10 Things to do in Arashiyama, Kyoto (Japan)
Arashiyama (Kyoto) is incredibly beautiful and packed with so many things to see and do, so we’d recommend spending at least a full day here to make the most of it.
We’ve visited twice during Autumn and it’s one of the best times to go, due to the vibrant autumn foliage (so you’ll see lots of red, orange and yellow colours - it’s so stunning!).
How to get to Arashiyama
We’d recommend getting to Arashiyama by train:
🚂 From Kyoto Station, take the JR San-In Line to Saga-Arashiyama Station (around 15 mins). From the station, it’s a 5-10 minute walk to the central area of Arashiyama (where most of the shops are).
🚂 If you’re coming from other parts of Kyoto, you can also catch the local train (Randen Line) to Arashiyama Station. This stops you directly at the central area of Arashiyama (where most of the shops are), but takes longer than the JR line and may require a train transfer.
10 Things to do in Arashiyama
If you’re short on time in Arashiyama, you’ll probably only be able to see the main spots where most of the tourists are, such as the Bamboo Forest, Togetsukyo Bridge, and Monkey Park.
However, if you have a full day or more to spend in Arashiyama, we’d recommend also exploring further north to see temples like Otagi Nenbutsuji Temple, Adashino Nenbutsuji, and Gioji Temple. There’s also way less crowds, so it’s more peaceful!
1. Bamboo forest
You’ve likely already heard or seen photos of the Bamboo Forest, since it’s extremely popular amongst tourists. The tall bamboo stalks are impressive and it’s a nice experience to walk through them along the path, but it can feel a bit underwhelming (especially if you’ve heard a lot of hype about them on social media). We personally preferred seeing Okochi Sanso Garden and other parts of Arashiyama more.
🎟️ Admission: Free
✍️ Tip: Go very early to avoid crowds or wander further in for photos (since most people typically stop right at the entrance).
2. Okochi Sanso Garden
At the end of the Bamboo Forest, you’ll find the entrance to Okochi Sanso Garden - the former home and garden of film actor Okochi Denjiro. It was so peaceful, with a few different paths and gardens to see, plus a viewing platform which overlooks incredible views of Kyoto.
This was one of our favourite things we did in Arashiyama, and since we went in Autumn, there was also lots colourful foliage! We’d highly recommend this.
🎟️ Tickets: 1000 yen (pay at entrance)
3. Togetsukyo Bridge & Katsura River
Cross over Togetsukyo Bridge and stroll along Katsura River, where you can see lots of boats passing by. Also, if you walk further up the river and away from the crowds, there are are some quiet spots to sit and relax - which is very peaceful!
4. Visit the Monkey Park
The Monkey Park is a popular attraction in Arashiyama, where wild monkeys roam freely. Just remember to keep your distance and avoid touching them.
To reach the park, you’ll need to walk up Iwatayama Mountain. It’s a STEEP 10 minute walk, so it might be tiring for some, but the views and the monkeys are well worth it.
⏰ Opening Hours: 9:00am – 4:30pm (entry until 4:00pm)
🎟️ Tickets: 800 yen (pay at entrance)
5. Arashiyama Yusai-Tei Gallery
The Arashiyama Yusai-tei Gallery features the works of dye-artist Okuda Yusai, and you’ll find unique installations with reflective tables, special windows, a “water mirror” and outdoor garden space that all offer beautiful photo opportunities - mixing art, architecture and the natural environment. It’s especially beautiful and popular to visit in Autumn!
🎟️ Tickets: 2000 yen or 3000 yen (during Autumn). We’d recommend booking online in advance to guarantee your spot and skip the long queues.
6. Otagi Nenbutsuji Temple
This was one of the most unique places we visited!
Otagi Nenbutsuji Temple has over 1000 stone statues - each with a different facial expression and pose, so it’s really interesting to check them all out. It’s also away from the main tourist areas, so it’s less crowded and quieter. We’d highly recommend this.
🎟️ Tickets: 500 yen (pay at entrance)
7. Kotouen (Pottery Store)
Kotouen is a must-visit for pottery lovers! There’s a beautiful garden out the front, and inside you can explore the pottery studio and shop.
Among all of the ceramics, you’ll also spot lots of Tanuki statues, which are believed to be symbols of good luck, prosperity, and business success, so you’ll also probably notice them at most shop entrances all around Kyoto (and you can buy them here)!
8. Gioji Temple
Gioji Temple is known for its moss garden and maple trees, so it’s especially stunning in Autumn. You can explore the temple grounds and main hall, and it’s a quiet spot to wander around (but quite small so it wouldn’t take long!).
🎟️ Tickets: 300 yen (pay at entrance)
9. Adashino Nenbutsuji
Adashino Nenbutsuji Temple has a cemetery of over 8,000 stone statues believed to commemorate the souls of those who died without kin.
There’s also a small bamboo grove, which has much less crowds than the popular Bamboo Forest.
🎟️ Tickets: 500 yen (pay at entrance)
10. Shopping
At the central Arashiyama area next to Arashiyama Station, there are lots of shops, cafes and bakeries, like the Miffy Sakura Kitchen. We liked exploring the streets here for souvenirs.
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