Select your travel dates to find the best prices and availability
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 was my second stay at this hotel, and honestly, it’s easily the most spacious room I’ve ever experienced in Japan. From the moment I walked in, the atmosphere felt calm and luxurious. The exterior design is sleek and modern, giving off a very refined vibe. One of the highlights? A dedicated free onsen area with multiple baths, including massage jets—perfect for unwinding after a long day. There’s also a complimentary drink and snack lounge, plus a quiet music appreciation room where I just sat and relaxed with some tunes. My room’s balcony offered stunning views—nighttime moonlight scenes and morning sunrises over the cityscape were absolutely peaceful. The on-site restaurant serves excellent food, though prices are a bit on the higher side. Still, if they could adjust pricing slightly, it would be even more appealing. Location-wise, it’s incredibly convenient—just a short walk or quick taxi ride from Kyoto Station. Overall, an unforgettable experience with great value, and I’d definitely come back.
Staying at The Royal Park Hotel Kyoto Umekoji was an absolute delight. Located right within Umekoji Park, the hotel is just steps from the train station—making travel around Kyoto incredibly convenient. A short walk takes you to the aquarium and the Railway Museum, both perfect for exploring without needing a car. The hotel itself has a warm, inviting atmosphere with clean, well-maintained rooms and cozy furnishings. I especially loved the on-site hot spring bath—perfect for relaxing after a day of sightseeing. During winter, there’s even a seasonal ice rink nearby, and the surrounding area turns into a charming Christmas market with festive lights and holiday vibes. It truly feels like stepping into a winter wonderland. The location, comfort, and unique seasonal touches make this stay unforgettable. Highly recommend for anyone visiting Kyoto.
Staying at Moxy Kyoto was an absolutely fantastic experience! From the moment we walked in, we were greeted with a welcome drink and even got to choose from a signature cocktail—such a nice touch that made us feel right at home. The room design is sleek and modern, with a standout feature being the spacious shower-only bathroom setup, which felt both practical and luxurious. Located just steps from JR Nijo Station, getting around was incredibly convenient—we took the subway to Shijo for dining and shopping, and the JR line made trips to Kyoto Station, Nara, and Arashiyama super easy. Plus, there’s a well-known yakiniku restaurant right around the corner, perfect for a delicious post-check-in meal. While it’s slightly quieter than the bustling Shijo area, this hotel strikes the perfect balance between tranquility and accessibility. It’s ideal for travelers who value location, comfort, and a vibrant urban vibe without the chaos. Definitely recommend this gem if you're looking for a smart, stylish base in Kyoto.
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 Hotel Emion Kyoto was one of the highlights of my trip to Kyoto. Located just a 2-minute walk from Kyoto Station—only one stop on the train—it’s incredibly convenient for exploring the city. The room was much larger than I expected, with a comfortable bed and plenty of space to move around even with luggage unpacked. The bathroom features a full-sized bathtub and excellent hot water, making it perfect for a relaxing soak after a long day of sightseeing. What truly sets this hotel apart is its public bathhouse, complete with a hot spring pool, sauna, and wellness area. Coming back tired from a day out, soaking in the warm waters was pure bliss. On-site dining options and convenience stores make meals and snacks super easy. Even the smallest details show thoughtfulness—the bathroom has dual sinks, a separate toilet area, a small faucet, and a hand towel, giving a high-end, spa-like feel. If you value cleanliness, comfort, and location, this hotel is absolutely worth considering. It’s not just a place to sleep—it’s a true retreat in the heart of Kyoto.
Staying at Hotel Binario Saga Arashiyama was an absolute delight! Right outside the door is the JR station, making it super easy to explore Arashiyama, Gion, and other nearby attractions without needing to switch trains. The room was incredibly spacious—more than enough room for luggage, changing clothes, and even stretching out. Breakfast stood out with its unique ritual: we got to make our own Arashiyama tofu from scratch, which added a fun, hands-on touch to the morning. The large on-site bath in the lobby was perfect for unwinding after a day of sightseeing—soak and relax in style. Even the bathrobe in the room looked stylish and felt luxurious. Everything about this stay felt thoughtfully designed, from the location to the little details. Highly recommend for anyone looking for comfort, convenience, and a memorable experience in Kyoto.
Staying at Ranzan was an absolute delight. The hotel is perfectly located right across from Hōkō-ji Temple, making morning walks a peaceful and scenic start to the day. The breakfast buffet is generous and delicious—fresh, well-prepared, and full of local flavors. While the in-room bathroom is compact, the shared onsen-style bathhouse more than makes up for it with its relaxing atmosphere and traditional feel. Just steps away from a riverside boat departure point, autumn here is breathtaking—golden leaves reflect on the water, creating a postcard-perfect view. Whether you're soaking in the communal bath, sipping tea by the river, or simply enjoying the quiet charm of Kyoto’s seasonal beauty, this stay feels truly special. A hidden gem with exceptional value and warmth.
If you're looking for a peaceful retreat to unwind and recharge, this ryokan is an absolute gem. The serene atmosphere, combined with only three couples staying during our visit, made the place feel completely private and intimate—like we had it all to ourselves. The shared onsen was relaxing, but the private pool bath was a real highlight—perfect for unwinding under the stars. Meals were exceptional: dinner was thoughtfully prepared with fresh, local ingredients, and breakfast was equally delightful. They even accommodated our special dietary needs without any hassle. The staff went above and beyond to make us feel welcome. It's a short ride from Kyoto Station via bus, making it easy to access despite its quiet location. A truly memorable stay—definitely coming back.
Staying at Ryokan Nenrinbo was one of those rare experiences that truly felt like stepping into a peaceful forest retreat in Kyoto. The moment you walk in, the calmness hits you—surrounded by trees, quiet enough to hear the rustle of leaves in the breeze. Despite being so serene, it’s incredibly convenient: just a short 10–15 minute ride on the subway to Gion and Kiyomizu-dera, yet once inside, it feels like a hidden sanctuary away from the crowds. The rooms are thoughtfully designed with traditional Japanese aesthetics—minimalist, warm, and super cozy. I especially loved the deep soaking tub where I could unwind while gazing out at the trees. They even offer free bike rentals, making exploring Kyoto's quieter streets easy and fun. It’s not just a place to stay—it’s an experience. For anyone looking for tranquility, authenticity, and great value, this ryokan is absolutely worth it.
Staying at Sun Members Kyoto Saga was a fantastic experience. The location is incredibly convenient—just a short walk from the nearest subway station, making it easy to explore Kyoto’s attractions without hassle. The room was spotlessly clean, well-maintained, and surprisingly spacious for the price. Everything you’d need was there, from modern amenities to comfortable bedding. What stood out most was the great value—this hotel offers premium comfort and convenience at an affordable rate. If you're looking for a peaceful, no-frills stay in a central location, this is definitely a top pick.
Staying at Rhino Hotel Kyoto was an absolute delight! The room was incredibly comfortable, with a spacious layout that felt just like a business-class hotel—especially the cozy armchair and plush bed that made for a restful night’s sleep. One of the biggest perks? The convenience of having a 7-Eleven right on the ground floor—grabbing snacks or essentials was effortless. Plus, there are so many great dining options nearby, making it easy to explore local flavors without traveling far. Since we arrived by motorcycle, the dedicated parking area was a huge plus—secure and well-organized. The location is ideal for exploring Kyoto, and everything feels within reach. With such comfort, excellent value, and unbeatable convenience, this hotel is definitely a top choice for my next trip to the city.
Staying at Guesthouse Itoya Kyoto was an absolute delight! The atmosphere is so peaceful and authentically Japanese—right from the moment you step in, you feel relaxed. They offer free tea bags, coffee, and even warm hand-packs (which I loved for chilly nights). The only small thing: the blackout curtain on the bed doesn’t fully cover the area, but that didn’t take away from my overall experience. The staff were friendly, the space was clean and thoughtfully designed, and the value for money is excellent. If you're looking for a cozy, authentic stay in Kyoto, this place is definitely worth a visit.
Explore more amazing destinations