Last updated on July 24th, 2024
Planning on visit Arashiyama in Kyoto? Read on our walking guide with Arashiyama itinerary with top things to do listed for half day trip to Arashiyama during cherry blossom.
Arashiyama (嵐山) is one of the popular sightseeing places in Kyoto. It is famous for its beautiful scenery, well-preserved ancient buildings, and sightseeing experience. No doubt, there are many things to see and do in Arashiyama. All the must-visit attraction is ideal to put into one-day itinerary from Kyoto. However, if you only have limited time, Arashiyama is a good place for a half-day trip to explore its natural beauty.
Arashiyama is also rated as one of the best spots for cherry blossoms in March and April as well as fall foliage in November in the Kyoto district. We have visited Arashiyama more than once, and each season has its own beauty. One of our visits was during early April, during the cherry blossom season, and it was amazing to see the sakura in full bloom.
Read on how we plan on our half-day Arashiyama itinerary from Kyoto.
How To Get To Arashiyama
First of all, Arashiyama is located slightly far distance with seven kilometers away from downtown Kyoto. However, it is pretty easy to get to Arashiyama from Osaka and Kyoto by train or bus. The train is a better option as you may get struct in the traffic by bus.
From Kyoto to Arashiyama by train or bus.
- By JR train: Take the JR San-In Line to JR Saga-Arashiyama (嵯峨嵐山) station from Kyoto Station. The 15 minutes train journey run every 20 minutes and will cost about ¥240.
- By Keifuku Randen Tram: For travelers from central Kyoto, take the Randen Line 12 stops from Shijo-Omiya (四条大宮) Station to Arashiyama (嵐山) Station. The tram runs every 10 minutes and costs ¥250.
- By Sagano Scenic Railway: From JR Kyoto (京都) Station to JR Umahori (馬堀) Station by JR Saga line. Next, transfer to Kameoka Torokko station (ロッコ亀岡駅) to take the Sagano Torokko to Arashiyama with a scenic train ride.
- By Bus: From Kyoto station and take the Kyoto City Bus (#28) and get off at Arashiyama-Tenryuji-mae.
From Osaka to Arashiyama is also doable by train. There are few train operators connected between Kyoto and Osaka such as JR, Hankyu, or Keihan Main Line. It depends on where is your departure from Osaka or arrival stop in Kyoto.
- By JR train: Take the JR train from Osaka to JR Kyoto station, then transfer to JR Saga-Arashiyama station.
- By Hankyu train: Take the train to Katsura Station, and then transfer to Hankyu Arashiyama Line to Arashiyama Station.
Note: The train operated is not connected and is situated at different stations a few minutes apart on foot.
Arashiyama Itinerary
When you are getting to Arashiyama, all the attractions are accessible by walking. There are many things to do on a sightseeing trip to Arashiyama. The whole visit can be finished by one day or a half-day trip within four to six hours.
Here is my walking route on Arashiyama itinerary for things to do in one-day:
- Ride on Sagano scenic railway (1 – 2 hours)
- Leisure walk in the bamboo grove – Must visit spot in Arashiyama (1 hour)
- Pray on Nonomiya Shrine (30 minutes)
- Visit World Heritage Site Tenryu-ji Temple (1 hour)
- Have Some Snack at Food Street
- Try the traditional Kyoto yudofu
- Cross the Togetsu-kyo Bridge (30 minutes)
- Hozugawa River Boat Ride (1 -2 hours)
1. Ride on Sagano Scenic Railway
The scenery train ride on Sagano Railway is one of the popular activities in Arashiyama. Enjoy the beautiful countryside mountain view with nostalgic trains along the Hozugawa River.
This scenic train takes around 25 minutes for a single ride from Kameoka to Saga Torokko station. However, you can choose to take off at Arashiyama Torokko station which located nearby the bamboo forest. It is a great stop to proceed for our next stop in Arashiyama’s visit.
READ MORE: Ride on Arashiyama Sagano Scenic Railway
Very popular and you need to purchase your ticket before boarding the train.
- Getting there: Take JR train from JR Kyoto Station to JR Umahori station. Next, board the Sagano Scenic Train at Kameoka Torokko station for scenery ride.
- Train fare: ¥880, 25 minutes
- The Sagano Romantic Train Ticket can be purrchase through Klook and Sagano Kanto website.
2. Leisure Walk in Bamboo Grove
Arashiyama bamboo grove or bamboo forest is another must-see in Arashiyama, Kyoto. It is also one of the top sights where you can discover the refreshing natural beauty.
After arriving at Arashiyama Torokko station, a short walk will lead you to the bamboo grove. It’s hard to put into words just how excited we were to finally visit this place, as it’s been on our travel bucket list for so long. The bamboo grove looks especially beautiful when sunlight shines through from the top. It’s a leisurely walk with towering bamboo stalks lining the path. The trail is short and will take you less than 10 minutes to walk through – just be sure to allow time for taking pictures!
Sadly that it is very much touristy very many people surrounded. Probably it’s better to come here in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowd for a peaceful visit. Worth visiting when visit Arashiyama.
Besides, you may also take advantage of the Arashiyama rickshaw tour. This tricycle experience tour will bring you through the bamboo forest and few best sight in the forest. A great option for those who want to save some walking energy.
- Getting there: 5 minutes walk from Arashiyama Torokko station.
- Entrance fee: Free!
Arashiyama Travel Tips: If you arrive at Arashiyama Station or Saga-Arashiyama station, it’s a 10-15 minute walk to the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest.
3. Pray at Nonomiya Shrine
The Nonomiya Shrine (野宮神社) is a small Shinto shrine located in the Arashiyama bamboo grove. It is dedicated to the Sun Goddess and to the deity of fire. It is said that the shrine provides blessings for marriage. Locals and visitors, especially for single ladies, are coming to Nonomiya Shrine to seek for purity and pray for love.
The shrine consists of a main altar and a few sub-shrines in a moss filled garden. Not too big but worth taking a look when passing by. It was beautiful as it located in the forest surrounded by trees and bamboo. A brief stop when you are in the bamboo forest.
- Getting there: located inside the bamboo forest.
- Entrance fee: Free!
4. Visit World Heritage Site Tenryu-ji Temple
Tenryuji (天龍寺, Tenryūji) is one of the important temples in Kyoto. It is a famous Zen temple and now registered as UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The most beautiful part of Tenryu-ji Temple is the finest garden inside with a tranquil atmosphere. It features a is a beautiful pond surrounded by pine trees, rocks and mountain view of Arashiyama. The view is very beautiful, especially in sakura or autumn foliage season.
- Getting there: less than 10 minutes walk from Nonomiya Shrine
- Opening Hours: 8:30 to 17:00-17:30
- Entrance fee: ¥500 (additional ¥300 to main temple buildings)
5. Have Some Snack at Food Street
From Tenryu-ji Temple to the Togetsukyo bridge, there are a lot of restaurants along the roadside. Take a stroll along the street and choose what to eat in Arashiyama. From a Western cafe, Japanese restaurants or small shops are all available on the main street.
Added, there are also many Japanese local street snacks to try along the way. Take the opportunity to grab some snacks and refreshments.
- Getting there: 5 minutes walk from Tenryuji Temple
6. Try the traditional Kyoto yudofu
Kyoto is the place in Japan to eat yudofu. There are many places to try this specialty in Kyoto.
If you want to have a great tofu dining experience in Arashiyama, you should try Yudofu Sagano! This restaurant is famous for tofu dishes in Arasihayama. Your food journey will be pleased not only through your taste buds but also through your eyes, as the restaurants are located in the beautiful gardens.
The Yudofu course meals are generally available from ¥3,000 up to ¥4,000 depending on the number of items in the meals.
7. Cross the Togetsu-kyo Bridge
Walk along the main street of Arashiyama toward the riverside. The wooden Togetsu-kyo Bridge (渡月橋) is another iconic landmark in Arashiyama. It is a well-known symbol of Arashiyama which spans across Katsura Rivers for more than 1000 years.
It was a beautiful scene with cherry trees lining the river. Locals were having picnics in the riverside park next to the Togetsu-kyo Bridge.
You can also follow the signs for a 20-minute hike up to the Iwatayama Monkey Park, another attraction in Arashiyama. We didn’t visit the Monkey Park and just spent time wandering around.
Getting there: 5 minutes walk from Tenryuji Temple
8. Hozugawa River Boat Ride
If you are interested, you may consider to include the Hozugawa River Boat Ride in your Arashiyama itinerary. The boat will be rowing at the Hozugawa river with beautiful scenery along the journey. It one of the best ways to embrace the greatness of mother nature in Arashiyama.
Unfortunately, we did not know about this boat ride before our Arashiyama trip. And only get to know this amazing experience when we take the Sagano train. Hopefully, we have a chance to come back for the boat ride.
Anyway, this 1 to 2 hours Hozugawa River Boat ride is not cheap. But worth for the best view especially during cherry blossom or autumn foliage.
- Getting there: Purchase your boat package at the ticket counter (train station). Get to boarding point which required 5 minutes walk from Kameoka station.
- Boat Fare: ¥4,100
- Official website: https://www.hozugawakudari.jp/en
What To Eat in Arashiyama
Don’t forget to head back to Arashiyama main street and use this chance to grab a bite for lunch. There are plenty of options and many stores here selling small bites, traditional Japanese snacks, street food, and drinks. You can also taste the yodofu and Japanese cuisine here.
In Arashiyama, there are several popular foods are specialty food for this region and must try here. Here are our recommendations in the Arashiyama food guide
Yutofu Meal
Yotofu is a specialty and popular dish in Arashiyama. The tofu meal in Arashiyama may not be for everyone, especially those who are expecting a meaty or strongly flavored meal. But it is still worth to try it when visiting Arashiyama.
The famous tofu restaurants in Arashiyama are Saga Tofu Ine (嵯峨豆腐稻), Shoraian (松籟庵), and Yudofu Sagano (湯豆腐 嵯峨野).
If you’re interested in trying tofu without spending too much money, consider visiting Yudofu Chaya Sagatofu Sanchu. This cabin kiosk offers quick snacks, noodle dishes, and yudofu at reasonable prices. It’s a convenient stop while visiting Arashiyama. The stall located on the same corner of food stall cluster such as Kotoimo Honpo (古都芋本舖) and easy to find.
Arashiyama Yoshimura
Handmade Soba: Arashiyama Yoshimura (嵐山よしむら蕎麥麵) is a popular soba restaurant located near Togetsu-kyo Bridge. It is just located few steps aways from % Arabica Kyoto Arashiyama.
It’s a great place for lunch after visiting Arashiyama. It’s best to arrive early, as the place is popular. No reservations can be made, so you will need to come early to get your table number. The staff will give you an estimated waiting time so diners can stroll around the nearby gardens while waiting.
We had to wait for about 1 hour to be seated. But worth the waiting time. The food is amazing, delicious, and reasonably priced.
There are table and counter seating area. If you’re really lucky, you can snag a seat right by the window. In that case, your eyes will be treated to the beauty of the Hozu-gawa River and the Arashiyama Mountains.
Arabica Kyoto Arashiyama
Cafe and Desserts: In Arashiyama, there are several fantastic cafes and dessert shops that will leave you feeling satisfied. One of the most well-liked cafes is Arabica Kyoto, which is situated on the river bank. It’s easy to spot due to the long line of customers waiting outside.
% Arabica Kyoto Arashiyama – A small shop is perfectly positioned not far from Togetsu-kyo Bridge, facing the river with a beautiful view. The line is always long, and you can see the barista and staff working non-stop to make coffee.
They don’t offer seating, but you can take your coffee to the Katsura riverside and enjoy the view. It’s a lovely spot for a break with a great view.
Kotoimo Honpo
Kotoimo Honpo (古都芋本舖) is a popular street food spot in Arashiyama. The small snack shop is situated at the entrance of the Arashimaya Bamboo Forest.
Kotoimo Honpo offers a variety of traditional Japanese sweets such as sweet soy sauce mochi and candied baked sweet potatoes. The thin, crispy, and savory sweet potato chips are truly addicting, with many people lining up for these snacks.
Kyozuan
Kyozuan (京豆庵) is famous for its tofu ice cream made from 100% Japanese soybeans. It’s a great place to enjoy a refreshing drink in hot weather. The shop is located next to Kotoimo Honpo and at the corner of the food stall cluster at the entrance of the Bamboo Grove.
Other food options that are worth recommending to eat in Arashiyama, include:
Unagi: Unagiya Hirokawa is renowned for its Unagi sets in Arashiyama. Reservations are highly recommended as this restaurant gets extremely crowded.
Where To Stay? Kyoto Or Arashiyama
Arashiyama is very ideal for a day trip from Kyoto with well-connected transportation. But, it is great to stay overnight to enjoy beauty peacefully when all the day-tripper leaving. If you want to stay overnight in Arashiyama, we highly recommend you to stay overnight in a traditional ryokan there.
Rangetsu, Suiran Hotel, and Arashiyama Benkei are the best finest ryokan in Arashiyama. All are perfect traditional ryokan that made you feel like your own Japanese home with onsen facilities. A great place for your perfect stay in Arashiyama who want to be based here. Friendly reminder that limited rooms are available for ryokan. Reserve your rooms as earlier as possible to avoid disappointment.
Arashiyama Itinerary Tips
Plan for at least three to four hours to visit Arashiyama in leisure.
Sakura season and Autumn is the best time to visit Arashiyama.
Arashiyama is one of the must visit in Kyoto especially for first time visitor. The bamboo grove is the top popular sights in Arashiyama.
From Kyoto Station, take the JR Sagano/San-in Main Line to Saga-Arashiyama Station with approx. 15 min train ride. Next, another 10-min walk will get you to Arashiyama Bamboo Grove.
Half Day Trip To Arashiyama
All in all, we enjoy our half-day trip to Arashiyama. All the must-visit attraction was included in my walking itinerary. It is a leisure trip and a great retreat outside of Kyoto city. Even if you only have half-day in Arashiyama, you still can manage to accomplish most of them.
However, if you have time for one day in Arashiyama, we highly recommended go for the Hozugawa River Boat ride and enjoy nature along the river. There are still many places like Jojakukoji Temple, Gioji temple, Hogonin, monkey park to visit in Arashiyama. In short, Arashiyama worth for allocating more time for exploring. If you are interested, continue to read on my related travel blog on Kansai itinerary planning.
How to Plan Your 7 Days Kansai Japan itinerary
Osaka itinerary:
- Things to do in Osaka: Ultimate Travel Guide Blog
- Osaka Amazing Pass itinerary: A Travel Guide Blog
- Osaka Food Guide: Top 8 Unique Food To Eat in Osaka
- Where to Stay in Osaka: Namba or Umeda
Kyoto itinerary:
- 15 Things To Do and Eat for 3 Days in Kyoto
- Where to Stay in Kyoto + Itinerary Guide
- Ride On Arashiyama Sagano Scenic Railway
- Half Day Trip To Arashiyama
- Trip To Kinkakuji, Golden Pavilion
- Kiyomizudera Itinerary with Walking Guide
- Nishiki Market Travel Guide: What To Eat and Buy
- [Cherry Blossom in Kyoto] Philosopher’s Walk
Best Day trip from Kyoto or Osaka
- Nara Itinerary: Perfect Day Trip From Osaka & Kyoto
- Fushimi Inari Shrine: A Complete Travel Guide
- Uji Itinerary: Best Day Trip From Kyoto
How to travel to Osaka, Kyoto & Nara:
