Celebrate the autumn leaves at this annual festival in one of the most beautiful spots of Kyoto.
What happens?
On the river around Togetsu Bridge, boats will parade through with elaborately dressed characters reflecting the nobles of the Heian Period. The noblemen and women will perform from the boats, playing traditional instruments as well as performing Noh and Kyogen.
How to get there
Arashiyama is a suburb of Kyoto and easily accessed by bus, train, or tram. You can catch bus numbers 28, 73, and 76 to Arashiyama. Train wise you can catch the JR San-in Line or the Sagano Sightseeing line to Saga Arashiyama Station, or the Hankyu Arashiyama line to a different station across the river. The Randen Tram Line takes you to a third Arashiyama station (we know, it’s a mess) and is handy if you’ve been exploring the north-west of Kyoto (Kinkakuji and Ninnaji) as it will take you straight here.
Accommodation
If you are looking for general Kyoto guidance then we have some great options to get you started. For Arashiyama-specific options you can pay anything from ¥2,000 to ¥70,000, so be sure to shop around.
Organizers may cancel events, alter schedules, or change admission requirements without notice. Always check official sites before heading to an event.