Local tells Top 10 Things to Do in Arashiyama!Perfect spot for a quiet stroll

Hi,I’m Keiko from Osaka!

Arashiyama is the western outskirt of Kyoto that is known for scenic beauties and numerous historic site.

There is a beautiful mountain and mystic valley where many from all over the world come to admire especially in spring and fall.

This is a perfect spot for a quiet stroll, hiking, admiring historical properties, cultural activities, etc.

Here are top 10 things to do in Arashiyama!

10 Things to Do in Arashiyama

1.Togetsukyo Bridge/渡月橋

Togetsukyo bridge is one of the most scenic bridges in Japan.

It is a scenic 155-meter bridge crossing across Katsura river, rebuilt in 1934.
“Togetsu” literally means the moon crossing, deriving from a historical tale that the emperor once viewed the moon there and thought it was crossing the bridge.

Besides the scenic beauties of the mountain of Arashiyama and serene river, there are souvenir shops, restaurants, and cafes.

This is a perfect place for a stroll.

In order to get there, take JR Sagano or Sanin Main line from Kyoto station to Saga Arashiyama station.

Alternately, you may take Keifuku or Arashiyama Main line to Arashiyama station.

2.Tenryuji Temple/天龍寺

Tenryuji temple perhaps is the most significant zen temple in Arashiyama.

Established in 1339, this historic temple is registered as the World Heritage site.

The temple building has been renovated, repaired numerous times however the famous garden has kept its charm from the original time.

The beautiful garden that surrounds the big pond reflect the surrounding nature of Arashiyama and will give you a peace of mind.

The temple is a short walk from Keifuku Arashiyama Station.

https://www.govoyagin.com/activities/japan-kyoto-enjoy-sagano-torokko-stroll-arashiyama-and-river-boat-ride-kyoto/6428#anchor-cart-editor?acode=stevejobko

3.Bamboo Grove/竹林の道

For our international guests, the scene of the deep bamboo forest may have become the symbol image of Kyoto.

Located north of Tenryuji temple, there is a quiet path surrounded with bamboo.

Being the midst of bamboo is like nothing else.

Especially, if there is a gentle breeze, the sound of the bamboo trees swaying in the wind is so mystical.

You will experience the complete quietness and calmness.

You can walk, rent a bike or ride on one of the traditional carts.

4.Okochi Sanso/大河内山荘

Located right behind the bamboo grove, Okochi Sanso is the former home of a Japanese actor Mr. Okochi.

This private property is known for its beautiful garden and several buildings that are the cultural properties of Japan.

The villa sits on a hill of Kyoto overlooking the city and Hozu river.

The admission, ¥1,000, includes matcha and a Japanese sweet.

5.Jojakko-ji temple/常寂光寺

Jojyakoji temple is a quiet Buddhist temple, built in 1596.

This is a nice quiet temple with lots of greenery, a great gate, and a beautiful pagoda.

In the fall, many tourists flock to this temple for its colorful maples.

6.Nisonji-In Temple/二尊院

This is another quiet temple perfect for a quiet stroll.

The temple was built in the mid 9the century.

The approach to the main hall is beautiful, with tall trees along the path.

The view here is especially spectacular during the autumn season.

7.Gioji Temple/祇王寺

This is a tiny temple that many tourists will ignore, yet it is one of the most scenic temples in Arashiyama.

The moss garden covered thick with fluffy green is so magical.

The roofs of the gate and the main hall are made with thatched roofs.

If you want to surround yourself with green scenery and peaceful atmosphere, this is a place to be.

8.Trokko Train – Sagano Romantic Train/トロッコ列車

Trokko, or a truck train, runs between the scenic area of Sagano and Kameoka.

The train runs on an old era truck and this ride is very popular among tourists especially during spring and fall.

Some sections of the train are open-air, so you can feel the comfortable breeze as the train goes through the beautiful mountains and valleys of Sagano Arashiyama.

During the peak of the autumn foliage season, you should reserve a ticket as it can get crowded.


For the train schedule, please refer to Sagano Romantic Train

Please take a look at this as well.

9.Hozugawa River Cruise/保津川下り

Hozugawa River Cruise is a tourist boat ride on the scenic Hozu river down from Kameoka to Sagano.

This is an extremely scenic ride of about 2 hours guided by the traditional guides who direct the boat with oars and bamboo poles.

It might be a perfect tour if you ride the romantic train up to Kameoka and down the river on the boat.

Please refer to the following article for further information.

10.Arashiyama (Iwatayama) Monkey Park/嵐山モンキーパーク

Arashiyama or Iwatayama Monkey Park located in Arashiyama hosts around 120 snow monkeys.

The park is set up almost like a hiking trail where you can get lost in the moneys’ habitat.

You can witness snow monkeys in their natural state, hanging from trees, playing around.

They are human fed.

As matter of fact, you can feed them after the hiking.

However they are wild so please “don’t intimidate them by looking into their eyes!”

Please refer to the following article for further information.