There are so many things to do in Arashiyama, Kyoto's popular tourist area!
From snapping selfies on the Togetsukyo Bridge stretching over the Oi River, exploring the footpaths immersed in the lush Bamboo Forest, and riding the Sagano Romantic Train, here are 15 fun things to do in Arashiyama that you won't want to miss!
1. Togetsukyo Bridge: Snap a Selfie on the Iconic Bridge!
The Togetsukyo Bridge is the number one tourist attraction in Arashiyama, and a symbol of the area's beauty.
Despite being made of concrete, the wooden balustrade fits in perfectly with the surrounding natural landscape, and the beautiful scenery of the sky, unobstructed by buildings. The Togetsukyo Bridge was clearly designed in harmony with the nature of Arashiyama. It's the perfect spot for photos, too!
There are different landscapes to enjoy in every season: delightful cherry blossoms in the spring, lush greenery in the summer, brilliant foliage in the fall, and the chilling beauty of winter.
Togetsu-kyo Bridge
Sagatenryuji Suenobaba Town, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture
Arashiyama
075-411-9990
2. Arashiyama Bamboo Forest: Rejuvenate Yourself in the Famous Grove
Just like the Togetsukyo Bridge, the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest footpath is one of Arashiyama's signature scenic spots. Towering bamboo trees stretch all the way up to the sky. The forest is nice and lush throughout all seasons. It's a great, shady oasis offering a cool relief from the hot sun in the summer. Take a deep breath of fresh, clean air, and rejuvenate yourself from the inside out.
Arashiyama Bamboo Forest: A Complete Guide
Arashiyama Bamboo Forest
Saga Ogurayama Tabuchiyama Town, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture
Torokkoarashiyama
075-213-1717
3. Tenryuji: Experience Zazen in a Beautiful Garden
Arashiyama is packed with shrines and temples that harmoniously blend into nature. Tenryuji is particularly famous for its beautiful garden, Sogenchi Teien. Sogenchi Teien was designated as Japan's first Special Historical Scenic Spot, and when you see each season's unique scenery, you'll know why!
Sit under the eaves of Ohojo, Tenryuji's largest building, and experience zazen as you look out over the garden. Listen to the buzzing from the trees, the chirping of the birds, the voices of other visitors, and the gentle blowing of the breeze. Let time stop for a moment as you relax in nature.
Measures against coronavirus: Sanitizer available at entrances and exits; area is well ventilated.
Tenryuji Gardens in Arashiyama, Kyoto: Complete Guide to the Breathtaking Zen Gardens!
Tenryu-ji Temple
68, Sagatenryujisusukinobabacho, Ukyo-ku, Kyoto-shi, Kyoto
Arashiyama
075-881-1235
Book Now: Join Kyoto Arashiyama Bamboo and Tenryu-ji Private Tour
4. Sagano Romantic Train: Ride through the Beautiful Valleys
The Sagano Romantic Train (also called the Sagano Torokko Train) is a sightseeing train that runs through Arashiyama, taking you through the valleys along the Hozu River. The train has cars with both glass-less window seats and regular passenger seats. So pick your favorite, and enjoy the passing scenery of the river, the mountains, and the 8 tunnels along the way.
The Sagano Romantic Train runs once every hour from 9:00AM…
