Celebrate the autumn leaves at this annual festival in one of the most beautiful spots of Kyoto. 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.
Access
Arashiyama is a suburb of Kyoto and easily accessed by bus, train or tram. You can catch bus numbers 28, 71, 72 and 73 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 Tokyo (Kinkakuji and Ninnaji) as it will take you straight here. Consider getting the bus pass for ¥500 which is easily worthwhile after a few journeys on the fixed-price buses and can be bought from vending machines at the station.
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, so be sure to shop around. We suggest the affordable spots like the First Cabin with private capsule beds and a rooftop terrace for under ¥2,000. For a little more privacy you can opt for the cosy Yado Arashiyama which is part hotel part guesthouse or the aptly names Hotel Arashiyama which is pure hotel. If you want some luxury, then how about an onsen ryokan combination — the Arashiyama Benkei Onsen has all the Japanese charm and the prices to go with it — but sometimes it’s nice to just treat yo’ self.
Organizers may cancel events, alter schedules, or change admission requirements without notice. Always check official sites before heading to an event.