Arashiyama

Arashiyama is a scenic district on the western outskirts of Kyoto, renowned for its natural beauty and historical temples. Located along the banks of the Hozu River at the foot of the Arashiyama Mountains, this area has been a favored retreat for Japanese nobility since the Heian period (794-1185). The district gained prominence as an imperial villa location and later developed into one of Kyoto's most celebrated sightseeing destinations, particularly famous for its cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant autumn foliage.

The area's most iconic feature is the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, a towering forest of bamboo stalks that creates a distinctive natural corridor. This grove stretches several hundred meters and connects to Tenryu-ji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site founded in 1339. Tenryu-ji ranks among Kyoto's five great Zen temples and features a celebrated landscape garden designed to incorporate the surrounding mountains into its scenery. The temple's main hall and garden require an admission fee of ¥500 for garden-only access or ¥800 including temple buildings.

Visitors can experience the Sagano Scenic Railway, a heritage train line that runs approximately 7.3 kilometers along the Hozu River gorge between Saga-Arashiyama and Kameoka stations. The journey takes roughly 25 minutes and offers views of the river valley through changing seasons. Alternatively, traditional Hozu River boat rides provide a two-hour downstream journey from Kameoka to Arashiyama. The district also features the Iwatayama Monkey Park, located partway up Mount Arashiyama, where visitors can observe over 120 Japanese macaques in a semi-wild habitat. Admission to the monkey park costs ¥600.

Arashiyama is accessible from central Kyoto via multiple train lines. The JR Sagano Line connects Kyoto Station to Saga-Arashiyama Station in approximately 15 minutes. The Keifuku Arashiyama Line (Randen) tramway provides access from central and northern Kyoto, while the Hankyu Arashiyama Line connects from Kawaramachi via Katsura Station in about 20 minutes. Most temples and attractions in the area charge individual admission fees ranging from ¥300 to ¥800, while the bamboo grove itself is freely accessible at all times. The district is best explored on foot, with most major sites located within walking distance of the main station area.