What other travelers are saying about Kimono Forest
The Kimono Forest in Arashiyama is absolutely stunning. The illuminated kimono pillars create a magical and serene atmosphere.
Nearby, the Ryū no Atago Pond adds an extra sense of wonder, being a spiritual “power spot” that feels energizing and calming at the same time. It’s a perfect place for photos and a peaceful stroll—highly recommended when visiting Arashiyama!
The Kimono Forest feels almost like a a visual installation at the nearby Randen Arashiyama Station, with the numerous pillars wrapped in vibrant textile patterns. Walking through feels like stepping into a living gallery of traditional Japanese design —cranes, florals and waves! It blends heritage and artistry in a public space. A must-see if you're exploring Arashiyama.
After arriving at Arashiyama Station, we took a short walk (literally less than a minute) and found ourselves at the vibrant and unique Kimono Forest. This isn’t an actual forest of trees, but a collection of over 600 cylindrical pillars made with traditional Kyoto Yuzen-style kimono fabric encased in acrylic tubes. I believe it was created in 2013 as part of a station renovation project, the installation is meant to represent beauty, peace, and the elegance of Japanese tradition blended with modern design.
The forest is colourful, very photogenic, and set along a path that winds through the station area, making it easy to explore without needing much time. There's also a lovely circular water feature known as the “Ryu no Atago Pond” – it's said that touching the water brings good luck and grants wishes. I touched it so lets see if the good luck occurs. The colours and patterns of the kimono fabrics are stunning, especially when the sunlight hits them during the day or when they're lit up in the evening.
It’s a nice touch to the experience and worth a few minutes if you’re already visiting the Bamboo Grove or the surrounding temples. Definitely worth stopping by for a few photographs.
It's not a forest, it's a station. You get off here to get to Arashiyama or the Bamboo forest. When you get off this train you check your IC card outside, not while exiting, as it is the end station. When you continue onward, the bamboo forest is to the right, while the bridge is to the left. If you reach the bridge --- you're going the wrong way. If you search for the bamboos of course.
The Kimono Forest is a very beautiful and imaginative place, featuring many small and charming shops. Its colorful illuminated pillars create a magical atmosphere, especially in the evening. The opening hours are limited, so it’s best to plan your visit carefully. Visiting after sunset is truly worth it, as the lights make the whole area look enchanting and peaceful.
Kimono Forest is located at Randen Arashiyama Station in the Arashiyama district of Kyoto. Take the Keifuku Electric Railroad (Randen) tram to Arashiyama Station, or use JR Sagano Line to JR Saga-Arashiyama Station and walk 10 minutes. The illuminated kimono pillars are right outside the station platform.
Kimono Forest is best visited during evening hours after sunset when the LED lights illuminate the 600 kimono fabric poles. The light-up typically runs from dusk until around 9:30 PM. Early morning visits offer fewer crowds but no illumination. The colorful display is most spectacular in darkness.
Yes, Kimono Forest (Kimono no Komichi) is completely free to visit and explore. There are no entrance fees or tickets required. The illuminated kimono textile installation is accessible 24/7, though lighting operates only during evening hours. It's one of Kyoto's free attractions in Arashiyama.
Near Kimono Forest you can visit the famous Arashiyama Bamboo Grove (5-minute walk), Tenryu-ji Temple, Togetsukyo Bridge, and the Arashiyama Monkey Park. The area also offers traditional restaurants, kimono rental shops, and river boat rides along the Hozu River, making it perfect for a full day itinerary.
Yes, wearing a rented kimono at Kimono Forest creates beautiful photo opportunities and is very popular among tourists. Many kimono rental shops in Arashiyama are located within walking distance. The colorful illuminated poles provide a stunning backdrop for kimono photography, especially during the evening light-up period.
