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Arashiyama is more than a name—it’s Kyoto’s heartbeat: bamboo groves whispering in the breeze, the Moon-viewing Bridge reflecting centuries of stillness, and air thick with quiet Zen. Come here not to check a box, but to let your soul slow down.
Everything you need to know about Arashiyama
Stay at Arashiyama Onsen Hotel, offering rooms with private balconies that provide panoramic views of the bamboo grove and Togetsukyo Bridge during peak fall season. The hotel offers complimentary shuttle service to Tenryu-ji Temple and Sagano Scenic Railway, with a 5-minute walk to the famed Bamboo Grove Path. Each room features traditional tatami mats and underfloor heating, allowing guests to enjoy illuminated Katsura River views at night, blending Kyoto’s cultural heritage with serene natural beauty.
Take the Eizan Electric Railway directly from Kyoto Station to Gion-Shijo Station, a 25-minute ride with scenic views of the Katsura River. Alternatively, transfer at Shijō Station to the Keihan Kyoto Main Line to Sonobe Station, then take a Kyoto City Bus or taxi—total journey time around 40 minutes. For a unique experience, board the Sagano Scenic Railway (also known as the "Little Train") and alight at Sagano Station, walking just 10 minutes to the entrance of the Bamboo Grove Path, perfect for slow travel enthusiasts.
Don’t miss the Sagano Scenic Railway ("Little Train") ride through lush bamboo groves and scenic Katsura River valleys, offering breathtaking seasonal views. Participate in a tea ceremony at the tea house adjacent to Tenryu-ji Temple, immersing yourself in authentic Japanese matcha culture. Rent a bicycle and cruise along the Katsura River trail, passing cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant autumn foliage. At night, join the illuminated festival around Togetsukyo Bridge, where soft lights reflect on the water, creating a serene, photogenic atmosphere perfect for quiet reflection and photography.
Arashiyama Onsen Hotel is top-rated, featuring open-air baths with mineral-rich waters high in silicate, ideal for skin health, and surrounded by tranquil Japanese gardens. Guests can enjoy kimono rental and a kaiseki dinner using seasonal local ingredients. Another excellent choice is Sagano Hachimoku, inspired by traditional machiya townhouses, with rooms equipped with wooden soaking tubs and tatami spaces. Private guided tours to hidden bamboo groves and historic temples are also available. Both properties are within walking distance of Togetsukyo Bridge, offering easy access and peaceful ambiance.
Visit early morning between 7:00 and 8:30 AM for minimal crowds and ethereal sunlight filtering through the bamboo stalks, creating stunning dappled patterns. During summer (June–August), experience the night illumination festival, where the grove glows softly with warm lights, evoking a dreamlike atmosphere. In spring (March–April), enjoy cherry blossoms contrasting with vibrant green bamboo; in autumn (October–November), witness fiery red and orange leaves enhancing the dramatic scenery. Always wear comfortable footwear and respect the rule of not touching the bamboo to preserve the natural integrity of this iconic site.
See what other travelers say about Arashiyama
This stay at Hotel And Spa Kyoto Eminence was absolutely wonderful. The location is perfect—just a short walk from Jigoku-dani and Saikyo-ji Temple, with the convenient 80 bus stopping right nearby, making exploration effortless. While the staff are a bit older in age, their warmth, attentiveness, and professionalism more than made up for it. Every interaction felt genuine and caring. The room was spotless and cozy, and the onsen bath was serene and relaxing—exactly what I needed after a busy day exploring Kyoto. It’s rare to find such a peaceful retreat with such high service standards. Highly recommend this hidden gem for anyone seeking comfort, culture, and tranquility in the heart of Kyoto.
Staying at Oyado Nishishichijo was a delightful surprise. While the facilities aren't overly luxurious, the attention to detail truly stood out—especially the thoughtfully placed toys for children in the room, which instantly made my little one feel at home. The location is perfect for exploring Kyoto; it's just a short subway ride from major attractions and surrounded by quiet, authentic Japanese charm. Despite its simple elegance, the hotel offers excellent value for money. I’d highly recommend this place to families looking for a cozy, stress-free stay with that genuine traditional touch.
Staying at Hanaikada in the heart of Arashiyama was an absolute delight. The moment I crossed the bridge, I felt like I'd stepped into a peaceful retreat away from the bustling streets. The onsen is exceptional—clean, soothing, and perfectly relaxing. Every meal, from breakfast to dinner, was thoughtfully prepared with fresh, local ingredients. The service was attentive without being intrusive, making the whole experience feel personal and warm. It's easy to reach by train, and the location offers that perfect balance between tranquility and convenience. If you're looking for a genuine Japanese ryokan experience with top-tier hospitality and comfort, this place deserves every single star.
This hotel is simply outstanding—no need for extra words. The room size is just right: not too small, not too large, offering a comfortable and cozy stay. Its location is unbeatable—just turn right from the hotel entrance and you're in a lively shopping street with plenty of dining options and convenience stores nearby. It's also just a short walk to Nijo Station, making it easy to explore Kyoto by train. I was especially impressed by the on-site laundry and drying machines—perfect for longer stays or when traveling light. The owner is Chinese, so communicating in Mandarin was effortless and very reassuring. This personal touch made the experience feel warm and welcoming. Overall, the value for money is excellent, and I’d definitely stay here again—highly recommend to fellow travelers!
Staying at Nishioji Fukuro was an absolute delight. This traditional Japanese townhouse offers a spacious two-story layout perfect for groups of 7 to 10 people. The moment you step inside, you're greeted by authentic elements—wooden floors, shoji screens, and tatami mats—that truly capture the essence of old Kyoto. It's incredibly peaceful and private, making it ideal for families or friends traveling together. The location is fantastic—just a short walk from major sights like Gion and Kiyomizu-dera, with plenty of local restaurants and small shops nearby. Having a full kitchen and private bathroom added so much convenience, especially for longer stays. The whole atmosphere felt serene and relaxing, far removed from the city’s hustle. If you're looking for a genuine, quiet, and well-designed place to stay in Kyoto that feels like home, this is definitely a top pick. I’d happily come back again.
The overall experience was solid, though check-in required visiting a separate location first, which took some extra time. There’s also an additional fee per guest that wasn’t clearly communicated upfront—something to improve on. The room itself was clean and well-maintained, with great amenities. I appreciated the included laundry pods and the bathroom’s drying function—clothes were completely dry by the next morning. Waste sorting is required, but there are plenty of extra trash bags provided, so no hassle. The standout feature? The TV supports YouTube, so once you log in, you can stream your favorite shows anytime—perfect for staying entertained after a long day exploring Kyoto. It’s a smart, convenient touch that really elevates the stay.
This stay exceeded all my expectations—perfectly capturing the essence of a traditional Japanese ryokan nestled in a quiet residential neighborhood. The surrounding area is charming and authentic, with several cozy family-run restaurants just a short walk away—great for dinner without having to travel far. A convenience store is literally a 3-minute stroll, making daily essentials super easy to grab. The nearby bus stop connects directly to the train station, so getting around Kyoto is incredibly convenient with no transfers needed. The garden courtyard was serene and beautifully maintained, adding to the peaceful atmosphere. Clean rooms, thoughtful touches, and excellent value—all reasons why I’d highly recommend this hidden gem to anyone looking for an authentic, relaxing escape in Kyoto.
Staying at this charming ryokan was an absolute delight. Nestled in a quiet corner of Kyoto, it's just minutes away from the city's heart while still offering peace and tranquility. The traditional Japanese design is beautifully executed—every detail, from the tatami mats to the minimalist furnishings, speaks of thoughtfulness and authenticity. The room was incredibly cozy, with a soft futon that made for a restful night's sleep. The host went above and beyond with warm hospitality—always available, genuinely kind, and respectful of privacy. It felt less like a hotel and more like staying in a private home with a local friend. For anyone seeking a serene, culturally immersive experience in Kyoto, this place is truly unforgettable.
We stayed here as a family and had an absolutely wonderful experience. The room was clean, well-maintained, and incredibly comfortable—perfect for relaxing after a long day of exploring Kyoto. The staff were responsive and attentive to our requests, making us feel truly welcome. From check-in to check-out, everything was seamless. Plus, the location is excellent—just a short walk from major attractions and public transport. It’s clear they prioritize guest comfort and service quality. I’d definitely book again if we ever return to Kyoto.
Staying at Machiya Hotel Yanagi was an absolute delight from start to finish. The owner was incredibly friendly, warm, and accommodating—welcoming us hours before check-in to store our luggage without any hassle. When we asked for recommendations on local dining and things to do around Kyoto, he shared thoughtful, personalized tips that made our trip so much richer. From hidden gems to must-try restaurants, his insights were spot-on. The hotel itself blends traditional Japanese charm with modern comfort perfectly. It’s quiet, well-maintained, and located just steps away from the heart of Kyoto’s cultural scene. I highly recommend this gem for anyone looking to experience authentic Kyoto hospitality. A truly memorable stay!
The room was much larger and cleaner than I expected. The bedding was super comfortable, making for a great night's sleep. The location is a bit far from the train station and bus stop, and the nearest convenience store requires a short walk to reach—this was slightly inconvenient. However, everything else about the stay was excellent. It’s well worth it for the price, especially with easy access to downtown Kyoto via public transit. I’d definitely stay here again.
Walking into the property immediately gave me a warm and welcoming vibe. The apartment is incredibly well-equipped—kitchen has a microwave, fridge, induction cooktop, plus all the essentials like knives, pots, pans, and dishes. It made cooking with fresh groceries from the local supermarket so easy and enjoyable—felt like being at home. I especially appreciated the washer and dryer setup; they even provided laundry balls, and drying clothes in the bathroom using the built-in dryer was super convenient. My kids had a blast exploring the room, turning it into their own little hide-and-seek playground—no worries about them falling out of bed thanks to the safe layout. The only minor downside? No convenience store nearby, but there’s a small grocery shop just a short walk away. There’s also a bus stop right outside the door, making public transport accessible. The nearest JR station is a 10-15 minute walk, which is totally manageable considering how quiet and peaceful the neighborhood is. Plus, you can easily reach the Kitanomaru Park and the famous Kitano Tenman-gu Shrine within a similar walking distance. Overall, this place offers excellent value, comfort, and a true local experience. I’d definitely come back for my next trip to Kyoto—and highly recommend it to anyone looking for a cozy, hassle-free stay.
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