Arashiyama is Kyoto’s nature playground. Here is how to see the best spots without getting stuck in the tourist crush.
The towering green stalks of the Bamboo Grove. The iconic Togetsukyo Bridge spanning the river. Wild monkeys roaming the mountain top. Arashiyama is arguably the most photogenic district in Kyoto. It has been a retreat for nobles since the Heian Period (794-1185), and today, it draws travelers from all over the globe.
But let’s be real: It gets crowded. If you arrive at noon, the serene bamboo forest feels more like a packed subway car. “I want that perfect bamboo photo, but there are too many people.” “Is it better to stay in Arashiyama or the city center?”
To enjoy the magic of Arashiyama, you need a strategy. In this guide, I’ll share the unmissable spots, a foolproof walking route, and the secret to choosing the perfect base camp.
The Quick Verdict: How to Win at Arashiyama
Source：Minn Official Website
For busy travelers, here is the bottom line. To maximize your experience:
- Be an Early Bird: Arrive before 9:00 AM. The difference in crowd levels is night and day.
- Stay Central: Don’t stay in Arashiyama (where everything closes at 5 PM). Stay at an Apartment Hotel like Minn in Central Kyoto (Nijo or Gojo area). You get easy train access to Arashiyama by day, and endless dining options in the city by night.
【Official】Minn Reservations | Experience a “Stay as You Live” Style
(Features: Easy train access to Arashiyama, kitchens, and spacious living areas.)
Top 5 “Must-See” Attractions in Arashiyama
If you only have half a day, these are the heavy hitters you cannot miss.
1. Togetsukyo Bridge (The Symbol)
- What is it: A 155-meter wooden bridge that has spanned the Katsura River for centuries.
- Why Go: It offers a stunning panorama of the Arashiyama mountains, which turn pink in spring (cherry blossoms) and fiery red in autumn.
- Pro Tip: The bridge itself is packed. For the best photo, stand on the riverbank downstream.
2. Bamboo Grove (Chikurin no Komichi)
- What is it: A mesmerizing tunnel of soaring bamboo stalks. It feels like another world.
- Why Go: The sound of the wind rustling the bamboo leaves is classified as one of the “100 Soundscapes of Japan.”
- Warning: By 10:00 AM, it is gridlocked. Go at 8:00 AM if you want a solo shot.
3. Tenryuji Temple (World Heritage Site)
- What is it: The most important Zen temple in Arashiyama.
- Why Go: The “Sogenchi Garden” is a masterpiece of Japanese landscaping. It uses “borrowed scenery” (shakkei), making the distant mountains look like part of the garden. Don’t miss the “Cloud Dragon” painting on the ceiling of the Dharma Hall.
4. Nonomiya Shrine (The Power Spot)
- What is it: A small ancient shrine located right inside the Bamboo Grove.
- Why Go: It famously appeared in “The Tale of Genji.” It is known for matchmaking and safe childbirth. Look for the “Black Torii” gate—it is the oldest style of torii in Japan, made of unbarked timber.
5. Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama
- What is it: A park on the mountain peak where 120 Japanese macaques roam free.
- Why Go: It’s a 20-minute hike up, but the reward is huge. You can feed the monkeys (you go inside the cage; they stay outside!) and enjoy a panoramic view of the entire Kyoto city basin.
Arashiyama Food Guide: Tofu & Street Snacks
You will walk a lot, so you need fuel.
- Lunch: Try Yudofu (Simmered Tofu). Arashiyama’s water is pristine, making the local tofu incredibly creamy. It’s a traditional, healthy, and warming meal. Book in advance!
- Snacks:
- Yuba Cheese Croquette: Crispy fried tofu skin with cheese. Delicious.
- Matcha Soft Serve: You are in Kyoto, after all.
- Miffy Sakura Kitchen: Cute character-shaped breads that are a hit with kids.
The Perfect Half-Day Model Course
Here is the most efficient route to avoid backtracking.
- 08:30 | Arrive at JR Saga-Arashiyama Station
- Beat the crowds!
- 09:00 | Bamboo Grove & Nonomiya Shrine
- Enjoy the silence while others are still sleeping.
- 10:00 | Tenryuji Temple
- Enter from the North Gate (near the bamboo) and exit through the Main Gate.
- 11:30 | Early Lunch
- Beat the lunch rush (usually 12:00-13:30).
- 13:00 | Togetsukyo Bridge
- Walk across the bridge to the park on the island.
- 14:00 | Monkey Park OR Shopping
- Hike up for monkeys or browse the souvenir street.
- 15:30 | Return to City via “Randen” Tram
- Take the vintage purple tram back to the city center. Don’t miss the “Kimono Forest” installation at the station!
Where to Stay: Why “Central Kyoto” is Better than Arashiyama
Source：Minn Official Website
It might seem logical to stay in Arashiyama, but here is the insider truth: Arashiyama shuts down early. Most shops and restaurants close by 5:00 or 6:00 PM.
The Strategy: Stay in Central Kyoto (Nijo or Gojo/Kyoto Station area).
- Nightlife: You have thousands of dinner options.
- Access: You can easily take a train to Arashiyama in the morning (15-20 mins).
- Price: Better value for larger rooms.
This is why smart travelers choose Apartment Hotels like Minn.
Why Minn is the Best Base Camp for Arashiyama Trips
1. Direct Train Access
- Minn Nijo-jo: Steps from the subway. Transfer to the “Randen” tram for a scenic ride to Arashiyama.
- Minn Kyoto Gojo: Near the JR line. One direct train ride to Saga-Arashiyama.
- The Benefit: You get the best of both worlds—nature by day, city convenience by night.
2. Space to Recover (Living Rooms) Arashiyama involves hiking and walking.
- The Minn Advantage: Instead of collapsing onto a bed in a tiny room, stretch out on a sofa in a spacious living room. Minn suites accommodate 4-8 people, making it perfect for families to relax together.
3. In-Room Laundry (Sweat Solution) Hiking up to the Monkey Park in summer? You will sweat.
- The Benefit: Use the in-room washing machine to clean your clothes immediately. Pack lighter and stay fresh.
4. The “Room Picnic” Bought too many snacks in Arashiyama?
- The Benefit: Minn rooms have kitchens and dining tables. Bring back local sake and pickles, and host a private tasting party in your room.
【Official】Check Out Minn’s Rooms & Atmosphere
Verdict: Plan Smart, Travel Light
Source：Minn Official Website
Arashiyama is a jewel of Kyoto, but it rewards early risers and strategic planners. By staying in the city center at a spacious Minn hotel, you ensure your nights are as fun as your days.
Popular dates sell out months in advance.
【Official】Book Minn Here for the Best Rates
(Select “Minn Nijo-jo” or “Minn Kyoto Gojo” for the best access.)