ARASHIYAMA
24 minutes by train from Kyoto Station (direct on the san-in line) - ¥240 - directions
Arashiyama is renowned for its natural beauty and cultural attractions. Visitors can explore the iconic Bamboo Grove, a lush forest of towering bamboo stalks, and stroll along the picturesque Togetsukyo Bridge spanning the Hozu River.
✦ Sagano Bamboo Forest - Stroll paths lined with endless rows of bamboo
1/1km / 13 minutes on foot from Saga Arashiyama Station - directions
The Sagano Bamboo Forest is a mesmerizing natural wonder. Tall bamboo groves create a serene and picturesque pathway that leads to the enchanting Nonomiya Shrine.
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As we’ve already touched on, especially in Kyoto and the surrounding cities, the tourist hot spots get CROWDED, but if you’re willing to rise a little earlier than the locals, you’ll get the sites largely to yourself! If you’re looking to make the most of the quiet morning hours, we recommend arriving to Arashiyama between 7:00am ~ 8:00am to get the most out of the bamboo forest, then continuing onto Okochi Sanso when it opens at 9:00am.
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The bamboo forest is a very popular place for local artists to set up shop to sell their wares, we’ve found some of the most unique pieces from local vendors in the Bamboo forest and it’s surrounds, and the artists themselves are always incredibly friendly and up for a chat.
One of note is Kinji Nakamura, he sells postcards and has a map of the world by his stall that he marks the hometown of all his customers in. He usually sets up shop at the start of the Kameyama Park Monument Path.
✦ Sagano Romantic Train - Follow the Hozukyo Ravine through the forest
170m / 3 minutes on foot from Sagano Bamboo Forest - directions (Torokko Station)
Open: Running towards Kameoka 9:00am ~ 4:25pm
Closed: No Closures
The Sagano Romantic Train, also known as the Sagano Scenic Railway, is a charming sightseeing train that offers passengers a leisurely ride along through the scenic Hozugawa River gorge, showcasing picturesque landscapes, lush greenery, and serene river views.
Departures: 9:05am
Duration: 25 Minutes
Cost Each Way: Adult ¥907
🚩 Prior Reservation is Recommended - To be booked by Japan Junket
✦ Hozugawa River Boat Ride - River raft back to Arashiyama
550m / 7 minutes on foot from Kameoka Station - directions
Open March 1st ~ December 8th 9:00am ~ 3:00pm / December 9th ~ March 9th 10:00am ~ 2:30pm
Closed: May be closed with late notice for bad weather days or if water levels are too dangerous (too high or too low)
The Hozugawa River Boat Ride offers the opportunity to drift down river, back to Arashiyama, on traditional wooden boats. It’s a scenic and exhilarating way to see Hozugawa valley and the stunning Japanese countryside from a different perspective.
Departures: 10:00am
Duration: 2 Hours
Cost: Adult ¥6,179
🚩 Prior Reservation is Recommended - To be booked by Japan Junket
🍴 Itsuki Chaya - Traditional Japanese Restaurant
750m / 11 minutes walk from Hozugawa River Boat Ride End Point - directions
Open: 9:30am ~ 8:00pm
Closed: No Closures
[Non-Vegetarian/Vegan Friendly/Gluten-Free Friendly]
Itsuki Chaya, nestled along the banks of the Katsura River in Arashiyama, Kyoto, is renowned as the premier dining destination in the area, holding the top spot on Tabelog, Japan's leading restaurant review site. This traditional Japanese restaurant offers a unique culinary experience against the backdrop of the picturesque river, known for its tranquil beauty.
Check out their menu
🚨 Prior Reservation is required - booking link - To be made Independently (NOT booked by Japan Junket)
CASH ONLY - I recommend a 12:30pm sitting
Iwatayama Monkey Park - Feed the famous Japanese Macaques
350m / 5 minutes on foot from Itsuki Chaya - directions
Open: 9:00am ~ 4:00pm
Closed: 1st Jan - In the event of bad weather
Iwatayama Monkey Park is a unique attraction in Kyoto, Japan, situated on Mount Arashiyama. Visitors can observe Japanese macaque monkeys, also known as "snow monkeys," in a semi-wild environment. Guests hike to the park's summit while enjoying scenic views of Kyoto and then interact with the monkeys in an enclosed area. Feeding the monkeys is a popular activity, and the park provides an educational and entertaining experience for both nature enthusiasts and families visiting Arashiyama.
Note: The park recommends “don’t stare” and "don’t touch" as the Monkey are friendly, but wild.
There’s a small playground down the hill with some vending machines where the kids can play, please consider that these macaques are wild before venturing into the park with small children.
Cost: Adult ¥600 - CASH ONLY
📷 Arashiyama Kimono Forest
650m / 9 minutes on foot from Itsuki Chaya - directions
The Kimono Forest in Arashiyama is a stunning display of traditional Japanese garments, or kimonos, transformed into illuminated pillars. These pillars are adorned with various kimono fabrics, each representing a unique aspect of Kyoto's rich cultural heritage. Arashiyama has a long history as a hub for kimono production, with many textile artisans and workshops contributing to the area's reputation for exquisite craftsmanship.
Arashiyama Foot Onsen
At the end of the Kimono Forest, you’ll find Arashiyama Stations Foot Onsen. It’s free to use, so take a moment to relax and soothe your tired feet the Japanese way.