Arashiyama Guide
Arashiyama, set on the outskirts of Kyoto, offers a tranquil escape from the bustling city center. Famous for its serene bamboo forests, historic shrines and temples, and stunning mountain scenery, it’s a must-visit destination in Kyoto.
Creating an itinerary for Arashiyama can seem daunting, especially for those new to the area. However, this guide aims to help visitors make the most of their time in this enchanting Kyoto district.
Visitors can enjoy a leisurely walk through the renowned bamboo groves, surrounded by the impressive greenery. At Iwatayama Monkey Park, they have the opportunity to interact with the amiable monkeys. The area is also home to historical sites like Tenryu-ji and Daikaku-ji, offering a glimpse into Japan’s rich past. Exploring the preserved rural streets of Sagano adds to the experience, while scenic lookout points provide breathtaking views of Arashiyama. For a different perspective, a cruise down the Hozu River is recommended. Additionally, tasting the local soba noodles is a must for culinary enthusiasts.
Getting to Arashiyama from Kyoto
Traveling from Kyoto to Arashiyama, located about 30-45 minutes to the west of central Kyoto, can be comfortably done by train. Here are some options: From Kyoto Station, one can board the JR Sagano Line heading to Saga Arashiyama Station. This journey typically takes around 15 minutes and costs 240 yen. Another route is via the Hankyu Railways, starting from Kawaramachi or Karasuma Station to Hankyu Arashiyama Station. This route takes about 30 minutes and the fare is 310 yen.
For those coming from Osaka, the Hankyu Railways provides direct access to Hankyu Arashiyama Station. This trip lasts approximately 50 minutes and the ticket price is 560 yen. Additionally, the Keifuku Railways (Randen) offers a service from Shijo Omiya Station to Arashiyama Station, taking around 45 minutes and costing 230 yen. Upon arrival in Arashiyama, the main attractions are conveniently accessible either on foot or by a short bus ride. For those looking to explore further, rental bikes are a popular option in the area.
Arashiyama 1 day trip
For a full day exploration in Arashiyama, here’s a recommended itinerary from morning to evening:
- Morning (8:00am – 12:00pm):
The day begins on the tranquil north side of Arashiyama, near Togetsukyo Bridge. Visitors can start at Hankyu Arashiyama Station, the most convenient entry point on this side. A brief 5-minute walk leads to the bridge.
Crossing Togetsukyo Bridge offers a moment to appreciate the views of the Katsura and Oi Rivers. The bridge, with its history dating back to the Heian Period, is a scenic spot.
A visit to the Okochi Sanso Villa follows. The villa, previously owned by a renowned Japanese actor, showcases beautiful gardens and historic architecture.
Next is a 20-minute hike to Monkey Park Iwatayama, where visitors can watch and feed wild monkeys in an open environment.
The journey continues through the famous Bamboo Grove. Walking amidst the towering bamboo stalks is a unique experience, best enjoyed early in the day before the crowds arrive.
The morning concludes with a visit to Tenryu-ji Temple, Arashiyama’s most significant temple and a UNESCO World Heritage site. The temple’s expansive zen gardens and intricate architecture are a must-see.
- Afternoon (12:00pm – 4:00pm):
Continuing the Arashiyama adventure, after taking in the bamboo groves and Tenryu-ji, a crossing back over Togetsukyo Bridge leads to the often overlooked but charming south side. Here are some highlights for this part of the journey:
A visit to Daikaku-ji Temple is a must. As one of Kyoto’s largest temples with origins in the early 800s, it offers a tranquil walk through the Osawa Pond garden.
For lunch, there’s an array of riverside dining options. Visitors can enjoy udon noodles, tempura, or Japanese curry, with many cafes and eateries featuring outdoor seating.
Renting an electric-assist bicycle near Arashiyama Station is a great way to explore more extensively. Several bike rental shops can be found in the vicinity of the station.
Jojakko-ji Temple, nestled on the mountainside, is renowned for its stunning autumn colors. The temple features a thatched roof gate and a quaint shrine hall.
Gio-ji Temple, with its mossy landscape and serene forest setting, offers an almost mystical atmosphere. The temple is well-known for its well-preserved thatched roof and wooden accents.
The journey can be rounded off with a leisurely walk down Saga-Toriimoto Preserved Street, a historic thoroughfare lined with traditional houses, shops, and restaurants, offering a glimpse into old-world Japan.
Late afternoon options:
Embarking on a boat ride along the Hozu River is an excellent way to appreciate the scenic beauty of Arashiyama, with its lush forests and ancient temples visible from the water. Another recommended stop is Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple, where visitors can marvel at the collection of over 1200 stone Buddha statues, each with its own unique expression, nestled in the forest.
To unwind after a day of exploration, a visit to a local hot spring bath or spa is ideal. Tenzan-no-yu is a popular choice, offering both indoor and open-air baths, providing a relaxing and rejuvenating experience before enjoying dinner.
- Evening (4:00pm – 8:00pm)
Concluding a day in Arashiyama, a delightful dining experience awaits with options like sushi or kaiseki-ryori, a traditional multi-course Japanese dinner. Notable dining establishments include Kitcho Arashiyama for an exquisite kaiseki experience and Teppan-Ku for exceptional sushi.
For those visiting in mid-December, a special treat is the illuminated bamboo grove, a breathtaking sight. Additionally, an evening can be further enriched by attending a traditional performing art show at Gion Corner in the Higashiyama district, offering a glimpse into Japan’s rich cultural heritage.
Tips for visiting Arashiyama
For a less crowded experience at popular spots like the Arashiyama bamboo grove, it’s advisable to plan a visit on a weekday. The area is notably busy during the cherry blossom season in early April, so late March or May are recommended as more serene alternatives. For a unique and immersive cultural experience, renting a kimono and exploring Arashiyama in traditional Japanese attire is a popular activity. To fully immerse oneself in the traditional Japanese ambiance, staying at a ryokan, such as Hoshinoya Kyoto or Arashiyama Benkei, is an excellent choice. Arashiyama is particularly stunning during the fall, with mid-November to early December being the prime time to witness the breathtaking transformation of foliage into vibrant shades of orange and red. For those seeking an in-depth exploration of Arashiyama, considering a guided tour can be beneficial. Services like Sharing Kyoto and Voyagin offer comprehensive tours, providing valuable insights, helping to avoid long lines, and ensuring visitors don’t miss any key attractions.
