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

Staying at Someno House Kyoto Dog Friendly was an absolute delight! The location is perfect—just a short walk from Gion and Kiyomizu-dera, making it easy to explore the heart of Kyoto. The accommodation itself is clean, cozy, and thoughtfully designed with guests in mind. One of the best features? You can do laundry right on-site—ideal for longer stays or when traveling with pets. My dog felt right at home too; there were even little touches like a dedicated pet bed and feeding bowl. The staff were welcoming and attentive without being intrusive. It’s rare to find such a comfortable, pet-friendly space in Kyoto that still feels so authentic and local. Highly recommend this gem if you’re looking for a stress-free, enjoyable stay with your furry friend.

Staying at Tsumugi Shimabaraomon Bettei was an absolute delight. This two-story detached house offers plenty of space with two private bedrooms, a cozy living room, and a fully equipped kitchen—perfect for a small group or family getaway. The bathroom and two toilets are clean and well-maintained, and all appliances work flawlessly: air conditioning keeps the rooms comfortable year-round, and the washer, microwave, induction stove, refrigerator, and wine cooler are all in top shape. The location is ideal—right between two JR stations, making it super convenient to explore Kyoto by train. Plus, there’s a 7-Eleven just a 5-6 minute walk away, so grabbing snacks or essentials is effortless. With such great amenities, excellent location, and peaceful atmosphere, this place truly stands out. Highly recommend for travelers who value comfort, convenience, and a home-like stay.

The welcome was warm and friendly. The capsule beds were stylish and well-insulated, making for a peaceful night's sleep. The kitchen is fully equipped—perfect for preparing your own meals. There are enough bathrooms, and they’re kept clean and tidy. One of the highlights? Bikes available for rent at an incredibly low price. While the hostel is located in northern Kyoto—quite far from the city center—the bus service is frequent and reliable. I explored almost everywhere by bike, which made getting around super convenient. That said, riding a bike in Kyoto requires some experience; traffic can be chaotic and unpredictable. Overall, this place offers great value, excellent comfort, and a relaxed vibe—ideal for budget-conscious travelers who want to explore independently.

Staying at this traditional Kyoto machiya was an unforgettable experience. Every corner of the house tells a story, with authentic aged details and vintage furnishings that truly bring history to life. The rooms are incredibly photogenic—perfect for Instagram or travel bloggers looking for that classic Japanese aesthetic. It's conveniently located just a short walk from the subway and not too far from Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), making it easy to explore the city. I’d recommend booking for 5 or more guests—the unique atmosphere, combined with antique decor and subtle eerie touches like the collection of masks, really comes alive in larger groups. While it might feel a bit intense for just two or three people at night, that’s part of what makes it so special. If you're looking for something off the beaten path with real character and charm, this is absolutely worth it.

The hotel is a bit off the beaten path—about a 10-minute walk from JR Uji-Kyoto West Station—but taking a taxi isn’t expensive and well worth it. From the moment you step in, the peaceful atmosphere sets the tone for a relaxing stay. The onsen features rare hinoki wood interiors, which instantly creates a serene, natural vibe that’s both calming and luxurious. Every staff member was incredibly warm and welcoming; special shoutout to the grandmother who helped prepare our kaiseki-style sukiyaki dinner—despite language barriers, she went above and beyond to explain ingredients and cooking techniques with genuine care. The room was spacious, clean, and comfortable, with excellent bedding. Breakfast was delicious and thoughtfully prepared, featuring fresh local ingredients. Overall, this place exceeded expectations. It’s not just a stay—it’s an experience. I’ll definitely be back.

Staying at Kyounoyado Hana Nishijin was an absolute delight. The traditional Japanese house is beautifully designed with attention to detail—every corner feels authentic and serene. It’s spotlessly clean, and the quiet, peaceful atmosphere made it perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring Kyoto. The staff were incredibly warm and helpful, offering thoughtful tips on local sights and nearby restaurants. We loved how close we were to Gion and Kiyomizu-dera—just a short walk or quick subway ride away. This place truly offers a unique cultural experience without sacrificing comfort. If you're looking for a genuine, intimate stay in Kyoto, this is it. I’d come back in a heartbeat.

Staying at Takao Kanko Hotel was an absolute delight. The staff went above and beyond to make us feel welcome, and the dining experience truly stood out—fresh ingredients, thoughtful presentation, and delicious flavors that kept us coming back for more. We visited in November, and the autumn foliage was breathtaking—vast stretches of crimson and gold blankets covering the mountains, creating a scene straight out of a postcard. The peaceful, quiet setting made it feel like a true retreat from city life. Easy access by train, yet still tucked away in nature. This place offers incredible value and unforgettable views—definitely a top pick if you're visiting Kyoto.

The design of the house, both inside and out, was absolutely beautiful—so much attention to detail that really captured the essence of traditional Japanese style. The space felt warm, authentic, and thoughtfully curated. There was just a small amount of leftover mess from the previous guest, like crumbs in the kitchenette area, but it didn’t detract from the overall experience. The location is excellent—super close to major attractions like Gion and Kiyomizu-dera, and easy access to public transit. It’s a hidden gem with great value, and 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.

Staying at Floral Green Maple House in Kyoto was an absolute delight! The room was immaculately clean and surprisingly well-equipped—complete with a washing machine, stove, microwave, and even a dryer right in the bathroom. I loved being able to wash and dry my clothes on-site; it felt so convenient and homely. The staff were incredibly attentive and genuinely warm throughout the entire stay. I accidentally left my headphones behind, and instead of just waiting for me to notice, they reached out immediately and arranged to send them back to Tokyo—such a thoughtful gesture! It really made the experience stand out. Located right near Shijo Kawaramachi, everything is within walking distance, and the overall vibe is cozy yet modern. This place offers incredible value and service that feels personal and genuine. I’ll definitely be coming back and would highly recommend it to anyone visiting Kyoto.

Staying at this hostel was a fantastic experience—clean, well-maintained, and perfect for business travelers. The amenities are self-service style, where you pick what you need right at the front desk. It’s efficient and convenient. Upon entering the room, I was pleasantly surprised to find two free 500ml bottled waters. There's also a kettle and hairdryer provided—basic but essential, and very thoughtful. (Note: This might vary slightly depending on room type.) What really stood out was the staff—friendly, professional, and always smiling, whether it was at check-in or during breakfast service. Their warm hospitality made the whole stay feel welcoming. Great location, excellent value, and a great place to return to on future trips.

Our two-night stay was somewhat disappointing. We were given only four bottles of water and four coffee pods for our group of four, which wasn’t nearly enough. The room itself was quite small, and managing our three suitcases down the stairs was a real challenge—eventually we had to carry one up the narrow, steep staircase, which was exhausting. To make matters worse, there were countless mosquitoes throughout the room, making it nearly impossible to sleep comfortably. We kept the windows closed, but that just made the room stuffy. While the location is convenient, the lack of basic amenities, cramped space, and pest issues really hurt the overall experience. For the price, we expected better quality and more thoughtful service.
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