Arashiyama Bamboo Forest

Must-See Attractions Near Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Japan

Tenryu-ji Temple

After checking out the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, you should head to the outside of the North Gate of Tenryu-ji Temple. As a UNESCO World Heritage site, the temple has amazing gardens and beautiful old buildings. It's a peaceful spot to relax and enjoy the scenic landscape, especially in spring when the cherry blossoms are out or in fall when the leaves change color.

Monkey Park Iwatayama

Found on the mountainside, the park is home to wild Japanese monkeys. After a short hike, you'll reach the top where you can feed the monkeys and enjoy panoramic views of Kyoto. It's a great way to see local wildlife and get some exercise. Plus, the park is close to Arashiyama Station, making it easy to fit into your itinerary.

Okochi Sanso Villa

If you visit the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, you should also check out the Okochi Sanso Villa. This villa was once the home of a famous Japanese actor and has amazing views and lovely gardens. The ticket price includes a cup of matcha tea and a sweet treat that you can enjoy while looking around. The villa has paths that take you through the beautiful gardens, which are perfect for taking photos.

Kimono Forest

Check out the colorful Kimono Forest near Arashiyama Station! This special place has hundreds of glowing poles wrapped in pretty kimono fabric. It looks extra amazing in the evening when the lights make everything look magical. As you walk through, you'll see a mix of old and new Japanese art.

Togetsukyo Bridge

The Togetsukyo Bridge, also called the Moon Crossing Bridge, is an old and famous bridge near the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest. From the bridge, you can see beautiful views of the Hozu River and the nearby mountains. These views are especially pretty during cherry blossom time in spring and when the leaves change color in autumn. Many people, both locals and tourists, like to walk on the bridge and enjoy the scenery.

Boat Ride on Hozu River

For a fun experience near the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, try a boat ride on the Hozu River. These old-fashioned wooden pleasure boats let you relax and enjoy the beautiful views of the gorge and the area around it. You can see amazing cliffs, forests, and animals along the river. It's a calm way to get away from the crowds and makes your visit extra special.

Nonomiya Shrine

At the Nonomiya Shrine, part of the bamboo grove extends there too. It's a place where daughters of the Imperial family once purified themselves before becoming shrine maidens at the Ise Jingu, which is considered the most important shrine in Japan. The shrine tends to be crowded with young women in traditional yukata praying for love, and rickshaw drivers with strong legs take a moment to share a bit of history with their passengers.

Day Trips from Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

If you're planning to stay in the area for a bit longer, there are some amazing day trips you can take from Arashiyama Bamboo Grove .

Relax at Kinosaki Onsen

Just a couple of hours away by train, Kinosaki Onsen is one of Japan’s most charming hot spring towns. You can walk through the town in a yukata (light cotton kimono), enjoy traditional Japanese inns, and soak in soothing hot springs.