Arashiyama is worth a half day if you go early. Walk to the bamboo grove before the tour groups arrive, then cross the river, visit one temple garden and end with a slow walk along the water. Plan one main stop, not five, and you will enjoy the area more.
Arrive early
Arashiyama is in the west of Kyoto. Most visitors arrive by train, and the station is the start of the walk. The first hour after the gates open is the calmest time in the bamboo grove. By late morning, the narrow path is full of people, and it is hard to stop for a photo.
Plan to be at the grove soon after you arrive. Keep your visit short. The path is narrow, so step aside when you stop, and do not block the way for others.
Check first: Check the opening times of the bamboo grove and any temple you plan to see on the official site or the local tourist information. Some gardens close early, and opening times change by season.
The bamboo grove
The grove is a short walk from the station. The tall stalks make a green tunnel, and the light is best in the morning. It is a short path, so do not expect a long hike. Keep your voice low, because the grove is a quiet place.
Do not climb on the stalks, and do not take a cutting or leaf. Follow the signs on the path.
One temple garden
Arashiyama has several temple gardens. Pick one. Tenryu-ji is a common choice because its garden and its pond are close to the main path. Walk slowly and sit for a few minutes. Many visitors rush through, but the garden is best when you stop.
Check first: Check the entry fee and the last entry time on the temple website. Do not rely on a blog for the fee or the hours, because both can change.
The river and the bridge
Walk to the Togetsukyo Bridge. It crosses the river and gives the best view of the hills. The river path is calm, and you can walk along the bank for a while. In autumn the trees on the hills change colour. In spring the cherry trees are full. In summer the river is cooler than the streets.
Do not stand in the middle of the bridge for a long time. Step to the side to take photos, so others can pass.
If the grove is full
Sometimes the grove is busy even early. Do not push through the crowd. Walk on to a temple garden or the river, and come back later when the path clears. The paths above the river also give a good view.
Wear comfortable shoes. Some paths are not flat, and bikes share some of them. Listen for bells and step aside.
Lunch and a break
After the river, eat a light lunch. Many places near the station are small and fill up quickly. Use Tabelog to find a place with recent reviews. Choose a place with seats if you want to rest.
Some shops sell local sweets and tea. Take your time and sit with the view. This is the part of the day that makes Arashiyama special.
Getting back
Plan your return before lunch. Trains and buses from Arashiyama can be crowded in the afternoon. If you are staying in central Kyoto, you can take the train or a bus. Use an IC card on most local services.
Check first: Check the train and bus timetable on the operator's website. Check the bus route map before you board, because the local buses are slow in traffic.
Who this suits
This half day suits couples and anyone who likes a slow walk. It is less suited to a group that wants many stops in a short time. If your group wants a busy afternoon, combine Arashiyama with a visit to the centre in the evening.
What to do next
Arashiyama works well as one part of a Kyoto plan. Read the guide on where to base yourself, or use the planner to see how Arashiyama fits your days.
