About Arashiyama
Arashiyama is a scenic district on Kyoto's western outskirts, famous for its towering Bamboo Grove where paths wind through impossibly tall bamboo stalks that creak and sway in the wind. Beyond the iconic grove, Arashiyama offers riverside walks, historic temples, mountain views, traditional shops, and the Togetsukyo Bridge crossing the Hozu River. This area has been a retreat for Kyoto aristocracy for over 1,000 years. Pair this stop with the Kyoto guide and the wider Japan overview.
⏰ Hours & Best Times
- Grove: Always open (no gates or fees)
- Best: Early morning (7-8 AM) before tour groups
- Magical light: Dawn or dusk when sun filters through bamboo
- Avoid: Midday - incredibly crowded with selfie sticks
💰 Costs
- Bamboo Grove: Free
- Tenryu-ji Temple: ¥500 (starting point for grove)
- Monkey Park: ¥550 to see wild monkeys on mountain
- Boat ride: ¥2,000 for scenic river cruise
✨ Highlights
- 🎋 Bamboo Grove path: 500m walk through towering stalks
- ⛩️ Tenryu-ji Temple: UNESCO zen temple with stunning garden
- 🌉 Togetsukyo Bridge: Iconic wooden bridge with mountain backdrop
- 🐵 Monkey Park Iwatayama: Wild monkeys with city views
- 🚂 Sagano Scenic Railway: Vintage train through gorge
- 🍜 Traditional shops: Yudofu tofu restaurants, matcha desserts
📝 Tips
- Early arrival essential: 7-8 AM for peaceful bamboo experience
- Start at Tenryu-ji: Enter through temple garden (more serene)
- Sound experience: Wind rustling through bamboo is otherworldly
- Allow half day: Area has much more than just bamboo grove
- Rental kimono: Popular to wear kimono here for photos (¥3,000-5,000)