out.
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
Discover the unique blend of Irish and Japanese hospitality at Man in the Moon, Kyoto's beloved pub near the station.
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
Discover Kyoto's vibrant nightlife at The Roots of All Evil, a bar where innovative cocktails and a welcoming atmosphere meet.
別館 BAR K家
9.0 km
Immerse yourself in Kyoto's nightlife at 別館 BAR K家, where traditional charm meets innovative cocktails.
bar K-ya main building
9.0 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Kyoto at Bar K-ya, where cozy ambiance meets an eclectic drink selection in the heart of the city.
The Stones
9.1 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of The Stones, Kyoto's favorite pub offering affordable drinks and a chance to mingle with locals and travelers.
Bar Rocking chair
9.1 km
Discover the exciting nightlife at Bar Rocking Chair, Kyoto's premier cocktail bar, offering a diverse selection of drinks in a vibrant atmosphere.
