Arashiyama travel guide: sights and a practical walking route
Western Kyoto's bamboo grove, Tenryuji, Togetsukyo Bridge, hill views, and gardens are reached through three different rail gateways.
What Arashiyama is like
The grove works best as part of a route from Tenryuji's north gate toward the northern temples or Togetsukyo, not as a standalone photo stop.
Central lanes crowd after midmorning, the scenic train needs separate booking, and the monkey park requires a steep climb.
Stations and access
JR Saga-Arashiyama, Randen Arashiyama, and Hankyu Arashiyama are separate. Use different arrival and departure stations for a one-way route.
Major places to visit
Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
A short public path rather than a photo studio. Keep pedestrian flow moving.
Official information →Tenryuji Temple
A Zen temple with the Sogenchi garden. Garden-only and building admissions differ.
Official information →Togetsukyo Bridge
Arashiyama's landmark bridge. Do not stop on the carriageway; view it from the riverbank.
Official information →Iwatayama Monkey Park
A steep climb to a hilltop monkey habitat. Do not touch animals and follow feeding rules.
Official information →Okochi Sanso Garden
A hillside strolling garden beyond the grove with city views. Check final entry.
Official information →A practical route
- Early morning: visit Tenryuji and the grove before crowds
- Midday: choose Okochi Sanso or one northern temple
- Afternoon: descend to Togetsukyo and climb the monkey park only if fit
Before you go
- Check the positions of all three rail stations
- Book the scenic train separately
- Allow for the monkey-park climb and closing time
Opening hours, prices, tickets, and temporary closures can change. Check each official website before visiting.