Suggested for the traveler who will spend a few days in our fair city but still wants to prioritize the most popular sights, this itinerary will help you make the most of your trip to the western side of Kyoto, Arashiyama. From the UNESCO World Heritage Temple of Tenryū-ji and the photogenic bamboo forest to the sculpted mountain gardens of Ōkōchi Sansō Villa, a day in Arashiyama will be a day you won’t forget!
Togetsukyō Bridge
One of the most iconic structures in Arashiyama is the Togetsukyō Bridge, so named for the poetic observation of how the moon seems to cross the bridge each night. Crossing over the Oigawa river, the current bridge was completed in 1934 based on traditional designs, making it a popular photo spot where you can start your day off with a lovely view. With the Nakanoshima Park on one side and a hub of shops catering to tourists on the other, the bridge can sometimes get a bit crowded with visitors wanting to see the river from above. This area is particularly famous in the sakura and autumn leaf viewing seasons when the nearby mountains are dotted pink and red.
OPENING HOURS
24 hours
NEAREST STATION / BUS STOP
Arashiyama Randen Station, Hankyū Arashiyama Station, Arashiyama Bus Stop, Nakanoshima Koen Bus Stop
ALSO IN THE AREA
Tenryū-ji
Tenryū-ji is one of eighteen UNESO World Heritage Sites in Kyoto, and is a must-see for any visitor in Arashiyama. This Zen temple has a 700 year history and a famous garden known for its shakkei, or “borrowed landscape” qualities, incorporating the mountainous backdrop into the view from the Abbot’s Quarters. Stroll around the lovely pond and into the gardens that extend up to the foothills, and make sure you time your visit to be able to see the famous “Dragon Glaring in Eight Directions” painted on the ceiling of the Hattō Hall.
OPENING HOURS
8:30 – 17:30 (Summer)
(Winter, October 21st – March 20th): 8:30-17:00
ALSO IN THE AREA
Sagano Bamboo Forest
Despite coming from the bustling streets of Arashiyama’s station area, the bamboo forest offers shaded relief and allows you to feel like you might get lost in nature – even among your fellow tourists. The bamboo forest has entrances accessible from the main shopping street, Nonomiya Shrine, or Tenryū-ji’s gardens, and leads you up a slope until you end up in front of the Ōkōchi Sansō Villa. If you’re feeling more adventurous, why not take a rickshaw ride through the forest for an added experience?
OPENING HOURS
24 hours
ALSO IN THE AREA
Nonomiya Jinja
While making your way through the bamboo forest, take a stop along the way at this charming little shrine, the “shrine in the fields”. Mentioned in the famous Tale of Genji as a shrine where sacred priestesses would go to purify themselves before undertaking long pilgrimages to Ise Shrine, Nonomiya Jinja is famous for its sway over luck particular to women, such as luck in love and easy childbirth. With a tiny moss garden and uncommonly made torii gate, it makes an interesting diversion along the path
OPENING HOURS
9:00 – 17:00
ALSO IN THE AREA
Ōkōchi Sansō Villa
Located in the foothills of Mt. Ogura behind Tenryū-ji Temple, Ōkōchi’s Villa includes a traditional home, tea house, and shrine on the property amidst carefully planned and cultivated Japanese-style gardens designed to showcase the best of each of the four seasons. The former residence of the jidaigeki period film star Denjirō Ōkōchi (1898-1962), you can also visit a small museum to the actor’s works. Tickets include a voucher that can be used for a cup of green tea and a Japanese sweet, so take a seat at this mountain villa and relax, enjoy your drink, and take in the view!
OPENING HOURS
9:00 – 17:00
ALSO IN THE AREA
Arashiyama Station Shopping Area
Once you’ve explored Arashiyama it’s time to head back to the station, but not to head back to your hotel! Arashiyama is used to large amounts of tourists, so some of the best shopping for souvenirs can be found in this convenient area. Whether its food for your friends, cute gifts for your kids, or a stylish article of clothing for a partner, you’re likely to find it in one of the shopping center-style areas or the line of shops along the street near the Randen Station. In addition to shopping the area is home to various restaurants of all shapes and sizes, so whether you’re looking for a European café or a traditional yuba hotpot, feed your appetite before you finish up your day in Arashiyama.