INTRODUCTION
Arashiyama is a must-see area for tourists visiting Kyoto. Combining natural beauty and historical architecture, this area is known as a place where one can enjoy the scenery of the four seasons. It is especially crowded with tourists during the cherry blossom season in spring and the autumn foliage season in fall.
One of Arashiyama’s greatest attractions is its rich natural environment. The paths through the bamboo grove are like tunnels created by lush green bamboo, and they attract visitors. The iconic Togetsu Bridge in Arashiyama also offers a beautiful view of the Hozu River. This bridge appears in many tourist photos as the symbol of Arashiyama.
Arashiyama is also an interesting place from a historical standpoint. Dotted with historical buildings such as Tenryuji Temple and Nomiya Shrine, visitors can experience the culture of good old Japan. Tenryu-ji Temple is registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and visitors can enjoy its beautiful garden and historical architecture.
Furthermore, Arashiyama is rich in culinary culture, with many traditional Japanese restaurants and teahouses. In particular, dishes using local ingredients and seasonal sweets are well worth a visit.
Thus, Arashiyama is a place where you can enjoy nature, beautiful scenery, history, culture, and food all in one place. When visiting Kyoto, be sure to visit Arashiyama and enjoy all that it has to offer.
History and culture of the tourist attraction
Arashiyama is a famous Kyoto attraction known for its rich nature and deep history. The history of Arashiyama dates back to the Heian period (794-1192). During this period, Arashiyama flourished as a vacation home for aristocrats, and a culture of elegance flourished. The area is particularly famous for its beautiful gardens and architecture created by the Fujiwara and Taira clans, who were the most influential aristocrats in Kyoto.
Tenryuji Temple, located in the center of Arashiyama, is a Zen temple built by Ashikaga Takauji in 1339. Ashikaga Takauji was the first shogun of the Muromachi Shogunate, and Tenryuji was built as a place of prayer for him. The garden at Tenryu-ji was created by Soseki Muso and is registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its beauty. The garden embodies the Japanese Zen aesthetic and offers visitors a sense of tranquility and harmony.
Arashiyama is also home to a number of shrines that have long been objects of worship. Nomiya Shrine is one example of such a shrine, which is believed to be beneficial for matchmaking and academic success. This shrine continues to uphold ancient traditions and attracts many worshippers. Furthermore, Arashiyama offers many sightseeing spots in harmony with nature, such as the Bamboo Grove Path and the Hozu River Rafting. The path through the bamboo grove attracts visitors with its serenity and beauty, while the Hozu River cruise offers magnificent scenery and thrills.
Arashiyama also became a popular holiday destination for the people of Kyoto during the Edo period (1603-1867). Arashiyama Togetsu Bridge, in particular, has been depicted in many ukiyoe woodblock prints and paintings as a perfect place to enjoy the scenery of the four seasons. Even today, its beautiful scenery attracts many tourists.
Places to visit
Arashiyama is a place where beautiful scenery can be enjoyed throughout the year, but there are certain times of the year that are especially recommended. Spring and autumn are especially worth visiting. In spring, the cherry blossoms are in full bloom and the whole Arashiyama area turns pink. In autumn, the leaves turn beautiful colors and the beauty of nature can be enjoyed to the fullest.
Main attractions and popular spots
Bamboo grove path
The Bamboo Grove Lane, one of the symbols of Arashiyama, is a tunnel-like path created by lush bamboo. Walking along the path in this serene environment is a calming experience. Especially in the early morning or evening, you can take a leisurely stroll to avoid the crowds.
Togetsu Bridge
Watatsukibashi Bridge, a landmark of Arashiyama, is a beautiful wooden bridge spanning the Hozu River. From the bridge, visitors can enjoy the scenery of the four seasons, making it an ideal spot for taking pictures. At night, the bridge is illuminated, creating a fantastic atmosphere.
Tenryuji Temple
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Tenryu-ji Temple is attractive for its beautiful garden and historical architecture. In particular, the garden, created by Soseki Muso, offers seasonal views that enchant visitors.
Nomiya Shrine
Nomiya Shrine, which is believed to bring good luck in matchmaking and academic achievement, has maintained its ancient traditions. The shrine’s precincts are quiet and sacred, offering healing to visitors.
Hozu River Rafting
The activity of going down the Hozu River by boat is a great way to enjoy the beauty and thrill of nature. The boatman’s skillful maneuvering of the boat and humorous guidance make for an enjoyable time.
Points to note at sightseeing spots
- Avoid crowds: Arashiyama is a popular tourist destination and can be very crowded, especially during the cherry blossom season in spring and the foliage season in fall. We recommend visiting early in the morning or on a weekday.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes: Arashiyama’s sightseeing spots are extensive, so we recommend that you wear comfortable walking shoes.
- Protection of the natural environment: To protect the natural environment such as bamboo groves and gardens, please be sure to take your trash with you. Also, please avoid entering areas other than those designated for this purpose.
Arashiyama is a place where nature, beautiful scenery, history, culture, and activities can all be enjoyed. Please visit and enjoy its charms to the fullest.
Access
Access to Arashiyama is very convenient and can be easily reached from Kyoto Station. Below are the directions from Kyoto Station to Arashiyama.
Access from Kyoto Station
Arashiyama is conveniently accessible by train and bus. You can use the following methods to get there:
By train
- JR Sagano Line (Sanin Honsen Line): Take the JR Sagano Line from Kyoto Station and get off at Saga-Arashiyama Station. The trip takes about 15 minutes. It is about a 10-minute walk from Saga-Arashiyama Station to the center of Arashiyama.
By bus
- City Bus No. 28: Take City Bus No. 28 from Kyoto Station bus stop and get off at Arashiyama Tenryuji-mae bus stop. The trip takes about 50 minutes. From the bus stop to the center of Arashiyama is about a 5-minute walk.
By Taxi
It takes about 20-30 minutes from Kyoto Station to Arashiyama by cab. Cabs are also convenient if you have a lot of luggage or if public transportation is crowded.
Bicycle Rental
Bicycle rental is also widely used in Kyoto City. One option is to rent a bicycle near Kyoto Station and ride it to Arashiyama. The trip takes about 40 to 50 minutes. Bicycle transportation is recommended as it allows visitors to enjoy the scenery of Kyoto while sightseeing.
Either way, access to Arashiyama is easy and comfortable. Use public transportation, cab, or bicycle to visit Arashiyama while enjoying the beautiful scenery of Kyoto.
Hours of Operation, Admission Fees
There are many tourist attractions in the Arashiyama area, each with different opening hours and admission fees. Below is information on opening hours and admission fees for major tourist attractions.
Tenryu-ji Temple
Tenryuji Temple is a Zen temple located in the center of Arashiyama and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Hours: 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. (8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. from October 21 to March 20)
- Admission: 500 yen for the garden only, 800 yen to visit both the garden and the Daihojo.
Bamboo Grove Path
The path through the bamboo grove is open 24 hours a day and can be visited at any time.
- Hours of operation: 24 hours
- Admission fee: Free
Wataratsukibashi Bridge
Togetsu Bridge is a symbol of Arashiyama and the bridge itself is free to cross.
- Hours of operation: 24 hrs.
- Admission fee: Free
Nomiya Shrine
Nomiya Shrine is a shrine believed to be beneficial for matchmaking and academic success.
- Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
- Admission fee: Free
Hozu River Rafting
Hozu River Rafting is a popular activity in Arashiyama and offers beautiful riverside scenery.
- Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. (subject to seasonal and weather conditions)
- Admission fee: Adults 4,100 yen, Children 2,700 yen
When visiting the Arashiyama area, it is advisable to check the opening hours and admission fees of each spot in advance to ensure a smooth sightseeing experience. Enjoy the beautiful scenery and historical buildings at each spot and have a fulfilling time.
Summary
Arashiyama is a must-see area for tourists visiting Kyoto. Combining natural beauty and historical architecture, this area offers scenery that changes with the seasons. The cherry blossoms in spring and the autumn leaves in fall are especially recommended. Arashiyama dates back to the Heian period and is dotted with historical buildings such as Tenryuji Temple and Nomiya Shrine. Tenryu-ji Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its beautiful garden and architecture. The Bamboo Grove Path and Togetsu Bridge are also popular spots, especially if you visit early in the morning or in the evening, when you can enjoy the quiet atmosphere. Riding down the Hozu River is an activity that offers beautiful scenery and thrills along the river.
Access to Arashiyama from Kyoto Station is convenient by JR Sagano Line, Hankyu Arashiyama Line, or city buses. Cabs and rental bicycles are also available. Tenryuji Temple is open from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. (until 5:00 p.m. in winter). Admission is 500 yen for the garden only and 800 yen for the garden and Daihojo. The Bamboo Grove Path and Togetsu Bridge are open 24 hours a day and admission is free.
As you can see, Arashiyama is a place where you can enjoy nature, beautiful scenery, history, culture, and food. We hope you will visit and enjoy its charms to the fullest.
