Written by Jane Pipkin
Bamboo, boats, and bridges — just a few of the things that make Arashiyama one of the most popular parts of Kyoto. For many, a typical trip involves squeezing through crowds to admire the bamboo, and then strolling down the lively main shopping street. But we’ll let you in on a secret — there are more serene ways to experience the famous forest and surrounds.
If you’re planning to explore the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest on your own, the following tips will help guide a DIY visit. But to experience the best of the bamboo grove as well as Arashiyama’s hidden gems, we recommend an early-morning walking tour, priced from ¥12,800.
There is also a great general morning walking tour you can check out, if you aren’t an early riser. Many of the spots we recommend here are included in one or both tours, so we suggest checking both itineraries to see which appeals to you the most.
The reason we like walking tours is that no matter the season, you gain a fresh, more peaceful perspective of the bamboo forest and its surroundings. Plus, you get exclusive cultural insights from a friendly local guide, adding an extra dimension to the day.
Note: Some of the places here do require walking up steps, so they aren’t always the most accessible.
1. Exploring the Sagano Bamboo Forest
The top spot in Arashiyama, Sagano Bamboo Forest — also known as the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove or simply Kyoto Bamboo Forest — is an awe-inspiring natural wonder that attracts visitors from around the world. In the past, it was an exclusive aristocratic retreat. Luckily for us, these days anyone is free to visit.
The Kyoto Bamboo Forest has two distinct routes to walk through. The most famous is Chikurin no Komichi (“Path of Bamboo”), a 400-meter-long path, where dense bamboo blocks out the sky, immersing visitors in a tunnel of green.
The other route, located north of Nonomiya Shrine, is known as Chikurin no Sansakuro (Bamboo Forest Trail). Covering around 3,800 square meters of vibrant bamboo, this trail gives you a chance to experience the bamboo in a less hurried manner.
Best time to visit the Kyoto Bamboo Forest
The Kyoto Bamboo Forest is famously crowded throughout all seasons. The crowds tend to be thickest in the late morning and afternoon.
If you want to be one of the first people in the bamboo forest, it’s best to go around 7:30 a.m. to 8 a.m.. While you may encounter a few other early risers, the forest is much quieter at this time of day.
By going first thing in the morning, you can also experience the sun peeking through the bamboo, which is utterly dreamlike. Going in the early morning isn’t just good for avoiding crowds; it is also cooler, which is especially important during the sticky summer season!
For a slightly later arrival, but an in-depth, fully organized tour, you’re in good hands with JTB Sunrise Tours. On their early-morning walking tour, you don’t need to worry about navigating the forest on your own. The guide will take you to all the best spots — meaning you can simply admire the beauty of the bamboo.
Did you know? Bamboo is considered a lucky plant in Japan, alongside pine and plum trees.
Tips for taking photos of the bamboo forest
As mentioned, Chikurin no Komichi (Path of Bamboo) is the most iconic part of the forest. The winding path is framed by towering bamboo arching overhead, and it is the most sought-after area for photos. However, thanks to insights from our local guide, we discovered two other brilliant spots in the forest for photos.
Secret spot 1: For a photo without the crowds in the background, the best place is actually the small side trial that branches off in the Path of Bamboo part of the forest.
Secret spot 2: The second spot is near the end of the forest, close to the entrance of Okochi Sanso Villa. Turn to face back toward the road, and you’ll get a stunning wide shot of the bamboo rising high above.
The images above show an accurate comparison between how crowded the forest is at 7:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m., based on our visit in June 2025. And no, we didn’t crop anyone out.
Pro tip: For an impactful shot, tilt the camera upward to frame your subject against the towering bamboo. This emphasizes the scale and creates a striking contrast.
How to get to Sagano Bamboo Forest
Should you be part of a walking tour, the guide will meet you at Kyoto Station and from there the group will take the JR Rapid/Local to Saga-Arashiyama Station — this takes around 30 minutes.
Although you will stop at other places first, the Bamboo Forest is a 15-minute walk away from Saga-Arashiyama Station.
If you are doing the bamboo grove on your own, there is also the option to take the 28 City Bus (Daikakuji Temple via Matsuo-taisha Shrine and Arashiyama) from Kyoto Station. Note that this costs ¥230 and takes around 55 minutes.
Pro tip: The bus stops at Kyoto Station are often crowded and can be confusing. Find out how to navigate the buses like a local.
2. Other things to see — Jojakko-ji Temple
With a name that is often translated as “an ideal world”, Jojakko-ji Temple was built in 1595 by the Nichiren sect of Buddhism. It is stunning, but often overlooked due to its slightly hidden location near the bamboo forest.
The temple immediately stands out with its Niōmon Gate, which features a thatched roof — an uncommon characteristic for temple gates.
In addition to the famous gate, the temple is home to the even more famous pagoda (Tahōtō). Standing at 12-meters tall, this three-story pagoda is a type of pagoda seen with esoteric Buddhism in the Heian period. Other points of interest include Hondō (the guest hall) and Myōken-dō (a worship hall).
Being situated on the side of Mount Ogura, the temple requires climbing many stairs — but the views make it worth the effort. At the highest point of the temple grounds, there is a small viewing area where you can see the traditional old city below. Part of the experience is walking up the stairs, passing through small bamboo groves and enjoying the natural beauty surrounding the temple.
Here’s a secret …
Although Jojakko-ji Temple looks picturesque in summer, it’s in fall that it truly shines. Our guide told us that the temple is well known among locals for its momiji (maple leaves), but is still a quieter spot in the city to enjoy them. That’s a breathtaking sight — red leaves framing the panoramic view of Kyoto below.
How to get to Jojakko-ji Temple
It is a short 5-minute walk to Jojakko-ji Temple from the end of the forest. Walk past Okochi Sanso Villa (which you can come back to later), and continue straight.
3. Stop by Tenryu-ji
Tenryu-ji (Temple of the Heavenly Dragon) is situated at the edge of the Bamboo Path. It serves as the head temple of the Tenryu-ji branch of Rinzai Zen Buddhism. Tenryu-ji is considered one of the city’s five great Zen temples. It is also a registered World Heritage Site.
Founded by Shogun Ashikaga Takauji in 1339, the temple grounds have endured eight devastating fires. This means most of the restored buildings only date back to the Meiji period — but they are a sight to behold.
Celebrated for its stunning visualisation of all four seasons, the temple is equally renowned for its seasonal flowers. In summer, you can admire azaleas and lotuses in the pond. Spring brings a breathtaking display of cherry blossoms.
There is a sightseeing course that you can follow at Tenryu-ji. Key points of interest include the main hall (Hōjō) and Sōgen Pond. Inside the main hall is where you can find the famous cloud dragon painting.
There are also quieter corners of the temple that many visitors miss. One example is the Tenryuji Inkstone, located north of the main hall. This two-meter-tall stone is believed to bring good luck to those hoping to improve their calligraphy skills.
Don’t miss the pond
Our guide’s favorite part of the temple is the garden pond. If you look closely at the back of the pond, you’ll notice several large rocks. These represent the Dragon Gate Falls in China. Legend says that a carp that can ascend the stones will transform into a dragon.
Pro tip: Although Tenryu-ji opens at 8:30 a.m., we recommend walking through the bamboo forest first and then making your way back to the temple.
How to get to Tenryu-ji
As mentioned, Tenryu-ji is located right near the main Path of Bamboo. If you are coming from Jojakko-ji Temple, it is about an 8-minute walk, back through the forest.
Middle School students: ¥300
Elementary School students: ¥300
4. Visit Nonomiya Shrine
Nonomiya Shrine is a small Shinto shrine near Tenryu-ji. Nestled within the middle of the bamboo forest, this small shrine has links to one of the most powerful shrines in Japan — Ise Grand Shrine. Because of its history, helping unmarried women of the ancient court, the shrine is known for bringing women luck in love and safe childbirth.
Additionally, the shrine is notable for its torii gate, which is black and appears to be made of timber. It follows the design of the oldest known style of Shinto torii. Other features include the shrine garden and the smaller shrines within the ground. There is also a lucky stone — according to legend, those who rub it will have their wish granted within the year.
Note: Given its location within the forest, this shrine can get crowded as well. We recommend visiting first thing in the morning, although note that the shrine office doesn’t open until 9 a.m.
How to get to Nonomiya Shrine
From the entrance of Tenryu-ji, Nonomiya Shrine is a 2-minute walk away, heading in the opposite direction to the Path of Bamboo.
5. Shine at Mikami Shrine
This is a true hidden gem that we discovered as part of our tour. Mikami Shrine is a small Shinto Shrine that is for those wishing for great hair — it’s literally in the name “kami”. It is the only shrine in Japan that is dedicated to hairdressing and cosmetics.
The main deity enshrined here is Lord Unemenosuke Masayuki who was a hairdresser during the regin of Emperor Kameyama in the 13th century. He is credited with starting the hairdressing profession in Japan. That’s why hairdressers, wig companies, and beauty-salon owners are encouraged to visit the shrine for business prosperity and hair growth.
Anyone can visit the shrine, but if you want a special blessing you can make a “divine offering”. You can donate five strands of your hair, cut by a priest with special scissors, and it will then be donated to the special hair mound — where it will be protected.
How to get to Mikami Shrine
The walk from Nonomiya Shrine to Mikami Shrine is slightly longer — taking 10-minutes. You need to make your way back through the Path of Bamboo; when you see Okochi Sanso Villa, turn right and follow the road. When you see Ogura Pond, turn left and you’ll see the shrine tucked away.
6. Get the views from Okochi Sanso Villa
Hidden away at the end of the Bamboo Forest, Okochi Sanso Villa is the former residence of the Japanese period actor Ōkōchi Denjirō — and a beautiful one at that. An admirer of Zen philsophy, Denjirō’s carefully thought-out residence offers many serene spots and inspired architecture.
Having taken over 30 years to complete, the site includes a tea house, Buddha Hall, and a meticulously kept Japanese-style garden. Many parts are registered as cultural properties.
As you ascend the stone stairs, you’ll first come across Daijokaku, a traditional Japanese-style house where Denjirō lived in the later years of his life. Carrying on the green garden path, you get to the Buddha Hall (Jibutsudo) which is surrounded by styled greenery and Arashiyama as a backdrop. Following this, you’ll reach the teahouse (Tekisui-an).
Don’t miss this secret spot
Continue walking to the top and you’ll get to the centerpiece. From here, you’ll be treated to mesmerizing views of Arashiyama and Mount Hiei.
The building perfectly frames the landscape, creating a real-life screen that showcases the scenery. This secret spot not only offers a place to rest, but a different perspective of Arashiyama.
Note: If you need to rest, there are dedicated rest areas, as well as a café and Wi-Fi spot near the entrance.
Children: ¥500
How to get to Okochi Sanso Villa
Okochi Sanso Villa is located at the end of the Path of Bamboo. However, if you do decide to pop by Mikami Shrine, it is a 3-minute walk back towards the villa.
7. Bonus — ride a yakatabune
Yakatabune are traditional private boats, originally enjoyed by the aristocracy during the Heian period. While there are many types of yakatabune, those in Arashiyama take the form of traditional houseboats. These boats are manually rowed by professionals using a large bamboo oar, offering a unique way to experience Arashiyama from the water.
Yakatabune offer a beautiful experience all year round. In summer, lush greenery surrounds the riverbanks, while in fall you can admire the bright red leaves. Winter brings snow-covered branches and of course, in spring the cherry blossoms are in bloom.
A typical boat ride lasts around 30 minutes and is mostly enjoyed in silence. This quiet allows you to appreciate the sound of splashing water, the surrounding nature, and the nostalgic atmosphere of the area.
Where to board the yakatabune
To board a yakatabune (pre-booking required), you will need to either go to the Arashiyama Tsusen South or North Boarding Area. We recommend going to the North one.
From Okochi Sanso Villa, it is a 18-minute walk out and around the bamboo forest. It’s best to get out the forest and then walk along the main road, heading towards Togetsukyo Bridge.
8. Cross Togetsukyo Bridge
One of Arashiyama’s most iconic landmarks, the Togetsukyo Bridge is believed to have been first constructed during the Jōwa era (834-848) by a monk. The bridge’s name means “moon-crossing”, as it is said Emperor Kameyama saw the moon crossing the bridge.
Over the centuries, the wooden bridge in Arashiyama has been the subject of countless poems and paintings, cementing its place in Japanese cultural heritage.
The bridge crosses the Katsura River and offers panoramic views of the vast Arashiyama forest. Like the nearby bamboo grove, it becomes crowded by late morning. We recommend visiting early to capture a photo that resembles a traditional painting, with no one in sight.
How to get to Togetsukyo Bridge
After getting back to land, it is a short 6-minute walk from the yakatabune boarding area to the beginning of Togetsukyo Bridge.
What to eat in Arashiyama
Arashiyama is full of amazing restaurants — though many of them have long queues. If you want to explore the options on your own, we recommend going down some of the quieter side streets. However, if you want some recommendations, here are ours.
Tofu
Among Kyoto’s most famous foods are tofu and yuba (the delicate skin the forms when boiling soymilk). The area has a long history of producing tofu, thanks to its ideal soft water conditions, which help create the silkiest tofu.
Over time, tofu became increasingly integrated into the local culture as an essential ingredient in shojin-ryori (traditional vegetarian temple cuisine), making it a natural choice for vegetarians.
There are dozens of tofu restaurants to choose from. If you don’t want to stray too far, a good option is Arashiyama Yoshimura. Located right next to the Yakatabune Boarding Area, this restaurant is actually split into two separate restaurants — with one being one soba and the other for tofu.
There’s a good selection of tofu set meals available, many featuring matcha tofu, yuba, and tempura bowls, along with various small side dishes. Prices start at ¥1,960.
If you are looking for somewhere less crowded, head to Yudofu Sagano. This traditional tofu restaurant located behind the grounds of Tenryu-ji offers both an esthetic and relaxing dining experience. Not only can you eat in an elegant sukiya-style building, with views of a picturesque garden, but enjoy a carefully thought-out selection of tofu set meals.
Prices start from ¥4,400 and within the set you receive hot tofu, fried tempura, noodles (summer only), and other small dishes. The selection varies with the seasons.
Arashiyama FAQs
How early should I go to Arashiyama?
As mentioned, if you want to see a relatively empty bamboo forest, it’s best to go between 7 a.m. and 8 a.m. Although there will still be some people there, it’s far less crowded compared to after 10 a.m.
Is Arashiyama a full day?
We definitely recommend spending the majority of your day exploring all the wonders of Arashiyama. It’s better to go as early as possible — not just for the Bamboo Forest, but also so you can stroll more leisurely. For reference, most shops, cafés, and restaurants open around 9 a.m., and by 11 a.m., the area is packed with people.
While we do our best to ensure it’s correct, information is subject to change.
