Meaning “stormy mountain”, Arashiyama is a picturesque district only 20 minutes train ride from central Kyoto. It’s famous for its beautiful bamboo grove, Togetsukyo Bridge, Tenryu-ji Temple, and monkey park.
Kyoto wasn’t on #myrevisitlist until I visited Arashiyama. Now I’m a repeat visitor.
My favorite way to enjoy Arashiyama is by strolling along the river or hiring a rowboat, wandering through the mountain park, and savoring local snacks along the way.
On my first visit here though, I went on an adventurous boat cruise along the Hozugawa River, rode the Torocco Train, strolled through the bamboo grove, visited Tenryuji Temple, and enjoyed the famous tofu meal.
Togetsukyo’s Riverbank
Walking along the river near the famous Togetsukyo Bridge offers amazing views. Once you move past the busy areas with shops and cafes, it becomes much quieter, letting you really enjoy the peaceful scenery.
You can also rent a rowboat to explore the tranquil waters near the Togetsukyo Bridge and enjoy the surrounding scenery, including the lush mountains and seasonal colors.
Snacks on-the-go
The snack stalls between Randen Arashiyama Station and Togetsukyo Bridge offer a great variety of local treats. You can pick up instagenic sweet dango, Arashiyama croquiettes, and refreshing sushi made of vegetable pickles rather than raw fish.
Tenryu-ji Temple
Tenryuji is probably the most famous temple in Arashiyama. It’s a short walk from the Togetsukyo Bridge. The garden is beautiful, especially in autumn, as it is designed to blend seamlessly with the surrounding mountains.
A dragon that stares at you from every angle is painted in Tenryu-ji’s Dharma Hall ceiling, reflecting the temple’s name, “Temple of the Heavenly Dragon.” Note that it requires a separate fee from the rest of the temple and not open every day. You can check open days here:
Kameyama Park
A walk through Kameyama Park is a peaceful escape from the crowd, with great views of the Hozugawa River and the surrounding mountains. The quiet trails make it a perfect spot for a relaxing stroll – buy some food near the Togetsukyo and walk up to the park for a peaceful lunch under the pagoda.
Hozugawa Boat Ride
The 1h40min boat ride from Kameoka to Togetsukyo Bridge is a unique way to take in the scenery along the Hozugawa River. You’ll pass through lush landscapes, steep cliffs, and scenic spots.
It’s a relaxing yet occasionally adventurous way to enjoy the natural beauty of the area – and you get to end up at Arashiyama’s main attractions near Togetsukyo Bridge.
Torocco train
The Torocco Train is a fun, scenic ride through the beautiful Hozugawa River valley. It’s a way to enjoy the stunning views of the river and mountains, with a charming, old-fashioned vibe that adds to the experience.
Famous Tofu meals
Tofu is one of the most famous foods in Arashiyama, reflecting Kyoto’s long history of refined vegetarian cuisine influenced by Buddhist temple traditions. So, many restaurants in this area specialises in tofu dishes.
Pokemon Lid
And yes, I had to mention, the Houou (Pheonix) pokemon manhole lid that I replicated on my Uniqlo hoodie is here too, near the Togetsukyo Bridge.
Getting there
Arashiyama is less than 20-minute train ride from Kyoto Station.
From Kyoto Station, take the JR Sagano Line (Sanin Line) and get off at Saga-Arashiyama Station (about 15min). From Saga-Arashiyama Station, it’s about a 10-minute walk to Togetsukyo Bridge
There are many more things to see and do in Arashiyama. I’ve made multiple day trips as well as stayed there, and it’s a 🥇 (= worth planning a trip around) on #myrevisitlist.
[Photos taken 2012, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2019, 2024]
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