Imagine yourself strolling through a tunnel of emerald green. Towering stalks of bamboo rise on either side, their leaves whispering ancient secrets in the gentle breeze. Sunlight filters through the dense canopy, casting dappled shadows on the forest path.
Sounds amazing, right? Step into one of Japan's most enchanting landscapes at Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and start exploring now with some help from Pelago by Singapore Airlines!
Unlock the secrets of Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and its surrounding treasures with our guide to ensure your trip is filled with serenity, wonder, and perhaps, even a few monkey encounters!
Getting to Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
Transportation Options
Train Transportation Options
You can take the JR Sagano Line from Kyoto Station and hop off at Saga-Arashiyama Station after 15 minutes. Next, follow the signs (or the hard-to-miss tourists!) at Saga-Arashiyama Station to find your way to Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. The walk from Saga-Arashiyama Station should take another 15 minutes.
Alternatively, you can take the Hankyu Railway from Kyoto-Kawaramachi or Karasuma Station to Katsura Station and transfer to the Hankyu Arashiyama Line to head to Hankyu Arashiyama Station. Once there, board the 28 City Bus towards Daikakuji Temple and take a short 7-minute walk to Arashiyama Bamboo Grove.
Road Transportation Options
Kyoto Bus 28 and Kyoto City Bus 73 can take you from Kyoto Station to Arashiyama-Tenryuji-mae or Arashiyama Station in 40-50 minutes.
While bus lines connect Arashiyama with several parts of Kyoto, be aware of potential traffic jams.
Accessing Arashiyama by car is said to be inconvenient due to traffic congestion and limited parking options.
Address: Sagaogurayama Tabuchiyamacho, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, 616-8394 (map)
Opening Hours: 24 hours
Entry fee: Free
Exploring Arashiyama
The Bamboo Forest Experience
The ethereal, evergreen beauty of the iconic Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is a serene and picturesque escape from the bustling city of Kyoto. Walk the serene 400-metre-long promenade through the tall, lush bamboo trees, breathe in the crisp air, and listen to the swaying bamboo stalks. The bamboo trees are green all year round, creating a refreshing yet breathtaking scene. You can also join a rickshaw tour or rent a kimono to stroll in style through the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove.
Visit the Bamboo Forest along with Kinkaku-ji, Ryōan-ji, and Togetsukyo Bridge.
Nearby Attractions
Parks and Wildlife
Kameyama-kōen Park
Kameyama-kōen Park is a hilltop park with stunning views of the river. Ascend the gentle slopes of Arashiyama Park Kameyama Area for stunning panoramic views of the Hozu-gawa River.
Standing at the park's observation deck, you gaze upon the emerald ribbon of the river winding through the valley below. Spot traditional Japanese boats gliding on the water, adding a splash of vibrancy to the landscape.
Address: Japan, 〒616-8386 Kyoto, Ukyo Ward, Sagakamenoocho (map)
Opening Hours: 24 hours
Entry fee: Free
Iwatayama Monkey Park
Iwatayama Monkey Park is home to Japanese macaques and offers a unique experience. Up for a primate encounter unlike any other? Head to Iwatayama Monkey Park, nestled amidst the Arashiyama hills.
A mischievous troop of Japanese macaques call this mountainside home. Watch them frolic in their natural habitat, and be prepared for some cheeky interactions!
Address: Japan, 〒616-0004 Kyoto, Nishikyo Ward, Arashiyama Nakaoshitacho (map)
Opening Hours: Open daily, 9am to 4pm
Entry fee: SGD 5.28
Okochi-Sanso Villa
Step back in time and explore the elegance of Okochi-Sanso Villa, the former home of Japanese actor Denjirō Ōkōchi.
While the main house is a fine example of traditional Japanese architecture, the ground is also home to teahouses and landscaped gardens that showcase each of the four seasons. End your visit with a sip of matcha tea on a traditional veranda overlooking the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and Kyoto.
Address: 8 Sagaogurayama Tabuchiyamachō, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, 616-8394 (map)
Opening Hours: Open daily, 9am to 5pm
Entry fee: SGD 8.8
Temples and Shrines
Tenryuji Temple
Time for a dose of zen! Enter the tranquillity of Tenryu-ji, a majestic temple complex dating back to the 14th century and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Considered one of the Five Mountains of Kyoto, the grounds of Tenryu-ji also boasts the stunning Sogenchi Garden.
Address: Japan, 〒616-8385 Kyoto, Ukyo Ward, Sagatenryūji Susukinobabachō (map)
Opening Hours: Open daily, 8:30am to 5pm
Entry fee: SGD 4.4
Jojakko-ji
Venture beyond the bamboo grove to discover hidden gems like Jojakko-ji on Mt. Ogura's slopes. Founded in the 16th century, this temple boasts a 12-metre-tall pagoda and vibrant foliage in autumn contrasting against the moss.
Address: 3 Sagaogurayama Oguracho, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, 616-8397 (map)
Opening Hours: Open Daily, 9am to 5pm
Entry fee: SGD 4.4
Nison-in Temple
Nison-in, a 9th-century Tendai temple, offers a climb up colourful maple-lined steps to a main hall housing twin Buddhist statues of Shaka Nyorai and Amitabha Tathagata.
Address: 27 Saganisonin Monzen Chōjinchō, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, 616-8425 (map)
Opening Hours: Open Daily, 9am to 4:30pm
Entry fee: SGD 4.4
Gio-ji Temple
Gio-ji, a branch of Daikaku-ji, awaits deeper within the forest, captivating visitors with its moss garden, small thatched hall, and fiery autumn displays.
Address: 32 Sagatoriimoto Kozakacho, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, 616-8435 (map)
Opening Hours: Open daily, 9am to 4:30pm
Entry fee: SGD 2.65
Adashino-Nembutsu-ji Temple
Explore Adashino-Nembutsu-ji with its 8,000 rakans - statues honouring those who died without kin. The temple grounds once served as a funeral site where bodies were exposed to the elements.
Address: 17番地 Sagatoriimoto Adashinochō, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, 616-8436 (map)
Opening Hours: Open daily, 9am to 4:30pm
Entry fee: SGD 4.4
Nonomiya Shrine
Nonomiya Shrine, a Shinto shrine dedicated to the goddess of purification and love prayers, welcomes visitors with a black torii gate. Explore the grounds and write a wish for true love on an ema (plaque).
Address: 1 Sagatenryuji Tateishicho, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, 616-8375 (map)
Opening Hours: 24 hours
Entry fee: Free
Planning Your Visit
Accommodation and Dining
Step into a traditional Japanese inn, or ryokan, where tatami-mat floors and sliding shoji screens create a serene atmosphere. Consider staying at Arashiyama Benkei Ryokan and unwind in their steaming onsen after a day of exploration.
From steaming bowls of soba noodles to savoury okonomiyaki, your taste buds will be in for a treat at Arashiyama. Savour these culinary delights at one of the many charming restaurants in the area and sip tea at traditional tea houses around the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove.
Tips and Tricks
The Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is open 24/7, allowing you to tailor your visit to your preferences. You can even arrive early at the bamboo forest for a serene escape bathed in the golden glow of sunrise.
The Arashiyama district is known for its unique fishing methods passed down through generations. Keep a lookout for the local fishermen using cormorants to catch fish in the Hozugawa River.
Visit during cherry blossom or autumn foliage seasons for stunning views. Plan your visit to coincide with the breathtaking cherry blossom season (late March to April) or the fiery hues of autumn foliage (November).
Guided Experiences
Tours and Guides
Explore the intricacies of the bamboo forest and uncover hidden gems by booking a guided tour with a knowledgeable local guide.
Choose from a variety of tours to suit your interests, such as a traditional rickshaw ride through Arashiyama's streets or a chance to don a beautiful kimono and take pictures amidst the bamboo grove.
Want to do something unique? Try ghost hunting in Arasihyama Bamboo Forest.
Leaf Through History
The Arashiyama Bamboo Forest is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful escape from the city.
With its stunning bamboo groves, attractive gardens, and rich history, Arashiyama is a unique and memorable experience. So, pack your walking shoes, and let Pelago by Singapore Airlines be your guide in the enchanting world of Arashiyama!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Arashiyama bamboo forest in Kyoto worth visiting?
Absolutely! The Arashiyama Bamboo Forest offers a unique experience, from towering bamboo stalks to the tranquility of ancient temples.
How long does it take to walk through the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest?
The main path takes about 30 minutes to walk, but reserve half a day to explore the surrounding areas.
Is the Bamboo Forest in Kyoto free to enter?
Yes, the forest itself is free to explore! However, some temples and gardens within Arashiyama have entrance fees.
What is the best time to visit Arashiyama Bamboo Forest?
The Kyoto Bamboo Forest is evergreen year-round. Try to visit early in the morning to avoid the crowds.
What is the closest station to Arashiyama Bamboo Forest?
Arashiyama Station and Saga-Arashiyama Station are the closest stations to Arashiyama Bamboo Forest.