Kyoto Arashiyama Perfect Guide: Famous Spots, Hidden Gems, and Restaurants

Arashiyama, located in the western part of Kyoto, is a place where Kyoto's nature and culture are concentrated. During my two years living in Kyoto as a graduate student, I visited Arashiyama many times. Each time, I was captivated by the beauty of Arashiyama, which shows different expressions with each season.

In spring, it's crowded with cherry blossom viewers as a famous spot for sakura. I remember enjoying hanami with my friends at the foot of Togetsukyo Bridge. In summer, I strolled through the bamboo grove path where the fresh greenery is dazzling. Walking in the dappled sunlight, I felt as if I had wandered into a different world.

And Arashiyama in autumn exudes even more charm as a famous spot for autumn leaves. The view of the mountains dyed in vermilion color from Togetsukyo Bridge is still vividly etched in my memory.

I also visited hidden spots in Arashiyama that few tourists see. The beautiful garden of Nisonin Temple nestled behind the bamboo grove, the group of countless stone Buddhas lined up at Adashino Nenbutsuji Temple. I still remember being deeply moved by such hidden charms of Arashiyama.

In this article, I will convey the charms of Arashiyama, which is full of such memories of mine, without omission. From standard tourist spots to hidden gems, I hope you can fully enjoy the charms of Arashiyama while incorporating access methods, ways to enjoy, and gourmet information.

When you visit Kyoto, please make sure to stop by Arashiyama. I'm sure a special experience awaits you, where you can cleanse your heart with the beauty of nature, feel history, and eat delicious food.

Please see my beloved Arashiyama with your own eyes!

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Table of Contents
・What is Arashiyama?
・Recommended Access Methods to Arashiyama
・Highlights of Arashiyama
・Two Hidden Gems in Arashiyama
・Activities to Experience in Arashiyama
・How to Enjoy Arashiyama in Each Season
・Dining in Arashiyama
・Recommended Tours to Fully Enjoy Arashiyama

What is Arashiyama?

First, let me explain what kind of place Arashiyama is.

Arashiyama is a tourist spot in a nature-rich valley in the western part of Kyoto City. This area, which has been loved by the people of Kyoto since ancient times, is known for its beautiful scenery that can be enjoyed in all four seasons, such as bamboo groves and Togetsukyo Bridge. It's also characterized by the presence of many historic temples and shrines, including Tenryuji Temple and Nonomiya Shrine.

Arashiyama, where rich nature and historical buildings harmonize, can be said to be a highlight of Kyoto tourism. It's understandable that many tourists visit to see the scenery that changes with each season.

Recommended Access Methods to Arashiyama

Now, let's talk about how to access Arashiyama.

Basically, the train is the most convenient way to move to Arashiyama. The nearest station is Saga-Arashiyama Station on the JR Sagano Line. It takes about 15 minutes from Kyoto Station. You can also use the Hankyu Railway's Arashiyama Line, which takes about 25 minutes from Kyoto-Kawaramachi Station, changing trains at Katsura Station to reach Arashiyama Station.

There's also a more niche line, the Randen (Keifuku Electric Railroad) Arashiyama Main Line, but it's not used as often.

After arriving in Arashiyama, it's common to move around on foot. Most tourist spots are within walking distance. However, you'll end up walking quite a bit, so I recommend visiting in comfortable shoes and clothes.

Highlights of Arashiyama

Now, let's introduce the highlights of Arashiyama.

Togetsukyo Bridge

First, you can't miss "Togetsukyo Bridge," which is considered the symbol of Arashiyama. This wooden bridge spanning the Katsura River is 155 meters long. As its name suggests, meaning "Moon Crossing Bridge," its elegant figure has become an indispensable part of Arashiyama's landscape.

From the bridge, you can get a panoramic view of Arashiyama's scenery. It's especially lit up at night, showing a fantastical expression different from daytime. When you visit Arashiyama, make sure to stand on this Togetsukyo Bridge and view the scenery of the four seasons.

Bamboo Grove Path

Along with Togetsukyo Bridge, the "Bamboo Grove Path" is synonymous with Arashiyama.

Arashiyama has a vast bamboo grove, and a path has been developed where you can walk through it. The view of the bamboo grove towering 10 to 20 meters high is breathtaking. You can experience a sensation as if walking through a green tunnel of bamboo.

Walking through this fantastical space while listening to the sound of bamboo rustling in the wind is one of the highlights of Arashiyama sightseeing. Since you've come to Kyoto, please experience it.

Tenryuji Temple

You can't miss "Tenryuji Temple," the premier attraction in Arashiyama. This temple, founded in 1339, is full of highlights including majestic temple architecture and traditional gardens. Especially during the autumn foliage season, a scene of the temple grounds vividly colored unfolds.

Tenryuji Temple is in a convenient location within Arashiyama, so it's perfect for dropping by between sightseeing. It's a temple you must visit when you come to Arashiyama.

Website: https://www.tenryuji.com/en/

Nonomiya Shrine

When it comes to spots where you can feel the atmosphere of Arashiyama, you can't miss "Nonomiya Shrine." This shrine, said to have been founded in the Heian period, is also known as a hiking course from the Bamboo Grove Path.

It's also famous for its benefits in matchmaking, so it's popular with people wishing for success in love. The moss garden is also beautiful, so please make sure to visit.

Website: http://www.nonomiya.com/

Sagano Romantic Train

The "Sagano Romantic Train," where you can view the scenery of Arashiyama from the train window, is also a popular tourist activity.

This sightseeing train connecting Arashiyama and Kameoka is characterized by open-air trolley-style cars. You can enjoy the scenic beauty of the Hozugawa River gorge while feeling the breeze. It's the perfect activity for viewing the different expressions of Arashiyama in each season.

Website:https://www.sagano-kanko.co.jp/en/

Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama

As a bit of a unique spot, I also recommend "Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama."

This facility in the mountains of Arashiyama is a habitat for wild Japanese macaques. About 120 monkeys live here. Inside the park, you can observe the ecology of monkeys up close.

Also, from the observatory of the Monkey Park, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Kyoto City. I recommend extending your feet a bit to enjoy interacting with wild animals and the grand panorama of Kyoto.

Website: http://www.monkeypark.jp/eng-index.html

Two Hidden Gems in Arashiyama

In addition to the standard tourist spots, there are still many hidden gems in Arashiyama. Here, I'll introduce two such off-the-beaten-path spots.

Nisonin Temple

The first is "Nisonin Temple." It's known for its particularly beautiful autumn leaves in Arashiyama, and the landscape of the garden is wonderful. The best time to visit is from mid to late November when the temple grounds are dyed in vivid colors.

It's a bit far from Tenryuji Temple, but you can get there in about a 20-minute walk. Please extend your feet here during your Arashiyama sightseeing.

Website: https://nisonin.jp/?lang=en

Adashino Nenbutsuji Temple

Another hidden gem is "Adashino Nenbutsuji Temple." This venerable temple, founded in 811, is impressive with about 8,000 stone Buddha statues lined up in the precincts.

These stone Buddhas are called "Muenbotoke" and were built to memorialize people who had no relatives. The sight like a forest of stone Buddhas creates a mysterious atmosphere that can't be experienced elsewhere.

Adashino Nenbutsuji Temple is about a 30-minute walk from Tenryuji Temple, but it's a real hidden gem with fewer people. I think it's one of the highlights of Arashiyama sightseeing to contemplate the thousands of stone Buddhas standing in silence.

Website: https://www.nenbutsuji.jp/index.html

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Activities to Experience in Arashiyama

Not only can you enjoy beautiful scenery, but you can also experience various activities in Arashiyama. Here, I'll pick up and introduce two particularly recommended ones.

Kimono Rental

The first one is "Kimono Rental." If you stroll around Arashiyama dressed in kimono or yukata, you can feel like you've become the protagonist of a historical drama.

There are many kimono rental shops around Arashiyama. You can feel at ease as they provide total support from dressing to hair arrangement and accessory rental. I'm sure you'll be able to take wonderful memorable photos.

Website: https://ewha-yifu.com/en/

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Rickshaw

You can experience a time slip to an old era with a "Rickshaw." You can tour the scenic spots of Arashiyama while listening to explanations from the rickshaw puller.

One of the attractions is that you can efficiently visit the highlights of Arashiyama, such as Togetsukyo Bridge and the Bamboo Grove Path. There's also a service where they take commemorative photos for you along the way, making it perfect for creating special memories.

The fee varies depending on the course, but it's about 4,000 yen for one person and around 5,000 yen for two people. It's a bit pricey, but I think it's well worth it. Please enjoy this elegant Kyoto-like moment.

How to Enjoy Arashiyama in Each Season

While Arashiyama shows different expressions in each season, spring and autumn are particularly popular seasons. But actually, Arashiyama in summer is also full of attractions. Winter is an off-season period when not many tourists visit. Here, I'll introduce recommended ways to enjoy each season.

Most Recommended: Autumn (November to Early December)

First, my top recommendation is the autumn foliage season. Arashiyama is known as one of Kyoto's best spots for autumn leaves, and it's crowded with many tourists every year.

The peak viewing time is particularly in mid-November, when Togetsukyo Bridge, Tenryuji Temple, and various places in Arashiyama are dyed in vivid red colors. The night-time illuminated autumn leaves are breathtakingly beautiful and fantastical. I also recommend riding the Romantic Train to view the colored valley.

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Spring (March to May)

The charm of Arashiyama in spring is, of course, the cherry blossoms. From late March to early April, the cherry blossoms around Togetsukyo Bridge are in full bloom, and it's crowded with many cherry blossom viewers.

After the cherry blossom season, the season of beautiful fresh greenery arrives. Arashiyama in May is wrapped in dazzling green, and it's very refreshing. I love this time when the sunlight filtering through the trees feels pleasant.

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Summer (June to October)

You might have an image of Kyoto's summer being hot and humid, but Arashiyama is relatively cool and comfortable. This season when the greenery is very beautiful is perfect for enjoying nature.

Personally, I recommend riding the Romantic Train through the fresh greenery. The refreshing feeling of cutting through the wind will surely blow away the summer heat.

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Winter (December to February)

Winter is the season when Arashiyama has the fewest tourists. Because it's cold, there are fewer attractions compared to other seasons.

But the snow-covered scenery of Arashiyama is exceptionally beautiful. The sight of Togetsukyo Bridge and the Bamboo Grove Path wrapped in silver is like a painting. Because there are fewer people, you can enjoy a quiet Arashiyama.

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Dining in Arashiyama

An essential part of Arashiyama sightseeing is enjoying delicious gourmet food. Arashiyama has various restaurants and cafes, from casual lunches to authentic Kyoto cuisine. Here, I'll introduce my recommendations, divided into lunch and dinner.

Recommended Shops for Enjoying Lunch in Arashiyama

During the day, Arashiyama is bustling with many cafes and restaurants crowded with tourists. From among these, I've selected three especially recommended shops.

Arashiyama Yoshimura

Source: Tabelog by Tamakazura

First, I'll introduce "Arashiyama Yoshimura," where you can taste the traditional noodle dish, soba. It's attractive for being delicious, reasonably priced, and easily accessible without a reservation.

It's also nice that you can enjoy your meal while viewing the scenery of Arashiyama from some seats. I especially recommend the window seats. You can enjoy an authentic soba lunch for about 1,000 to 2,000 yen per person.

<Store Information>
Address: 3 Sagatenryuji Susukinobabacho, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto 616-8385
Closed: None
Phone: 075-863-5700
Hours: 11 AM–5 PM
Website: https://yoshimura-gr.com/arashiyama/

Ryotei Rangetsu

Source: Tabelog by Ozawasan

Next is the slightly luxurious "Ryotei Rangetsu." Here, you can enjoy an authentic Kyoto cuisine lunch course for about 4,000 to 6,000 yen.

The business days are irregular, so don't forget to check in advance. There are also seats with good views, so I recommend requesting one when entering. You can also make reservations online in English.

<Store Information>
Address: 7 Sagatenryuji Susukinobabacho, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto 616-8385
Closed: Irregular
Phone: 075-865-2000
Hours: 11:30 AM–3 PM
Website: https://rangetsu.jp/en/

Taisho HANANA

Source: Tabelog by bouya7

Lastly, there's "Taisho HANANA." This is a unique restaurant specializing in sea bream dishes, with their signature dish being "Tai Chazuke" (sea bream over rice with tea poured over). You place sea bream on top of rice and pour tea over it. It's exquisite.

It's always crowded during lunchtime, so I recommend going early. You can enjoy Arashiyama's unique gourmet food for about 2,000 to 3,000 yen per person.

<Store Information>
Address: 26-1 Sagatenryuji Setogawacho, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, 616-8376
Closed: None  
Phone: 075-862-8771
Hours: 11 AM–3:30 PM
Website: http://www.hanana-kyoto.com/

Recommended Shops for Enjoying Dinner in Arashiyama

Actually, Arashiyama is an area where many shops close at night. But there are nice restaurants where you can enjoy dinner. Here, I'll introduce two popular shops.

Inoue

Source: Tabelog by マハシャイ

First is "Inoue," where you can enjoy Kyoto's traditional home cooking "Obanzai." It's a still relatively unknown izakaya in Arashiyama, popular for its high-quality obanzai and drinks.

This shop with a local atmosphere is also recommended for tourists. The budget is about 4,000 to 5,000 yen per person, which is reasonable for dinner in Arashiyama.

<Store Information>
Address: 18 Sagatenryuji Kurumamichicho, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, 616-8373
Closed: Sundays
Phone: 075-882-2418  
Hours:  5 PM –9:30 PM
Website: https://tabelog.com/en/kyoto/A2601/A260403/26017204/

Yudofu Takemura

Source: Tabelog by Yudofu Takemura

The other one is "Yudofu Takemura," a long-established restaurant for Kyoto's specialty "Yudofu" (hot tofu). Yudofu is a healthy dish where tofu is warmed in a pot with kombu dashi (kelp broth) and enjoyed with ponzu sauce or other condiments. Its delicate flavor can be said to embody Kyoto's food culture.

You can use this place without a reservation. This is a nice point because many yudofu restaurants in central Kyoto require reservations. The budget is about 3,000 to 4,000 yen per person, allowing you to enjoy authentic yudofu relatively reasonably.

<Store Information>
Address: 48-7 Sagatenryuji Kitatsukurimichicho, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, 616-8374
Closed: Thursdays
Phone: 075-861-1483
Hours:  11 AM–8 PM
Website: https://www.yudouhutakemura.com/

Recommended Tours to Fully Enjoy Arashiyama

For your Arashiyama sightseeing, you'll surely want to experience its charm to the fullest. So finally, I'll introduce two recommended tours that allow you to thoroughly enjoy Arashiyama.

"Kyoto Arashiyama Bamboo Forest & Garden Half-Day Walking Tour" by Magical Trip

The first one is the "Kyoto Arashiyama Bamboo Forest & Garden Half-Day Walking Tour" offered by us at Magical Trip. This is a fulfilling tour where you can enjoy the charms of Arashiyama over 5 hours.

The attraction is that you can efficiently visit Arashiyama's famous spots like the Bamboo Grove Path and Tenryuji Temple, and also hear interesting local stories from the guide. It's a luxurious plan that includes tasting Kyoto's local cuisine along the way. The fee is about 105 USD per person including lunch, which is a bit high, but I think it's well worth it.

Click here for more details: Kyoto Arashiyama Bamboo Forest & Garden Half-Day Walking Tour

"Arashiyama Walking Tour - Bamboo Forest, Monkey Park & Secrets" by Japanify Kyoto Tours

Source: Japanify Kyoto Tours

The other one is the "Arashiyama Walking Tour - Bamboo Forest, Monkey Park & Secrets" offered by Japanify Kyoto Tours. This is a handy tour that covers Arashiyama's main spots like the Bamboo Grove, Tenryuji Temple, and Monkey Park.

It takes about 2 hours and costs about 80 USD per person. It's quite reasonably priced compared to the previous tour. Lunch is not included, but I recommend it for those who want to enjoy Arashiyama's spots at a leisurely pace.

Click here for more details: Arashiyama Walking Tour - Bamboo Forest, Monkey Park & Secrets

In this article, I've conveyed the charms of Arashiyama, one of Kyoto's most nature-rich spots, without omission.

This area, where rich nature and historical temples and shrines harmonize, is a must-visit area when sightseeing in Kyoto. There are many highlights, from standard spots like Togetsukyo Bridge and the Bamboo Grove Path to hidden gems like Nisonin Temple and Adashino Nenbutsuji Temple.

Also, a big attraction of Arashiyama is that you can enjoy different expressions in each season. The cherry blossoms in spring and the autumn leaves in fall are especially breathtakingly beautiful.

As introduced in this article, I think Arashiyama, where all kinds of charms including nature, history, culture, and gourmet food are condensed, is a spot where you can make new discoveries every time you visit. Please use the information introduced here as a reference to fully enjoy Arashiyama!

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