Arashiyama

BEST place to visit in Kyoto! It is MAGICAL! Some tips for you here - don’t stop just for the bamboo forest, go around paths at the back of the town, there some secret places. - there are some hiking trails to mountain summit with breathtaking scenic at the end of foot paths along the river. - at night they will lighten up kimono forest at the train station - autumn is the best season to visit - morning and evening are the best time to visit - many real good restaurants there, don’t stop on some shop just because the waiting line are long, seek some real good one on google reviews Hope you’re enjoying

Arashiyama is a picturesque district in Kyoto that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. The highlight is the iconic Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, where you can walk through towering bamboo stalks that create a serene and otherworldly atmosphere. The area is also home to the scenic Togetsukyo Bridge, which provides stunning views of the surrounding mountains and river, especially during the cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons. Additionally, you can explore charming temples, traditional tea houses, and beautiful gardens throughout the district. While it can get crowded, particularly on weekends, the breathtaking scenery and peaceful ambiance make Arashiyama a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Kyoto. Don’t miss the chance to experience the beauty and tranquility of this enchanting area!

Arashiyama is beautiful. The bamboo garden is just the start and most people don’t know that there are gardens and beautiful spots. My favorite part is the overlooking to the river. It’s beautiful and scenic. I highly recommend to visit the other parks and not just the bamboo park. It can be crowded in the bamboo area but not in the river area. Make sure to visit other parts of the park.

Arashiyama is one of Kyoto’s most picturesque and serene districts, famous for its stunning bamboo grove, historic temples, and scenic riverside views. A walk through the towering bamboo forest feels magical, especially in the early morning when the crowds are light. The Togetsukyo Bridge offers beautiful views of the Katsura River and surrounding mountains, making it a perfect spot for photos. Nearby, Tenryu-ji Temple and the Monkey Park Iwatayama add cultural and fun experiences to your visit. Whether you’re exploring nature, enjoying a boat ride, or savoring local treats, Arashiyama is a must-visit destination that perfectly captures the essence of Kyoto.

Exceptional place to visit for both its history and its beauty. There are some well marked trails making it easy to get around. There are vending machines to replenish your cold drinks. Plenty of toilets spaced out. Options to visit various temples and the nearby monkey park, which was worth the trek up to. The observatory points are worth seeking out.

If you need a break from the city life of Kyoto, check out Arashiyama. It’s loaded with beautiful scenery, whether it be the bamboo forest, monkey park, Katsura River, mountains, temples or the little town loaded with tons of shops. A great spot to breath in some fresh air. If it’s your kind of thing, you take a boat ride across the river or even rent out your own.

Arashiyama is a breathtaking destination that absolutely deserves a 5-star review! From the iconic Sagano Bamboo Grove to the serene Togetsukyo Bridge and picturesque Hozugawa River, every corner is filled with stunning natural beauty and cultural charm. A key suggestion: arrive early to fully enjoy the magic of Arashiyama without the crowds. The bamboo grove is especially enchanting in the early morning light, offering a peaceful atmosphere for photography and quiet reflection. Whether it’s exploring the temples, taking a boat ride, or strolling through the charming streets filled with traditional shops and local delicacies, Arashiyama offers something for everyone. Its seasonal beauty—cherry blossoms in spring or vivid leaves in autumn—makes it an unforgettable experience year-round. For a tranquil and unforgettable visit, Arashiyama is a must-see in Kyoto. Plan ahead and enjoy this iconic spot at its very best!

Arashiyama in Japan is a delightful experience that offers a mix of natural beauty, cultural richness, and charming local vibes. Here’s some good feedback i am sharing about my visit: 1. Scenic Beauty • The Bamboo Grove was surreal, with its towering green stalks creating a serene, otherworldly atmosphere. Walking through it felt like stepping into a tranquil dream. • The Togetsukyo Bridge provided breathtaking views of the river and surrounding mountains, especially during autumn with the vibrant foliage or spring with cherry blossoms. 2. Cultural Highlights • Visiting Tenryu-ji Temple was a peaceful and enriching experience. The traditional Zen garden, with its meticulously maintained landscapes and pond, was truly a highlight. • Exploring smaller temples and shrines scattered around Arashiyama added depth to the visit. Each had its unique charm and historical significance. 3. Wildlife and Nature • The Iwatayama Monkey Park was a fun and memorable experience. Interacting with the monkeys while enjoying panoramic views of Kyoto from the top was a unique combination of nature and adventure. 4. Local Culture and Food • Strolling through the quaint streets lined with traditional shops and cafes was delightful. Sampling local treats like yatsuhashi, matcha-based sweets, and grilled skewers added to the experience. • The riverside dining experience offered a perfect mix of delicious food and a serene environment. 5. Overall Atmosphere • The harmonious blend of natural beauty, historical landmarks, and local charm made Arashiyama a well-rounded destination. It’s a perfect spot for anyone seeking a mix of relaxation, culture.

Sadly, the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest has gotten way overcrowded with tourists in recent years. From 7-8am, it's fairly tranquil and peaceful but by 9am, it starts getting swarmed with people. By 10am, it's shoulder-to-shoulder, and you'll lose not only picture opportunities, but the actual experience of the forest. Regardless of when you arrive, be respectful and quiet. The Bamboo Forest is gorgeous and serene. There's trash bins for rubbish at the front entrance, and bathrooms near the middle and end. Many temples, including the Tenryuji temple (my favorite one), are located within the forest as well. It's a fairly linear and comfortable paved path with few inclines. Lots of scenic areas for picture-taking - there's a pond along the path that's been our favorite, but has been overrun with weeds, unfortunately. Still, it's a unique experience in Kyoto, and as long as you can beat the crowds, it's well worth a trip here.

We came to visit the Bamboo Forrest which was cool but also different than what we expected based on YouTube videos we saw. The bamboo Forrest is a short walk - you can walk and see the whole thing in 25-30 minutes easily. If you want that photo that everyone takes with the bamboo we'd recommend getting there before 6:30am so you don't have to deal with all the tourists. We asked our hotel to call us a cab at 5:45am. There's a little walk between where the cab dropped us off and actually walking into where the bamboo grove/forrest was. By 6:30am we saw the first tourist group and by 7am there were tourists everywhere. It was super wonderful to be able to walk through and enjoy the experience early in the morning - definitely a core memory in Kyoto!

Yelp Review 2024 #203: Arashiyama Bamboo Forest/ Sagano Bamboo Grove is a popular destination for photo ops in western Kyoto. It's about a 10-20 minute walk (without the crowd) of lush bamboo forest. It typically gets crowded around 9am until the afternoon then, you'll be dodging people and taking your time to take pictures hoping there are no randos in the background (Goodluck!) - that 10-20 minute walk is equivalent to 40 minutes when there's a lot of people. We got here at sunrise and we basically had the place to ourselves. We took our time taking pictures while the path was clear. We met some old friendly locals who told us where the best spot was to get more bamboos in the picture. Another old man welcomed us. There are shrines nearby. The downside to getting here before 9am is that most temples are still closed.

Arashiyama, located in the northwest area of Kyoto, was my favorite destination during my trip to Japan. It's about a 30-minute train ride from Kyoto Station and offers an incredible mix of natural beauty, cultural landmarks, and vibrant local experiences. The most iconic attraction is the Bamboo Forest, a magical walkway surrounded by towering bamboo that feels like stepping into another world. Arriving early in the morning is ideal to enjoy its serene atmosphere before the crowds arrive. The area is also home to several temples and shrines, with Tenryu-ji Temple standing out as a highlight. This UNESCO World Heritage Site features beautiful gardens and a tranquil vibe that perfectly complements the natural surroundings. Nearby, the Togetsukyo Bridge is a well-known landmark offering picturesque views of the Katsura River and the surrounding hills. Walking across the bridge, you'll find streets lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants, providing plenty of options for food and souvenirs. The Katsura River itself is stunning and offers opportunities for boat rides that allow you to fully take in the breathtaking scenery. For those seeking a unique experience, the Sagano Romantic Train passes through this area on a scenic journey, especially beautiful during cherry blossom season or when the autumn leaves are at their peak. Overall, Arashiyama is undoubtedly popular with tourists, but its charm and beauty are worth the visit. With its lush landscapes, cultural sites, and lively streets, it provides an unforgettable experience. This spot left a lasting impression on me, and I can't recommend it enough.

Great place to visit when in Kyoto. The background is beautiful with the water and mountains. The bamboo forest is, of course, one of the highlights of ariyashima. The super tall bamboos make for pretty cool sight to see. It does get quite busy with tourists so definitely recommend coming early for less crowds. Lots of great places to eat too! Highly recommend coming to visit if in the area!

Arashiyama is roughly 30-40 minutes from our hotel and Kyoto station. It is a very popular tourist spot and the main attraction is the bamboo forest. As many others have mentioned, go in the early morning or evening to avoid the large crowds. We went mid day around the lunch hour and it was packed. We were able to move through the crowds with ease but don't expect a solo picture without people in the background. We had an amazing time here. Surprisingly, I expected the bamboo forest to be much bigger but the path getting into the forest is narrow and at one point splits to create dedicated lanes for man powered rickshaws. The path through the forest is very beginner level for hikers of all skill level however I would not recommend it for the wheelchair bound or those with limited walking capacities. The terrain has long gradients with small inclines. Arashiama is an awesome place for souvenir shopping and light bite/street food. Since the grounds open from sun up - sundown and is free to the public, you can visit at your own leisure when time permits. The souvenir shopping is one of the best in the city with a lot of variety and unique items. For street food, I highly recommend the egg salad sandwich and matcha drink at Kyoto JiTJi Café and a Chocolate Chestnut ice cream cone from Rilakkuma's Honey Stand. Arashiyama is on the west end of Kyoto and is approximately a 30-minute cab ride (usually longer if you opt for public transport). Taking a cab to our destination was about 5,000.00 yen = $33 USD, each way. One thing I would like to mention is that you will need to bring your own trash bags when visiting most of Japan. Trash cans are rare finds in Arashiyama especially in the most public of places where you'd think there would be a trash can (i.e. the train station and the food courts). Prepare to bring your own trash bags and bring a pack of wet wipes. You'll thank me later. There is much to see and do in and outside the bamboo forest. Other places we did not have time for were the monkey forest and boat cruise. At the very least, you will want to spend half the day here. That should comfortably allow you to see the in-demand attractions and shopping nearby.

the infamous arishiyama bamboo forest!! all in her glory... i do think it's better to visit in the daytime while the sun is still out, rain or shine :D a lot of historical and cultural significance in this area of kyoto, so take your time and take it all in! cute souvenirs and knowledgeable locals all around

Beautiful one of a kind bamboo grove that has nice paths surrounded by impressively tall bamboo. Because it's such a hot tourist spot, there's always a lot of tourists and so may be hard to get a solo photo. We visited near sundown, and the tranquility along the dwindling light was truly beautiful. The paths at the groves were not that much of a walk, and be sure to reach the top of the observation deck to have a beautiful view of the gorge. It is a bit of a climb so there aren't many visitors who reach that part!

Today we visited Arashiyama. It is known for the Tenryu-Ji Temple which is "the most important temple in Kyoto's Arashiyama district. It was ranked first among the city's five great Zen temples, and is now registered as a world heritage site" (https://www.japan-guide.com/e/e3913.html). Arashiyama is also known for its large expanse of bamboo groves. If you can ever come here, it is a delight! BEWARE...it can be trek depending in how faryou want to walk. If you are physically handicapped then it may be too difficult and you may need to sit this one out (like me) unless you have a motorized wheelchair. If you land in this situation, don't worry because there are plenty of restaurants and sitting areas right outside the station across the street.

Pro: gift shops, food stalls, bamboo forest, monkey forest, kimonos rental. Con: none. Arashiyama is a town in Kyoto that will forever have a lasting impression on me. After taking the bus here to the arashiyama station you are greeted with lot food stalls and gift shops. There many tourist spot here such as the monkey forest, shrines, and bamboo forest that will attract a lot of tourist to come see so expect a lot of crowds. I also like the old school looks of the building and they have a Kimono rental that guest can try on to blend in with the culture. All in all, I had a great time sightseeing around here and would highly recommend people come visit the area and explore.

BLUF: Visit early in the morning for the Bamboo Grove; consider staying for everything else. We visited Arashiyama on one early July morning for a few hours specifically for the Bamboo Grove, having seen warnings about tourist hordes later in the day. Arashiyama is gorgeous. We visited from Osaka, and arrived via the Hankyu Arashiyama line at around 6:30 AM. We grabbed breakfast at the Lawson right outside of the station. Nothing else seemed to be open before 9 AM. There are buses from the station to town, but those walking to the Bamboo Grove are rewarded with beautiful scenery at Arashiyama Park's Nakanoshima Area and the historic Togetsukyo Bridge. The Bamboo Grove itself is a manicured path that splits off into a few directions, and makes for beautiful pictures when few people are around. Unmarked stairs and dirt paths lead steeply up the hills outside the grove; wear hiking shoes on these paths as sneakers provide insufficient traction. In wandering off the dirt paths I somehow found Arashiyama Park's viewing platform, with beautiful views of the Katsura River and the rolling hills across it. As I headed back down to meet with my group, I encountered volunteers who were meticulously sweeping the paths to keep them clean. The Bamboo Grove was one of few places in Japan where I saw trash bins available, though not at regular intervals. Attend to your personal needs before you reach the grove. There are restrooms at the Hankyu Arashiyama Station, and in the parks. Arashiyama Hoshokai's website offers a useful downloadable multi-lingual map in Japanese, English, Chinese, and Korean. Our trip to Arashiyama was extremely brief; I would love to visit again and spend maybe a day or two in the area.

Bamboo Grove was beautiful - it's definitely a top tourist spot and gets crowded by 10am, but nice nonetheless. The train station isn't too far (maybe a ~10 minute walk). The street leading into the Bamboo Grove has lots of shops and food stands, and I highly recommend the Banana Juice Factory shop! It's a little inconspicuous (a little before where the Grove starts), but it was so refreshing and once you enter the store there's a burst of fresh banana smell. My husband and I both liked the Black Sesame with Banana Milk more than the regular Banana Milk - but both were delicious. They've got a restroom in the back behind their store and accept credit card! We didn't get a chance to go to the Monkey Park and see the other temples/sites around Arashiyama, but it's a nice area that can definitely take up a lot more time than we allotted during our visit.

Nestled at the foot of the Arashiyama Mountains is Kyoto's Arashiyama district, a rural getaway for those looking to escape from the crowded urban city. And at only a 15 minute train ride from the Kyoto JR Station, Arashiyama is a very convenient destination indeed. There's so much to do and see here. Some of the most popular tourist attractions seem to be: * Bamboo Forest * Tenryu-ji Temple, perhaps the most well-known temple in the area and a UNESCO World Heritage Site * Kimono Forest * Iwatayama Monkey Park * So many eateries and shops along the "main" road through town * Togetsuk-yo Bridge and the Arashiyama Park Nakanoshima Area south of it * Sagano Romantic Train, a sightseeing train through beautiful scenery You'll find lots of tourists at these places. Going early in the morning will help you beat some of the crowds. For instance, we walked through the Bamboo Forest in the morning and then again in the late afternoon, and there were way more people there in the afternoon. But there's so much to see in Arashiyama. For instance, the amount of old Buddhist temples here is astonishing. We visited the Adashino Nenbutsu-ji temple on the north side of Arashiyama where the crowds were far fewer. They also have their own mini bamboo grove there, so you can actually get a good picture without other people in your shot. We also did a hike around the Mt. Ogura area. Much of the trail was poorly defined and, were it not for Google Maps and for someone who had tied a ribbon around a tree here and there, we would've gotten lost in the woods. At times, we had to hold onto tree branches and roots to avoid tumbling down the steep hill that we were traversing across. It was a little scary, but on the bright side, this was the one activity we did where we didn't run into any other people!

So came here because my travel companions really wanted to come as it is "instagrammable" - but in order to do so effectively, it is REALLY important to arrive early. We arrived close to 9am, which, unfortunately, was not early enough, and there were already TONS of people. Seriously, I would aim for 7am next time. Sorry not sorry. Additionally, you should be aware that there is no charge to see this part (there is a nearby temple you pay to get into, and there are bamboo groves within but not really "forest-like"), and the actual "grove" comprises about a quarter-mile length of path TOTAL. Very short for all the hassle - 30 minute bus ride to the Northwestern part of the city of Kyoto from central Kyoto. Others may love this experience, but for me, I will pass next time, or visit alternative groves, which are all over Japan.

It's too crowded of a tourist attraction but I still went knowing this because I love the bamboo forest. The walk along the water by the boats is less crowded than the Main Street. The Main Street lined with shops is so crowded though. Good luck getting into the themed cafes because the lines are so long. Definitely recommend seeing the sights early in the morning although then none of the food will be open. Beautiful and scenic walk, but your stuck in crowds. I went around noon. Transportation to get here is easy. Still recommend, but if you hate crowds go early or maybe later.

It only seems fitting to open this with a haiku: Bamboo everywhere Soaring groves of green giants But dwarfed by tourists Arashiyama Bamboo Forest was the one thing I had to see in Japan and it did not disappoint. It is said that the way you spend the first day of the new year is how the rest of the year will go so we chose to visit here. We came early, before 11am, and it was a cold, rainy day. It didn't dampen our spirits and it probably helped thin out the crowds. The one slight annoyance was a loud tourist who announced how it was never a good idea to grow bamboo because bamboo is like weeds--once they start growing you'll never be rid of them. You know how I understood all that? Because that tourist was American. And so after a moment of being irritated, I quickened my pace and began to distance myself from the ongoing rant about the benefits of growing perennials instead. Determined to start my year with serenity and grace, I kept going and continued to enjoy the rest of my hike blocking out all the noise around me. Don't miss out on treats before or after your hike like sweet potato chips, yakitori skewers and chicken kara age on a stick. Vendors sell these and more, most take cash only.

From Shin-Osaka to Kyoto to Nara it took us about 40 minutes by train to get here minus a delay on the train. Picture worthy, just have proper attire and shoes on and prepare for a beautiful hike into the tallest of tallest bamboo trees. Another serene zen garden, even residential. Breathtaking and everyone are there day and late night. Supposedly it is open 24 hours, we were there when sun was about to set and it's pretty dark and chilly. Pictures are not a million times better than actually seeing it in person. You can feel the silence of nature and how Japan offers such a beautiful culture and history in itself...

Great place to come to enjoy the serenity of Kyoto. After a week in Tokyo, took a break from all the hustle and bustle to relax. If your going to come to the Bamboo forest, come early around 5am or 6am to beat the rush and make sure to wear some good shoes because your going to cover a lot of ground, easy 4-5 miles of walking and climbing stairs. It's all worth it though just for the view and being one with nature!

Located in Kyoto is Arashimaya, known for its famous bamboo grove. You'll see tourists taking pictures among the tall, densely packed bamboo. You'll also find shrines and temples in the nearby area. As we walked around the area, we came across a temple and a statue, eventually finding ourselves on a pathway along the river. You'll also spot places to eat as you walk around the area surrounding the bamboo grove. The Iwatayama Money Park is also a tourist destination in Arashimaya. I enjoyed walking through the area at my own pace, taking in the scenery.

Beautiful but crowded. Better to go earlier in the day before the hordes of tourists and school buses show up. The bamboo trail is jam packed with visitors and rickshaws. The river is a nice respite from the masses. Lots of vendors and shops on the busy roadway to keep you spending and fed. If you choose to go up the mountain to see the monkeys make sure you're in decent uphill hiking condition and wearing proper shoes.

Fun place to walk around and take pictures. There's a lot of tourist and people here though so good luck taking a selfie. Beautiful bamboo trees here!

There are hundreds of authentic Kansai region street food on the main road in Arashiyama like products of sweet potato, fried patty (ミンチかつ) and Japanese croquette. The famous trial which was surrounded with bamboo forest was amazingly beautiful and not like in reality. However, it was also short, narrow and crowded all the time. Visitors might feel familiar with this place since there are lots of movies shot here.

Arashiyama is most well known for their bamboo forest, thanks to all the cool pics exposed on social media. It is also a huge tourist spot, great for photos and a nice walk to experience the nature offerings of Kyoto. While the bamboo forest was not a wow factor for me, I personally still enjoyed the area for the many gardens and temples they have nearby. It is a super chill town and very peaceful to explore. Even with it being huge for tourists, the place is not loud and very clean. Tip: Anyone visiting the whole Japan, I highly recommend checking out the bamboo forest in Kamakura. It is more secluded, private and has a pond near by with koi fishes!

You see a backdrop in a beautiful animated movie and think, "Does this kind of place actually exist?" Oh yes, it exists. Arashiyama is that place and it is absolutely spectacular to behold. The blue waters, the rolling mountains, the lush greenery. In the fall, the mountains are covered in patches of warm reds and oranges. And that's just the street by the river, close to the train station! So many attractions exist in this stunning district that are equally breathtaking. It's what makes Arashiyama such a necessary attraction when visiting Kyoto, and only 20 minutes away. You've probably heard of the most famous spot, Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, a surreal forest of straight lines. Then there's Iwatayama Monkey Park, a bit of a hike upwards but a one-of-a-kind experience in an animal sanctuary. There are also plenty of lesser known sites, equally lovely. Countless temples and shrines bring Kyoto's rich history to life. A quiet street of traditional townhouses make Saga-Toriimoto worth a visit. Continue through the bamboo forest and you'll find yourself here, in absolutely tranquil contrast with the tourist-heavy forest. If you're in the mood to shop and eat, the main street gives you plenty of opportunities. Feast on local hamo fish and aromatic tea ice creams. Even after wandering into a quaint suburban area filled with houses, it was just as beautiful. It must be so relaxing to walk through the stunning landscape everyday just to get to the fresh produce vending machine for a sprig of green onion. If it's warm, a leisurely ride on the Oi River in a traditional wooden boat is an idyllic way to soak up the landscape. On land, rickshaws are a fun way of travelling around. Tanned men with thighs as thick as telephone poles offer to take you around. If you prefer to rely on your own thigh muscles, bike rentals are everywhere. (3/100) - 2019

Wikipedia: Arashiyama (嵐山 Storm Mountain) is a district on the western outskirts of Kyoto, Japan. It also refers to the mountain across the Ōi River. The small town of Arashiyama is a very cool quaint town that has several restaurants and places to pick up some souvenirs. There were a few places that were selling matcha ice cream so of course I had to have one. I seen someone selling homemade mochi but she was closed by the time I returned. Darn! Off the train station, you walk through the town to get to the Sagano Bamboo Forest, Arashiyama Park, Togetsu Bridge and the Monkey Park Iwatayama. There are several temples and shrines in the area as well. This beautiful area is designated as a national historic site. Spend the day here and you will be in touch with Mother Nature.

Arashiyama is located north of downtown Kyoto, less than 30 mins away, must visit while in Kyoto. Ever since their bamboo grove was featured in CNN, I added place on my bucket list and I was finally able to visit during recent vacation to Japan. A walk from Arashiyama station was pretty easy. Right outside the train station, they have a map of Arashiyama and I took a picture of the map and follow a direction. Walk was about 5-10 mins, enjoyed rural neighborhood of Japan as well as some street food sold along there. They do have some train available to get there from Arashiyama and they looked nice. Perhaps next time. As other reviews said, come early. I came around 7am and I was so glad I did. Walking the path of bamboo forest felt tranquility and peaceful, and having less people there helped. Arashiyama offers a lot more than bamboo forest. I am looking forward to coming back to explore the area at my next visit.

If you have an extra day in Kyoto, go to Arashiyama! Arashiyama is a countryside of Kyoto. It is easily accessible by train. I recommend going early morning. It gets really packed by 10am. I was there by 8:30 but wished I got there at 7am. The bamboo forest is beautiful and definitely the highlight of Arashiyama. It is beautiful in the morning but they have lighting at night and that's also great. For the photo op, go early in the morning. It is kinda expensive but you can ride on Rickshaw. 15min is $60 and 30min course going thru the bamboo forest is $90. It would be a nice experience. Another place you can visit is Monkey park and it is popular especially among foreigners. You can feed the monkeys and see the view of Kyoto from the top. Mind you it is about 20-30 uphill walk to the park. At Araden Arashiyama station, you can enjoy foot hot spring for 200yen. They also have light poles decorated kimono zen designs and they are beautifully lit up at night. It would be ideal to spend the night here so that you can see both faces of Arashiyama in the morning and at night.

Here is a classic example of Instagram vs. Reality. On Instagram, you see endless bounds of a vibrant green bamboo forest. In reality, it's more like a bamboo path, and a lot of the bamboos have masking tape on them for protection, because some idiots decided to carve their names into them. At least it wasn't crowded at the time we went, which was around 5 pm, so we got all the photos we wanted. The "forest" is about an hour bus ride from Kyoto, so if this is the only thing you want to see in the area, I don't know if it's worth it to go. However, if you also want to do the monkey park nearby, or explore the neighborhood (lots of shops and food), then it's definitely worth it to come. Be prepared to spend at least half a day in the area.

Arashiyama is a nice quaint district in Kyoto. The most popular attraction in the area is probably the Bamboo Forest. Although crowded, I still recommend a quick 15 minute walk-through of the beautiful and serene forest before shopping and eating in Arashiyama itself. One interesting shop in Arashiyama, called Chiri-men Craft Museum, sells handcrafted dolls and handbags/ coin purses made from cloth material. Another very unique store by the name Mayumura sells adorable and delicately-made cocoon dolls and mobiles. After visiting the local shops and eating to your heart's content, stop by Kyozuan for silken tofu soft serve ice cream! It's very creamy and light, yet thick enough to hold upside down. Silky tofu and black sesame flavors are available. What I particularity enjoyed was how the area overall wasn't too crowded, even during lunchtime. I'd recommend at least 1-1.5 hours to walk around Arashiyama plus some extra time for shrines visits and for lunch.

ARASHIYAMA We walked through Arashiyama from the Hankyu Arashiyama Station, so we got to see a little bit of the town as we walked to the Sagano Bamboo Forest. We got to the station on Tuesday, April 12th around 3:40pm and started our walk then. On the way to the forest, there was a really pretty bridge with a nice view. The town itself has really cute shops offering lots of snacks, goods, etc. Since we were on a schedule, we weren't able to check any of them out. But if we had time, I'd have stopped for a snack. Obviously, a must see in Arashiyama is the Bamboo Forest. It can get crowded, but at least do a quick walk through. Make sure to walk into the forest enough to see the sections where the bamboo isn't so fenced in. Very cute town. I wish we had more time to explore it.

# A R A S H I Y A M A - B R E A K D O W N (# of + stars = rating) * A T M O S P H E R E/C O N C E P T: +1 star * P R E S E N T A T I O N: +1 star * C O S T: +1 star * S E R V I C E: +1 star * R E V I S I T: +1 star My sister and I came here super early so there was not too many people around. Ah, what a great idea. We were able to just stand on the path in amazement and take in all the smells and sounds here. The wind rustling through the forest was so calm. Definitely found my zen here. I felt so at ease here. Don't rush this part of your journey. Take in all the green and peacefulness of the environment. Let this area take the day away.

Arashiyama: I was seduced by a National Geographic photo I saw once where the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove so completely enveloped a lone bicyclist as if he entered another dimension. I think it could have been the fifth, but I didn't hear Marilyn McCoo sing about one less egg to fry. Instead I think I heard a shamisen being plucked in the distance. Wouldn't that be culturally appropriate? I thought so. Anyway, Jamie W. and I weren't alone in the grove, not by a long shot. Swarms of Chinese tourists kept entering the path like there was an exodus from the Great Wall. Needless to say, it wasn't adding to the serenity of the grove, but it's still quite a stunning walkthrough no matter how may people fill the path. Our knowledgeable guide Hiro knew exactly where to drop us off on the busy main road in Arashiyama, and there is only one path to follow where the bamboo gradually swallows up the sunlight (photo: http://bit.ly/1IvWNlz). We were lucky to be there as the colors were changing in early December, an unusual by-product of global warming we were told (photo: http://bit.ly/1PpbOoy). The path ends at the entrance of Okochi-Sanso Villa which is not a shrine but a vintage actor's estate whose grounds you can tour for a nominal fee. It's no surprise this area has been a popular destination spot for locals since the Heian period a millennium and a half ago. I would definitely like to come back someday.

What can I say, this is one of my favorite part of Kyoto to visit or just walk around. Whatever season this place is always beautiful. The place is spacious so you don't really need to fight your way with the tourist. My favorite thing to do is walk along the river banks all the way up to the mountain and in their I discover a small temple with a great view of the whole place. If you love nature, this is a great place to visit when in Kyoto.

Arashiyama is beautiful overall, including a lot attractions in this area, such as bamboo grove, kameyama-koen park, and tenryu-ji temple etc.

One of the most scenic places in Kyoto. It is well worth a good hour and half worth of surface train ride from Osaka including transfers. From the train station, you will still have to walk about 15 ~ 20 mins into town before the hike to the world famous bamboo forest. Wear comfortable shoes as the hike has a slight climb and fairly uneven. Count your blessing that it is not raining or the wind is tamed for your enjoyment. A nice market for the locals and tourists to mingle. Many specialty food stores dating back hundred years ago. Expect to spend four hours there easily. Enjoy your visit.

This place is fantastic!!! You have the bamboo forest, the lake, nice food spots, local shops where you will find Kyoto specific gifts, older Japanese style homes, and an amazing temple. All within ~15-25 minutes of walking. This was my favorite spot in Kyoto. There are lots of Japanese (and tourist) dressed up. I highly recommend checking this place out.

Like other Yelpers have said, you don't really want to get your hopes up too much when it comes to Arashiyama. The famed bamboo forest is pretty cool, but honestly not worth taking an hour-long bus to get to. Arashiyama is located pretty far out of the way from the electric part of Kyoto. It's kinda nearby the Golden Temple so you can stop by if you're knocking that one off your bucket list. However, I'd say that you can pass up on visiting the bamboo forest. There are sky-scraper like bamboos all around you, but the entire "forest" can be seen in a little over 15-20 minutes. You can do the math yourself; it's beautiful but you can probably spend your time elsewhere. It's also a shame that a lot of the bamboos are worn out from people cutting into them too. I give Arashiyama a "Tolerable, sufficient for sustenance" rating. Have fun and prosper,

I have dreamt of visiting the bamboo forest for years and to be honest, didn't realize my dream would become a reality so soon. Who wouldn't want to visit a forest filled with bamboo shoots that are wider than your hands wrapped around them and whimsical beyond belief? The forest itself was as beautiful as I imagined and tucked on the edge of a town that was equally as cute (Arashiyama) and filled with shops, stores and great views of the leaves changing. Why only four stars and not five? The combination of hoards of people visiting the forest and that they allowed cars to drive through on the paved pedestrian paths really through off the peaceful vibe I had imagined all along.

Arashiyama is known as the Bamboo forest and is located near a small small town on the western outskirt of Kyoto. This is the number 1 must see national historical tourist site known for the beautiful and peaceful scenery. There is no entrance fee. Walking to the exact bamboo forest would like about 30-45 mins. From the train station, you walk through the Sagano Bamboo Forest, Arashiyama Park, Togetsu Bridge and the Monkey Park Iwatayama. You will also see some temples and shrines while you hike through. But it will take longer since along the way, you will be walking through a long road filled with small stores for shopping and restaurants to check out for snacks and meals. Once you get to the bamboo forest, make sure you enjoy the quiet and fresh air. It's a good photo shoot but be prepared to take pictures with many other tourist trying to captures the same memorable moment. The walk through the bamboo forest is about a less than 10-15 min walk. But since you will be taking lots of pictures, I would allow at least 1 hour to enjoy the experience with no rush. I would allow about 3 hours to fully enjoy the city of Arashiyama.

Went to the bamboo forest. That portion is quite short. It was very crowded. It would be lovely without the crowds. The rest of the park area is nice, less people. Worth walking around the rest of the area if you enjoy nature and hiking. Bathrooms are the old fashioned squatting kind and not well maintained.

Came here to see the temple during my first night in Kyoto, unfortunately the temple was closed. Walked around town and saw the old station with lots of shops nearby. Loved relaxing in this town eating yakitori and drinking beer. Too cloudy for a sunset but the bridge was beautiful as well.

Beautiful beautiful place in Kyoto and definitely worth a visit. This place definitely makes you feel like you're stepping into the countryside with a gorgeous river, mountains, and especially the bamboo forest. Lot's of people dressed in kimonos! Expect to walk around a lot, its about a 3 hour visit. For snacks, theres some yummy fish cake, steamed buns, and ice cream. It's easy to get lost finding the bamboo forest so stop to ask for directions frequently! PS: The bamboo forest is pretty hard to find. You have to pay to enter a famous estate/museum and then you'll find the forest at the end. If you crossed the bridge, you already missed the entrance to the bamboo forest.

If you get the opportunity, spend a half a day here. The images of what I imagined old Japan would be is captured here in this gorgeous little town. We spent some time here as we started with the bamboo forest, and than meandered through the neighborhoods soaking in the Japanese architectured homes and gardens, made our way to the monkey park and was able to soak in the breathtaking views from atop, and then by the time we headed down, the shops were open and we were able to try some delectable street food and delicious silky tofu soft serve ice cream!!! We also strolled through the preserved street (oldest street). A must if you go to Kyoto.

This town has so many things to offer: a monkey park, bamboo forest, plenty of shopping and food, and more. It's definitely a place you should visit when in Japan. It's not as crowded as you would expect when you consider that it's a pretty touristy area. The JR has a stop that's right near all of the shopping and food, and it's only about a 15-20 minute walk to the monkey park from there.

The Sagano Bamboo forest here is enough of a reason to visit Arashiyama. It's located in Kyoto and one of my favorite places in Kyoto to visit. You can see Mt. Fuji from the parks and you can get lost in the bamboo forest for over an hour just taking in its beauty. We stopped in a little cafe for some food afterwards. The lady at the cafe was so sweet and very generous. Then again, everyone we met in Japan was that way. This is a MUST when visiting Kyoto!

I wouldn't say this is part of my bucket list but definitely something to check out while being in Japan. |Transportation| It's about 20-30 minutes train ride from Kyoto. Apparently if you have the JR pass, it's a little bit closer once you get off the station. We just took regular train from Gion and forgot what line it was. But Arashiyama was the last stop. Once we got off, we were confused of where to go but managed to find it. Took a 10 minutes walk toward the monkey area, crossed over a bridge and finally entered a small town. |Bamboo Forest| Did not know this is the name of the actual city. The bamboo forest just happened to be well known for it. You'll encounter few shrines walking toward the forest. Thought? It was okie. We were not impressed. We took one stroll through the forest and was hoping for something more. If you have not seen the bamboo forest in Maui...go compare it to that one. |Tips| You gotta be a morning person to travel in Japan because all the touristy stuff you do will be crowded which equal no good pictures. We came at 7 yet people were already there. And try to stay away from them photographers with the humongous lens in the morning. They anti-humans cause we get in their shot. |Activities| If you want something to do other than just visiting this forest, visit the monkey forest nearby or do a boat tour by the river. We skipped the boat paddling and did the monkey hike. 20 minutes hike up and $5 to see cute monkeys. Oh and check out their cute town. They have a popular mochi place there btw.

This was one of the places I HAD to visit during my trip to Japan. Photos of this place show a serene and peaceful experience walking next to these bamboo giants. Real life: a true test of patience while waiting out the hoards of other tourists to try to get a shot without anyone in it. So, my suggestion is to stop trying and to put the phone/camera down and enjoy it. Despite all the other people, it's still pretty quiet and calming. Don't miss your JR stop! From Kyoto station on the purple San-In JR line, get off at the Saga-Arashiyama station. Not the Arashiyama station (because the San-In line doesn't stop there).

Simply gorgeous, there really is no other way to describe it. You really feel as if you have entered a whole new world as you walk through the soaring stalks of the bamboo grove. You're surrounded by bright greens, blues, and golds while gazing upon the beauty where subtle light shines through the dense patches in the thickness. You feel a sense of sheltered protection walking through 90 foot tall, 6 inch thick bamboo. If only there could be a peaceful moment where you could just close your eyes and hear the tranquility of the forest (not going to happen). I imagine those moments are rare and come only to those who visit very early in the morning. The path into the forest is packed full of tourists and visitors taking away from the peaceful nature of what this experience should be and could be. It's still stunning nonetheless and a must see while in Japan. Tip: I highly recommend taking a river boat ride to Arashiyama. You can choose rides that last 45 minutes up to 2 hours. The cost is around $20-$35 US/pp. The boatmen use traditional bamboo pole techniques while taking you down the river. The bamboo forest is so packed with people this offers a nice tranquil experience before your bamboo visit. There is also a food boat that will bring snacks, drinks, and alcoholic beverages right up to the river boat for thirsty passengers.

If your time in Kyoto is limited, then be sure to visit Arashiyama. Arashiyama offers a perfect blend of nature and history. This expansive area includes breathtaking mountain views, a scenic river, the famous Path of Bamboo, numerous shrines, a monkey park, and a lively shopping area outside of one of the temples. You could spend a whole day, even two whole days here, and not be bored. We loved Arashiyama because, even though it was quite touristy, it offered everything we sought when we came to Kyoto. Besides the many photogenic attractions, Arashiyama is a worthwhile stop in your journey because you can sample various Kyoto food specialties--confections, tofu, matcha tea--here. We tried a really good tofu restaurant outside of Ten Ryu. See Tom N.'s detailed review for more information. The shop-lined street outside Ten Ryu and heading gradually down the mountain has many stores that carry Kyoto-made goods (cloths, figurines, hair accessories). Knowing that many travelers these days try to squeeze as much as possible into fewer days, thought it would be helpful to point out this great area. Just a note: Most attractions have admission fees, though they're cheap. Totally worth the money. Arashiyama is a must on any Kyoto itinerary.